How I Write
David Perell
Before book sales and PR buzz, your favorite writers began with two things: the blank page and an idea.Each week on How I Write, we go behind-the-scenes with today’s top writers to uncover the meta-mechanics of writing and the lifestyle behind it. You’ll be the first to hear writers deconstruct their creative process: from banging their head on the keyboard to marking the last period of their final draft. Victory.Come discover how great writing is made. And who knows? Maybe you’ll be next.New episodes of the How I Write show go live every week on Apple, Spotify and YouTube.com/DavidPerellChannel.
Episodes
Mentioned books
463 snips
Dec 6, 2023 • 1h 11min
Ali Abdaal: How I Write (Productively)
Ali Abdaal, a prolific online creator and productivity guru, shares his journey from earning his first dollar at 12 to generating millions annually. He delves into the balance between authenticity and engagement in content creation, emphasizing the importance of relatable storytelling. Ali discusses effective strategies like voice transcription and mind-mapping for organizing ideas. He tackles perfectionism, advocating for action over flawless execution, and reflects on the transformative power of sharing personal experiences in writing.
193 snips
Nov 29, 2023 • 47min
Chamath Palihapitiya: Write Like a Billionaire | How I Write Podcast
Chamath Palihapitiya, a tech billionaire and Silicon Valley visionary, discusses his unique approach to writing and communication. He emphasizes the importance of annual letters for self-reflection and contrasts meticulous writing with spontaneous online styles. Chamath dives into the psychological impacts of online communication, noting how generational differences affect responses. He also explores the balance between factual and subjective writing, stressing the need for authenticity and compelling narratives in an increasingly digital world.
387 snips
Nov 22, 2023 • 1h 26min
Steven Pressfield: Every Story Needs a Villain | How I Write Podcast | How I Write
Join Steven Pressfield, an esteemed author known for his insightful writings on creativity and overcoming resistance, as he shares his wisdom on storytelling. He discusses the pivotal role of compelling villains in narratives, revealing how they can enhance character struggles. Pressfield emphasizes the balance between discipline and joy in writing, the importance of clarity, and the need to push through self-doubt. He also touches on the thrilling craft of suspense and the transformative nature of storytelling, drawing on personal experiences and time-tested techniques.
161 snips
Nov 15, 2023 • 60min
Garry Tan: Y Combinator CEO - The Key To Writing For Startups and Entrepreneurs
Garry Tan, CEO of Y Combinator and a leading figure in the startup ecosystem, shares invaluable insights on writing's role in entrepreneurial success. He explores the significance of authenticity in storytelling and how vulnerability can deepen connections. Tan reflects on his journey of self-discovery through writing and emphasizes the importance of clear documentation for effective communication. He also discusses the power of online platforms in democratizing creative expression, reshaping narratives, and enhancing individual voices in the digital age.
768 snips
Nov 6, 2023 • 2h 3min
Morgan Housel: How He Sold 4 Million Books
Morgan Housel, a celebrated author known for his bestsellers like "The Psychology of Money," discusses his unique approach to writing. He shares insights on making financial concepts engaging through storytelling while maintaining brevity. Topics include 'selfish writing' as a way to connect personally with readers, the emotional challenges of writing and publishing, and the art of self-editing. Housel emphasizes the importance of creating impactful sentences and how his lazy writing process has contributed to his success in captivating millions.
328 snips
Nov 1, 2023 • 1h 30min
Mark Manson: From Online Blogger to 3-Time #1 New York Times Bestselling Author
Mark Manson, author of the bestselling "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck," shares his journey from a dating blogger to a self-help sensation. He discusses the importance of authenticity in writing and how he expanded his audience rapidly. Manson reflects on crafting compelling ideas, the unique challenges of writing Will Smith's memoir, and the balance between personal joy and audience expectations. He emphasizes the power of practical learning and the significance of a unique voice, making his insights invaluable for aspiring writers.
319 snips
Oct 25, 2023 • 1h 23min
Lenny Rachitsky: How This Ex-Airbnb Product Manager Created A Top Newsletter On Substack
Lenny Rachitsky, an ex-Airbnb product manager, now runs a top Substack newsletter with over 500,000 subscribers. He shares his journey into content creation, stressing the value of prioritizing audience needs over ego. Lenny discusses his rigorous writing process, which involves extensive research and multiple drafts. He also delves into finding inspiration in busy workspaces, managing distractions, and cultivating niche writing expertise. His motto? "There’s always room for better content," and he exemplifies this with his commitment to delivering quality.
132 snips
Oct 18, 2023 • 1h 25min
Riva Tez: Becoming A Free Thinker
Riva Tez, a free-thinking writer with a passion for philosophy and poetry, dives into the depths of consciousness and creativity. She critiques modern media consumption, advocating for deep reading and introspection. Riva discusses the significance of authenticity in creative expression and the role of emotional depth in writing. Emphasizing the balance between subtlety and maximalism in art, she explores Istanbul's cultural tapestry as a metaphor for blending ideas. Listeners will feel inspired to embrace their individuality and challenge societal norms.
803 snips
Oct 11, 2023 • 1h 11min
Sam Parr: How To Make $2 Million A Month By Writing
Sam Parr, a master copywriter and the brains behind The Hustle and My First Million podcast, shares his journey of turning writing into a lucrative business. He reveals how he leveraged viral content and innovative strategies to grow his newsletter from 150,000 to 1.7 million subscribers. Sam discusses the art of compelling copywriting, the importance of catchy headlines, and building trust with audiences. He also dives into the significance of storytelling techniques and nurturing a unique writing community for success.
288 snips
Oct 4, 2023 • 1h 18min
Marc Andreessen: It’s Time To Write
In this discussion, Marc Andreessen, co-founder of Netscape and tech visionary, shares his wealth of knowledge on writing in the digital age. He highlights the transformative power of writing during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. Marc explores creativity in remote work, the artistry of coding, and the evolution of online comment culture. He also addresses the importance of curating meaningful content on social media, intertwining technology with human expression. Prepare for a deep dive into Silicon Valley history with a sprinkle of book recommendations!
