Against the Rules with Michael Lewis

Ken Feinberg, a renowned mediator and lawyer famed for his work on high-profile disputes like the 9/11 Victims Compensation Fund, shares insights into the art of neutrality. He discusses the emotional challenges and moral dilemmas mediators face while navigating sensitive issues. Feinberg reflects on the complexities of compensation during tragedies, the role of empathy in conflict resolution, and draws surprising parallels with a biblical story. His anecdotes reveal the unexpected traits that make for an effective neutral referee.

Jan Kors, a senior managing director at Pearl Meyer, dives into the enigmatic world of art and finance. He discusses the legendary painting 'Salvatore Mundi' and the controversies surrounding its authenticity and valuation. Kors explores the implications of CEO compensation disparities, questioning the rationale behind exorbitant salaries in contrast to average workers. He also addresses the role of artificial intelligence in enhancing business efficiency, revealing how technology reshapes the landscape of art valuation and executive pay.

Brian Garner, author of "Garner's Modern English Usage," dives into the evolving role of language referees in our digital age. He discusses the shift from strict grammatical authority to flexible personal interpretation. Garner hilariously highlights how misunderstandings in language can lead to real-world consequences. The conversation also touches on the decline of ombudsmen in journalism, their importance in accountability, and the ethical dilemmas faced by researchers in the wake of data scandals. It's a lively exploration of language, truth, and ethics!

Katie Highland, a dedicated public school teacher and mother, opens up about her harrowing experience with student loan debt and identity theft. She shares the emotional toll and systemic challenges of navigating the convoluted student loan forgiveness process. The discussion delves into the predatory practices of student loan servicing, including the alarming 'seven-minute rule' that prioritizes efficiency over borrower well-being. Throughout, Katie's personal anecdotes highlight the struggles many face in balancing debt and dreams while advocating for better consumer protections.

Dive into the world of basketball officiating and discover why referees face the ire of players and fans alike. The podcast examines technology's role in promoting fairness and the emotional rollercoaster surrounding contentious calls. It delves into the fraught relationships between star players and refs, showcasing how status influences confrontations. With insightful perspectives on privilege and rule-breaking, listeners explore deeper social themes of accountability, all while enjoying witty commentary on the game's quirks.

Dive into the intriguing world of fairness as it intersects with authority, examining the role of referees not just in sports but in everyday life. Discover the fascinating influence of AI on business operations, featuring Microsoft's cutting-edge tools and Oracle's cloud innovations. Journey through diverse settings, from student-loan centers to Wall Street trading hubs, highlighting the challenges of enforcing fairness in various environments. This exploration is both thought-provoking and enlightening, prompting listeners to rethink norms in society.