Psychologist Barry Schwartz and applied mathematician Coco Krumme discuss the dark side of always aiming for the best and debate strategies for making better choices. They explore the unintended consequences of optimizing, the dangers of stopping the search for the best option, and the importance of finding success without sacrificing happiness.

Psychologist Barry Schwartz and mathematician Coco Krumme discuss the drawbacks of always aiming for the best. They explore the negative consequences of optimization, the differences between universities, and the importance of finding a balance between success and happiness. The podcast also features innovation in business essentials at Staples and the challenges of managing multiple responsibilities.

Coco Krumme, a data scientist and author of "Optimal Illusions," dives into the dual nature of optimization and AI. She critiques modern agriculture, revealing how efficiency can lead to nutritional decline and community disconnect. The conversation highlights the risks of over-optimization in supply chains and the privacy issues confounded by data brokers. Krumme emphasizes finding balance in life optimization, reflecting on the tension between efficiency and the richness of human experience.

Coco Krumme discusses the illusion of optimization, exploring its influence in society and the trade-offs it brings. She offers a unique perspective from running a distillery to flying a small airplane. The podcast dives into the history of optimization, its impact on various aspects of life, and the complexity of efficiency with significant trade-offs. The chapter descriptions cover redefining optimization, unintended consequences, balancing discipline, and a reflective encounter at Perito Moreno Glacier.

Applied mathematician Coco Krumme and Greg LaBlanc explore the negative impacts of excessive optimization on essential human values and spontaneity. They discuss ethical trade-offs, the lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic, and question the fabric of modern living. The conversation delves into the pillars of optimization, the influence of corporations on personal life optimization, and the balancing act between efficiency and life in an optimization culture.