

Deep Questions with Cal Newport
Cal Newport
Cal Newport is a computer science professor and a New York Times bestselling author who writes about the impact of technology on society, and the struggle to work and live deeply in a world increasingly mired in digital distractions. On this podcast, he answers questions from his readers and offers advice about cultivating focus, productivity, and meaning amidst the noise that pervades our lives.
Episodes
Mentioned books

1,220 snips
Sep 15, 2025 • 1h 11min
Ep. 370: Deep Work in the Age of AI
A new study questions the assumption that AI tools universally boost productivity, revealing they can actually complicate deep work. Cal discusses how distractions and idle time may hinder focus even as technology assists cognitive loads. The impact of AI on environmental sustainability is examined, urging for responsible use. In a case study, the role of Wi-Fi access in a West Virginia school is scrutinized, challenging the notion that lack of internet makes students less capable, prompting a deeper look into tech's educational influence.

1,423 snips
Sep 8, 2025 • 1h 33min
Ep. 369: Why Are We Getting Dumber? A Debate.
The podcast delves into the concerning trend of declining IQ scores and the cultural shift away from reading. It examines the distractions of smartphones and social media on attention spans and cognitive abilities. Strategies for reclaiming focus in a digital age are discussed, along with insights on managing productivity while navigating chaotic work environments. The debate surrounding technology's impact on youth mental health is highlighted, alongside humorous anecdotes and practical advice for personal and professional growth.

1,817 snips
Sep 4, 2025 • 1h 57min
IN-DEPTH: The Game of Life (w/ Tim Ferriss)
Tim Ferriss, bestselling author and the mind behind 'The 4-Hour Workweek,' joins to discuss his latest venture: the card game Coyote. He shares insights on balancing creativity and business, the challenges of the gaming industry, and the importance of personal experiences in design. The conversation also explores the art of saying no to maintain mental health, the honest contrasts between publishing and gaming, and how AI tools like Reclaim can enhance productivity. Tune in for a blend of life lessons, creativity, and engaging discussions!

1,046 snips
Sep 1, 2025 • 1h 28min
Ep. 368: I Want Work-Life Balance. Am I Doomed to Mediocrity?
An audacious young entrepreneur claims that work-life balance leads to mediocrity, igniting a debate on success and personal fulfillment. The discussion navigates the challenges of ambition against well-being, advocating for purposeful living. Listener questions about productivity amidst distractions and effective email management are addressed, revealing strategies for a healthier work-life balance. Plus, literary adventures are shared, with reflections on the cultural significance of beloved attractions and evolving interests in storytelling.

1,613 snips
Aug 25, 2025 • 1h 37min
Ep. 367: What if AI Doesn’t Get Much Better Than This?
The latest discussion dives into the unexpected stagnation of AI advancements, especially post-GPT-5. It questions whether automation truly threatens jobs or if economic cycles play a bigger role. The skepticism surrounding AI evolution is explored, revealing a gap between hype and reality. Practical advice for navigating life after retirement is shared, along with insights into personal growth through digital disconnection. Humorous anecdotes about literature and creativity create a light-hearted yet thought-provoking atmosphere.

1,929 snips
Aug 18, 2025 • 1h 17min
Ep. 366: How to Reinvent Your Life in 4 Months (Classic Episode from August, 2023)
Forget New Year resolutions! Now is the perfect time to reinvent your life and embrace change. Discover a structured four-month plan that utilizes the deep life stack. Learn about effective multi-scale planning to reduce overwhelm and enhance productivity. Explore the balance between structured and unstructured work for creativity. Delve into the importance of mental health in your journey towards fulfillment. Join the movement for humanistic productivity, focusing on meaningful efforts over busyness.

1,371 snips
Aug 11, 2025 • 1h 3min
Ep. 365: What Technology Wants (and How to Push Back)
Explore the intriguing clash between additive technologies that enhance connection and extractive ones that exploit users. Discover how platforms like Facebook shifted from genuine interaction to profit-driven motives. Learn strategies to reclaim control over your digital life and maintain a balance between work and personal passions. Delve into the distinct challenges faced by doctoral students versus medical residents, and enjoy a lighthearted discussion on hiring practices and skincare tips. Don't miss the diverse book recommendations that enrich the mind!

1,627 snips
Aug 4, 2025 • 1h 9min
Ep. 364: Metrics 101
Delve into the pitfalls of tracking personal metrics, as one host shares his struggles and lessons learned. Discover the power of effective metrics in enhancing productivity and managing time. Navigate the complexities of career changes with practical insights and humorous anecdotes. Enjoy a lighthearted discussion on AI's impact, mixed with pop culture nostalgia. Finally, critique the phenomenon of 'vibe reporting' in media, urging listeners to approach sensational claims with skepticism.

700 snips
Jul 28, 2025 • 1h 9min
Ep. 363: Escaping the Digital Doldrums
Discover how Walt Disney's struggles in the 1940s relate to our current digital distractions. Learn effective strategies to combat the numbness of excessive screen time by engaging in tangible creative projects. Tune in as listeners pose spicy questions about career transitions, creative pursuits, and the complexities of AI in programming jobs. Hilarious anecdotes about self-care and skincare add a light touch to the deep dive into maintaining productivity and creativity amid the chaos of digital life.

671 snips
Jul 21, 2025 • 1h 11min
Ep. 362: The Texting Dilemma
Exploring the hidden dangers of messaging apps, the conversation highlights their role in smartphone addiction and social anxiety. Strategies for healthier phone use are discussed, emphasizing the importance of in-person interactions. Listeners learn about the benefits of delaying text replies to reduce stress and improve outcomes. Additional insights on managing deep work and balancing life with PhD responsibilities are shared. Lastly, the joy of real-life connections is celebrated, advocating for reduced reliance on digital communication.