Freakonomics Radio

Andy Byford, the dynamic President of the New York City Transit Authority, dives into the complex world of the subway system and its historical challenges. He discusses innovative solutions to improve service reliability and the urgent need for funding. The conversation also touches on the intriguing influence of Napoleon on music and politics, the psychology of disgust and its impact on political views, plus the importance of urban transit innovations amidst New York's growing population. It's a compelling blend of transit woes and psychological insights!

Kenji Lopez-Alt, an award-winning food writer and owner of Worst Hall, shares his journey into the restaurant world, highlighting the unexpected challenges he faced. He discusses blending science with cooking while navigating the complexities of vegan hospitality and the chaos of opening night. Kenji reflects on the impact of customer feedback, especially from Yelp, and the delicate balance between personal beliefs and professional responsibilities. His adventures reveal that, even with expertise, the restaurant business can be wildly unpredictable.

Gary Cohn, former president of Goldman Sachs and director of the National Economic Council under Trump, shares his tumultuous journey in the White House. He discusses the challenges of implementing tax reform and the chaotic political climate he navigated. Cohn reveals why he still speaks with Trump despite calling him 'a professional liar.' The conversation delves into the clash between globalization and nationalism, the economic implications of immigration, and the contentious debates over trade policies that defined the administration's economic landscape.

In this engaging conversation, filmmaker and actor Mark Duplass shares insights on the often-painful journey of creativity. He emphasizes that failure is an essential part of success, encouraging artists to embrace their setbacks. Mark dives into the relationship between curiosity and failure, asserting that genuine emotions can lead to relatable art. He also reflects on the importance of resilience in creative partnerships and how reframing failures can spark innovation. Tune in for laughter and profound wisdom about turning obstacles into opportunities!

Whether you’re building a business or a cathedral, execution is everything. We ask artists, scientists, and inventors how they turned ideas into reality. And we find out why it’s so hard for a group to get things done — and what you can do about it. (Ep. 4 of the “How to Be Creative” series.) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Whether you’re mapping the universe, hosting a late-night talk show, or running a meeting, there are a lot of ways to up your idea game. Plus: the truth about brainstorming. (Ep. 3 of the “How to Be Creative” series.) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Global demand for beef, chicken, and pork continues to rise. So do concerns about environmental and other costs. Will reconciling these two forces be possible — or, even better, Impossible™? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In 2005, Raghuram Rajan said the financial system was at risk “of a catastrophic meltdown.” After stints at the I.M.F. and India’s central bank, he sees another potential crisis — and he offers a solution. Is it stronger governments? Freer markets? Rajan’s answer: neither. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Stephen Dubner’s conversation with the former N.F.L. player, union official, and all-around sports thinker, recorded for our “Hidden Side of Sports” series. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

If you think talent and hard work give top athletes all the leverage to succeed, think again. As employees in the Sports-Industrial Complex, they’ve got a tight earnings window, a high injury rate, little choice in where they work — and a very early forced retirement. (Ep. 6 of “The Hidden Side of Sports” series.) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.