Ep. 379: The Flexibility Myth

In this episode of Deep Questions, Cal Newport analyzes an op-ed by Corrine Lowe about why women left the workforce disproportionately after the pandemic, arguing that unpredictability in knowledge work, exacerbated by technology, is a major factor. He proposes solutions like the one-message rule, docket clearing meetings, collaboration processes, and transparent task management. Cal then answers listener questions on topics ranging from routines for venture-backed startups to managing a boss who sends emails at all hours, scheduling deep work, and lifestyle-centric career planning. Finally, Cal responds to comments on his previous episode about AI, addressing critiques and clarifying his arguments against the superintelligence narrative.