The Tim Ferriss Show

Craig Mod, a writer and photographer based in Japan, shares his deep love for walking and its transformative power. He discusses the art of slowness and the beauty of a digital detox, emphasizing mindful presence over social media distractions. Listeners explore Japan’s rich culture through Craig's personal walking journeys, including the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage. He also touches on the intricacies of politeness in Japanese communication and his experiences in self-publishing, blending creativity with community engagement.

Craig Mod, a writer and photographer based in Japan, dives into life lessons learned through his many walks and cultural experiences. He shares humorous tales from his unconventional living arrangements in Tokyo and reflects on the emotional weight of storytelling, particularly around adoption and travel. The conversation also explores the spiritual journey sparked by a hiking trip, alongside insights into Japan's vibrant noodle culture. Throughout, Mod emphasizes the transformative power of literature and creative communities.

Brandon Sanderson, bestselling author of the Stormlight Archives, shares insights on building a fiction empire and creating impactful Kickstarter campaigns. Seth Godin, marketing guru, discusses the importance of game strategy and creative thinking in business. Philosopher L.A. Paul dives into transformative experiences and decision-making through unique analogies, such as becoming a vampire. This wrap-up highlights the interplay between creativity, family balance, and the evolving impact of AI on personal transformation.

Ev Williams, co-founder of Blogger, Medium, and Twitter, shares insights from his latest venture, Mosey, a social network for in-person connections. He reflects on the challenges of scaling Medium, emphasizing the need to avoid premature expansion. The conversation dives into the nostalgic beginnings of Twitter and the evolution of digital communication. Williams also discusses strategic quitting, the importance of human skills in an AI-driven world, and personal growth through self-discovery. His journey reveals what it takes to pivot and innovate in tech.

Join Richard Taylor, co-founder of Wētā Workshop, and Greg Broadmore, a veteran artist and writer there, as they delve into their captivating creative journeys. They discuss the magic behind films like 'The Lord of the Rings,' offering insights into resilience and collaboration. Listeners will also learn about the fascinating blend of traditional craftsmanship with modern tech like 3D printing. Personal anecdotes reveal the importance of childhood inspirations and how parenthood has transformed their creative perspectives.

Terry Real, a renowned relationship coach and author of the bestseller "Us," shares transformative insights for couples seeking deeper connection. He explores the cyclical nature of relationships and offers practical tools to enhance intimacy and resolve conflicts. Real discusses the challenges of long-term partnerships, addressing 'normal marital hatred.' He emphasizes breaking toxic habits like control and retaliation, advocating for honesty and vulnerability. Listeners learn effective communication strategies to foster healthier, more loving relationships.

Dr. Keith Baar, a renowned professor at UC Davis specializing in tendon health and exercise physiology, dives into fascinating insights on tendon repair and the science behind effective exercise protocols. He discusses how isometric and eccentric exercises can alleviate conditions like tennis elbow. Baar also debunks myths around collagen supplementation and explores the crucial role of mechanical strain on connective tissue. Additionally, he emphasizes innovative approaches for rehabilitation and the significance of proper loading in enhancing recovery and overall tendon health.

L.A. Paul, a Yale philosophy and cognitive science professor, delves into transformative experiences and decision-making. She uses a captivating vampire thought experiment to explore how major choices, like parenthood, shape our identity and desires. Reflecting on her own journey from chemistry to philosophy, Paul discusses the emotional complexity of life-altering decisions. The conversation uniquely ties philosophical concepts to real-world applications, including bioethics and personal growth, while offering insights through literature and film.

Delve into the enduring principles from a groundbreaking book on time management. Explore Pareto’s and Parkinson’s Laws, and discover how focusing on impactful tasks can transform productivity. The discussion challenges traditional views, emphasizing the importance of task elimination for a balanced life. Learn personal insights on maximizing happiness through high-yield efforts. Also, uncover how deadlines can boost focus and efficiency while reshaping your approach to success for a more fulfilling lifestyle.

Brandon Sanderson, the #1 New York Times bestselling author known for his epic fantasy series, shares his journey in the world of writing. He discusses the intricacies of world-building and the art of crafting compelling magic systems. Listeners will learn about his innovative crowdfunding success, generating $40M+, and how strategic management of creative processes boosts productivity. Sanderson also reflects on his experiences with teaching creative writing and the importance of character dynamics in storytelling.