35. David Epstein Knows Something About Almost Everything

35. David Epstein Knows Something About Almost Everything

August 14, 2026 · 49 min · Episode 35

About this episode

David Epstein discusses the benefits of being a generalist and challenges the notion of early specialization.

He’s been an Arctic scientist, a sports journalist, and is now a best-selling author of science books. His latest, Range: Why Generalists Triumph in a Specialized World, makes the argument that early specialization does not give you a head start in life. David and Steve talk about why frustration is a good sign, and why the 10,000-hour rule is definitely not a rule. This episode originally aired on July 9th, 2021st.

People in this episode

Host: Steve

Guest: David Epstein

Topics covered

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Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: Range: Why Generalists Triumph in a Specialized World

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