Conversations with Tyler

Fuchsia Dunlop, a Chinese food expert and author of "The Food of Sichuan," joins Lydia Chang, daughter of renowned chefs Peter and Lisa Chang at Mama Chang. They dive into the evolution of Sichuan cuisine, discussing everything from the popularity of 'Chinese' cauliflower to why Michelin inspectors overlook Chinese dining experiences. The trio shares personal anecdotes, critiques Western perceptions of Chinese food, and explores the significance of communal dining. Expect insights on dessert offerings and the ongoing culinary fusion that's redefining Chinese cuisine today!

Ted Gioia, author of "Music: A Subversive History," delves into the idea of music as cultural cloud storage. He discusses the tension between innovative and formulaic music, sharing insights from his daily routine of absorbing new sounds. Gioia explores how disease outbreaks spur musical innovation, critiques the impact of tech on creativity, and highlights the overlooked contributions of female artists. He also reveals why he believes AI will never produce the perfect song and shares personal anecdotes that shaped his music appreciation.

Henry Farrell, a political science professor at George Washington University, dives deep into his theory of weaponized interdependence. He discusses the effects of global economic networks on state coercion, touching on key issues like social media regulation and the implications of a big tech breakup for privacy. Farrell also reflects on the complexities of transatlantic relations, Twitter's political landscape, and the intersection of corporate interests with political expression. His insights extend to cultural shifts in Ireland, showcasing the playful nature of intellectual debate.

Ben Westhoff, an author known for his deep dives into fentanyl, rap music, and dive bars, shares his compelling insights. He discusses the rise of synthetic drugs and the vital role China plays in the crisis. Ben also explores the merits of legalization versus decriminalization. The conversation shifts to the evolution of hip-hop, highlighting notable artists and their socio-political impacts. Finally, he reflects on the community aspects of dive bars, contrasting them with corporate establishments, and emphasizes how personal wellness fuels storytelling.

Alain Bertaud, a leading urbanist and author of *Order Without Design*, discusses the critical relationship between city planning and market forces. He argues that ignoring markets leads to poorly designed urban spaces. Bertaud shares insights on public transportation in the Moscow subway, reflects on the messy charm of cities, and critiques rent control policies in Dublin. He also envisions new urban developments, suggesting that the future of cities may hinge on adapting to cultural narratives and technological changes.

Samantha Power, a former war correspondent and UN ambassador, shares her journey of writing her memoir, discussing the fine line between authenticity and dignity. She reflects on the traits that make effective diplomats, like empathy and active listening. Power also dives into the complexities of U.S.-China relations, the rarity of democracy in the Middle East, and the dynamics of baseball's evolution. Additionally, she tackles NATO's defense spending issues and the waning role of Congress in foreign policy, all while emphasizing the power of storytelling to inspire change.

Hollis Robbins, Dean at Sonoma State University and a leading expert in 19th-century literature, shares her insights on a transformative era for America. She delves into why the 1840s were pivotal for social and political changes, emphasizing the influential works of authors like Harriet Beecher Stowe. Robbins also tackles the representations of slavery in modern media, and discusses how innovations like prepaid postage democratized communication. Her thoughts on reparations and the role of teachers in education add further depth to the conversation.

Masha Gessen, a renowned journalist and author specializing in Russian society, discusses the intricate layers of their homeland. They explore the excellence of Soviet mathematics and its cultural significance. Gessen shares personal encounters with Putin and examines the complexities of Russian friendships and identity. They also tackle the intense political landscape, touching on LGBT rights and Garry Kasparov's political failures. Plus, insights into the cultural nuances of gender roles and a touch of dining recommendations on Russian cuisine in NYC.

Kwame Anthony Appiah, a philosophy professor at NYU and a cosmopolitan thinker, discusses his unique upbringing, emphasizing the blend of local and global identities. He explores Ghana's political evolution, the complexities of nationalism versus cosmopolitanism, and the ethical dilemmas of cultural heritage. Appiah also shares personal anecdotes, from sheep farming in New Jersey to chairing the Booker Prize, and reflects on the significance of openness in personal growth and the joys of literary exploration.

Neal Stephenson, a speculative fiction author celebrated for his visionary tech depictions, joins the conversation to explore a variety of captivating topics. He discusses his latest novel, which delves into the implications of digital afterlives. The conversation shifts to the future of surveillance technologies and their impact on privacy, plus the challenges of media fragmentation in shaping our reality. With humor, he critiques cryptocurrencies while pondering the societal implications of innovation starvation, drawing from history and personal experiences to enrich storytelling.