Freakonomics Radio

Christina Romer, a leading economist and former chair of President Obama's Council of Economic Advisors, dives deep into the lessons learned from past economic crises. She compares the COVID-19 pandemic's impacts with those of the Great Depression and the 2008 recession. Romer discusses the necessity of federal support during downturns and emphasizes the importance of historical insights for future recovery strategies. She also highlights the dynamic nature of the U.S. economy and the importance of optimism amid ongoing challenges.

Maria Konnikova, a psychologist from Columbia University and author of The Biggest Bluff, shares her fascinating transition from novice to poker pro. She reveals how poker's unpredictability mirrors life's challenges, emphasizing decision-making and resilience. Listeners learn about the psychological nuances of navigating luck and skill while drawing parallels to real life. With anecdotes from her journey, Konnikova discusses the role of deception and confidence in both poker and personal interactions, offering profound insights into human behavior.

Rebecca Kurth, an associate professor of clinical medicine, shares her firsthand experiences with telehealth amid the pandemic. Chad Elamoodle, a urologist and telehealth innovator, discusses its lasting impact on patient care. Economist David Cutler reveals the economic implications of this healthcare shift. They explore how telehealth transformed accessibility, the challenges faced by providers, and the potential for AI to enhance future medical visits, all while contemplating the sustainability of these new practices in the U.S. healthcare system.

Co-hosts dive into the intriguing U-shaped happiness curve, revealing how joy fluctuates with age. They explore the connection between emotional well-being and attention, introducing the 'three blessings exercise' for positivity. Creativity’s roots are examined through the lens of sublimation, showcasing how pain can fuel artistic expression. Personal stories provide insight into their decision-making journey in clinical training, highlighting the balance between helping others and self-awareness.

Join Andrew Yang, former presidential candidate and entrepreneur, as he dives into the pressing economic challenges of our time. He advocates for universal basic income, especially in the face of massive job losses due to automation and the pandemic. Yang discusses the failures of past bailouts and calls for proactive strategies to combat economic downturns. He also highlights the political tensions surrounding UBI initiatives and critiques the U.S. response to COVID-19, emphasizing the need for a robust social safety net.

Jennifer Doliak, an economics professor and director of the Justice Tech Lab, teams up with Darren Asimoglu, an MIT economist, to examine the job market fallout from COVID-19. They discuss which sectors will bounce back, the barriers former inmates face in re-employment, and the unintended consequences of initiatives like 'Ban the Box.' As automation accelerates, they explore the risk of permanent job loss and consider universal basic income as a potential safety net for displaced workers.

Priya Parker, a group conflict resolution facilitator, and Steven Rogelberg, an organizational psychologist, dive into the world of meetings and their inefficiencies. They tackle the staggering 55 million daily meetings in the U.S. and share strategies for productivity by promoting clear agendas and healthy conflict. Parker critiques the 'cult of positivity' in business, advocating for authentic connections, while Rogelberg emphasizes time management and inclusivity. Together, they unveil the secrets to transforming meetings from torturous to effective.

Join Kevin Kelly, the accidental futurist and co-founder of Wired Magazine, as he shares insights from his remarkable career. He argues that enthusiasm often trumps intelligence in forming connections and creativity. Kelly discusses the impact of technology on our lives, emphasizing that improvement is possible through more innovation. He also highlights the importance of embracing criticism and the benefits of napping at work for productivity. Dive into these practical life tips that aim to enhance self-awareness and personal growth.

In this engaging discussion, Robert Brown, President of Boston University, Michael Crow, President of Arizona State University, and Sylvia Burwell, President of American University, tackle pressing questions about higher education's future. They explore the transformative impact of COVID-19 on college life, discussing remote learning innovations and financial strategies. The leaders highlight adaptive support systems for diverse students and the challenges of reopening campuses safely. Their insights reflect a pivotal moment for education and the potential for long-lasting change in student experiences.

In this enlightening conversation, social psychologist Roy Baumeister and musician David Byrne tackle the pervasive negativity bias that colors our perceptions. They discuss the powerful influence of bad news and how it shapes human behavior. Baumeister reveals strategies for overcoming this bias, while Byrne shares his vision for cultivating positivity through creative outlets like his online magazine. They emphasize the need for a healthier media diet and explore the importance of humor and diverse perspectives in navigating tough times.