People I (Mostly) Admire
Freakonomics Radio + Stitcher
Freakonomics co-author Steve Levitt tracks down other high achievers for surprising, revealing conversations about their lives and obsessions. Join Levitt as he goes through the most interesting midlife crisis you’ve ever heard — and learn how a renegade sheriff is transforming Chicago's jail, how a biologist is finding the secrets of evolution in the Arctic tundra, and how a trivia champion memorized 160,000 flashcards.
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To get every show in the Freakonomics Radio Network without ads and a monthly bonus episode of Freakonomics Radio, start a free trial for SiriusXM Podcasts+ on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus.
Episodes
Mentioned books
10 snips
Oct 15, 2022 • 58min
90. Peter Singer Isn’t a Saint, But He’s Better Than Steve Levitt
Peter Singer, a highly influential philosopher renowned for his groundbreaking work on ethics and animal rights, joins the discussion. He critiques Steve Levitt's moral inconsistencies and explores the ethical implications of speciesism, drawing parallels to racism and sexism. The conversation dives into the ethics of pain, the complexities of economic self-interest, and the responsibilities we bear towards suffering beings. Singer also addresses the rising costs of college tuition, shedding light on the economic pressures affecting higher education.
Oct 8, 2022 • 51min
Extra: A Rockstar Chemist Wins the Nobel Prize
Carolyn Bertozzi, a Stanford professor and 2022 Nobel laureate in chemistry, shares her groundbreaking work in bioorthogonal chemistry and glycobiology. She discusses her innovative ideas for immune therapy that could change the landscape of disease treatment. The conversation dives into the crucial role of glycans in health, cancer research, and the challenges in antibiotic development. Carolyn also reflects on the tension between her scientific achievements and her dreams of a career in music, blending science with a touch of creativity.
5 snips
Oct 1, 2022 • 53min
89. A Cross Between Sherlock Holmes and Indiana Jones
Charity Dean, a physician and public health advocate, shares her passion for infectious diseases and her pivotal role in the early COVID-19 response. She discusses the challenges of combating tuberculosis and the balance between individual rights and public safety. Dean also reflects on her unique journey from a restrictive upbringing to the private sector, emphasizing the importance of data and community initiatives in health crises. Her insights into healthcare communication innovations highlight the potential of simple ideas in transforming patient experiences.
4 snips
Sep 17, 2022 • 50min
88. Ken Burns on Heroism, Horror, and History
Ken Burns, a renowned documentary filmmaker known for his impactful works like 'The Civil War' and 'The U.S. and the Holocaust', delves into the complexities of history. He examines America's troubling role during the Holocaust, stressing the importance of recognizing our past. Personal stories highlight the human toll of this dark period and the need for vigilance against oppression today. Burns also discusses the filmmaking process and emphasizes the significance of mental health narratives in storytelling, connecting diverse communities through shared experiences.
13 snips
Sep 3, 2022 • 54min
87. How Much Are the Right Friends Worth?
In this engaging discussion, Harvard economist Raj Chetty, a trailblazer in researching inequality and social mobility, dives into the crucial role of early education. He highlights how choosing the right teachers—and even friends—can shape long-term success. Chetty explores the decline of economic mobility in the U.S. and the importance of social connections for children from low-income families. The conversation also touches on ethical dilemmas in education and healthcare, emphasizing the need for equitable access and meaningful community support.
22 snips
Aug 20, 2022 • 53min
86. A Million-Year View on Morality
Join Will MacAskill, an Oxford philosopher and effective altruism pioneer, as he unpacks how our choices today impact future generations. He navigates the challenges of moral decision-making in a long-term context and explores the ethical dilemmas of wealth disparity and charitable giving. MacAskill also highlights the importance of personal sacrifice for the greater good and the existential threats we face. Through thought-provoking insights, he champions a philosophy that aims for maximizing global well-being across time.
11 snips
Aug 6, 2022 • 43min
85. What It Takes to Know Everything
Victoria Groce, a top trivia contestant celebrated for her performances on 'The Chase,' shares her fascinating journey into the world of competitive trivia. She discusses the art of crafting compelling questions and her unique approach of knitting during competitions. Groce reveals her mastery of 160,000 flashcards through spaced repetition, highlighting effective memory techniques. The conversation also dips into her experiences at the World Quizzing Championship, where unexpected challenges transformed her perspective on competition.
116 snips
Jul 23, 2022 • 54min
84. Yuval Noah Harari Thinks Life Is Meaningless and Amazing
In this engaging discussion, Yuval Noah Harari, the brilliant author of 'Sapiens', explores the fascinating idea that money is merely a social construct. He reflects on how even mundane topics like traffic can provoke deep thoughts about existence. Harari shares insights on the agricultural revolution's unexpected drawbacks, arguing it led to more suffering than benefits. He also contrasts religious narratives, advocating for mindfulness and personal meaning amidst life’s complexities, raising alarm about the future of humanity in a technology-driven world.
9 snips
Jul 9, 2022 • 51min
83. “There's So Many Problems — Which Ones Can I Make a Difference On?”
In this engaging dialogue, Susan Athey, a Professor at Stanford and chief economist at the U.S. Department of Justice's Antitrust Division, tackles pressing global issues using economic insights. She shares her journey transitioning from academia to tech, highlighting partnerships that promote innovation. The conversation dives into vaccine production and the role of advanced commitments, alongside discussions on navigating carbon markets and data privacy. Plus, Susan recounts a daring chicken rescue from a coyote, showcasing her adventurous side!
6 snips
Jul 2, 2022 • 44min
82. Is This the Future of High School?
Sal Khan, founder of Khan Academy and Khan World School, shares his visionary approach to transforming high school education. He discusses the importance of personalized, flexible learning experiences that prioritize student well-being and critical thinking. Khan emphasizes innovative programs, like daily seminars promoting rich discussions, and new initiatives in Arizona aiming to empower students. He also gives insights into a scholarship opportunity for aspiring students and his recent move to Germany, adding a personal touch to the educational revolution.
