Episode description

Because I'm away on vacation these week, I'm replaying a classic show from the Deep Questions archives. This is Episode 109, which originally ran back in June. 

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Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). For instructions on submitting your own questions, go to calnewport.com/podcast.


BOOK REPORT: The Square and the Tower [04:28]


DEEP WORK QUESTIONS

 - What should I do if I like my job but dislike the industry? [12:32]
 - How hard should I push back against a shallow company culture? [17:06]
 - Is productivity only for people with certain personality types? [25:57]
 - What is the best strategy for an aspiring academic? [28:22]
 - Should I ask experts or learn on my own? [30:14]
 - Can you tell me more about the CIA's mail tubes? [35:36]
 - How do I get on the New York Times bestseller list? [41:28]



DEEP LIFE QUESTIONS
 - Is there value in keeping a daily record of significant activity? [50:32]
 - Can I pursue the deep life if I have mental health issues? [56:46]
 - Are there wrong ways to pursue the deep life? [1:01:01]
 - How much time do I (Cal) spend reading? [1:04:48]


Thanks to Jay Kerstens for the intro music and Mark Miles for mastering.