
Judd B. Kessler
Wharton School economist and author focusing on market design and allocation; presents key insights from his book Lucky by Design about hidden markets and strategies to improve outcomes.
Top 5 podcasts with Judd B. Kessler
Ranked by the Snipd community

62 snips
Oct 14, 2025 • 25min
How To Be Lucky (By Design)
Judd Kessler, a Wharton School economist and author of 'Lucky by Design', delves into the mechanics of how luck can be engineered rather than just stumbled upon. He introduces the concept of hidden markets, where opportunities are shaped by invisible rules rather than mere prices. Discussing the three E's—efficiency, equity, and ease—Kessler shares strategies to enhance your chances in these markets. He also explores how AI is reshaping signaling, urging listeners to prepare and reduce friction to attract opportunities.

24 snips
Oct 6, 2025 • 60min
Luck Isn’t Random—It’s Designed | Judd B. Kessler
Judd B. Kessler, a Wharton economics professor and author of "Lucky by Design," dives into the intriguing idea that luck can actually be engineered. He discusses hidden markets, focusing on how factors like signaling interest and competence can influence success in job hunting, dating, and even snagging Taylor Swift tickets. Listeners will learn why sometimes 'settling for silver' can lead to unexpected gold, and how unique, idiosyncratic signaling can outperform safer strategies. Kessler offers practical tips for navigating life’s markets strategically.

22 snips
Oct 30, 2025 • 51min
How You Can Access Hidden Markets & How to Be A Super Conversationalist
Judd Kessler, a Wharton School professor and author of "Lucky by Design", reveals how to navigate hidden markets for opportunities in crowded spaces, like snagging concert tickets or securing restaurant reservations. Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Charles Duhigg, author of "Supercommunicators", shares insights into becoming a better conversationalist through techniques like deep questions and understanding conversation dynamics. Together, they explore how strategic communication and clever timing can tip the odds in your favor in both life and conversations.

18 snips
Nov 27, 2025 • 37min
Hidden Economics Within Your Business & Beyond
Judd B. Kessler, a Wharton professor and author of "Lucky by Design," dives into the fascinating concept of hidden markets. He discusses how market design can transform traditional revenue metrics, using examples like ticket allocation for live events. Judd shares insights on identifying allocation rules and emphasizes the importance of intentional design. With a keen eye on AI's limitations, he highlights the need for expert guidance in navigating complex markets. His criteria for successful allocation—equity, efficiency, and ease—offer a new lens on economic strategy.

11 snips
Oct 16, 2025 • 43min
1102: How to be “Lucky” by Hacking Hidden Markets to Get More What You Want with Judd Kessler
Judd B. Kessler, a Wharton economist and author of *Lucky by Design*, guides listeners through the intriguing world of hidden markets. He explains how certain individuals consistently secure coveted resources by adapting their strategies. Discover the surprising benefits of settling for less and how to signal genuine interest when job hunting to boost your chances. Judd also critiques traditional first-come ticketing systems and offers innovative alternatives that foster fairness. Tune in for practical tips to navigate these unseen dynamics!


