Freakonomics Radio

Geena Davis, an Academy Award-winning actress and gender equality advocate, joins forces with her daughter Anya Dubner, who sparked the discussion with her school project on Disney films. They delve into the enduring impact of Disney princess culture on girls and Hollywood, exploring how these narratives shape perceptions of beauty and empowerment. Sean Bailey, President of Production at Walt Disney Studios, shares insights on efforts to enhance gender representation in film, highlighting the journey toward greater equity in the industry.

Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London, discusses his efforts to tackle inequalities, improve public transport, and make housing accessible. He reflects on London's historical innovation, its identity amid Brexit, and the importance of migration. The conversation also touches on how sports figures help reshape public perception and the role of community in fostering a resilient city. With anecdotes and insights, Khan emphasizes the need for continued British discovery and unity in overcoming modern challenges.

Former UK Prime Minister David Cameron, the man behind the controversial Brexit referendum, shares his insights into leadership and decision-making under pressure. He reveals the true motives behind his Remain campaign, reflecting on why he stepped down following the referendum's outcome. Cameron discusses the chaotic aftermath of Brexit, the political tensions it ignited, and how public sentiment shifted. He also touches on the broader implications of economic reforms and coalition governance during his tenure, offering a candid look at his experiences and regrets.

David Coleman, CEO of the College Board and a leading figure in standardized testing reform, explores the failings of America's high school math curriculum. He critiques the outdated focus on concepts like geometry, arguing for a shift towards data fluency essential for today's world. Coleman discusses innovative teaching methods and emphasizes the importance of aligning math education with real-life applications, particularly in preparing students for data-driven careers. He advocates for a curriculum that fosters critical thinking and practical skills over rote memorization.

Mary Daly, the President of the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco, transformed her life from high school dropout to economic leader. She emphasizes the need for the Federal Reserve to consider the human element in policies. Daly discusses the evolving American Dream and the essential role of education in economic success. She highlights the limitations of data in grasping human experiences and argues for reforming the social safety net. Her insights shed light on connecting economic theory with real-world challenges and the importance of community support.

Priya Parker, a group conflict resolution facilitator, teams up with Steven Rogelberg, an organizational psychologist, to explore the unproductive nature of meetings. They emphasize the need for constructive conflict and intentional agendas to enhance decision-making. With practical tips and innovative strategies, they tackle the common frustrations of ineffective meetings. The discussion includes ways to foster open communication and transform team dynamics, ensuring that meetings evolve from tedious to truly productive.

Ethan Bernstein, an Associate Professor at Harvard Business School, sheds light on the evolution of open office designs from a hopeful ideal to a chaotic reality. He discusses the negative impacts these layouts have on productivity and mental health, stressing the need for privacy. Bernstein explores how unplanned interactions can enhance creativity but warns of the decline in face-to-face communication with open spaces. He advocates for thoughtful office design that balances collaboration with employee satisfaction, questioning if it's time to embrace remote work instead.

Jason Robbins, CEO of DraftKings, shares insights on the rapid evolution of fantasy sports into a billion-dollar industry. Alongside Victor Matheson, a sports economist, they discuss the implications of recent legalization of sports betting, expected to bring in $300 billion from the black market. They explore the balance of skill versus luck, challenges of maintaining integrity in betting, and the financial impact on young audiences. Finally, they compare strategies in sports betting to the stock market, highlighting the industry's explosive growth and future potential.

Pat Brown, CEO and founder of Impossible Foods, discusses the burgeoning demand for meat and the environmental challenges it brings. He delves into the rise of plant-based alternatives, highlighting innovative approaches to replicate meat's taste and texture. The conversation addresses consumer preferences shifting towards sustainability, the complexities of traditional cattle ranching, and the economic landscape of lab-grown meat compared to conventional production. Brown presents a hopeful vision for a meatless future that balances taste, health, and environmental concerns.

Sheena Iyengar, a decision-making expert at Columbia Business School, and former Trader Joe's advertising executive Mark Gardner, discuss the grocery chain's unique principles. They explore how Trader Joe's unconventional business model, with its limited product selection and engagement strategy, fosters customer loyalty. The conversation delves into how too many choices can confuse consumers, illuminating the paradox of choice. They highlight the store’s minimalistic experience and collaborative culture, suggesting valuable lessons for governance and consumer behavior.