#152 A World Without Email with Cal Newport

31st May 2022

Modern work is defined by a relentless barrage of incoming messages and back-and-forth digital conversations. What this creates is a state of constant, anxious chatter in which nobody can disconnect.

In addition to this inability to unplug, is a squeezing of our cognitive bandwidth to perform substantive work. The type of work that really matters. We have become so used to an inbox-driven workday that it’s hard to imagine alternatives.

And that’s why I’m speaking with computer science professor Cal Newport today who makes the case that our current approach to work is broken and why digital minimalism is so important.

Cal is a NY Times bestselling author of several books, including, most recently, A World Without Email, Digital Minimalism, and Deep Work. Many of his articles from his column in the New Yorker and his weekly newsletter have inspired me to create a better working environment for me, my staff with the goal of promoting mental wellbeing and happiness which is why it was such a pleasure to have him on the show today.

His latest book, A World Without Email provides a bold vision for liberating workers from the tyranny of the inbox, and unleashing a new era of productivity.

Our conversation flings from A list comedians, the dominant internet companies, web 3.0, why internet creators like Mr Beast are so interesting as well as the utility of creator founded communities. If you’re interested in finding more meaning through a better and more creative work life I think you’ll really enjoy today’s conversation.