Conversations with Tyler

In this engaging discussion, Brian Armstrong, Co-founder and CEO of Coinbase, reveals his early inspirations from Argentina's hyperinflation. He talks about balancing innovation and regulation, and the mission that drives Coinbase’s culture. Brian shares insights on Bitcoin's volatility, the future of Ethereum, and the promise of stablecoins for the unbanked. With a light-hearted take on Satoshi's identity and governance on Mars, he emphasizes bridging academia with entrepreneurship to foster innovation in the crypto space.

In this engaging discussion, Benjamin Friedman, a Harvard Professor and renowned macroeconomist, explores the deep link between religion and economic beliefs. He argues that Western economic ideas stem from theological debates, not just secular Enlightenment thought. Friedman delves into how American religious sentiment influences capitalism and critiques policies like nominal GDP targeting. He also shares insights on fiscal sustainability, the importance of growth for democracy, and how his Kentucky upbringing shapes his economic outlook. Plus, he hints at his upcoming project on artificial intelligence!

Noubar Afeyan, co-founder of Moderna and CEO of Flagship Pioneering, is a biomedical innovator and philanthropist. He shares insights on the 'paranoid optimism' that fuels his entrepreneurial spirit, shaped by his Armenian-American heritage. Afeyan discusses the rapid development of the COVID-19 vaccine and the balance of corporate responsibility in biotech. He also explores the future of gene editing, the importance of a diverse culture in innovation, and the impact of his classical pianist mother on his life. His reflections on ethical decision-making and the role of immigrants in shaping America are equally captivating.

The hosts reflect on the transformative year of 2020, including memorable podcast moments and the challenges of remote production. They dive into how dining habits shifted during quarantine, from snacks to new food rules. Libertarian principles clash with pandemic responses, prompting discussions on government roles and individual liberties. Insights on rapid vaccine innovation highlight the need for sustained momentum in health policy. The emotional significance of returning to movie theaters is contemplated as society begins to reopen.

John O. Brennan, the former Director of the CIA and author of "Undaunted," shares insights from his extensive intelligence career. He reflects on how his Catholic upbringing shaped his views on ethics and human behavior in espionage. Brennan discusses the modern challenges of technology in intelligence work, the peculiarities of CIA culture, and the impact of American culture abroad. He also touches on the complexities of terrorism post-9/11, the ethical dilemmas of interrogation techniques, and intriguing thoughts on unidentified aerial phenomena.

Zach Carter, senior reporter at the Huffington Post and author of the acclaimed biography "The Price of Peace," dives into the life of John Maynard Keynes. They discuss Keynes' critiques of the Treaty of Versailles and his paradoxical views on imperialism. Carter sheds light on Keynes' interest in eugenics and his conservative streak, while also connecting his economic theories to modern issues like cryptocurrencies. Personal reflections on fatherhood and upcoming projects add a touching dimension to the conversation.

Jimmy Wales, the founder of Wikipedia, shares insights from his journey in building a non-profit encyclopedia. He discusses the impacts of advertising-driven media on knowledge dissemination, emphasizing the importance of education over sensationalism. Wales reflects on the complexities of content moderation, the implications of the 'right to be forgotten,' and the ethical dilemmas surrounding paid editing. He also critiques modern philosophical ideas, including Ayn Rand's, while advocating for transparency in digital contributions and the need for thoughtful governance in online communities.

Edwidge Danticat, an acclaimed Haitian-American novelist and MacArthur Genius Fellow, shares her journey from Haiti to the U.S. and how her roots shape her identity. She discusses the vibrant Haitian art scene and the cultural resilience of her homeland, including the significance of local cuisine and painted tap-taps. Danticat delves into the impact of tourism on art, the influence of Haitian proverbs, and her unique nighttime writing habits. She reflects on the struggles faced by Haitian-Americans and the importance of personal agency, especially during challenging times.

Michael Kremer, a Nobel laureate in economics known for his work on global poverty, discusses the intersection of economics and founding organizations. He highlights how experimental methods can innovate public health initiatives and reduce pharmaceutical costs via advanced market commitments. Kremer also examines deworming programs in Africa, the paradox of economic growth and productivity, and the role of culture in development. His insights connect academic research with real-world applications, emphasizing a new approach to development at the University of Chicago.

Audrey Tang, Taiwan's first non-binary digital minister and a pioneer in civic tech, shares their insights on technology's role in democracy. They discuss radical transparency as a pathway to empathy and understanding, and the importance of humor in combating online misinformation. Tang explores Taiwan's unique cultural identity influenced by indigenous philosophies and responds to the challenges posed by big tech. With a nod to their love for Magic: The Gathering, they weave together personal anecdotes and visionary thoughts on enhancing civic engagement and education.