Cortex
Cortex is a show that explores how creative people think about their work — and how they get it done. Each episode dives into the workflows they follow, the apps and devices they depend on, and the habits that keep projects moving. Hosted by CGP Grey and Myke Hurley.
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Recent Episodes
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Jack Coyne, host and co-creator of TrackStar, discusses how he built one of social media's biggest shows from a simple format: playing music for people on New York streets in a double-or-nothing trivia game. The conversation explores the evolution from New York City trivia to music, the challenges of balancing viral celebrity guests with everyday people, building a sustainable media business in the creator economy, and expanding the brand through podcasts, live performances, and an upcoming app.
- The Origins of Public Opinion and TrackStar
- The TrackStar Format and How It Works
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This episode features poet and illustrator Lauren Brandts discussing her creative process, career journey from Sesame Street to BuzzFeed to independent work, and the creation of her bestselling book 'Poems of Parenting.' She shares insights about balancing creativity with parenthood, managing social media presence, and creating content that resonates with both parents and children.
- Lauren's Current Tools and Daily Routine
- From Sesame Street to BuzzFeed: Career Evolution
179: The Philosophy of Obsidian, with CEO Steph Ango
May 25, 2026Summary Preview
Mike Hurley interviews Steph Ango, CEO of Obsidian, exploring his journey from creating the popular Minimal theme to leading the seven-person company. They discuss Obsidian's unique philosophy of local-first note-taking, the team's unconventional structure with no regular meetings, and how staying small enables them to build a product they genuinely love using. Steph shares his personal workflow, the company's business model, and thoughtful perspectives on AI, collaboration, and building sustainable software.
- From Minimal Theme Creator to Obsidian CEO
- Obsidian's Core Philosophy: Links Over Folders
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Jason Schreier, Bloomberg's lead video game reporter and author of three books about the gaming industry, discusses his dual career in daily reporting and long-form book writing. He covers his reporting methods, relationship management with sources and PR teams, the challenges of covering an industry in turmoil, and the intensive process of writing deeply-researched books while maintaining his day job. The conversation reveals the practical and ethical complexities of investigative journalism in gaming.
- Tools and Daily Workflow
- The Phone Call Revolution in Journalism
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Mike Hurley interviews Quinn Nelson, creator of the Snazzy Labs YouTube channel, about managing creative work after becoming a first-time parent. They discuss how major life changes force you to rebuild workflows, prioritize differently, and find new ways to maintain creative output when time, energy, and attention become scarce. Quinn shares how he took two months of paternity leave, restructured his work schedule, hired assistants, and learned to say no while maintaining a sustainable three-person production team.
- Quinn's Approach to Tech Content Creation
- Using the iPad Pro as Primary Work Device
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Becca Fasaci, independent YouTuber and former Verge video director, shares her journey from working at a major tech publication to building her own channel. The conversation explores her production workflow, equipment choices, content philosophy, and approach to sustainable independent creation. Becca discusses her signature '1,000 photos' testing methodology, the importance of creative authenticity, and navigating the business side of content creation while maintaining editorial integrity.
- The Most Important Device and Camera Setup
- Transition from The Verge to Independent Creator
175: Technology Connections – State of the Workflow
Jan 15, 2026Summary Preview
Alec from Technology Connections joins to discuss his workflow for creating detailed YouTube videos about everyday technology. He reveals his surprisingly thoughtful approach to hooks and content strategy, his research and verification process, his views on audience feedback, and why he's content with his current success without pursuing growth. The conversation covers everything from his terrible $99 Windows tablet teleprompter to his philosophy on physical media and why he won't hire help.
- Essential Tools and Setup
- Video Creation Philosophy and Process
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173: Hank Green – State of the Workflow
Nov 11, 2025Summary Preview
Hank Green discusses his prolific career as a YouTuber, entrepreneur, and content creator, revealing how he manages an overwhelming number of projects including YouTube channels, businesses, podcasts, an iOS app, and a forthcoming book on cancer biology. He shares insights on his workflow systems, the evolution of his business ventures, why books still matter in the digital age, and his philosophy on using his platform for social good.
- The Importance of YouTube and Content Platforms
- Managing an Overwhelming Number of Projects