Freakonomics Radio

Roland Fryer, a Harvard economist known for his impactful research on racial bias, candidly discusses his journey through controversy and suspension, touching on the limitations of corporate diversity initiatives. He shares insights into police reform, emphasizing dignity in community interactions while confronting uncomfortable truths about systemic disparities. The talk also explores educational incentives and the role of data in addressing inequalities, advocating for tailored solutions to create meaningful change and empower marginalized communities.

In this discussion, guests N. Jeremi Duru, a law professor and author examining racial equality in NFL coaching, Christopher Rider, an entrepreneurial studies professor focusing on equity analytics, and Scott Shephard, general counsel critiquing DEI initiatives, delve into the impact of the Rooney Rule. They explore its mixed results in promoting diversity in coaching, the link between NFL diversity practices and corporate America, and the ongoing challenges of systemic discrimination and meaningful change in hiring.

N. Jeremi Duru, a law professor specializing in sports and social issues, joins Jim Rooney, author and consulting partner from the renowned Rooney family. They dive into the NFL's Rooney Rule, created to promote diversity in coaching. The discussion highlights its initial success and subsequent failings. They explore the stark racial disparities between players and coaches, the role of mentorship, and the evolving landscape regarding equity in the league. It’s a thought-provoking look at the complexities of diversity in one of America’s biggest sports institutions.

In this conversation with Edward Glaeser, a Harvard economics professor and urban expert, they explore the often-neglected importance of maintenance. Glaeser argues that society's obsession with innovation overshadows the crucial need to care for existing systems. They discuss how effective maintenance underpins urban infrastructure and public health. The podcast also highlights the tension between the glamor of engineering careers and the reality of America's crumbling infrastructure, calling for a reevaluation of values to better appreciate sustainers in our communities.

David Blanchflower, a Dartmouth economics professor, dives into the alarming rise of anxiety and depression among young people linked to smartphone use. He explores the complexities of measuring happiness and introduces a U-shaped happiness curve that reveals a troubling decline in youth well-being. The discussion also critiques oversimplified narratives around screen time and mental health, urging a nuanced understanding of technology's impact. Finally, Blanchflower emphasizes the importance of supportive online communities amidst ongoing concerns about digital engagement.

Join experts Gloria Mark, a UC Irvine professor focused on human-computer interaction; David Strayer, a psychology professor at the University of Utah; and Olivia Grace, a senior product manager at Slack. They delve into the myth of multitasking, revealing its true inefficiency and the stress it brings. The conversation explores why only a few can truly multitask, the cognitive costs involved, and how digital tools like Slack can amplify distractions. They stress the importance of single-tasking for better productivity and mental well-being.

D'Wayne Edwards, founder of Pensole Lewis College of Business and Design and a leading shoe designer, discusses the alarming drop in college enrollment for men, particularly among Black and Hispanic males. He highlights the unique challenges in current education models and the importance of tailored programs to meet industry needs. The conversation delves into the legacy of the Lewis College, gender disparities in education, and the need for innovative approaches to support aspiring designers and reshape higher education for the future.

David Duchovny, the talented actor known for his iconic role in The X-Files and as a creative podcast host, dives deep into the themes of failure and quitting. He and Stephen Dubner discuss how quitting can often lead to personal growth and better opportunities, challenging the stigma attached to giving up. They reveal the value of lifelong learning, share personal stories of failure, and explore how childhood experiences shape our identities. It's a refreshing take on the positives of failure in achieving success and creativity.

Peter Blair, a Harvard education professor and labor markets expert, dives into the challenges facing America's elite colleges. He discusses the paradox of increasing demand with stagnant supply, questioning why these institutions resist expansion despite rising applicant pools. The conversation also explores the impact of wealth on admissions, the implications of recent Supreme Court rulings on diversity, and the broader value of degrees today. Blair urges a reevaluation of the educational landscape, spotlighting access and the need for reform.

In this insightful discussion, Ruth Simmons, the former president of Smith College and Brown University, examines the evolving role of higher education in America. She highlights the market-like behavior of colleges competing for prestige, while addressing the widening gap between elite institutions and community colleges. Simmons emphasizes the transformative power of education, particularly for underrepresented communities, and the crucial support offered by Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). The conversation raises vital questions about access, inequality, and the true purpose of college.