Hi [FORMATTED_FIRST_NAME GOES HERE], When I was a boy and first showed up for school, I was tested and found to be entirely … adequate. I wasn’t particularly sharp, but I was earnest. As such, I didn’t find myself in the “smart” classes with the “smart” kids. And yet… In those ordinary classes with the rest of the ordinary kids, I bumped into some of the most extraordinary teachers. To name just a few: Ms. Carol, Ms. Sartor, Ms. Puckett, Mr. Mercer, and Professor Peterson. Each of those teachers saw things in me that I did not see in myself. In turn, each of them gently yet firmly put their hands on the tiller of my life, making the most subtle course corrections that, so early in my life, entirely changed me and the course of my life. I don’t have the skill or subtlety of those magical people. And yet… I would still like to help. I owe it to my teachers. So I’m announcing the second year of Productivity Academy Summer Sessions. A Unique Opportunity for Students Earlier this year, I released the 2025 Productivity Field Guide, which helped many find focus in a distracted world. This summer, I’m excited to announce the 2025 Productivity Academy. This exclusive program offers the Productivity Field Guide and a four-part webinar series over the summer for select high school and college students. Why Should You Join? In today’s hyper-connected world, staying focused has become a superpower. Distractions are everywhere, competition is fierce, and the ability to concentrate on what truly matters will set you apart in both academics and life. But focus isn’t just about staying on task—it’s about understanding what’s important to you and what you want to achieve. This course will help you discover your “why” and give you the practical tools to build a focused, purpose-driven life. What You’ll Get
What’s the Cost? The course is free. However, I want something more valuable than money: your commitment. You must be willing to work through the material, complete the exercises, and attend the webinars. This isn’t for casual observers—only dedicated students should apply. Why I’m Doing This When I was your age, I struggled to find my focus. It took me decades to figure out my “why,” and once I did, my life transformed. I don’t want you to make the same mistakes I did. You can achieve that clarity much sooner, and I want to help you get there. How to Apply If you’re ready to take this step, send an email including:
Applications are due by June 11. Recipients will be notified shortly after, and the webinar series will start later in June. Your pal, David |
In a world where technology is increasingly conspiring to steal our focus and attention, my goal is to teach you how to be more productive with Apple technology. I want to help you achieve what is most important to you and enjoy your life at the same time using technology instead of becoming another one of its victims. Pretty much everything I make points at that North Star. I believe in this message so much that I’ve staked my livelihood on it.
The Alfred Field Guide has landed! Your Mac at the Speed of Thought. Hi [FORMATTED_FIRST_NAME GOES HERE], After six months of rebuilding my entire Alfred setup and recording 80+ HD screencasts and four+ hours of training, the Alfred Field Guide is officially live. Purchase Now with 10% Off What you’ll master Zero‑to‑Hero Setup: Install Alfred, unlock Powerpack features, and master core prefs in minutes. Launch & Search at Mach Speed: Apps, files, snippets, clipboard, system controls—all from...
Hi Reader, Years ago, I encountered a fascinating concept in a book by the Dalai Lama: every seven years, human beings transform into entirely new versions of themselves. This idea stems from the biological principle that our bodies replace virtually all their cells over a seven-year cycle. The person you are today doesn't share a single cell with the version of you from seven years ago. (This is, of course, a generalization as some cells regenerate much faster and others a little slower.)...
Hi Reader, There's a rumor that Apple is working on an on-device medical AI. The idea is that your iPhone or Apple Watch could use its onboard silicon to privately analyze your health data and offer recommendations, without sending that sensitive information to the cloud. The general vibe I'm seeing in response to this rumor is justified skepticism. Plenty of folks out there think there's no way Apple can pull this off, but I think this is exactly the kind of thing they should be doing. This...