Cultural Connections and Complexities

A wide-ranging discussion featured acclaimed author and podcaster Malcolm Gladwell. Michael Krasny began by exploring Malcolm's entry into podcasting. Malcolm shared his love for the medium and how his podcast, Revisionist History, showcases his "mischievous side." They discussed the success of podcasters Joe Rogan and Bill Simmons and the importance of curiosity and listening skills. Malcolm touched on his experience with Paul Simon and the cultural effects on cardiologists, as detailed in his latest book. The conversation covered diverse topics. These included elite schools and college admissions processes, a town with a suicide epidemic, and the homogeneity of cheetahs. Malcolm also spoke about OxyContin and COVID, his favorite published book, and his current writing project. He expressed a growing interest in character-driven writing and his admiration for journalist Janet Malcolm. The dialogue then shifted to the role of faith in Malcolm's writing and his thoughts on Kamala Harris and popular music. They explored the impact of popular culture on Holocaust discussions and Malcolm's views on Pastor Rick Warren. The importance of journalism and Malcolm's increasing skepticism were also addressed. The conversation concluded with topics like white flight, fame, and Malcolm's earlier work at The New Yorker.