Revisionist History

Dive into a world where bank robbers and doctors intertwine in a tale of social change and dark themes. Explore the chaotic bank heists of 1980s L.A. through the lens of the Yankee Bandit and his methodical approach. Discover the charismatic legacy of Willie Sutton, who blended theatrics with crime. Navigate the challenges faced by law enforcement and the unexpected connections between crime culture and healthcare discrepancies. Plus, insights on sleep, vaccinations, and urban transformation add depth to this captivating narrative.

The finale dives deep into the contradiction of purity versus reality, spotlighting the historical context of the Scottsboro Boys case. It reflects on the power of protests against racism leading up to the 1936 Berlin Olympics. The story of Billy Garland adds a fascinating twist as he promotes Los Angeles for the Games amidst America’s social injustices. Tensions rise as the narrative explores how events were manipulated for propaganda, ultimately questioning the ethics of participating in the face of tyranny.

Explore the intriguing life of Heinrich Krieger, a German law student navigating race law in 1930s Arkansas. Discover cultural contrasts between American and German perspectives on race, especially regarding the 1936 Berlin Olympics. Delve into how the Nazis used the Olympics as a propaganda tool, while examining American racial politics and ideologies. Uncover the complex decisions surrounding Jewish athletes' participation and how Nazi observations of American racisms shaped their own ideologies. It's a captivating journey through history and culture.

Jesse Owens, the legendary American track and field athlete who won four gold medals at the 1936 Berlin Olympics, shares captivating tales from his past. He reflects on his complex friendship with Lutz Long and the implications of their interactions amidst racial tensions. Owens discusses the weight of his legacy and how personal narratives evolve over time. The conversation highlights the intersection of sports, identity, and social justice, showcasing the ongoing significance of his achievements and the stories behind them.

Explore the incredible achievements of Jesse Owens at the 1936 Olympics, where he defied the odds and set world records. Delve into the inspiring friendship between Owens and German long jumper Lutz Long, showcasing how their bond transcended racial and national barriers. Examine the myths surrounding their story, as well as the impact of legendary sports storytellers on Olympic narratives. This journey unveils the emotional legacies left behind and challenges the romanticized versions of history, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging complex realities.

Tim Harford is a renowned economist known for his insights into behavioral economics, while Sylvia Blemker is a biomedical engineering professor at UVA, co-founder of Springbok Analytics, specializing in athlete muscle analysis. The conversation delves into the groundbreaking achievements of Jesse Owens at the 1936 Berlin Olympics amidst racial tensions. They explore the history of women's marathon inclusion and the transformative role of technology in enhancing athletic performance, showcasing how AI and MRI scans revolutionize training for elite athletes.

Margaret Lambert, a German Jewish high jumper, shares her profound experiences facing discrimination during the Nazi regime. She dives into her passionate quest for Olympic greatness amid political turmoil and the exclusion from local sports clubs. The discussion explores the moral dilemmas faced by Avery Brundage, president of the American Olympic Committee, as he balanced ambition with the stark realities of anti-Semitism and propaganda at the 1936 Berlin Olympics. Her story highlights the clash between Olympic ideals and the urgent need for equality in sports.

Avery Brundage, a powerful figure in Olympic history, significantly shaped the 1936 Berlin Games, bringing a mix of ambition and controversy. He shares the complex motivations behind his support for the Games and the cultural significance of sports during that era. The podcast delves into his humble beginnings, his strict views on amateur athletics, and the moral dilemmas surrounding Olympic ideals. Additionally, it sheds light on the struggles of decathletes like Jim Thorpe, revealing deeper questions about competition and the essence of sports amidst political strife.

The podcast dives into the controversial 1936 Berlin Olympics, exploring Charles Sherrill's interactions with Hitler amidst rising anti-Semitism. It reveals the dual role of the Games as both a propaganda tool and a stage for athletes facing discrimination. Personal anecdotes underscore Sherrill's complex relationships with fascist leaders, raising ethical questions about complicity. The narrative also captures the struggles of minorities in pre-WWII Europe, emphasizing the broader societal ramifications of politics in sports.

Ben Nadav Haffrey, a key collaborator with Malcolm Gladwell on the series about the 1936 Olympics, brings sharp insights into the moral quandaries of that era. They dive into the complex legacy of Charles Hitchcock Sherrill, exploring his influence and the societal dynamics at play. The discussion also unfolds the clash between Olympic ideals and the exclusionary policies of Nazi Germany, scrutinizing the multifaceted moral dilemmas faced by American diplomats regarding Jewish athletes. Haffrey's commentary unveils the Olympics as a potent propaganda tool under Hitler's regime.