How I Write

In this intriguing discussion, Peter Attia, a medical surgeon and bestselling author of "Outlive," shares insights from his journey in writing. He introduces frameworks for transforming complex medical knowledge into engaging narratives. Peter discusses emotional challenges authors face, the importance of feedback, and how to craft timeless messages. He explores the balance between personal stories and scientific accuracy while detailing the rigorous fact-checking needed for credibility. If you're looking to turn expertise into compelling writing, this conversation is a goldmine!

Ben Thompson, founder of the influential blog Stratechery, dives into the business of writing and how he turned his passion into a lucrative venture. He discusses the importance of crafting compelling narratives and the art of making first drafts flow smoothly under pressure. Thompson shares insights on enhancing engagement with subscribers and navigating the digital content landscape. He also reflects on the challenges of reaching a niche audience and the impact of storytelling in both writing and speech, providing listeners with a roadmap to monetize their own writing.

Rob Henderson, author of the best-selling memoir "Troubled," shares his journey from foster care to Yale and the intricacies of memoir writing. He discusses the importance of honesty, emotional resonance, and how to balance personal truths with empathy. Henderson delves into navigating childhood trauma, overcoming coping mechanisms, and the emotional toll of revisiting painful memories. He emphasizes the significance of maintaining authenticity, simplicity in storytelling, and the hard work that fuels creativity in memoir writing.

Shian, known as The Cultural Tutor, is a prominent writer and cultural commentator with keen insights on writing styles. In this conversation, he unpacks the tension between minimalism and maximalism in writing, emphasizing how each style enriches narratives. They discuss how technology shapes individual expression, the decline of language skills, and the importance of etymology in creativity. Shian also shares lessons from Churchill's iconic speeches, illustrating how impactful word choice and structure can captivate audiences.

Mark Forsyth, an author and language expert, delves into the captivating world of memorable writing. He reveals how rhetorical devices like chiasmus and antithesis elevate language, making ideas stick. Forsyth draws parallels between historical figures and modern writers, demonstrating the timeless power of rhetoric. He discusses the evolution of language influenced by technology and slang, urging writers to embrace creativity like jazz musicians. Discover the art of literary theft and the significance of revision, showcasing how structure enhances emotional resonance in writing.

Harry Dry, a master copywriter and educator renowned for his work with Marketing Examples, shares powerful insights into the art of copywriting. He emphasizes the importance of clear, engaging language and specific messaging. Harry discusses 'The Three Rules' of effective writing, analyzes successful ads versus failures, and reveals how emotional resonance shapes compelling marketing. He also highlights the role of authenticity and factual precision in storytelling, making copywriting accessible for all aspiring marketers.

Scott Galloway, a provocative professor and entrepreneur, shares his journey of writing fearlessly after a decade of hesitation. He emphasizes the importance of humor and authentic storytelling in connecting with readers. Galloway discusses writing as a conversational practice, using bold opinions to engage audiences. He highlights collaboration in the editing process and the balance between personal experiences and professional outputs. Throughout, he encourages writers to embrace vulnerability and pursue simplicity for impactful communication.

Nat Eliason, author of *Crypto Confidential*, shares his transformation from SEO blogger to memoirist. He dives into the art of compelling storytelling, revealing the key techniques he discovered during his two-year journey. Nat discusses the balance between personal vision and marketability in writing, the nuances of crafting engaging dialogue, and the importance of emotional authenticity. He also explores how AI can enhance the writing process without overshadowing one's unique voice. This conversation is packed with invaluable insights for aspiring storytellers.

Ryan Holiday, a prolific author with sixteen books and a massive online following, shares insights into the discipline of writing. He emphasizes overcoming fears and maintaining momentum by diving straight into work. Holiday discusses the significance of powerful introductions and how music influences the writing process. He also reflects on the relationship between extensive reading and effective leadership, urging writers to embrace their creative journeys while balancing life. His no-nonsense approach motivates listeners to push through challenges and hone their storytelling skills.

In this conversation, Jerry Seinfeld, celebrated comedian and creator of the iconic sitcom Seinfeld, shares invaluable insights on writing. He discusses the importance of dedication, introducing his 'Don't break the chain' method for consistency. Jerry also emphasizes the balance of intuition and analysis in joke crafting and stresses the significance of authenticity in storytelling. With humor and wisdom, he invites writers to embrace their unique voice—proof that great comedy and writing are deeply intertwined.