Revisionist History

In this discussion, Matt Scogin, President of Hope College, shares his innovative funding initiative, Hope Forward, aimed at transforming the landscape of higher education. Mitch Albom, renowned author and sports columnist, delves into the importance of philanthropy and community in fostering a culture of generosity. They explore the burdens of student debt, advocate for systemic change, and highlight how education can serve both as a learning experience and a pathway to giving back, ultimately redefining success for future generations.

Maria Konnikova, author, psychologist, and poker player, shares her insights in a lively discussion. She delves into the evolution of debate culture, highlighting its empowering role and the importance of listening. The conversation also explores the cultural nuances of swearing in Russian literature, emphasizing freedom of expression. Additionally, they tackle the ethics of university rankings, examining the manipulation and pressures in academia. With a blend of critical thinking and personal anecdotes, Maria offers a compelling perspective on these pressing topics.

Michael Thaddeus, a Columbia University math professor, joins for a deep dive into academic dishonesty, focusing on how universities manipulate U.S. News rankings. The discussion unpacks the absurdities of Columbia’s data reporting, raising questions about the integrity of prestigious institutions. They humorously establish the Pushkin Prizes to honor such deceit, while exploring the broader implications of self-promotion and the influence of social media in academia. It’s a candid look at the intersection of ethics, deception, and public perception.

In a lively discussion, Lauren Fleshman, a world-class runner and author, joins Linda Flanagan, a seasoned runner and coach, to tackle the crisis in girls' sports. They reveal the systemic biases hindering female athletes and advocate for transformative changes in youth sports culture. Highlighting the tension between competition and enjoyment, they explore the pressures on young athletes, the role of parents, and the necessity for inclusivity. The conversation emphasizes the camaraderie and joy that running brings, underscoring the need for a supportive community.

In a lively discussion, Adam Gopnik, a Staff writer for The New Yorker known for his essays and books, shares insights from his latest work, exploring the concept of mastery. He vividly illustrates lessons from various masters, including chefs debating seasonality and the philosophical nuances of magic. The conversation touches on personal anecdotes about familial relationships and the emotional journey of self-discovery. Gopnik emphasizes that mastery is not just about skill but a deeper engagement with creativity across disciplines.

Steve Martin, renowned comedian, actor, and writer, opens up about his creative journey in a new audiobook. He shares his transition from small venues to stadiums, revealing how fame changed the laughter he experienced. The discussion dives into his evolution in film, highlighting iconic roles in classics like 'The Jerk.' Martin also reflects on his personal comedies and the influence of Carl Reiner, emphasizing the magic of improvisation in comedy. This candid exploration captures the essence of his absurdist humor and artistic motivations.

Michelle Goldberg, a prominent New York Times columnist, joins to discuss the highs and lows of the debate world. They delve into the aftermath of public humiliations and the journey of reclaiming one's reputation. The conversation also highlights the complexities of media trust, the importance of active listening in debates, and the transformative power of debate school. Listeners are treated to insights on Jamaican dialect and the art of communication, showcasing how empathy and personal experiences intertwine with the debate culture.

In this discussion, Michael Specter, a renowned science writer for The New Yorker and MIT professor, dives into the transformative potential of mRNA vaccines and synthetic biology. He argues that this revolution rivals the impact of electricity on society. They explore groundbreaking innovations like heritable vaccines for endangered species and reflect on the public health lessons from the 1947 smallpox outbreak in New York. The conversation balances excitement for scientific advances with a cautionary perspective on the risks of rapid biotechnological progress.

In this insightful discussion, Justin Richmond, the creator and host of "Started From the Bottom," shares his journey as a biracial individual navigating identity and racism. He reflects on dropping out of high school and how literature reignited his academic passion. A life-changing dinner with Quincy Jones stands out as a pivotal moment, highlighting the importance of mentorship. Justin also addresses the stark disparities in opportunities for youth based on race, showcasing the resilience of those counted out in their quest for success.

Maria Konnikova, an author, psychologist, and professional poker player, takes on the role of ombudsman and dives into fascinating ethical discussions. She challenges Malcolm on the Minnesota starvation experiments and the evolving guidelines around drinking alcohol. They also explore the impact of iodized salt, the controversial addition of fluoride, and the ethics of human experimentation. Konnikova sheds light on the dilemmas researchers face with informed consent and the importance of inclusive studies that reflect diverse populations.