Conversations with Tyler

Yasheng Huang, Professor of Management at MIT Sloan and author on Chinese economic reforms, dives deep into China's unique developmental journey. He contrasts rural entrepreneurship with state-controlled urban growth, highlights the historical impact of the civil service exam, and discusses concerns over foreign investment rather than population decline. Huang reflects on the stagnation of Chinese literacy in the 19th century, the underrepresentation of Chinese Americans in CEO roles, and his favorite historical period, the Six Dynasties, all while offering insights into China's political stability and cultural dynamics.

Brad DeLong, a UC Berkeley economics professor and early economic blogger, dives into his monumental work, Slouching Towards Utopia. He discusses economic transformations from 1870 to 1920 and the ascent of German universities. DeLong contrasts historical progress with today's slower growth while critiquing Keynes and praising Hayek's insights. He shares his favorite movie, reflects on blogging versus Substack, and highlights how religion and philosophy shape economic thought. This engaging conversation intertwines personal anecdotes with profound economic analysis.

Glenn Loury, a renowned economist and public intellectual, dives deep into the themes of race, economics, and social dynamics. He shares insights from his memoir journey, revealing the difference between his cover story and the real story of his life. The conversation touches on the best places to raise families in America and discusses the pressing mental health challenges facing modern undergraduates, especially among Black students. Loury also reflects on his evolving relationship with Christianity and the lasting influence of his late wife.

Paul Salopek, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and National Geographic fellow, discusses his extraordinary Out of Eden Walk, a 24,000-mile trek retracing humanity's early migration routes. He shares insights on maintaining a localized supply chain, why women make the best companions on long walks, and the challenges of crossing deserts. Salopek also reflects on the nuances of immersive journalism, documenting stories, and how this journey has reshaped his views on migration and community engagement, enriching both his culinary experiences and narrative techniques.

Rick Rubin, a legendary music producer known for his work with iconic artists and author of "The Creative Act," discusses the nuances of listening and creativity. He shares insights on how streaming has transformed artist compensation and the music industry. Rubin reflects on early influences from punk to hip hop, and the importance of respecting an artist's vision in production. He also highlights the magic of live albums and the role of technology in shaping music, offering a vibrant perspective on the art of listening and creation.

Katherine Rundell, a celebrated children's author and fellow at All Souls College, shares her vibrant enthusiasm for poetry and adventure. She reveals her obsession with John Donne's intricate views on faith and suicide, and the unique intensity of 17th-century thought. Rundell discusses the thrilling yet risky experience of rooftop walking and why children should embrace mischief. She also offers insights into the political implications of literature for young readers and shares her love for quirky storytelling, including her favorite books and the beauty of sacred texts.

Reflecting on last year's captivating conversations, the hosts discuss standout guests, including the insights gained from Sam Bankman-Fried's controversial interview. They delve into the challenges of securing high-profile guests while engaging in rapid-fire discussions on pressing topics. The impact of music in culture, the evolution of cinematic adaptations, and the art of argument in sports media are also explored. Listeners are encouraged to participate, and the hosts share their thoughts on memorable pop culture moments.

In this engaging discussion, John Adams, a renowned American composer celebrated for his operas like Nixon in China, shares his insights on contemporary classical music. He passionately asserts that the genre is far from dying. Adams reveals the challenges of adapting Antony and Cleopatra into opera and contrasts classical music with popular genres. He reflects on personal influences, the role of Christianity in his work, and the significant artistic tension in film composing, all while expressing his excitement for future projects.

Jeremy Grantham, co-founder of Grantham, Mayo & Van Otterloo, shares his expertise as a prominent investor with a focus on environmental issues. He discusses the urgent need for technological advancements in green energy, highlighting challenges in lithium extraction and the potential for alternative materials. Grantham emphasizes the underestimated costs of global warming and critiques traditional economic models. His insights on American venture capital and the influence of historical leadership on resource management round out a compelling conversation about sustainability and investment strategies.

In this engaging conversation, Ken Burns, renowned documentarian and author of *Our America: A Photographic History*, shares his insights into the complexities of American history. He discusses the evolution of photography, from formal portraits to today’s selfies, and touches on the ethical implications of depicting violence in documentaries. Burns reflects on the importance of female figures in early photography, his unique quilt collection, and the surprisingly profound connections between crossword puzzles and filmmaking. His passion for storytelling and the future of documentaries are also explored.