

Cortex
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Cortex is a show that explores how creative people think about their work — and how they get it done. Each episode dives into the workflows they follow, the apps and devices they depend on, and the habits that keep their projects moving. Hosted by CGP Grey and Myke Hurley.
Episodes
Mentioned books

14 snips
Aug 24, 2021 • 1h 43min
119: Thinking, Fast and Slow
The hosts tackle a mountain of technical issues, sharing laughs about corrupted file synchronization and digital chaos. They delve into decision-making psychology, based on Daniel Kahneman's acclaimed book, discussing the dual systems of thought that influence our choices. The conversation also touches on digital file management, community fundraising efforts, and the challenges of navigating dense reading. With personal stories and critiques of popular theories, they explore the nuances of cognitive biases and the replication crisis, all while keeping the tone light and engaging.

Jul 13, 2021 • 1h 23min
118: Season of Uncertainty
The hosts dive into the challenges of renting office space, sharing dreams of a permanent setup. They uncover the complexities of workplace motivation during uncertain times, particularly in the age of a pandemic. Their playful banter contrasts current frustrations with past optimism about vaccinations. The duo also grapples with finding reliable information in a world full of misinformation. Additionally, they explore the concept of tracking thoughts through bets, blending humor and introspection as they navigate personal and professional dilemmas.

Jun 15, 2021 • 2h 7min
117: MTG WWDC
Grey dives back into the strategic world of Magic: The Gathering, sparking a discussion about the game's complexities and cultural impact. Myke celebrates the Mac launch of Timery and shares insights on app integration. The hosts eagerly discuss Apple's WWDC innovations, especially the new focus modes and enhancements in productivity tools. They also ponder the viability of a four-day work week, reflecting on personal experiences and productivity. The conversation is a delightful mix of tech excitement and nostalgic gaming strategy.

11 snips
May 18, 2021 • 1h 34min
116: Legacy in Your Lifetime
The hosts embark on a campaign for human decency while reflecting on the impact of their work. They critique traditional language education and share insights into innovative collaboration tools. An engaging discussion about legacy explores how current contributions can resonate more than distant ones. The search for the perfect backpack and humorous battles against lunch add a personal touch. Plus, expect whimsical storytelling and chaotic adventures that highlight their creative synergy!

Apr 29, 2021 • 1h 28min
115: A Streaming Intervention
Discover the intriguing concept of 'work hangovers' and how they affect mental health. The hosts share personal fitness journeys, emphasizing gratitude amidst overload. Dive into the world of live streaming with insights on audience engagement and the pros and cons of real-time interaction. They also tackle the challenges of managing notifications from Slack and discuss the balance of aesthetics in office design. Lastly, hear about the evolution of creative support methods across platforms like YouTube and Twitch.

Mar 30, 2021 • 1h 24min
114: The Garden of #AskCortex
Discover how to master morning routines and tackle the snooze button dilemma, alongside humorous insights into personal sleep habits. Dive into the evolving dynamics of remote work versus in-person interactions, with tips on effective email management to enhance productivity. Unpack the intricacies of note-taking technology, exploring tools like Obsidian for better organization. Plus, enjoy a lighthearted take on journal sales and the challenges of shipping logistics in a disrupted market.

Mar 16, 2021 • 1h 43min
113: Semi-Abandoned System
The hosts dive into the intricacies of decision-making in relationships, adding humor to the complexities of couple dynamics. They tackle the aftermath of Brexit and its unexpected challenges for selling journals in the UK. Examining their digital habits, they share amusing anecdotes about screen time and social media engagement. A mix-up involving time zones leads to a lighthearted discussion about podcasting logistics while they explore the quirks of their recording setups and the importance of mindful tech use in daily life.

Feb 16, 2021 • 1h 46min
112: Activation Energy
In a charming mix of humor and reflection, the hosts discuss the enchanting chaos of a snow day in London and its impact on daily life. They dive into the complexities of audience reactions to creative work, touching on the influence of algorithms and the emotional toll of negative feedback. A candid exploration of parental controls and their effectiveness offers insight into the tension between tech and user well-being. Finally, they share valuable personal insights on managing sleep and creativity amid the backdrop of the pandemic.

Jan 19, 2021 • 1h 45min
111: Catching an Eel
They dive into the inspiring journeys of black technologists, celebrating unsung heroes in the tech industry. The conversation covers the emotional toll of repeated lockdowns and the hope spurred by vaccination efforts. There's a humorous take on the challenges of inventory management, akin to catching an eel while navigating unpredictability. Vivid dreams during isolation spark a fascinating discussion, and themes of personal reinvention reveal how setbacks can inspire creativity. They also share insights on yearly themes for personal growth and the complexities of managing a mentorship program.

19 snips
Dec 14, 2020 • 2h 40min
110: 2021 Yearly Themes
The hosts dive into the concept of yearly themes as a fresh alternative to traditional resolutions, emphasizing flexibility and personal growth. They reflect on transformations during the pandemic, from adopting new hobbies to navigating the challenges of self-employment. Passion for Formula One and the launch of the Theme System Journal highlight their journey. They also share insights on balancing creativity with productivity, the evolution of travel priorities, and the theme of 'reinvention' shaping their year.