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
293 snips
Jan 31, 2024 • 1h 28min
Chris Dixon: Writing Advice You Need to Know For The Future | How I Write Podcast
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.
530 snips
Jan 24, 2024 • 1h 1min
I Met 20 of The World's Greatest Writers. Here's What I Learned.
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.
570 snips
Jan 10, 2024 • 1h 3min
Tiago Forte: A Guide to Productive Writing | How I Write Podcast
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.
340 snips
Jan 3, 2024 • 1h 12min
Tim Urban: Stop Procrastinating and Make Your Writing Fun | How I Write Podcast
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.
1,016 snips
Dec 27, 2023 • 1h 29min
Tim Ferriss: How I Wrote 5 #1 NYT Bestsellers | How I Write Podcast
Tim Ferriss, bestselling author and renowned podcaster, shares insights from his impressive career, boasting five #1 NYT bestsellers and millions of followers. He discusses transformative writing education and the necessity of engaging with captivating ideas. Ferriss emphasizes the art of revision, personal tone, and the importance of brand credibility in writing. He elaborates on finding a unique voice, balancing discipline with creativity, and the role of conversation in enhancing writing skills. Get ready to unlock your own writing potential!
686 snips
Dec 20, 2023 • 1h 25min
Sahil Bloom: How He Turned Twitter Threads Into 1 Million Followers | How I Write Podcast
Sahil Bloom, a former finance professional turned online writing sensation, shares insights on transforming Twitter threads into a million followers. He discusses his evolution from finance to impactful writing, embracing authenticity in content creation. Bloom explores overcoming writer's block, the importance of clarity in communication, and finding inspiration through exploration. He also reflects on the delicate balance between rapid audience growth and meaningful engagement, emphasizing the need for genuine connections and concise, impactful writing.
196 snips
Dec 13, 2023 • 1h 13min
Byrne Hobart: How to Write a High-Value Newsletter for 50,000+ Readers
Byrne Hobart, a writer with a Substack following of over 50,000 Silicon Valley thinkers, shares his insights on crafting high-value newsletters. He discusses the art of balancing writing with a full-time job and highlights the importance of a disciplined routine. Byrne emphasizes the role of storytelling and context in engaging readers, and how unique writing niches can enhance creativity. He also explores the critical nature of work ethic versus talent, illustrating how dedication fuels success in the literary ecosystem.
470 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.
