Going Infinite and Beyond Our Big Short Journey with Michael Lewis

Mar 5, 2025

Michael Lewis, bestselling author of 'Liar's Poker' and 'The Big Short', engages in a fascinating dialogue about his experiences during the financial crisis and the impact of high-frequency trading. He shares insights from writing 'Flash Boys' and examines the predatory nature of modern sports gambling, particularly its effects on youths. Lewis also critiques government inefficiencies and offers a glimpse into his upcoming works on civil servants. The conversation touches on the biography challenges of figures like Elon Musk and Sam Bankman-Fried, highlighting complex narratives in finance.

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ANECDOTE

The Big Short's Genesis

Michael Lewis's interest in the 2008 financial crisis stemmed from Meredith Whitney's work.
This led him to Steve Eisman and the FrontPoint partners, who became central figures in "The Big Short".

ANECDOTE

From Big Short to Flash Boys

After "The Big Short", Danny Moses alerted Michael Lewis to unusual stock trading patterns.
This tip, initially dismissed, led to "Flash Boys" after a lawyer contacted Lewis about a Goldman Sachs programmer.

INSIGHT

More Than an Anecdote

Many people suggested book ideas to Michael Lewis, but they often missed the mark.
A compelling narrative requires not just an anecdote or character, but a deeper theme.

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Danny Moses is joined by bestselling author Michael Lewis for a wide-ranging discussion touching on their initial meeting during the financial crisis, Lewis's journey with 'The Big Short' and its subsequent transformation into a movie. They delve into the real-time writing of Lewis' book 'Flash Boys', prompted by the flash crash of 2010. The conversation also covers Lewis's podcast journey on sports gambling, exploring its predatory nature and impact on youth, and concludes with insights into Lewis's forthcoming books addressing government inefficiencies and profiles of civil servants. The duo also discuss the relationships between author and subject as it relates to Elon Musk and Sam Bankman-Fried.

ABOUT THE SHOW

For decades, Danny has seen it all on Wall Street and has built his reputation on integrity, curiosity and skepticism that he will bring with him each week. Having traded through the Great Financial Crisis and being featured in "The Big Short" is only part of the experiences Danny wants to share with the listener. This weekly podcast cuts through market noise, offering entertaining and informative discussions with expert guests giving their views of the financial world and the human side of it. Whether you're a seasoned investor or just getting started, On The Tape provides something for all listeners.

Follow Danny on X: @dmoses34

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