Your favorite podcast hosts clock in to tech’s 996 work culture. That means working 9 AM to 9 PM, six days a week, a concept that moved from China to Silicon Valley. Emily unpacks the particulars of the 996 phenomenon, revealing the burnout, competition, and absurd expectations at some of the world’s biggest tech companies. Mike shares his own ‘workaholic’ past. Plus, the Superintelligent hosts offer Superintelligent ideas about how low-tech can improve your work and life in a high-tech world.LinksWhy the ‘996’ schedule is capturing the interest of Silicon Valley leadershiphttps://www.npr.org/2025/10/26/nx-s1-5567995/why-the-996-schedule-is-capturing-the-interest-of-silicon-valley-leadershipInfluencers in the Wild (social media virality and sociology)https://www.instagram.com/influencersinthewildThe power of low-tech in a high-tech worldhttps://www.computerworld.com/article/4086115/the-power-of-low-tech-in-a-high-tech-world.htmlRosalía “Berghain”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=htQBS2Ikz6cFollow UsWebsite: superintelligentpodcast.comEmail:
[email protected] Elgan - About | Machine Society | Bluesky | Mastodon | NotesEmily Forlini - Website | PC Mag | Bluesky | X | TikTokChapters00:00 Introduction to 996 Work Culture00:52 The Impact of Workaholism in Tech03:19 Cultural Perspectives on Work Hours05:45 The Role of AI in Work Culture08:25 Personal Experiences with Workaholism09:27 The Future of Work and Burnout12:04 Conclusion and Reflections on Work Culture15:46 Cultural Perspectives on Work Ethic18:59 The High-Tech World and Its Implications22:33 The Importance of Traditional Skills25:58 AI and Human Dependency29:39 Embracing Language and Culture33:12 Pop Culture Reflections and Closing ThoughtsKeywords996 work culture, burnout, workaholism, AI impact, work-life balance, technology in work, cultural work ethic, low-tech solutions, intellectual growth, creativity This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.superintelligentpodcast.com