A Flexible Process Beats Fixed Systems

Ep. 400: Should I Embrace “Slow Technology”?

If there was one word to describe modern digital tools, it would be “fast.” But not everyone thinks this is better. In today’s episode, Cal explores the concept of “slow technology” – the embrace of tools that have fewer features and more friction, but nonetheless produce better work and more satisfaction. His guide in this effort is the acclaimed children’s book author Amy Timberlake, who talks to Cal about her recent shift to using a mechanical typewriter. Cal then reviews other examples of slow technology in action, and then proposes several general principles for applying the philosophy in your own life.

Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). Get your questions answered by Cal! Send an email to podcast@calnewport.com.

Video from today’s episode:  youtube.com/calnewportmedia

INTERVIEW: Should I Embrace “Slow Technology”? (w/ Amy Timberlake) [3:20]

INBOX:

- A book about spiritual sloth [1:03:49]

- What is Cal’s opinion about Yuval Harai’s thoughts on AI? [1:05:22]

WHAT CAL IS UP TO:

- Deep or Crazy: 2nd edition signed Andromeda Strain for HQ? [1:18:29]

- Myth buster gear: display in HQ [1:20:13]

- 400th episode [1:23:01]

Books:

Magic Journey (Kevin Rafferty)

Links:

Buy Cal’s latest book, “Slow Productivity” at www.calnewport.com/slow

Get a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at https://peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/

Cal’s monthly book directory: bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?

https://www.axios.com/local/kansas-city/2026/04/02/why-some-are-returning-to-mp3-players

https://ugmonk.com/blogs/journal/analog-the-simplest-productivity-system

https://www.bbc.com/culture/article/20240102-oppenheimer-and-the-resurgence-of-blu-ray-and-dvds-were-now-in-the-age-of-streaming-anxiety

https://ignatius.com/the-noonday-devil-ndevp

https://www.abebooks.com/servlet/BookDetailsPL?bi=32240681755

Thanks to our Sponsors:

This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp:

https://www.betterhlep.com/deepquestions

https://www.calderalab.com/deep

https://www.mybodytutor.com

https://www.grammarly.com

Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, and Nate Mechler for research and newsletter.

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