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
Jun 14, 2021 • 1h 9min
Donald Shoup on the Economics of Parking
Donald Shoup, a distinguished professor from UCLA and author of "The High Cost of Free Parking," dives into the hidden costs of parking policies. He argues that many regulations harm the economy and advocates for charging for curbside parking to fund neighborhood improvements. Shoup highlights success stories in urban areas that have embraced flexible parking solutions, boosting local businesses while reducing congestion. He also discusses how adjusting parking prices can enhance social equity and increase affordable housing options.
Jun 7, 2021 • 1h 14min
Ian Leslie on Conflicted
Ian Leslie, author of "Conflicted" and writer for "The Ruffian," discusses the power of productive disagreements. He argues that conflict can lead to innovative solutions and strengthen relationships, whether in business or personal life. Leslie emphasizes the importance of civil discourse and understanding emotional dynamics during conflicts. He also dives into cultural communication differences and the necessity of empathy for better dialogue. Ultimately, he believes that embracing conflict is key to collective intelligence and growth.
May 31, 2021 • 1h 12min
Bruce Meyer on Poverty
Bruce Meyer, McCormick Foundation Professor at the University of Chicago and expert on poverty, dives deep into the nuances of extreme poverty in the U.S. He challenges recent studies by highlighting flaws in survey data and assumptions. The discussion critiques traditional poverty metrics, critiques government welfare roles, and examines the hardships of minimum wage workers. Meyer also explores the complexities of economic mobility, emphasizing the need for targeted support systems over broad solutions like universal basic income.
May 24, 2021 • 1h 6min
Jason Riley on Race in America
Jason Riley, a journalist and author at The Wall Street Journal, delves into the complex issues surrounding race in America. He argues that challenges for Black communities extend beyond racial discrimination and critiques narratives shaped by activists and media. Discussing topics like police presence, he highlights a desire for greater safety in Black neighborhoods. Riley examines historical contexts of Black Americans, emphasizes the importance of family dynamics, and calls for educational reform to empower disadvantaged communities, advocating for a more nuanced understanding of race and policy.
56 snips
May 17, 2021 • 1h 7min
Julia Galef on the Scout Mindset
Julia Galef, author of "The Scout Mindset" and host of "Rationally Speaking," discusses the vital distinction between the scout mindset, which seeks objective truth, and the soldier mindset, which defends pre-existing beliefs. She emphasizes the significance of self-awareness for personal growth and the courage to embrace uncertainty. Galef shares insights on navigating social interactions and making informed decisions, advocating for open-mindedness and respectful dialogue to foster deeper understanding across ideological divides.
37 snips
May 10, 2021 • 1h 25min
Agnes Callard on Anger
Agnes Callard, a philosopher at the University of Chicago, sheds light on the complexities of anger as more than a reaction—she explores its moral implications and roots in personal values. The discussion navigates how anger intersects with social dynamics, particularly during the pandemic, and the delicate balance of provocation in philosophical discourse. Callard also addresses jealousy and forgiveness, illuminating their role in relationships while emphasizing the significance of empathy and dialogue in overcoming emotional challenges.
May 3, 2021 • 1h 8min
Katy Milkman on How to Change
Katy Milkman, a behavioral scientist and author at the Wharton School, dives into the fascinating science behind changing our habits. She discusses strategies for overcoming willpower struggles and the importance of making desired behaviors enjoyable. The conversation highlights the 'fresh start effect' and the interplay between self-control and motivation. Milkman also addresses the complexities of behavioral research reliability and the profound impact of belief and peer influence on personal growth.
Apr 26, 2021 • 1h 10min
Roya Hakakian on A Beginner's Guide to America
In this conversation, Roya Hakakian, an author and poet who immigrated from Iran, shares her heartfelt journey to America. She reflects on the bittersweet nature of immigration and the emotional complexities tied to identity. Roya highlights the warmth of American customer service as a comforting contrast to her past. The discussion delves into the paradox of comfort and insecurity in U.S. life, the challenges of navigating social justice, and the importance of embracing America's diverse identities, particularly from immigrant perspectives.
Apr 19, 2021 • 1h 9min
Mark Rank on Poverty and Poorly Understood
Mark Rank, a sociologist and author of "Poorly Understood: What America Gets Wrong About Poverty," dives into the complexities of poverty. He shares that most Americans will experience poverty at some point, challenging common misconceptions. Rank critiques how poverty is measured and advocates for a deeper understanding beyond mere financial metrics. He emphasizes the importance of education and skill acquisition in alleviating poverty, and explores the transient nature of poverty rather than viewing it as a permanent condition.
Apr 12, 2021 • 1h 32min
Emiliana Simon-Thomas on Happiness
In this engaging discussion, Emiliana Simon-Thomas, a neuroscientist and the science director of the Greater Good Science Center at UC Berkeley, shares her insights on happiness and well-being. She explores the complexities of happiness, linking it to longevity and success while emphasizing the power of mindfulness and intentional actions. The conversation highlights how social bonds, gratitude, and even place play critical roles in our happiness. Simon-Thomas also debunks the myth of human selfishness, showcasing our intrinsic tendencies toward altruism.
