Freakonomics Radio "I Started Crying When I Realized How Beautiful the Universe Is” | People I (Mostly) Admire Ep. 2: Mayim Bialik
Sep 5, 2020
Mayim Bialik, an award-winning actress and neuroscientist known for her role on The Big Bang Theory, shares her remarkable journey through education and Hollywood. She candidly discusses the emotional challenges of balancing her career with motherhood and the importance of redefining STEM education to support diverse learners. Bialik also explores the complexities of women's representation in leadership roles and the personal growth that comes from embracing authenticity amid societal expectations.
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Early Acting Career
- Mayim Bialik's acting career started in childhood with a role in "Beaches" after participating in a drama program.
- She landed the lead role in "Blossom" despite not fitting the typical "All-American" look, getting cast in character roles.
A Strange Kid
- Mayim Bialik describes herself as a "strange" kid and teenager, drawn to intellectual pursuits and grappling with a strong sense of mortality.
- Her early life was marked by a family history of mental illness and personal struggles with OCD and anxiety.
Levitt's Public Persona
- Steve Levitt shares a personal anecdote about how he developed a public speaking persona to cope with stage fright.
- He describes an incident during a TED Talk where being reminded of his deceased son shattered this persona, revealing the emotional toll of public performance.