

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

253 snips
Jan 23, 2023 • 1h 14min
Ep. 232: The Lumberjack Paradox
Discover why lumberjacks report higher happiness compared to lawyers. Explore the significance of job environments and autonomy in career fulfillment. Delve into the emotional toll of work and the benefits of meal replacements for productivity. Hear a cautionary tale balancing flexibility in careers with the need for financial stability. Understand the importance of systematic planning in both fitness and career paths, alongside a lawyer's journey towards prioritizing autonomy over prestige. Finally, reflect on Lincoln's moral influences through biography.

445 snips
Jan 16, 2023 • 1h 16min
Ep. 231: Fight Burnout with Work Cycles
Discover strategies to prevent burnout by implementing structured work cycles. Dive into the significance of balancing intense work periods with relaxation. Learn about unique environments that foster creativity, including a Tokyo cafe designed to combat writer's block. Explore the importance of maintaining a personal 'celebration' bucket for a fulfilling lifestyle. Reflect on navigating unstructured productivity and the quest for meaningful work, all while emphasizing the importance of gratitude in sustaining a healthy work-life balance.

298 snips
Jan 9, 2023 • 1h 26min
Ep. 230: How Well Are You Living?
Dive into thoughts on how well you're living while exploring ways to track deep life habits and enhance social skills. Discover the intriguing inspiration behind Guillermo Del Toro's creative space, and learn how Charles Dickens used night walks to spark ideas for A Christmas Carol. Reflect on the importance of community, accountability in wellness, and crafting a meaningful life through personal development. Plus, find out whether a Deep Life tattoo is a worthwhile idea!

675 snips
Jan 2, 2023 • 1h 17min
Ep. 229: Developing Discipline
Explore the art of developing discipline in your career and personal life. Discover ways to balance work, family, and self-improvement while tackling the challenges of unpredictable schedules. Hear a compelling case study of a graduate student managing five kids and a PhD. Learn about strategic planning for career transitions, effective communication, and the intriguing concept of slow productivity. Plus, uncover how to assess the viability of side hustles before diving in. Perfect for anyone seeking discipline and direction!

161 snips
Dec 26, 2022 • 1h 12min
Ep. 228: A World Without Busyness
Explore the concept of reducing busyness to enhance productivity and creativity. Discover how 'quiet quitting' reshapes workplace dynamics, offering fresh strategies for young employees. Uncover the motivations behind an online writing course that uses Twitter for feedback amid skepticism. Delve into a growing movement of teenagers rejecting technology, seeking authentic experiences. Embrace the call for a simpler life inspired by nature, all while fostering community engagement in our increasingly digital world.

624 snips
Dec 19, 2022 • 1h 28min
Ep. 227: Visions of the Deep Life?
Discover the art of managing stress strategically to enhance your professional life. Explore the differences between push and pull task management systems, and learn how to prioritize effectively while juggling multiple clients. Dive into the complexities of choosing the right location for remote work, balancing personal fulfillment with professional opportunities. Uncover insights on the limitations of Twitter for public discourse and the unexpected creative boost that walking can provide. Embrace the concept of deep living through intentional habits and reflections.

496 snips
Dec 12, 2022 • 1h 29min
Ep. 226: The Productivity Dragon
Explore the challenges of managing productivity systems, especially for those feeling overwhelmed by options. Discover effective strategies for balancing work responsibilities while embracing a more natural pace. Delve into the philosophy of slow productivity, drawing inspiration from iconic figures like Lin-Manuel Miranda. Learn about the benefits of time blocking for enhancing focus, and gain insights from impactful books that tackle modern issues like technology and philosophy. Plus, a discussion on how caveats in writing can dilute powerful messages.

73 snips
Dec 5, 2022 • 1h 44min
Ep. 225: Should I Become A Thriller Writer? (w/ J.T. Ellison)
J.T. Ellison, a New York Times bestselling thriller writer and Emmy-winning TV show host, discusses her intriguing journey from corporate marketing to crafting suspenseful novels. She shares insights into the evolving thriller genre, the challenges of publishing, and the importance of audience connection. J.T. dives into the art of storytelling, character development, and the hustle required in today's competitive market. With tips for aspiring writers, she details the financial landscape of writing thrillers and the demands that come with creating engaging narratives.

246 snips
Nov 28, 2022 • 1h 57min
Ep. 224: A World Without Twitter?
The conversation dives into the cultural shift surrounding social media following recent changes at Twitter. Strategies for enhancing productivity and navigating personal transitions are shared, alongside insights into community engagement and work-life balance. The innovative smartphone management in schools sparks intrigue, while discussions on rediscovering heritage add a profound layer to personal growth. A witty exploration of Harry Potter's impact on today's media landscape ties it all together, questioning the future of online interactions.

194 snips
Nov 21, 2022 • 1h 38min
Ep. 223: Could This Meeting Have Been An Email?
David Sax, author of "The Revenge of Analog," dives into the clash between analog and digital experiences in today's tech-driven world. He shares insights on the pitfalls of excessive meetings and promotes a meeting-free work model to boost productivity. Sax humorously critiques digital distractions and discusses the Light Phone as a tool for reducing reliance on smartphones. The conversation also touches on the challenges of freelance writing and the importance of career values, making for a thought-provoking exploration of modern work dynamics.


