

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

141 snips
Feb 7, 2022 • 1h 24min
Ep. 171: Is Slow Productivity the Solution to Burnout?
Explore the transformative concept of slow productivity as a remedy for burnout, emphasizing the need to prioritize quality over quantity in our tasks. Discover effective knowledge management strategies that blend digital and analog tools for enhanced creativity. Hear personal insights on maximizing productivity through intentional planning and the importance of uninterrupted deep work. The conversation also touches on navigating college admissions and supporting underrepresented students in balancing academic pressures with personal well-being.

52 snips
Feb 3, 2022 • 51min
Ep. 170: CALLS: Don’t Follow Your Passion
Discover why following your passion might not be the best career advice. Explore the importance of developing valuable skills over mere enthusiasm in finding job satisfaction. Get practical tips on managing your time better and optimizing your home for productivity. Learn how to separate work from personal life and enhance focus through smart organization. Plus, enjoy some humor about workspace decor and gather effective strategies for passing tough exams!

203 snips
Jan 31, 2022 • 1h 17min
Ep. 169: How Do I Manage My Time?
Time management strategies take center stage with key insights on 'full capture' methods to alleviate mental burden. Delve into the ethics of quitting a job that hinders societal progress and explore how to balance family life with personal goals. Discover tips for mastering skills like programming through deliberate practice while juggling parenting. The discussion also covers the impacts of social media on professional life and the importance of community in leading a fulfilling existence.

9 snips
Jan 27, 2022 • 44min
Ep. 168: Should I Quit My Law Partner Job?
Explore the art of effective communication through ticketing systems and learn how to navigate job uncertainty after a manager's departure. Delve into the cognitive risks of context switching and the value of breaks that rejuvenate creativity. Gain insights on mastering time blocking for deep work while adapting to disruptions. Plus, tackle the dilemma of pursuing passions amidst a demanding career and consider whether it's time to make significant life changes for a more fulfilling existence.

15 snips
Jan 24, 2022 • 1h 5min
Ep. 167: What Do We Look Like? (Videos Are Now Live!)
Explore the exciting shift to video content, enhancing audience engagement and storytelling. Discover sustainable productivity strategies to avoid burnout and manage workloads effectively. Learn about post-lunch rituals to boost focus and how to maximize your breaks without falling into mindless scrolling. Delve into the Zettelkasten method and its benefits for organized note-taking. Plus, insights on maintaining focus amidst distractions and social pressures during work.

35 snips
Jan 20, 2022 • 56min
Ep. 166: LISTENER CALLS: The Deep Life vs. The Good Life
Listeners explore the intriguing concept of the deep life versus the good life, emphasizing intentionality and personal values. Discussions include the pursuit of awe through psychedelics and its impact on productivity. There are practical tips for time-block planning tailored for the visually impaired and insights into navigating the complexities of book publishing. The host also shares thoughts on escaping unfulfilling jobs and personal blogging processes, enriching the conversation around meaningful living.

43 snips
Jan 17, 2022 • 1h 3min
Ep. 165: Why Are We Burnt Out?
Explore the causes of burnout and why busy work cultures need to rethink productivity. Delve into the neuroscience behind overwhelm and how task overload affects mental health. Discover the benefits of slow productivity for better work-life balance. Learn to integrate fitness routines into hectic schedules while maintaining focus. Gain insights into financial wellness and sustainable living in today’s millennial landscape. Plus, enjoy some humorous takes on aging and managing personal challenges!

56 snips
Jan 13, 2022 • 55min
Ep. 164: LISTENER CALLS: Training for Hard Intellectual Work
The discussion opens with tips for training your mind to handle tough intellectual challenges. Time management strategies take center stage, emphasizing effective scheduling without overplanning. A passionate segment addresses the need for students to limit social media use. The challenges of excessive phone usage in classrooms spark compelling insights. Finally, the podcast tackles myths surrounding reading and eye health, offering practical solutions for better vision in the digital age.

6 snips
Jan 10, 2022 • 1h 7min
Ep. 163: The Books I Read in December 2021
In this discussion, the speaker shares insights from December's diverse nonfiction reads, including a biography of George Lucas and his influence on filmmaking. They explore the blend of slow living and work-life balance, inspired by literature on the four-day workweek. The conversation also touches on Wendell Berry's reflections on agrarian values versus modern technology. Listeners gain strategies for enhancing personal growth, managing time, and developing critical writing skills while cultivating healthier reading habits.

8 snips
Jan 6, 2022 • 41min
Ep. 162: LISTENER CALLS: Ambition and the Deep Life
Listeners dive into essential questions about balancing ambition with a meaningful life. Discover insights on prioritizing skill development over aggressive selling and the impact of social media on relationships. Tips for effective time-blocking techniques are shared, and the conversation emphasizes the value of a well-designed workspace. The discussion also highlights how physical training can boost mental focus, advocating for a slow productivity approach that respects personal growth and long-term goals.