How I Write

Shaan Puri, a celebrated entrepreneur and sought-after storyteller, shares his mastery of engaging narratives. He unpacks the power of intention and obstacles in storytelling, revealing how these elements enhance emotional connections. Shaan emphasizes the significance of humor and vulnerability, using personal anecdotes to illustrate his points. He also discusses crafting a 'binge bank' to captivate audiences and the importance of finding a unique voice in writing. With practical insights, he inspires writers to innovate while leaning on effective storytelling techniques.

Michael Mauboussin, an investing expert with extensive Wall Street experience, shares his unique approach to writing. He emphasizes finding inspiration in unexpected places and subverting the 'Curse of Knowledge' to engage readers. Michael advocates for clarity, accessibility, and storytelling in communicating complex ideas. He discusses the synthesis of ideas, the evolving meanings of words, and encourages writers to incorporate personal experiences for a stronger narrative. Learn how to merge passion with expertise to create compelling content.

Packy McCormick, the creator of the popular newsletter 'Not Boring' and founder of a $40 million venture fund, shares his journey from just a handful of subscribers to massive success. He discusses his unique writing style that combines humor and depth, which engages a vast audience. Packy explores the intersection of writing and investing, revealing how sharing knowledge can be transformative. He emphasizes creating quality, long-lasting content in a world filled with fleeting distractions and reflects on finding inspiration amidst technological stagnation.

Billionaire investor Howard Marks, renowned for his clear and engaging writing style, breaks down the barriers of complex investment concepts. He discusses the importance of clarity and humor in writing, sharing his four tenets for impactful communication. Marks emphasizes that creating a unique point of view is essential for making ideas resonate. He also explores the interplay of luck and opportunity, and how analogies can simplify complex topics. His insights highlight the power of storytelling in finance, urging writers to challenge conventional wisdom.

Amor Towles, acclaimed novelist of "A Gentleman in Moscow," shares his unique approach to storytelling. He emphasizes the importance of careful planning over spontaneity, revealing how structured outlines can unlock creativity. Towles discusses the power of vivid descriptions, the need for clarity in writing, and the contrast between the romanticized image of the 'crazy artist' and the disciplined reality of writing. Through personal insights, he illustrates how everyday moments can inspire profound narratives and deep connections with readers.

In this discussion, Steven Johnson, an author with a rich background in technology and human creativity, shares his insights on integrating AI into the writing process. He explores how large language models can enhance creativity rather than hinder it, offering tips on capturing ideas effortlessly and structuring narratives effectively. Johnson emphasizes the importance of creative incubation and using tools like NotebookLM to navigate writing challenges. His experiences blur the lines between innovation and storytelling, revealing how technology can spark unique insights.

Chris Dixon, a venture capitalist and author of "Read, Write, Own," shares insights on the evolution of writing in the digital age. He highlights the importance of crafting memorable phrases and the value of long-form writing. Dixon discusses the shift from passive consumption to active ownership of digital content and the role of clarity and structure in effective communication. He also delves into the transformative potential of blockchain technology for credibility and the need for authenticity in the writing process.

As the new year begins, the speaker reflects on key insights from conversations with acclaimed writers. Discover Tim Ferriss's strategy of high/low quality standards and Marc Andreessen's unique information consumption approach. Dive into the art of 'word painting' and explore the mystery of femininity in storytelling. Learn about the importance of engaging with niche literature to foster originality. This insightful discussion highlights the balance between creativity and personal growth in the writing journey, revealing transformative lessons along the way.

Tiago Forte, bestselling author of "Building a Second Brain," shares insights from his journey of unlocking creativity. He reveals the delicate balance between writing and editing, stressing the emotional toll of creativity. Tiago explores how to evolve a 'second brain' for effective idea curation and the importance of annual self-reflection for personal growth. He also discusses navigating the publishing industry and the dynamics of creative collaboration in course development, highlighting the synergy of discipline and creativity.

Tim Urban, the author of 'Wait But Why,' shares his journey from dread to delight in writing, boasting over 600,000 newsletter subscribers. He discusses the balance between personal expression and engaging ideas, revealing how authenticity and humor can transform complex thoughts into relatable stories. Urban also dives into the challenges of procrastination, the importance of creativity without pressure, and the art of authentic writing. Plus, he draws fascinating parallels between writing and music composition, emphasizing originality and personal style.