logo
episode-header-image
Apr 2025
1h 12m

Ep. 349: Sam Altman On Productivity

CAL NEWPORT
About this episode
Cal talks a lot about his ideas for producing meaningful work in a distracted world. But how do other people tackle this goal? To help better under this question, Cal reacts to a 2018 article from OpenAI CEO Sam Altman in which he details his productivity philosophy. Cal then answers listener questions and concludes with a dystopian tech corner. 
Up next
Today
Ep. 391: Is AI Reporting Broken? + Rethinking Morning Routines
Is there something rotten in the state of AI reporting at the moment? In the ideas segment of this episode, Cal details three common traps in AI coverage that distort or distract from the reality of this technology. Once you know what to look for, these traps become easy to avoid ... Show More
58m 33s
Feb 2
Ep. 390: What Happens When You Ditch Your Smartphone? + Assessing the Internet’s Latest Self-Help Sensation
Everyone knows that excessive smartphone use can be harmful. But the question we don’t ask enough is what the advantages are of not using these devices. In the ideas segment, Cal examines the testimonials of four subjects who spent significant time without phones, to learn what t ... Show More
1h 11m
Jan 26
Ep. 389: Is the Internet Hijacking Ambition? + Escaping Messaging Hell
It’s natural to feel ambition, as we’re wired to find great satisfaction in accomplishing hard goals. But what impact has the internet had on this instinct? To help explore this question, author Brad Stulberg, author of the new book THE WAY OF EXCELLENCE, joins Cal during the ide ... Show More
1h 48m
Recommended Episodes
May 2024
194. Reviewing Cal Newport’s “Slow Productivity”
<p>#194: In this episode, Sharif and Dr. Kevin Majeres discuss Cal Newport's new book, “Slow Productivity: The Lost Art of Accomplishment Without Burnout.” “Slow Productivity” builds on themes he explores in his previous books: for instance, mastering your craft and focusing on t ... Show More
34m 28s
Jan 2025
Break Free from Productivity Prison
Scott Smith challenges the traditional pursuit of productivity, advocating instead for efficiency and effectiveness. Drawing from decades of entrepreneurial experience, he shares five practical rules for getting more done with less effort, emphasizing automation and pattern recog ... Show More
11m 35s
Apr 2022
24. how to actually be productive
Productivity vs. deep work - today I compare and contrast my mindset shift from focusing on high productivity to now focusing on deep work to maximize results and avoid burnout. This episode is inspired by author and professor, Cal Newport, whose work is linked below! Deep Work: ... Show More
27 m
Oct 2025
What Gets in the Way of Your Productivity?
What Gets in the Way of Your Productivity? October 14, 2025 | Episode 5202 Host: Scott Smith Episode Description Ever feel like you just want to get your work done so you can hit the beach? Scott's broadcasting from sunny Daytona Beach with a reality check about productivity that ... Show More
14m 6s
Jun 2021
Abigail Barnes On: Turn Your Time Into Productivity EP 38
<p>Do you know how to turn your time into productivity? This search for a more productive life has led to a particular miscategorization about what time management is and how it relates to productivity-- the simple truth is that it is far more than simply having a to-do list and ... Show More
52m 39s
Jun 2020
Brave New Work 39. Getting Things Done with David Allen
We recorded this episode almost two months ago, and while so much has changed since then (look for an upcoming episode on DEI and BLM), the challenges we face sitting down at our computers every morning have not. They've only intensified. How are we supposed to move our work forw ... Show More
45m 44s
Aug 2025
Why You Delay Tasks & What to Do About It with Jim Kwik
<p>What productivity or brain hacks can help you avoid procrastination and boost your motivation?</p><p>Everyone struggles with procrastination from time to time. It can be one of the biggest barriers to your performance, impacting not only your productivity, but the results you ... Show More
9m 28s
Oct 2025
Why Your To-Do List Is Killing Your Productivity
Daily Boost Podcast Show Notes Why Your To-Do List Is Killing Your Productivity October 3, 2025 | Episode 5195 Host: Scott Smith Episode Description Your to-do list isn't helping you get more done. It's actually sabotaging your productivity. Scott breaks down the real reason succ ... Show More
11m 7s