Freakonomics Radio

Anne Wojcicki, co-founder and CEO of 23andMe, discusses her company's dramatic decline from a booming genetic testing pioneer to facing significant financial challenges. Rolfe Winkler, a Wall Street Journal reporter, sheds light on the implications of a recent data breach and the company's struggle to monetize wellness products. They explore ethical concerns surrounding genetic data use, the emotional impact of DNA revelations, and the broader significance of consumer genetics in healthcare innovation. The conversation uncovers both the potential and pitfalls of personal genomics.

Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada, is known for his commitment to progressivism and middle-class advocacy. In this discussion, he tackles his government's ambitious immigration policies, aiming to boost economic growth while managing rising pressures on housing and healthcare. Trudeau reflects on the societal dynamics influenced by climate change and the pandemic, revealing the challenges he faces as a leader. He also emphasizes the need for empathy and storytelling in politics, all while pushing for innovative solutions in Canadian healthcare and reconciliation efforts.

In this discussion, Joshua Angrist, a Nobel laureate from MIT, Zoe Cullen from Harvard focusing on labor economics, and Marina Gertsberg of the University of Melbourne explore the often overlooked consequences of well-meaning policies. They delve into how good intentions can inadvertently harm those they aim to help, examining pay transparency laws and their paradoxical effects on wages. The impact of the #MeToo movement on academic collaborations is also highlighted, showcasing how it has inadvertently affected women's professional relationships and research opportunities.

Michael Lewis, a journalist and author known for his captivating works like 'Moneyball', discusses the profound impact of psychologist Daniel Kahneman and his collaborator Amos Tversky on decision-making. He reflects on their groundbreaking research and how it reshaped our understanding of cognitive biases. The conversation explores the intersection between literature and psychology, revealing how their insights influence storytelling. Lewis also celebrates their unique personalities and collaborative spirit, highlighting their lasting legacy in behavioral economics.

Katie Johnson, a data scientist turned manager turned freelancer, shares her journey navigating the challenges of leadership. Kelly Shue, a finance professor, discusses the Peter Principle — the tendency for capable employees to be promoted into ineffective managerial roles. Steve Tadelis, an economics professor, emphasizes the significant impact that managers have on employee success and productivity. Together, they explore why firms perpetuate this cycle of promoting incompetence and how rethinking promotions could reshape organizational dynamics.

Fareed Zakaria, a prominent journalist and author, discusses revolutionary changes impacting our world. He examines the decline of global democracy and the rise of populism, highlighting the interplay between economics, technology, and identity. Zakaria reflects on geopolitical shifts, particularly involving China and Russia, and the challenges facing democratic nations. He provides insights into the resilience of American democracy and the moral responsibilities of journalism, all while offering a glimmer of hope amidst these transformations.

Zeke Hernandez, a Business professor at the Wharton School and author of "The Truth About Immigration," dives deep into the complexities of immigration in America. He challenges common misconceptions through an engaging quiz format, revealing surprising statistics about immigrants' economic contributions. The discussion explores historical settlement patterns in urban enclaves, emphasizing the social networks that shape these choices. Hernandez also highlights the diverse narratives around undocumented immigrants, advocating for empathy and understanding in immigration debates.

Experts like Zeke Hernandez and William Kerr discuss Canada's successful immigration system luring skilled workers from the US. They compare Canada's points-based program to the US H1B visa challenges. The podcast explores family separation issues, country branding, and the allure of the American dream. It also sheds light on immigration policies, demographic challenges, and the benefits of Canada's strategic immigration program.

In this engaging discussion, Zeke Hernandez, a Wharton School professor and immigration expert, teams up with David Leonhardt, a New York Times senior writer, to dissect the myths surrounding U.S. immigration. They explore the historical evolution of immigration policies and highlight economic benefits versus costs. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced by undocumented immigrants and the shortcomings of current policies. The duo emphasizes the importance of facts for understanding immigration’s true impact on society and economy.

Madeleine Albright, the first female U.S. Secretary of State, shares her powerful insights as a refugee who ascended to prominence. She reflects on her own journey from Nazi-occupied Prague and contrasts the welcoming experiences of her past with today's immigration challenges. Albright emphasizes the importance of gratitude, the vital role of the U.S. in offering asylum, and the complex interplay of nationalism and borders. Her thoughts on the Syrian refugee crisis highlight the need for compassion and effective political solutions for displaced individuals.