Risky Business with Nate Silver and Maria Konnikova cover image

Risky Business with Nate Silver and Maria Konnikova

Latest episodes

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14 snips
Nov 6, 2024 • 40min

How Trump Won

Nate and Maria dive into the surprising dynamics of the recent election results, highlighting polling errors and the intricacies of prediction markets. They discuss demographic shifts and how Trump's leadership resonates with diverse voters. Insights into the effectiveness of polling methods emerge, questioning traditional forecasting approaches. Additionally, they explore the implications of federal appointments during transitions and tease political predictions, linking poker strategy with electoral tactics. It’s a fascinating blend of politics and data-driven analysis!
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Nov 4, 2024 • 31min

What to Look for on Election Day

As election day approaches, experts dissect voter turnout trends and the latest polling data. They focus on pivotal swing states and the impact of demographics like Latino voters. The discussion highlights the dynamics of prediction markets versus traditional polls, revealing the complexities of interpreting results. Predictions unveil potential close contests and the risks of election disputes. Ultimately, they stress the necessity of active voting, especially in crucial regions, encouraging every voice to participate in shaping democracy.
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6 snips
Oct 31, 2024 • 43min

The Worst Decisions of the Harris and Trump (and Biden) Campaigns

The podcast explores the pivotal decisions of this year's presidential campaigns, scrutinizing both the best and worst moves made by Harris, Trump, and Biden. Delving into the influence of celebrity endorsements, it highlights how changing voter demographics complicate campaign strategies. The hosts emphasize the importance of decision-making processes over outcomes, offering insights into the volatile polling landscape. With a light-hearted touch, they also discuss the contrasting campaign strategies and the unpredictable nature of voter behavior as election day looms.
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Oct 30, 2024 • 46min

Odd Lots: Nate Silver and Maria Konnikova on the Art of Election Betting

In this discussion, renowned election modeler Nate Silver and skilled poker player Maria Konnikova dive into the intriguing world of political prediction markets. They reveal how these platforms have surged in popularity, allowing traders to make bets on election outcomes. The conversation touches on the accuracy of these markets compared to traditional polling, the dynamics of betting strategies, and the fascinating interplay between expert insights and public sentiment. Silver and Konnikova also share tips on making sense of the odds as the presidential race heats up.
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Oct 24, 2024 • 48min

How to build a championship team, with Daryl Morey of the 76ers

Daryl Morey, the President of Basketball Operations for the Philadelphia 76ers, shares his innovative approach to building a championship team through analytics and game theory. He discusses the intricacies of team dynamics and the value of superstar players, revealing strategic insights like the two-for-one scoring technique. The conversation also touches on parallels between basketball and poker, emphasizing emotional detachment in decision-making. Moreover, they delve into the 'hot hand' phenomenon and how data shapes performance in high-pressure situations.
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Oct 17, 2024 • 43min

How Maria Won Her First WSOP Bracelet

Maria shares her strategy behind winning her first World Series of Poker Bracelet, highlighting critical hands and decision-making moments. The conversation shifts to the significance of the Nobel Peace Prize and pressing issues around nuclear disarmament. They reflect on the historical context of nuclear warfare and its implications for today's world. Additionally, the pair discusses the volatile political landscape and whether Democrats should be concerned about their current standing as the election approaches.
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Oct 9, 2024 • 44min

The Degenerate Gambler’s Guide to the Election

Dive into the unexpected world of election betting as the hosts share Nate's bold $100k wager on Florida. Discover the impact of poker bots on online gaming and how they’re reshaping the landscape. The discussion heats up as they confront the pitfalls of AI-generated misinformation. They also explore the integrity issues in poker and the urgency for accountability in both gaming and political forecasting. Plus, ponder the implications of recent AI advancements and the energy challenges they pose.
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Oct 3, 2024 • 49min

How to Win Bets and Influence Elections

Caroline Ellison's sentencing sparks a deep dive into her role in the FTX scandal—victim or villain? The hosts explore the psychology of risk and accountability amid chaotic finance. With elections on the horizon, they reveal unconventional ways to influence outcomes beyond just monetary donations. Humorously chaotic state names contrast the serious dissection of polling data and campaign strategies. Plus, celebrity endorsements and their impact are analyzed, alongside the legacies of gamblers lost this week.
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Sep 26, 2024 • 45min

Conning with the Stars: Anna Delvey, Voting Rationally, and the Maine Nebraska model

The discussion kicks off with the outrageous tales of Anna Sorokin, highlighting her glamorous deception as a con artist infiltrating elite society. The hosts then dive into the intricacies of rational voting, weighing self-interest against societal welfare. With a focus on the unique Maine-Nebraska model, they explore the evolving political landscape and the ethical complexities of political messaging. The conversation wraps up by examining the role of deception in celebrity culture and its implications for accountability in society.
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4 snips
Sep 19, 2024 • 45min

Should You Be Able to Bet On the Election?

A legal battle is underway as a prediction market company challenges the government on election betting. The hosts discuss the pros and cons of allowing bets on elections, comparing it to sports betting. They explore how perceptions of election closeness influence voter turnout, especially in critical swing states. With humor and personal anecdotes, they tackle the ethical implications of political betting and its potential to shape voter behavior and market integrity. Get ready for a thought-provoking yet entertaining dive into a controversial topic!

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