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.
More from Cal
Download Cal’s FREE guide to cultivating a deeper life: calnewport.com/ideas
Learn more about Cal’s books: calnewport.com/books
Listen to Cal’s podcast: thedeeplife.com/listen
Chapters
0:00 Should I Embrace “Slow Technology”? (w/ Amy Timberlake)
1:03:49 A book about spiritual sloth
1:05:22 What is Cal’s opinion about Yuval Harai’s thoughts on AI?
1:18:29 Deep or Crazy: 2nd edition signed Andromeda Strain for HQ?
1:20:13 Myth buster gear: display in HQ
1:23:01 400th episode
Resources Mentioned:
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
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
Credits:
Podcast Production: Jesse Miller
Newsletter/Research: Nate Mechler
