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
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.
841 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.
393 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.
390 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.
145 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.
805 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!
146 snips
Sep 28, 2023 • 1h 18min
Ava: The Emotions of Writing
Ava Huang, a talented writer celebrated for her intimate and honest prose, shares her insights into the emotional landscapes of writing. She discusses the challenge of expressing happiness compared to deeper emotions and the art of crafting relatable narratives. Ava emphasizes the therapeutic aspects of writing, the importance of consistency in practice, and how personal experiences fuel creativity. She also highlights the balance between authenticity and audience resonance, making it clear that writing is a deeply personal and transformative journey.
404 snips
Sep 20, 2023 • 1h 12min
Derek Sivers: No Wasted Words
Derek Sivers, founder of CD Baby and author known for his unique insights, shares his thoughts on writing, creativity, and life. He delves into the journey of documenting wisdom in a posthumous autobiography and emphasizes the importance of mentorship in shaping our identities. Sivers discusses the delicate balance between quality and quantity in writing, calling for simplicity and clarity. He also highlights the power of connection, urging writers to reach out and express gratitude, fostering growth and community in the creative process.
485 snips
Sep 13, 2023 • 1h 18min
Kevin Kelly: On Fame, Structuring Ideas, Writing Books, and Founding Wired Magazine
Kevin Kelly, co-founder of Wired Magazine and a renowned tech writer, dives into the complexities of writing and creativity. He shares his preference for editing over writing and discusses the importance of originality in engaging readers. Kelly explains how collaboration fuels creativity and highlights the value of finding one's unique voice. He reflects on fame's dual edges, revealing its impact on identity. With insights from his latest book, he emphasizes writing as a tool for clarity and personal expression.
