Freakonomics Radio

In this discussion, Katie Johnson, a data scientist, shares her challenging shift from contributing individual work to managing a team. Kelly Hsu, a Yale finance professor, dives into the Peter Principle, explaining how capable employees can falter in managerial roles. Steve Tadellis, an economics professor, discusses the significant impact of managers on employee productivity and satisfaction. Together, they explore the dynamics of ineffective leadership, the pressures of management, and how organizational promotion practices contribute to the prevalence of bad bosses.

Ed Bastian, CEO of Delta Airlines, shares his expertise on airline dynamics and pricing. He navigates the complexities of running a major airline, from volatile fuel costs to labor challenges. Listeners learn how air travel has shifted from luxury to mass accessibility and the implications of recent innovations aimed at reducing emissions. Bastian also discusses the transformative updates at LaGuardia Airport and the airline industry's recovery post-COVID, revealing critical insights into the evolving landscape of air travel.

Adam Yuhan, a commercial airline pilot and former Air Force pilot, along with Billy Nolan, acting administrator of the FAA, delve into the striking safety comparisons between flying and driving. They discuss how rigorous training and advanced regulations have made air travel significantly safer over the decades. The conversation touches on the potential to apply aviation lessons to improve road safety, the importance of flight attendants in managing turbulence, and the ongoing challenges posed by a pilot shortage in the industry.

Join David Neeleman, the innovative founder of Breeze Airways, and Matt Sparks, Delta Airlines' airport operations expert, as they explore the paradox of air travel. They discuss the surprising complexities behind how airlines shape consumer demand and the operational intricacies of airport management. You'll hear about the challenges of baggage handling and the balance between automation and personal service. The conversation reveals why flying, despite its miracles, can be an emotional rollercoaster for travelers.

Discover the surprising world of long snappers in the NFL, a position that epitomizes specialization in football. Their critical yet overlooked role keeps the game flowing, despite the challenges they face. Whispers of their journey from anonymity to million-dollar salaries reveal an evolution rooted in player safety and precision. Unpacking the rigorous training and dedication required, this deep dive illustrates why the most monotonous job in sports can lead to extraordinary financial rewards.

Ever wondered what happens to those tiny hotel soaps after your stay? Discover the fascinating history and evolution of these amenities, sparked by a traveler’s concern for waste. Learn about a nonprofit turning used soaps into critical hygiene products, with a founder overcoming obstacles to improve global health. Dive into the creative recycling process, guided by the 'soap whisperer,' and explore the innovative financial models driving this change. Plus, get a glimpse into engaging with niche communities and what's next on the horizon!

Join Gina Raimondo, U.S. Secretary of Commerce, and Brian Deese, Director of the National Economic Council, as they explore the Biden administration's ambitious push to reshape American industrial policy. They discuss the drastic budget increase for the Commerce Department and the challenges of revitalizing U.S. manufacturing in the face of global competition, particularly with China. The conversation also touches on the complexities of semiconductor supply chains and the socio-economic implications of the fentanyl crisis, highlighting the necessity for collaborative governance.

Discover how the 1979 hit 'My Sharona' still thrives financially decades later. Explore the intricate world of songwriting royalties, including the influence of parodies and samples. Learn about the economics of music licensing as streaming reshapes revenue landscapes. Uncover the song's origin story and its impact on a young woman's life in 70s Los Angeles. Delve into the band's journey from struggle to success, and ponder the bittersweet legacy of one-hit wonders in the music industry.

Kate Raworth, a renegade economist and author of 'Donut Economics,' takes on the traditional economic model, arguing that the relentless pursuit of GDP is harming the planet. She teams up with Marike van Doornink, Amsterdam's deputy mayor, to showcase how the city is implementing this sustainable framework. They discuss the limitations of GDP as a measure of success and explore innovative strategies for social equity and environmental sustainability. Their conversation offers a fresh perspective on achieving well-being in urban development.

Discover the fascinating world behind America's favorite cookies, as billions of Thin Mints, Samoas, and Tagalongs are sold each year. Learn how a determined young seller achieved record-breaking sales thanks to community support and enticing incentives. Explore the strategic planning and tactics involved in cookie sales, including the vital role of the 'cookie mom.' Delve into the competitive dynamics of the cookie market, especially the shift from door-to-door selling to online platforms, all while navigating the challenges of the pandemic.