Freakonomics Radio

Shane Hamilton, a historian at the University of York and author of 'Supermarket USA,' joins retired economist Peter Timmer to unveil the fascinating link between supermarkets and the Cold War. They discuss how U.S. agricultural policies were not just about feeding America but also a strategic move against the USSR. The conversation explores the evolution of supermarkets, the impact of government policies on food distribution, and the complex dynamics that influenced contemporary health issues and consumer values in food choices.

Michael Porter, a Harvard Business School professor known for his expertise in strategy, teams up with Catherine Gale, former CEO turned political reform advocate. They challenge the idea that America's political system is broken, comparing it to the duopoly of Coca-Cola and Pepsi. They explore how party competition stifles reform and leaves voters disillusioned. The duo discusses innovative solutions like ranked choice voting and the importance of structural changes to enhance political representation and engagement in an increasingly polarized landscape.

Sylvia Acevedo, the CEO of Girl Scouts of the USA and a former rocket scientist, shares her incredible journey from a low-income background to a leading role in a major organization. She discusses how the Girl Scouts empower girls, fostering skills for futures in STEM and overcoming societal challenges. Sylvia reveals the financial dynamics of Girl Scout cookie sales and the unique role they play in community building. She also candidly addresses the organization's struggles and the ongoing legal battle with the Boy Scouts, all while emphasizing the importance of mentorship.

Economist Steve Levitt from the University of Chicago and Stanford Law's John Donohue dive deep into the controversial theory linking Roe v. Wade to the decline in crime rates. They discuss their original research and the backlash it faced, along with updated analyses in light of new abortion restrictions. The conversation also navigates the complex ties between abortion, unwanted children, and societal outcomes. Levitt and Donohue urge a shift to data-driven discussions, emphasizing the importance of evidence in shaping public policy debates.

Takeru Kobayashi, a pioneering competitive eater from Japan, transformed the sport with innovative techniques and an inspiring philosophy. He shares insights on his journey from Japan to Coney Island's hot dog contest, emphasizing the mental strategies that underpin competitive eating. The playful hot dog bun challenge reveals the dedication behind mastering this unique sport. Kobayashi also discusses how societal expectations limit potential and the critical connection between diet and athletic performance, showcasing how even small changes can yield remarkable results.

In this engaging discussion, physician scientist Michael Joyner shares his insights on exercise physiology, reflecting on his journey from indifference to athleticism. He highlights the undeniable link between physical activity and longevity. Ronald Evans dives into research on an exercise-mimicking pill, exploring its potential benefits and the ethical implications. They tackle societal barriers to fitness and propose innovative solutions, while also pondering if a pill could ever truly replace the joys and benefits of working out.

Richard Thaler, a Nobel Prize-winning economist and behavioral scientist, shares fascinating insights on human behavior during a live discussion. Thaler reveals how humans often resist change, showcasing examples like binge drinking and humblebragging. He explores the psychological intricacies of regret, including the difference between regretting actions versus inactions. The conversation also touches on the challenges of making informed health decisions and the impact of social dynamics on our choices. With humor and relatability, Thaler uncovers the quirky aspects of human decision-making.

John Zimmer, co-founder and president of Lyft, shares the fascinating story behind the rise of ride-sharing and the challenges the company faces in a competitive landscape. Meanwhile, Philip Hammack, a psychology professor and founder of Fog City Pack, dives into the intriguing world of puppy play and its connection to evolving sexual identities. The discussion also highlights the importance of long-term thinking and explores groundbreaking concepts in male contraception, sustainability, and behavior change.

Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti discusses the city's transportation challenges and emphasizes the importance of data-driven governance. Seismologist Lucy Jones, often called the 'Earthquake Lady,' shares fascinating insights on earthquake prediction and management, highlighting California’s unique seismic landscape. They explore the risks of complacency during 'earthquake droughts' and the need for resilient infrastructure. Together, they address urban complexities and innovative solutions for maintaining public trust and safety in a shaking world.

Robert Sapolsky, a neuroscience and biology professor at Stanford, discusses the challenges of changing beliefs, from personal ego to societal pressures. Francis Fukuyama, a prominent political scientist, provides insights on the emotional ties to political ideologies and the rise of authoritarianism. They explore how understanding our biases and improving communication can facilitate mindset shifts. With anecdotes and psychological insights, they encourage listeners to embrace change and open-mindedness for a healthier discourse.