People I (Mostly) Admire

John Doerr, a legendary venture capitalist known for his early investments in Google and Amazon, shares his vision for achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. He advocates for substantial investments in clean energy and innovative technologies while discussing the challenges of rallying venture capital for climate startups. The conversation also explores the Peltzman effect, illustrating how safety measures can alter risk behaviors. Challenging traditional views, Doerr examines the complexities of implementing carbon taxes and the urgent call for global collaboration to combat climate change.

Claudia Goldin, a Harvard economist and author of "Career and Family," dives into the complexities faced by women in the labor market. She discusses the idea of 'greedy work' and its impact on wage disparity. Goldin explores how inflexible jobs and family responsibilities hinder women's earnings and reflects on how the COVID-19 pandemic might be a turning point. The conversation also highlights the need for policy changes to balance caregiving roles and employment, advocating for reforms to support gender equality in the workplace.

Jared Diamond, an award-winning author known for his works like "Guns, Germs, and Steel," shares his fascinating journey from studying gallbladders to exploring civilizations. He discusses the downfall of the Norse Greenlanders, who couldn't adapt their diet, and the broader implications for today's society. Diamond also reflects on the paradox of environmental destruction, tales of adventure in New Guinea, and the joys of later life. His insights inspire optimism about humanity's future despite historical challenges.

Andrew Yang, an entrepreneur and former presidential candidate, shares his ongoing quest to reshape politics with his Forward Party. He candidly discusses the emotional toll of losing elections and the need for a viable third party to prevent societal discord. Yang emphasizes a humane approach to economics over traditional metrics, advocating for Universal Basic Income as both relief and long-term solution. With a focus on youth engagement and a fresh political discourse, he inspires listeners to rethink democracy and political ambitions.

Michael Greenstone, former Chief Economist for the Obama administration, and Gretchen Daly, a leading Professor at Stanford, discuss the intricate relationship between economics and the Amazon rainforest crisis. They argue that traditional moral pleas often miss the root causes of deforestation. The duo emphasizes innovative economic strategies for conservation, such as carbon pricing and the significance of natural capital. They draw on global examples, highlighting lessons from China and Brazil, to showcase how financial incentives can effectively combat environmental degradation.

Max Tegmark, an MIT cosmologist and co-founder of the Future of Life Institute, dives deep into the existential threats posed by artificial intelligence. He discusses how AI can either empower democracy or exacerbate polarization. Tegmark emphasizes the importance of critical thinking in news consumption, advocating for tools like improvethenews.org to combat media bias. He also explores ethical questions surrounding superhuman AI, urging a balance between technological advancements and human values while fostering a culture of optimism and ambition for the future.

Max Tegmark, an MIT cosmologist and physicist, dives into profound discussions about humanity's future. He weighs the risks of nuclear war against pandemics and argues that we should cultivate optimism. Tegmark draws fascinating parallels between the realms of economics and cosmology, and he delves into the multiverse theory, emphasizing the importance of embracing unconventional ideas. He advocates for ethical technological advancements and proactive measures to tackle existential threats, all while maintaining a sense of joy in life's pursuits.

Edward Miguel, a UC Berkeley professor renowned for his work on randomized controlled trials in economics, dives into an array of fascinating topics. He discusses the dramatic impacts of deworming on children's health and education in Kenya. Miguel also sheds light on the surprising link between climate change and conflict in Africa, illustrating how rainfall patterns can influence instability. Additionally, he shares insights from a unique study on parking violations by UN diplomats, revealing unexpected ties between corruption and diplomatic behaviors.

Sarah Hart, a professor at Birkbeck College and Gresham Professor of Geometry, shares her passion for the intersection of mathematics and music. She demonstrates how whole numbers resonate with pleasing sounds and reveals the fascinating imperfections of octaves. The conversation touches on the gender gap in mathematics and the importance of creative teaching in making math accessible. Hart also discusses overcoming creative slumps, emphasizing adaptability and inspiration as keys to success in both math and the arts.

Mark Davis, a seasoned NBA referee with over 20 years in the game, shares his journey from aspiring player to top official. He reveals how he meticulously reviews every call and navigates scrutiny from players and fans alike. Davis discusses the importance of fairness, the significant work behind officiating, and why conversations about race matter both on and off the court. With a deep passion for basketball, he emphasizes enjoying the game over who wins, reflecting on the thrill of the sport and its cultural impact.