Plain English with Derek Thompson

Adam Mastroianni, a psychologist and writer focused on cultural change, joins the discussion about modern cultural stagnation. They explore why contemporary culture seems 'stuck,' from uniform corporate logos to Gen Z's nostalgia for 90s TV. Adam explains how rising wealth and lower risks have fostered a risk-averse society, leading to fewer innovative ideas in music and film. They even connect the decline of serial killers to improved policing. The episode offers insights into how safety and security shape cultural creativity.

Kelsey Piper, a journalist focused on education policy, Rose Horowitz from The Atlantic, who covers literacy declines, and Joshua Goodman, an economics professor, dive into America’s troubling math crisis. They discuss alarming trends in grade inflation and the stark reality of incoming college freshmen needing remedial math despite good grades. Cultural pressures around easier grading and the impact of technology on learning are explored, along with the implications of accountability policies and standardized testing on student performance.

In this thought-provoking conversation, economist Anton Korinek from the University of Virginia dives into the implications of artificial general intelligence (AGI). He discusses the swift potential for AI to disrupt white-collar jobs, the urgency of proactive policies to prevent an 'AGI Great Depression,' and the distinction between quiet and loud AGI. Anton emphasizes the importance of measuring AGI's progress, how robotics will accelerate following cognitive automation, and the looming political risks of mass unemployment, urging for solutions to support those left behind.

Derek Thompson, a journalist and author known for his insightful essays on media and culture, dives into his thought-provoking essay, "Everything Is Television." He discusses how various media forms are evolving into episodic video, highlighting the convergence of podcasts, social media, and AI. The conversation also touches on the impact of TV-style flow on attention spans and literacy, the coexistence of short clips and long-form content, and the importance of clarity in messaging for media success. Derek shares insights on charisma and why he transitioned from The Atlantic to Substack.

Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson, co-hosts of the Animal Spirits podcast, dive into the challenges young people face in today’s economy. They discuss rising youth unemployment and housing market obstacles, highlighting how age and interest rates impact first-time buyers. The duo explores how AI might replace entry-level jobs and its dual potential to disrupt or transform the workforce. They also analyze the shift of younger investors towards stocks, driven by housing costs and the implications of these economic trends for future generations.

Matthew Yglesias, a prominent writer and founder of the Slow Boring newsletter, dives into the Democratic Party's recent electoral triumphs. He explores the new 'affordability theory' as a unifying message, discussing its strengths and weaknesses. Yglesias questions conventional affordability metrics while highlighting the struggles of low-income Americans. They also debate the importance of moderation in politics and how Democrats can effectively address cultural conservatism while appealing to diverse voters. It’s a fascinating look at strategy and the future of the Democratic Party!

Ken Burns, the award-winning filmmaker known for his impactful historical documentaries like 'The Civil War,' dives into the complexities of the American Revolution. He debunks the mythical portrayals of figures like George Washington and highlights the chaotic reality of 1776. Burns discusses the Revolution’s global influence, inspiring movements worldwide, and the importance of crafting nuanced narratives in storytelling. He also shares insights into his filmmaking techniques, including how to evoke history without photographs.

Jonathan Cohen, an author and researcher on gambling policy, dives into the alarming impact of legalized sports betting on society. He discusses the recent FBI investigation and the shocking rise in financial issues, particularly for young men, as gambling becomes more enticing and accessible. Cohen shares a personal story about addiction and emphasizes how betting has drastically altered the fan experience. He suggests that while gambling can be fun, stricter regulations are needed to prioritize safety and protect vulnerable individuals from its harms.

In this engaging conversation, bestselling author Michael Lewis, known for works like Moneyball and The Big Short, dives deep into the intricacies of the financial crisis. He explores how hidden risks and warped incentives paved the way for crises, warns about the dangers of cryptocurrency, and discusses the long-lasting impacts of the financial meltdown on politics and society. Lewis also shares insights on crafting compelling narratives, his process in discovering stories, and the challenges of adapting books into films along with reflections on AI's potential pitfalls.

Ethan Mollick, a Wharton professor focused on entrepreneurship and innovation, dives deep into the evolving role of AI in our work lives. He explores how AI's capabilities have advanced and discusses its limitations, including areas where it still struggles. Mollick highlights the implications for jobs, especially those involving repetitive or easily assignable tasks. He shares practical strategies for using AI effectively and warns about skill atrophy with reliance on technology. The conversation paints a picture of a disruptive transition rather than an overnight overhaul.