EconTalk
Russ Roberts
EconTalk: Conversations for the Curious is an award-winning weekly podcast hosted by Russ Roberts of Shalem College in Jerusalem and Stanford's Hoover Institution. The eclectic guest list includes authors, doctors, psychologists, historians, philosophers, economists, and more. Learn how the health care system really works, the serenity that comes from humility, the challenge of interpreting data, how potato chips are made, what it's like to run an upscale Manhattan restaurant, what caused the 2008 financial crisis, the nature of consciousness, and more. EconTalk has been taking the Monday out of Mondays since 2006. All 900+ episodes are available in the archive. Go to EconTalk.org for transcripts, related resources, and comments.
Episodes
Mentioned books
77 snips
Jul 28, 2025 • 1h 4min
Read Like a Champion (with Doug Lemov)
Doug Lemov, an educational entrepreneur and author, dives into the critical state of reading education in America. He discusses the pitfalls of past reading fads and the need for scientifically-based methods. Lemov emphasizes the value of background knowledge and the importance of deep reading for meaningful comprehension. He advocates for group reading experiences and reflects on how even sports terminology enhances enjoyment and understanding. Join them as they explore the transformative power of reading and how to rebuild effective reading habits.
200 snips
Jul 21, 2025 • 1h 25min
James Marriott on Reading
James Marriott, a writer from the Times of London and author of Cultural Capital, passionately defends the art of reading in a distracted world. He shares his journey of ditching his smartphone to reclaim focus and suggests balancing physical books with Kindles. The conversation emphasizes the cognitive and emotional depth of traditional reading, the joys of re-reading, and the transformative impact of literature. Marriott also celebrates authors like Elena Ferrante and explores the unique power of poetry, urging listeners to embrace the rich narratives books offer.
82 snips
Jul 14, 2025 • 1h 15min
How to Walk the World (with Chris Arnade)
Chris Arnade, an author and photographer known for his focus on marginalized communities, shares his unique travel insights. He advocates for walking as a way to truly experience cultures, highlighting moving moments in places like Istanbul and Avignon. Arnade contrasts community-centered cultures in Japan and Vietnam with America's individualism, reflecting on happiness and fulfillment. He shares practical tips for minimalist packing and choosing meaningful dining experiences, emphasizing the beauty of connecting with local life and the spiritual richness of journeys.
164 snips
Jul 7, 2025 • 1h 20min
What Is Capitalism? (with Mike Munger)
In this discussion with Mike Munger, an economist and podcaster from Duke University, the foundations of capitalism are explored. Munger breaks down the stages of economic development: voluntary exchange, markets, and capitalism itself. He delves into the moral implications of trade, the transformative efficiency from the division of labor, and how capitalism allows for 'time travel' through liquidity and financing. The conversation also touches on the balance between material wealth and human fulfillment, highlighting the deeper needs of society.
132 snips
Jun 30, 2025 • 1h 9min
The Deceptive Power of Maps (with Paulina Rowinska)
Join mathematician Paulina Rowinska, author of *Mapmatics: A Mathematician's Guide to Navigating the World*, as she unveils the fascinating world of maps. Discover why Colorado can have nearly 700 sides and how coastlines can stretch infinitely. Rowinska discusses the deceptive nature of map projections like the Mercator, the evolution of subway maps into user-friendly designs, and the intricate balance of optimizing delivery routes. She also sheds light on how mathematics and innovation can impact public health and crime prevention.
177 snips
Jun 23, 2025 • 1h 1min
How to Be a Super Ager (with Eric Topol)
Eric Topol, a leading cardiologist at the Scripps Research Institute and author of "Super Agers," shares groundbreaking insights on aging and health. He debunks myths about genetics and highlights the role of the immune system in preventing diseases like Alzheimer’s and cancer. Topol discusses how a shingles vaccine could reduce dementia risk and the anti-inflammatory benefits of Ozempic. He also emphasizes the importance of deep sleep for brain health and the potential of innovative therapies to extend longevity.
78 snips
Jun 16, 2025 • 1h 17min
Leon Kass on the Wisdom of Rousseau
Join Leon Kass, an author and educator from Shalem College in Jerusalem, as he unpacks Jean-Jacques Rousseau's profound thoughts on technology and human nature. They ponder whether technology liberates or ensnares us. Delve into Rousseau's insights on inequality and how civilization complicates love and social dynamics. The duo explores self-interest's duality, the dark side of vanity and jealousy, and the intricacies of self-love, revealing how these emotions shape our interactions and happiness.
87 snips
Jun 9, 2025 • 1h 22min
Two Cheers for Libertarianism and Econ 101 (with Noah Smith)
In this discussion, economist Noah Smith, known for his No Opinion Substack, reflects on the political significance of libertarianism after reevaluating his stance due to recent U.S. policies. He explores the balance between economic freedom and necessary government intervention, highlighting the flaws in a purely libertarian society. The conversation touches on the implications of defense spending in geopolitics, the erosion of American democratic norms, and the need for a pragmatic approach to economic education, challenging traditional teachings.
163 snips
Jun 2, 2025 • 1h 9min
EconTalk #1000 (with Russ Roberts)
In a special milestone reflection, the host discusses the evolution from strict economics to broader conversations. They delve into understanding complex topics like Bitcoin and the emotional nuances of Israeli-Palestinian narratives. Humorous anecdotes about self-deception and intuition highlight personal growth, while the importance of cultural factors in education is emphasized. With gratitude for the journey and listeners, the host invites shares on favorite episodes, celebrating nearly two decades of enriching dialogue and exploration.
162 snips
May 26, 2025 • 1h 8min
Nature vs. Nurture (with Paul Bloom)
In this engaging conversation, psychologist Paul Bloom from the University of Toronto and author of 'Small Potatoes' dives deep into the complexities of nature vs. nurture. He challenges the simplicity of attributing success solely to genes or environment, highlighting the intricate interplay between the two. Bloom shares humorous anecdotes about aspiration and self-acceptance, and the importance of passion in developing skills. The discussion also tackles ethical dilemmas in genetic selection, urging listeners to reflect on fairness and societal implications in this evolving landscape.
