Plain English with Derek Thompson

In this entertaining discussion, exercise scientist Steve Magness and health contributor Brad Stulberg tackle trendy health topics like VO2 max and the hype around supplements. They critique the decline in trust towards health authorities and the obsession with complex fitness metrics. The duo warns against blindly following wellness trends while advocating for simplicity and practicality in health routines. They also delve into the regulatory chaos surrounding supplements, highlighting effective options like creatine amidst a sea of myths.

Jason Furman, a Harvard economics professor and inflation expert, dives into pressing economic issues. He explains why home and auto insurance prices have surged dramatically. Furman also reveals why inflation stagnated in 2024, debunking misconceptions from previous forecasts. He discusses the persistent high prices that hinder disinflation and speculates on the future trajectory of interest rates, predicting they may remain elevated for years to come. His insights shed light on the complex relationship between consumer sentiment and economic realities.

Political commentator Josh Barro, known for his newsletter 'Very Serious', discusses the paradox of the 2024 election being crucial yet surprisingly dull. He highlights voter disengagement and the overshadowed importance of key issues like abortion, inflation, and economic growth. Barro elaborates on the stark policy differences between Biden and Trump, particularly in immigration and fiscal strategies. Their chat dives into the roots of voter ambivalence and what a second Trump term might imply for America’s future.

Jay Van Bavel, a psychology and neural science professor at NYU, unpacks the mechanics behind our online interactions. He reveals the 'dark laws' that fuel negativity and extremism in digital spaces, shedding light on why we often see the worst in ourselves online. Exploring the allure of rivalry, he explains how schadenfreude shapes fans’ emotional responses. Van Bavel emphasizes the role of group dynamics and the media's bias, illustrating how these elements impact our perceptions and relationships in today's polarized environment.

In this insightful discussion, Nat Malkus, a former teacher and deputy director of education policy at the American Enterprise Institute, delves into the surging rates of school absenteeism, particularly highlighting alarming statistics from D.C. where 60% of high school students are chronically absent. Malkus explores how the pandemic has exacerbated this trend, leading to a cultural shift in attitudes towards education. He offers potential solutions for teachers and lawmakers, emphasizing the urgent need for a cultural change in attendance expectations.

Daniel Lieberman, a Harvard evolutionary biologist and expert in mismatch theory, joins the discussion to unveil what our ancient hunter-gatherer past can teach us about modern health. He stresses that exercise is the ultimate miracle drug and critiques the popular 10,000 steps guideline, revealing its marketing origins. Lieberman also challenges misconceptions around sleep and sitting, emphasizing the unique contexts of these activities. He advocates for incorporating strength training into our routines, urging a return to a more active, engaging lifestyle.

In this discussion, Robinson Meyer, the founding executive editor of Heatmap and co-host of Shift Key, sheds light on the misperceptions surrounding electric vehicles. He argues that while EV sales are thriving, America's Big Three automakers face serious challenges from China's competitive market. Meyer emphasizes the need for the U.S. to embrace EV production domestically, especially as consumer hesitance and inadequate charging infrastructure pose obstacles. It's a fascinating dive into how geopolitics and technology intertwine in the auto industry.

Dive into the hot debate over a potential U.S. ban on TikTok, with a focus on Chinese influence and its effects on media. The discussion highlights concerns about censorship and propaganda in social media, raising questions about free speech. Legal intricacies surrounding the proposed legislation come to light, revealing its potential impact on ownership and regulation. Finally, the broader political implications are explored, showcasing the ongoing tensions between creators, technology, and government power.

Lucas Shaw, a Bloomberg journalist and co-host of the Town podcast, dives into Hollywood's evolving landscape. He discusses the historical context of Oscars and how popularity and prestige have diverged. With Marvel hits underperforming, Shaw highlights a resurgence of original films like 'Oppenheimer' and 'Barbie,' signaling a shift away from franchise dominance. He explores the changing storytelling techniques influenced by audience preferences and critiques major studios like Disney and Warner Brothers as they adapt to this new cinematic reality.

Judd Cramer, a Harvard economist and co-author of a paper on inflation metrics, challenges common economic perceptions. He explains how traditional inflation measures overlook the staggering impact of soaring interest rates on everyday costs. As housing prices rise, the true cost of living, especially in terms of mortgages and loans, is often misrepresented. Cramer argues that this disconnect fuels economic anxiety and questions the validity of current economic indicators, offering a fresh perspective on what really drives consumer sentiment.