Revisionist History

Rachel Botsman, an Oxford University professor and author of "How to Trust and Be Trusted," shares her insights on the critical role of trust in modern society. She discusses the complexities of trust, emphasizing how intuition can lead to poor judgments. Rachel reflects on personal experiences, illustrating the importance of trusting wisely in professional settings. She introduces the idea of the 'trust pause,' advocating for thoughtful decision-making. Listeners gain practical strategies for fostering and maintaining trust in their relationships.

Jed Lipinski, writer and host of the gripping podcast Gone South, takes listeners into the life of Buford Pusser, the legendary Tennessee sheriff. They discuss the shocking contradictions in Pusser's heroic image, exacerbated by the mysterious death of his wife, Pauline. Listeners learn about the blurred lines between truth and myth, particularly influenced by the film 'Walking Tall.' Lipinski also sheds light on the community issues stemming from Pusser's legacy, including the pressing needs of senior food insecurity.

Arnold Schwarzenegger, the iconic actor and former governor, and Chris Christofferson, an accomplished actor and singer, dive into the whimsical chaos behind the 1992 remake of 'Christmas in Connecticut'. They share hilarious behind-the-scenes stories, from Arnold's unconventional directorial debut to the production challenges that came with a tiny budget and an all-star cast. Expect laughs as they reflect on family traditions, Hollywood pressures, and the unexpected joy of creating a holiday classic amidst the madness.

Michael Lewis, a bestselling author known for his works like 'Moneyball,' joins sport betting expert Rufus Peabody to delve into the explosive growth of sports gambling in the U.S. They discuss the shift from opposition to partnership between sports leagues and betting companies, revealing ethical dilemmas in advertising and media. Rufus shares insights on the psychological challenges of betting and the strategies savvy gamblers use to navigate the modern landscape. This conversation uncovers the complex dynamics of a booming industry that’s reshaping our relationship with sports.

In the 1960s, a former candy tycoon led the John Birch Society in a fierce anti-communist campaign, even targeting the Parent-Teacher Association. The clash illustrates the ideological turmoil in American politics, particularly around parental involvement in education. Insights from a small PTA newsletter reveal how grassroots movements shaped broader democracy and misinformation issues. Meanwhile, personal stories highlight the emotional toll of community divisions, as families faced harassment and mistrust due to ideological conflicts.

Mo Katibeh, CMO at T-Mobile for Business, Ryan Litt, COO of 3AM Innovations, and Dr. Azizi Seixas from the University of Miami dive into groundbreaking AI technologies for first responders. They explore how AI enhances firefighter communication during emergencies, improving decision-making with real-time data. The conversation shifts to health disparities, showcasing innovative tools to uplift underserved communities. Additionally, they discuss the vital role of 5G technology in emergency response, ensuring safety and efficiency when it matters most.

Aaron Chalfin, a criminologist specializing in the effects of policing strategies, delves into the controversial Broken Windows Theory and its impact on crime rates in New York City. He evaluates Malcolm Gladwell's reflections on his own influential work, discussing the legacy of stop-and-frisk policies and the nuances of community relations. Chalfin challenges the assumptions behind aggressive policing and considers the historical context of urban crime, raising critical questions about public safety and the effectiveness of such strategies.

In a lively conversation, David Remnick, the editor of The New Yorker, reflects on his journalism journey alongside Malcolm. They share humorous tales from their past, including an unforgettable story about a dog named Taro. David discusses navigating the transition from the Washington Post to The New Yorker, emphasizing the need for unique storytelling. They also touch on the complexities of parenthood and college admissions, blending personal anecdotes with deeper reflections on identity and community.

Catherine Curie, daughter of Eamon Khoury, provides a gripping account of her pivotal role in the Georgetown trial focused on college admissions fraud. The podcast delves into the ethical dilemmas of bribery, featuring surprise witnesses and revealing text messages that shake the courtroom dynamics. Curie's heartfelt testimony sheds light on her complex relationship with her father, intertwined with themes of betrayal and healing. The episode navigates the tension between personal narratives and broader questions of accountability in academia.

Howard Shrebnik, the defense attorney for Eamon Khoury, and Leo Katz, a law professor at the University of Pennsylvania, analyze the shocking Georgetown admissions scandal. They dive into the unique complexities of elite education and the legal struggles surrounding the Khoury case. The discussion includes the intertwining narrative of sports ambition and ethics, exploring the controversial bribery practices in college admissions. Their insights shed light on how wealth influences university recruitment and the implications for justice.