Plain English with Derek Thompson cover image

Plain English with Derek Thompson

Latest episodes

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8 snips
Jun 28, 2024 • 45min

Whatever Happened to Serial Killers?

Exploring the rise and decline of American serial killers from the 1960s to the early 2000s, with insights from criminology expert James Allen Fox. Real serial killers blend in with society, society's fascination with them as mythological figures, and the impact of DNA technology in catching them. The decrease in serial killings, rise of gun violence, and the impact of digital pornography and AI on violent fantasies and desires.
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36 snips
Jun 21, 2024 • 54min

The Radical Cultural Shift Behind America's Declining Birth Rate

Explore the psychology behind declining birth rates and the cultural shift impacting family dynamics. From delayed adulthood to shifting relationship priorities, discover the complexities of parenthood in the modern world. Delve into ideological conflicts, societal pressures, and the role of parenting in shaping a better future.
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37 snips
Jun 14, 2024 • 55min

Breathing Is Easy. But We’re Doing It Wrong.

Author James Nestor discusses the evolution of breathing, downsides of mouth breathing, benefits of nasal breathing, and specific breath techniques to reduce stress and improve sleep. Topics include human face shrinkage, causal link between mouth breathing and facial changes, power of nasal breathing, benefits of mouth taping for sleep quality, and mastering the art of breathing for overall well-being.
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42 snips
Jun 7, 2024 • 48min

The News Media’s Dangerous Addiction to ‘Fake Facts’

The podcast explores bias in news media towards negativity, fake facts, and catastrophic thinking. Discussion on rising maternal mortality rates misperception in the US due to changes in data measurement methods. Emphasizes the importance of accurate data and truth-seeking in addressing critical issues. Reflects on public health protests post-COVID and the impact of misinformation in shaping public discourse.
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23 snips
May 31, 2024 • 46min

Microplastics Are Everywhere. How Dangerous Are They?

Exploring the dangers of microplastics, their impact on health, and how they enter our bodies. Discussing potential links to diseases and the need for further research. Debunking myths about plastic recycling and suggesting steps to reduce exposure. Guest speaker shares insights on plastic technology and human health risks.
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20 snips
May 28, 2024 • 49min

Why the New NBA Deal Is So Weird. Plus, How Sports Rights Actually Work.

Exploring the paradox of increasing revenues in sports media amidst declining viewership, the upcoming NBA rights deal, the impact of exclusive content like NBA playoffs on subscriber numbers, and the potential winners and losers in the evolving sports media rights arena.
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19 snips
May 24, 2024 • 59min

What America’s Bold New Economic Experiment Is Missing

The podcast delves into a new economic consensus in the U.S., focusing on subsidies for infrastructure and clean energy, tariffs on Chinese imports, and restrictions on Chinese tech. It explores bipartisan cooperation, government-driven innovation, and the complexities of immigration policy. Also discusses the challenges of balancing clean energy goals with economic protection, and the influence of Trump's ideology on democratic norms.
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28 snips
May 21, 2024 • 49min

The Five Superstars Who Invented the Modern NBA

Explore the evolution of basketball skills and strategies over the years, from the dominance of Michael Jordan to the rise of sharp-shooting guards like Steph Curry. Learn about the impact of key superstars such as Allen Iverson and Manu Ginóbili in transforming the game. Dive into the history of paradigm shifts in basketball strategy and the emergence of the do-it-all big man like Nikola Jokic.
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30 snips
May 14, 2024 • 38min

Are Smartphones Really Driving the Rise in Teenage Depression?

The podcast delves into the debate on whether smartphones are driving the rise in teenage depression. It explores the correlation between screen time and mental health while challenging the assumption that phones are solely to blame. The discussion highlights alternative factors influencing mental health statistics, such as societal trends and advancements in treatment. Guest speaker, David Wallace-Wells, provides insights into the broader context of mental health issues.
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22 snips
May 7, 2024 • 60min

Are Flying Cars Finally Here?

Gideon Lewis-Kraus, a staff writer at The New Yorker, discusses the history and potential future of flying car technology. They explore the regulatory and societal barriers, advancements in aviation technology, and the development of electric flying aircraft. The conversation delves into the challenges and possibilities of electric air taxis for urban commutes and medical services, offering a mix of skepticism and optimism.

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