A colossal cruise ship tilts perilously off an Italian island, prompting a frantic response from local authorities. Amid the chaos, the captain's absence raises questions of accountability. Passengers face panic and confusion, highlighting failures in safety protocols. The aftermath reveals critical lessons on leadership during crisis while unpacking the tendency to shift blame. A daring rescue effort showcases bravery amidst desperation, emphasizing themes of community and responsibility during dire circumstances.

Jacob Goldstein, host of Pushkin's What's Your Problem?, and Laurie Santos, a Yale psychologist known for The Happiness Lab, dive into the science of giving and happiness. They reveal that spending money on others boosts personal happiness more than spending it on oneself. Listeners learn about impactful charities and how poker players view generosity. With practical tips, they explore how acts of kindness can transform both individuals and communities, highlighting the joy found in altruism.

Jacob Goldstein, host of 'What's Your Problem?' and author of 'Money: The True Story of a Made-Up Thing,' joins Tim Harford to dive into the roots of the 2008 financial crisis and the concept of shadow banking. They explore the societal implications of AI on job security and creativity, discussing how human innovation stands against machine-generated art. The conversation also touches on the lessons learned from past financial missteps and the NIMBY vs. YIMBY debates impacting housing policies.

Delve into the fascinating quandary of peacocks as Charles Darwin wrestles with their extravagant tails, which seemingly conflict with survival instincts. Discover how Erasmus Darwin’s life offers unexpected insights. Journey alongside Josiah Wedgwood, a resilient potter whose innovative spirit transformed his craft and business despite personal hardships. Explore the intertwining of art, science, and social signaling in both human society and nature, showcasing a vibrant tapestry of connection across generations.

In 1827 Edinburgh, the grim duo Burke and Hare exploit a cadaver shortage for profit, leading to a chilling tale of murder and moral decay. They consider the ethics of body snatching amidst a fascinating backdrop of medical training dilemmas. The narrative dives into the public outrage surrounding their actions and the dark practices of a medical community driven by greed. Halloween proves pivotal as their arrogance leads to a fateful mistake, intertwining true crime with reflections on our perceptions of acceptable markets.

Tim Harford, a Financial Times columnist and author of 'The Data Detective,' dives into the wild stories of historical swindlers Sam Israel III and John Law. The discussion navigates the psychological traits of con artists and the lengths they go to avoid consequences. Harford humorously explores the absurdity of faking one's own death and reflects on the risks of short-term thinking versus long-term planning, all while illustrating the need for robust regulatory oversight in finance. Plus, he examines the humorous and serious psychological aspects of decision-making.

David Bodanis, author of "How to Change the World," dives into the inspiring story of Sarojini Naidu, a key figure in the non-violent resistance against British colonial rule in India. He discusses her rise from a British admirer to a leader in the fight for independence, emphasizing the importance of peaceful protest. The conversation unveils the strategic brilliance of Naidu's campaigns, especially her march against oppressive salt laws, and reflects on the broader implications of nonviolent resistance in global justice movements.

The tumultuous tale of Captain Bligh aboard the HMS Bounty unfolds, revealing a man torn between rational leadership and discipline. The podcast captures the dramatic events leading to the famous mutiny, exploring Bligh's complex character and his strained relationship with his crew. As tensions rise, it juxtaposes serene moments of leisure with the looming challenges of leadership at sea. Ultimately, it delves into the nuances of fairness, authority, and the psychological stresses of decision-making in dire circumstances.

Paul Starrett, a seasoned construction company leader, is on the brink of building what could be the tallest building in the world. He discusses the intense pressures of labor relations, as strikes and unrest loom over the project. Balancing his internal struggles with external challenges, he highlights the historical context of labor rights, drawing parallels with his own management practices. The rivalry with Chrysler adds another layer of intrigue as they both vie for architectural supremacy in New York, showcasing the fine line between ambition and kindness in the world of skyscrapers.

Tim Harford, an economist renowned for making complicated concepts accessible, welcomes David Bodanis, an author exploring the nexus of history and science. Together, they delve into the ruthlessness of baseball manager Leo Durocher, who claimed that 'nice guys finish last.' Their discussion spans the moral dilemmas in competitive sports, contrasting leadership styles of tough versus fair managers, and the impact of personal character on team dynamics. Expect insights that challenge conventional wisdom about success and decency in the world of sports.