

Against the Rules with Michael Lewis
Pushkin Industries
Journalist and bestselling author Michael Lewis explores the figures in American life who rely on the public's trust, whether in sports, in business, in the courtroom, or on TV. What happens when that trust erodes and we can no longer agree on what's fair and what's not?
In the latest season of his podcast, Michael takes on America’s newest form of legalized gambling, sports betting, and how it’s changing what it means to be a player…a teenager…and most of all, a fan.
iHeartMedia is the exclusive podcast partner of Pushkin Industries.
In the latest season of his podcast, Michael takes on America’s newest form of legalized gambling, sports betting, and how it’s changing what it means to be a player…a teenager…and most of all, a fan.
iHeartMedia is the exclusive podcast partner of Pushkin Industries.
Episodes
Mentioned books

56 snips
May 19, 2020 • 49min
The Coach in Your Head
Timothy Gallwey, author of the groundbreaking book "The Inner Game of Tennis," discusses the evolution of coaching beyond physical training, highlighting the power of mental skills. He shares insights on how effective coaching can transform anyone, from young athletes to corporate leaders, by focusing on mindset rather than just technique. Gallwey emphasizes the importance of creating a positive mental state, navigating performance anxiety, and applying mental strategies to enhance resilience in high-pressure situations. Discover how inner-game coaching can unlock potential across diverse fields!

35 snips
May 12, 2020 • 45min
Don't Be Good – Be Great
Jeremy Bleich, a former baseball player who excelled at Stanford and in the major leagues, shares his journey from high school to the big leagues. He reflects on the invaluable lessons learned from tough-love coaching, particularly from Billy Fitzgerald, who shaped his career. Bleich emphasizes the importance of resilience and ambition in pursuing greatness, touching on the pressure young athletes face today. Listeners gain insights into the transformative power of mentorship and the complexities of youth sports.

10 snips
May 7, 2020 • 36min
Against the Rules Presents: Michael Lewis in Conversation with Malcolm Gladwell and Jacob Weisberg
Malcolm Gladwell, co-founder of Pushkin Industries and author of insightful books, joins Jacob Weisberg, a seasoned journalist, for a captivating discussion. They delve into the challenges of launching a podcast company during the pandemic and the shift from print to digital media. Gladwell and Weisberg share how a holiday conversation sparked their collaboration, and they emphasize the importance of cultivating kindness and a fun culture in remote work. Their insights on nurturing creativity and mentorship provide valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs.

22 snips
May 5, 2020 • 44min
The Invisible Coach
Jason Brown, an entrepreneur and creator of the Tally app, discusses the hidden pitfalls of the credit card industry and how many are ensnared by confusing financial rules. He shares his unconventional upbringing focused on experiential learning, which shaped his innovative approach to money management. Brown emphasizes the importance of financial coaching, showcasing how tools like his app empower users to tackle debt anxiety. The podcast also highlights engaging anecdotes about overcoming financial struggles and the critical conversations needed in relationships about money.

Apr 21, 2020 • 2min
Introducing Against the Rules Season 2
Dive into a compelling discussion about the expanding role of coaching in our lives, well beyond the sports arena. Explore the intriguing contrast between coaching and traditional therapy, highlighting its growing importance. Unpack the stark inequities in access to coaching, particularly how it favors the wealthy while sidelining those from lower economic backgrounds. With wit and insight, the exploration of fairness and the quest for equality takes center stage, leaving listeners pondering the true impact of these coaching dynamics.

Mar 25, 2020 • 19min
Bonus Against the Rules: Help in a Crisis
In this engaging conversation, Jimmy Chen, Founder and CEO of Propel, shares his insights on aiding low-income Americans through the pandemic. He discusses the challenges families faced with food assistance and the vital role technology plays in navigating these issues. Chen highlights an innovative app designed to connect users with essential resources. The talk also delves into the importance of community resilience and support systems, emphasizing how cash transfers and social services can uplift those in crisis.

8 snips
Nov 15, 2019 • 37min
Against the Rules Presents: Cautionary Tales
Dive into unsettling yet enlightening tales designed for grown-ups. Expect stories of human error, daring heists, and tragic catastrophes, all infused with humor and wisdom. There's a spotlight on the fragility of life through historical mistakes and the importance of learning from the past. Enjoy captivating narratives brought to life by a talented cast, reminding us of the lessons buried within our blunders. Each story serves as a cautionary reminder to navigate life's challenges with awareness and flexibility.

10 snips
May 21, 2019 • 54min
Live Episode: Michael Lewis and Malcolm Gladwell
Malcolm Gladwell, a renowned author and journalist, joins his friend Michael for a lively discussion on podcasting. They dive into the nuances of refereeing, exploring how officiating shapes sports narratives. Gladwell highlights the challenges of authority in ‘rigged systems’ while discussing the evolution of officiating with the advent of technology. They also revel in the joy of ‘conversational delight’ and the art behind audio storytelling, emphasizing the emotional connection that voices can create. Expect humor, insights, and engaging banter throughout!

28 snips
May 14, 2019 • 54min
The Magic Shoebox
Brad Katsuyama, co-founder of IEX and former head of trading at the Royal Bank of Canada, and Ronan Ryan, a key player in high-frequency trading, dive into the cutthroat world of Wall Street. They reveal how milliseconds can make millions, discussing their mission to create a fairer stock exchange. The duo shares humorous anecdotes about the challenges posed by trading technology and ethical dilemmas in finance. Their insights prompt a reflection on the importance of integrity amidst the chaos of high-speed trading.

22 snips
May 7, 2019 • 40min
Baby Judge School
Jeremy Fogel, a former federal judge, dives into the compelling world of judicial training and reform. He discusses the importance of emotional intelligence for judges, highlighting initiatives like 'Baby Judge School.' The conversation explores the delicate balance between a judge's humanity and the need for impartiality. Fogel shares insights from research on fairness in both humans and animals, connecting emotional dynamics in the courtroom to public perceptions of justice. His advocacy for transparency in the judiciary sheds light on the pressures judges face today.