

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

Mar 25, 2021 • 45min
Ep. 82: Habit Tune-Up: The Joys and Sorrows of Binge Working
Discussing the challenges of managing scattered schedules, the conversation dives into the complexities of balancing work and personal life, particularly in academia. It explores the highs and lows of binge working, weighing its temporary thrill against the risks of burnout. Strategies for cultivating reading habits are shared, emphasizing enjoyment over completion. Lastly, navigating administrative clutter is tackled with a candid rant, highlighting the need for structured work practices to safeguard mental health.

29 snips
Mar 22, 2021 • 1h 21min
Ep. 81: How Do I Avoid Burnout?
Burnout in high-pressure jobs, especially in tech, is tackled with practical strategies for a healthier work-life balance. Discover how to measure effectiveness in vague roles and the path to becoming a better leader. Tips on improving writing skills for non-fiction authors are shared. The impact of email overload and social media on focus is explored, highlighting the benefits of digital minimalism. The importance of nurturing deep thinking in kids and navigating emotional turmoil for better focus wraps up a insightful discussion on personal growth and productivity.

43 snips
Mar 18, 2021 • 34min
Ep. 80: Habit Tune-Up: Deep Work After Hard Days
Explore the nuances of expensive productivity systems and their actual value. Dive into the concept of phantom part-time jobs that can clutter your focus. Learn how to work deeply even after exhausting days and the importance of effective recovery strategies. The discussion highlights intentional leisure, critiquing mindless content consumption and advocating for rejuvenating activities. Discover tips for managing cognitive load and establishing fulfilling routines that enhance both productivity and relaxation.

Mar 15, 2021 • 1h 9min
Ep. 79: Should This Meeting Have Been an Email?
Explore the rise of unnecessary Zoom meetings and learn how to improve communication efficiency in remote work. Discover the balance between productivity and leisure, as well as the benefits of structured workdays. Delve into the complexities of remote work, with strategies for maintaining focus and minimizing distractions. Find out how to reshape social media habits and replace them with more meaningful activities. Lastly, uncover why kitchens are appealing workspaces and how to combat deep procrastination, especially in remote learning.

96 snips
Mar 11, 2021 • 37min
Ep. 78: Habit Tune-Up: Time Blocking vs. Bullet Journaling
Discover how active recall can boost learning in the office. Explore effective problem-solving processes and weigh the benefits of time blocking against the Pomodoro method for better focus. Delve into the creative aspects of bullet journaling and learn how to integrate it with time blocking for peak productivity. Plus, uncover the value of maintaining a 'second brain' to enhance your efficiency and organization in both professional and personal life.

Mar 8, 2021 • 1h 15min
Ep. 77: Does Email Have a Mind of Its Own?
Is email secretly controlling your work life? Dive into the hyperactive hive mind and its impact on productivity. Discover tips for better communication at work, including how to say no more often. Explore the joys of regular creative work and the balance of planning your time. Plus, a fresh perspective on whether reading fiction is truly a waste. Can you really avoid becoming smartphone-dependent? Tune in for insights on digital minimalism and rethinking what career passion means for true satisfaction.

5 snips
Mar 4, 2021 • 37min
Ep. 76: Habit Tune-Up: Email On Speed (Taming WhatsApp)
Discover how to navigate the distractions of WhatsApp to enhance focus and foster real-life connections. Learn practical strategies for strategic planning, ensuring you align long-term goals with short-term tasks. Explore effective methods for archiving completed projects in busy professional environments, simplifying the organization of your work history. Plus, gain insights on coping with an overwhelming abundance of depth in your daily tasks.

7 snips
Mar 1, 2021 • 1h 37min
Ep. 75: JOSHUA FIELDS MILBURN on Saying "No" to Almost Everything
Joshua Fields Milburn, one half of the Minimalists, shares insights on saying 'no' to almost everything for a more intentional life. He discusses the journey from a simple blog to widespread recognition and the power of minimalism in building a values-driven brand. The conversation touches on the challenges of navigating uncertainty during the pandemic and the importance of authenticity in writing and creative pursuits. Milburn emphasizes prioritizing personal values over financial gain, redefining success in a consumer-driven world.

30 snips
Feb 25, 2021 • 41min
Ep. 74: Habit Tune-Up: Taming Trello
Explore strategies to optimize your use of Trello and reclaim lost time. Learn how to reduce distractions from instant messaging and navigate the rigidity of time blocking. Discover tips for finishing a thesis on time, and hear about maintaining productivity during unexpected challenges. The discussion also highlights the balance between using productivity tools and the necessity of hard work.

Feb 22, 2021 • 1h 10min
Ep. 73: Can I Become Rich Living Deeply?
Explore the secrets of productivity tailored for researchers and how to combat imposter syndrome in academia. Learn if pursuing a PhD truly benefits aspiring writers. Discover strategies for effective team management and develop habits for consistent planning. Delve into the rising significance of attention training in technology. Address personal challenges in relationships and ponder the possibility of achieving wealth while leading a fulfilling life. Gain insight into cultivating community and organizing digital thoughts.