Against the Rules with Michael Lewis

The podcast delves into the U.S. response to the pandemic, revealing the hesitations that arose despite having a plan in place. It draws parallels between past pandemics and COVID-19, emphasizing the need for early interventions. There's a candid look at the struggles within academia and the burden of misinformation on healthcare workers. Personal narratives highlight the emotional toll of loss, while discussions on the pursuit of scientific knowledge stress the importance of humility in expertise during uncertain times.

Maria Konnikova, an author known for her works on confidence and deception, dives into the compelling dynamics of overconfidence in men versus women. She discusses how male overconfidence impacts investment decisions and financial outcomes, advocating for more female leadership. The conversation highlights the systemic dismissal of women’s expertise and offers insights from her own experiences with poker, illustrating the art of bluffing and decision-making in life. The episode provides a thought-provoking lens on confidence, competence, and societal biases.

In this engaging discussion, Adam Mortera, a former gang member and founder of Juvenile Justice Advocates of California, shares his unique insights on the legal system. He highlights the troubling issue of biased expert testimony, particularly in gang-related cases, which has led to wrongful convictions. Mortera’s firsthand experience sheds light on the emotional challenges faced by these experts in court. He also humorously touches on the journey of balancing advocacy for at-risk youth with the hurdles of parenthood, revealing the complexities of navigating the justice system.

James Spann, a seasoned meteorologist renowned for his work in Alabama's severe weather, shares insights on the intricacies of communicating probabilistic weather information. He delves into how public expectations clash with the realities of uncertainty in forecasting. Spann recounts the evolution of weather predictions and the backlash faced by meteorologists despite technological advancements. He stresses the significance of trusting expert guidance, especially during emergencies, and reflects on the broader implications of understanding probabilities across various domains.

Bill James, the pioneer of sabermetrics, transformed baseball analytics with his groundbreaking statistical insights. He shares his journey from a security guard writing about baseball to revolutionizing how the game is analyzed. The conversation dives into the challenges of traditional metrics, the ethical implications of data-driven evaluations, and the broader impact of analytics in various fields. James reveals how accurate assessments can change the game while cautioning against over-relying on numbers, encouraging a deeper understanding of human performance.

Joe Blustein shares his harrowing tale of survival after falling overboard in the Pacific, navigating the mental and physical challenges of being adrift. Alongside Art Allen, an oceanographer with the Coast Guard, they discuss mathematical models that revolutionize search and rescue operations. Both highlight how such expertise often goes unrecognized, despite its life-saving impact. Their stories underscore the resilience of the human spirit and the urgent need to appreciate and share the vital contributions of unsung heroes in crisis situations.

Todd Park, a healthcare and tech entrepreneur known for creating billion-dollar companies, dives into the often-overlooked world of medical billing challenges. He shares inspiring insights about a skilled medical biller who transforms financial chaos into revenue success. The conversation unveils the hidden expertise within organizations, emphasizing how recognizing unconventional roles can innovate the healthcare sector. Park also discusses the critical need for identifying knowledgeable individuals to navigate bureaucratic hurdles during tech crises like healthcare.gov.

Delve into the complexities of being an expert and the emotional toll it takes. Discover why true experts often go unheard while navigating the shifting landscape of trust and decision-making. Join a conversation about the vital yet undervalued roles these professionals play in our everyday lives, and uncover the challenges they face in earning public confidence. It’s a thought-provoking examination of who really holds the power when it comes to expertise.

George Saunders, an acclaimed author known for his poignant storytelling, joins Michael Lewis to discuss the valuable lessons hidden in failure. They delve into the challenges of crafting fiction, revealing how humility and perseverance shape a writer's journey. Saunders shares personal anecdotes about the struggle to find one’s voice amid literary influences and the transformative power of embracing unfinished work. Their conversation highlights the emotional complexities of storytelling and the vital connection between authenticity and reader engagement.

Ira Glass, creator and host of 'This American Life,' delves into the art of storytelling with Michael Lewis. They explore how collaboration shapes creative writing and the importance of finding one's voice. Glass reflects on the emotional journey of authenticity in writing, sharing personal stories tied to both embarrassment and cookies. The duo discusses the evolution of their unique narratives in the context of economic storytelling and the impact of early influences, ultimately emphasizing the joy in the creative process.