Conversations with Tyler

Ami Vitale, a renowned National Geographic photographer, shares her extensive journey in wildlife conservation and photojournalism. She reveals unconventional panda conservation strategies and discusses the ethical complexities of animal captivity and de-extinction. Vitale also reflects on her decade in conflict photography, emphasizing the critical human stories behind the lens. Additionally, she explores the evolving cultural role of National Geographic in a digital world and highlights the importance of mentorship and diversity in photojournalism.

Rebecca F. Kuang, bestselling author of Babel and The Poppy War trilogy, shares her insights at just 27 years old. She discusses the cultural significance of Chinese science fiction and the challenges of publishing today. Kuang delves into the intricate use of footnotes in literature, critiques the publishing landscape, and reflects on the historical impacts of the Treaty of Versailles on Chinese identity. She also explores the unique dynamics of co-authorship, the influence of debate on writing, and balances this with her ongoing academic pursuits.

Patrick McKenzie, an entrepreneur and writer known for his influential blog, dives into intriguing topics ranging from the diminishing role of signatures on credit cards to the quirks of banking operations. He shares insights on navigating career choices in Japan and discusses how non-traditional expertise can solve urgent challenges like pandemic preparedness. Additionally, he reflects on cultural contrasts between the U.S. and Japan, the complexities of salary negotiation, and even explores exciting innovations in payment systems and geothermal energy.

The hosts reminisce about the highlights of the past year, including the most popular and underrated episodes. They delve into the challenges of writing with AI during the pandemic and explore how technology reshapes literature and audiobook experiences. A fascinating discussion considers the 'greatest of all time' concept in sports and cultural contexts. Reflections on a trip to Sri Lanka highlight music, architecture, and community living. The hosts also share their top pop culture picks from 2013 across film, music, and books.

Fuchsia Dunlop, an acclaimed expert on Chinese cuisine and author of "Invitation to a Banquet," discusses the rich history and innovation of Chinese culinary traditions. Joined by Lydia Chang, owner of Mama Chang restaurant, and Dan Wang, a visiting scholar, they dive into the underappreciated diversity of Chinese food in the West. The conversation includes why technique matters, how cultural contexts shape culinary appreciation, and even tips for perfecting a stir fry. Their lively discussion unfolds over a captivating banquet, showcasing the art of Chinese cooking.

John Gray, a philosopher known for his critiques of liberalism and atheism, discusses his latest work, 'The New Leviathans.' He challenges the triumphalism of liberal thinking and emphasizes the merits of pessimism in confronting the future. Gray shares insights on how modern physics relates to atheism, his attraction to Eastern Orthodoxy, and discusses the indifference of potential extraterrestrial life. He also reflects on the impact of Monty Python, literature, and the ethical dilemmas of human progress versus environmental responsibility.

Jennifer Burns, a Stanford history professor and author of biographies on Milton Friedman and Ayn Rand, dives deep into their legacies. She reflects on Friedman's complex evolution from academic to public intellectual, influenced by personal relationships, especially with his wife, Rose. The discussion also covers Ayn Rand's portrayal of women in fiction, her writing prowess, and the challenges faced by early female economists. Finally, Burns critiques the current state of intellectualism in American conservatism and the disparities between left and right in valuing fiction.

Brian Koppelman, a writer and director known for films like Rounders and the series Billions, shares his insights on the evolution of television and cinema. He discusses the binge-watching phenomenon versus traditional viewing patterns and how it affects audience engagement. Koppelman also delves into the subjective nature of film appreciation, revealing why some smart individuals overlook great films. Plus, he offers tips on the Manhattan food scene and shares thoughts on the future of movie stardom and his unmade dream projects.

Githae Githinji, a Kikuyu elder and businessman in Tatu City, shares insights from his rich life in Kenya. He discusses the interplay between urban and rural living, elaborating on his role in community mediation and the importance of cultural traditions for the youth. Githae also highlights challenges in the transport industry, the need for foreign investment, and contrasts the influence of Chinese involvement in Kenya. His optimism for the future shines through, as he emphasizes cooperation, resilience, and the vital role of governance.

Harriet Muriithi, a 22-year-old hospitality professional from Tatu City, shares her insights on life in Nairobi and the rich tapestry of Kenyan culture. She discusses her aspirations to start a high-end restaurant while exploring the intersection of technology and personal growth. Harriet reveals her passion for TikTok and fantasy novels, reflecting on societal challenges, educational reforms, and the impact of COVID-19. She also dives into the influence of Chinese investment in Kenya and the dynamic landscape of job opportunities for the youth.