Episode 65

Cal Newport on Quitting Social Media, Deep Work and Digital Minimalism

GUEST INFO

In an increasingly online, social media saturated landscape, Cal Newport has worked to disconnect as much as possible.

Cal is the Provost’s Distinguished Professor of Computer Science at Georgetown University.  In addition to his academic research, Cal writes about the intersection of culture and digital technology.  He is the author of multiple books, including the NYT Bestseller Digital Minimalism, the WSJ Bestseller Deep Work, and So Good They Can’t Ignore You, which tackles how people can truly do something they love in their career.  He also delivered a TEDx Talk, “Quit Social Media” which was been viewed nearly six million times on YouTube.

Cal joined host Robert Glazer on the Elevate Podcast to talk about stepping back from an increasingly digital world, why “follow your passion,” is bad career advice, and more.

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Show Notes

On this episode, you’ll learn about:

  • How Cal got his start as an author by writing a book about study tips.
  • Why Cal has found the people who follow their passion don’t end up more fulfilled at work.
  • Why satisfaction in work often comes directly from having career autonomy.
  • Why the constant distraction of technology and decreased attention spans are disastrous for our professional lives.
  • How social media and technology use has changed our personal lives.
  • Cal’s decision to avoid social media, and why he advocates for quitting social media entirely.

Links from the Episode
Episode Transcription
https://www.calnewport.com/
Digital Minimalism by Cal Newport
Deep Work by Cal Newport
“Quit Social Media” TEDx Talk by Cal Newport
 
CONNECT SOCIALLY!

Guest: Cal Newport
Cal does not have a social media account. Here’s why.
 
Host: Robert Glazer
Twitter: https://twitter.com/robert_glazer
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/glazer
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RobertSGlazer/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robertglazer_/
 
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