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.
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.
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
28 snips
Jan 7, 2023 • 58min
96. Steven Strogatz Thinks You Don’t Know What Math Is
Steven Strogatz, a mathematics professor at Cornell University, shares his passion for making math accessible to everyone. He draws fascinating connections between math and real-world phenomena, like the synchronization of fireflies and DNA structure. Strogatz critiques traditional math education, advocating for methods that foster curiosity rather than fear. He also touches on the intricacies of mathematical patterns in social networks and broader implications for our understanding of collective behavior, making mathematics relatable and engaging.
Dec 24, 2022 • 1h 7min
95. The One Thing Stephen Dubner Hasn’t Quit
Stephen Dubner, co-author of the Freakonomics books and host of Freakonomics Radio, shares insights from two decades of collaboration with Steve Levitt, including their initial rivalry. He discusses the art of interviewing, the balance of listening and speaking, and a transformative experience with Ted Kaczynski. Dubner reflects on leaving music for journalism, the importance of following passions, and the intimate nature of podcasting. The conversation uniquely intertwines creativity, collaboration, and the playful relationship between math and music.
47 snips
Dec 10, 2022 • 1h 6min
94. The Price of Doing Business with John List
John List, an innovative Economics professor at the University of Chicago, takes listeners on a captivating journey through field experiments that reshape economic understanding. He discusses the surprising role of apologies in business dynamics and the importance of scaling initiatives. From his unconventional experiments at baseball card conventions to advising companies like Uber on customer satisfaction, List highlights the real-world complexities of applying economic theories. His insights bridge academia and industry, proving that data-driven decisions can drive meaningful change.
42 snips
Nov 26, 2022 • 55min
93. Annie Duke Thinks You Should Quit
Annie Duke, a former professional poker player turned bestselling author, dives into the art of quitting as a strategic decision. She discusses the societal stigma surrounding quitting and its emotional toll, advocating for the freedom from guilt that comes with making thoughtful changes. Personal stories illustrate the balance between persistence and knowing when to pivot, particularly in competitive environments like poker and academia. Duke also highlights the unique challenges faced by women in poker, urging listeners to rethink their own unproductive pursuits.
8 snips
Nov 12, 2022 • 1h 8min
92. John Green’s Reluctant Rocket Ship Ride
In this engaging conversation, John Green, bestselling author of young adult novels and creator of the Crash Course YouTube channel, shares his unexpected journey from aspiring priest to literary sensation. He reflects on the challenges of vulnerability in writing, the emotional weight of grief, and the complexities of navigating fame. Green also discusses his philanthropic work in Sierra Leone and the importance of sustainable healthcare. With personal anecdotes, he highlights the art of letting go in creative pursuits and the impact of educational platforms on society.
Oct 29, 2022 • 59min
91. Jane Goodall Changed the Way We See Animals. She’s Not Done.
Jane Goodall, the pioneering ethologist and conservationist, shares her extraordinary journey studying chimpanzees in the wild. At 88, she reflects on the emotional depth of animal intelligence and the importance of nurturing, inspired by chimpanzee mothers. Goodall discusses engaging communities in conservation and the vital link between human welfare and wildlife. She also offers profound thoughts on death as an adventure, emphasizing hope and connection in our lives. Her passion for animal welfare and education continues to inspire younger generations.
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.
