Fail Better with David Duchovny How Megan McArdle Became a Liberal-tarian
9 snips
Nov 11, 2025 
Megan McArdle, a columnist for The Washington Post and author of The Upside of Down, dives into a blend of politics, technology, and craftsmanship. She shares her journey from liberalism to her unique 'liberal-tarian' perspective. Discussion highlights include the impact of technology on skills and the art of pie-making as a metaphor for tradition and craft. Megan reflects on her writing process, emphasizing passion over metrics, and the value of navigating the messy reality of policy versus ideals.
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Success And Failure Blur With Time
- Megan McArdle says success and failure blur with age and often the thing you missed was for the best.
- She values everyday presence and consistent kindness over glamour and cleverness.
A 3,000‑Word Love Letter To Pie
- Megan recounts writing a 3,000-word essay about the history of American pie and family traditions.
- She treasures purple raspberry pie made from sensitive, noncommercial berries grown locally.
Ease Gains Come With Cultural Losses
- McArdle warns technology brings ease but also risks eroding craft and communal practices.
- She argues cultural losses from innovation coexist with large societal gains like mass literacy.
