Plain English with Derek Thompson

By many measures, this is one of the best times to find a job in decades. And by many measures, Americans are locked in a state of extreme glumness about the country. Jordan Weissmann, Washington editor at Semafor, rejoins the show to talk about why the economy is much better than many Americans—and many economic commentators—think, and whether "Bidenomics" can fix what ails us.If you have questions, observations, or ideas for future episodes, email us at PlainEnglish@Spotify.com. You can find us on TikTok at www.tiktok.com/@plainenglish_Host: Derek ThompsonGuest: Jordan WeissmannProducer: Devon Manze Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Calvin Newport, a computer science professor at Georgetown and author of 'Deep Work,' delves into the paradox of productivity tools in the digital age. He argues that email and Slack distract more than they enhance, making it harder to engage in deep, focused work. He highlights the strain of constant context switching that leaves workers logging late hours just to finish tasks. Newport also proposes the idea of 'slow productivity' to foster creativity and fulfillment, emphasizing the need for systemic change in workplace communication.

Join Paul Poast, a military historian and academic at the University of Chicago, as he unpacks the shocking 36-hour rebellion led by Yevgeny Prigozhin. Explore Prigozhin's journey from hot dog vendor to a pivotal player in Russian politics. Dive into discussions on Vladimir Putin's vulnerabilities, the Wagner Group's influence, and the unsettling implications for Russia's military efforts amidst internal turmoil. Poast also reflects on how this episode mirrors historical precedents that could lead to drastic changes in the Kremlin.

Tim Pychyl, a retired psychology professor from Carleton University, dives deep into the science of procrastination. He explores how mood greatly influences our ability to accomplish tasks, introducing the procrastination doom loop. Pychyl highlights why traditional time management techniques often fall short and presents a dual strategy combining goal setting and emotional regulation. He also discusses the emotional aspects of procrastination, revealing how our desire for immediate rewards can lead to avoidance and how addressing these feelings can boost productivity.

In this discussion, Andrew Yeo, a Senior Fellow at the Brookings Institution and expert on South Korean politics, delves into the alarming decline in fertility rates in both the U.S. and South Korea. He highlights the emotional and societal impacts, exploring how economic pressures and educational demands shape family planning. Yeo also addresses housing affordability issues in Seoul and the evolving cultural perceptions of marriage and parenthood. This conversation reveals the intricate ties between women's empowerment, education, and the future of family dynamics.

Richard Reeves, a Brookings scholar and author of 'Of Boys and Men,' discusses the alarming trends affecting young men in America, including increasing loneliness and social disconnection. He highlights the impact of social media on their mental health and educational disparities. The conversation covers boys' complex views on feminism, revealing both support for women's rights and skepticism toward the movement. Reeves emphasizes the importance of redefining masculinity and fostering community to address these challenges.

Matt Belloni, host of 'The Town' and writer for Puck News, dives into the recent Writers Guild of America strike and its seismic impact on TV and film. He discusses how this labor action reflects shifts in the entertainment industry, particularly with streaming services redefining content creation. The conversation highlights concerns about fair compensation for writers and the looming presence of AI in Hollywood. Belloni's insights probe how this strike could carve out new paths for storytelling amidst an evolving media landscape.

In this discussion, Jason Gay, a sports columnist for The Wall Street Journal, and Tom Farrey, executive director of the Aspen Institute's Sports and Society Program, dive into the alarming decline of youth sports participation in America. They explore the cultural and economic factors fueling this crisis, from rising costs to increased isolation among young people. The duo also shares insights on Norway’s innovative sports system, which emphasizes inclusivity and enjoyment over competition, showcasing a winning formula for nurturing future talent.

Brian Schimpf, CEO of Anduril, and Ross Andersen, an Atlantic author, dive into the transformative role of AI in warfare. They explore the ethical dilemmas and strategic dynamics of military decision-making in the age of autonomous tech. The conversation touches on the implications of drone warfare, the necessity for accountability in military tech, and how lessons from Ukraine shape future conflict strategies. They also discuss the eerie reality of using AI for high-stakes decisions, raising questions about the balance of power and ethics in modern warfare.

David Johns, a public health historian and journalist from The Atlantic, dives into the intriguing world of ice cream and its surprising potential health benefits. Discover how daily ice cream consumption might lower diabetes risk, challenging traditional diet norms. The discussion sheds light on biases in nutritional science and the impact of public perceptions on food. Johns also unpacks the complexities of dietary guidelines, offering a fresh perspective on our favorite treat and the ever-evolving narrative of health and diet.