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
28 snips
Mar 8, 2025 • 49min
Reading Dostoevsky Behind Bars (Update)
Reginald Dwayne Betts, a MacArthur Fellow and founder of Freedom Reads, shares his inspiring journey from an eight-year prison sentence to becoming a celebrated poet and Yale Law graduate. He discusses the vital role that prison libraries play in fostering hope and community among inmates. Betts highlights how literature can transform lives and emphasizes the importance of educational programs and mentorship in rehabilitation. He dives into the complexities of survivor's guilt and reflects on the mental health challenges faced by those reintegrating into society.
40 snips
Mar 1, 2025 • 47min
152. Hunting for the Origins of Life
Jack Szostak, a Nobel laureate and professor of chemistry at the University of Chicago, dives into the origins of life. He discusses the possible role of toxic compounds like cyanide in early life forms and the concept of 'mirror bacteria' that could threaten humanity. Szostak explores the transition from simple chemicals to primitive protocells, and he ponders whether life exists on other planets. With a mix of science and philosophy, he offers intriguing insights into humanity's deepest questions about existence.
167 snips
Feb 15, 2025 • 53min
151. Neurobiologist, Philosopher, and Addict
Owen Flanagan, a philosopher and neurobiologist from Duke University, dives deep into his 20-year struggle with addiction and its implications on consciousness. He shares personal anecdotes, linking them to his research, highlighting the intricate relationship between neuroscience and philosophical thought. The discussion touches on drug legalization debates, the importance of storytelling in recovery, and the complexities of addiction as a disease. Flanagan also examines how ancient philosophies and modern science intertwine in understanding human behavior.
39 snips
Feb 8, 2025 • 54min
Jane Goodall Changed the Way We See Animals. She’s Not Done. (Replay)
Jane Goodall, renowned primatologist, shares her lifelong dedication to animal welfare and the deep emotional connections she's formed with chimpanzees. She discusses the thrill of observing them in their natural habitat and the challenges she faced in her groundbreaking career. Goodall emphasizes the importance of empathy in both research and parenting, drawing parallels between chimp and human behaviors. Reflecting on mortality, she invites listeners to view death as a new adventure, highlighting the role of hope in activism and encouraging the youth to engage in conservation efforts.
32 snips
Feb 1, 2025 • 59min
150. His Brilliant Videos Get Millions of Views. Why Don’t They Make Money?
Hank Green, an internet phenomenon and science communicator, shares his journey from a viral video to co-founding Complexly. He discusses the struggles of monetizing popular educational content despite high engagement and how a cancer diagnosis inspired him to embrace comedy. Hank reflects on the evolution of educational YouTube channels and their impact on traditional education. He also candidly shares his experience with cancer, highlighting the importance of humor and vulnerability in coping, and offers insights on navigating fame and the writing process.
29 snips
Jan 18, 2025 • 56min
149. Stanford’s President Knows He Can’t Make Everyone Happy
Jonathan Levin, President of Stanford University and a noted academic economist, shares insights from his remarkable career. He reveals how he saved Comcast a billion dollars through innovative auction strategies. Levin discusses the challenges of leading a prestigious institution, emphasizing the need for balance between innovation and inclusivity. He also navigates the tricky terrain of free speech on campus amid rising tensions, highlighting the complexities faced by leaders in today's educational landscape.
43 snips
Jan 11, 2025 • 49min
Why Numbers are Music to Our Ears (Update)
Sarah Hart, Professor emerita of mathematics at the University of London, intertwines mathematics with music and literature in a fascinating discussion. She explores how mathematical structures influence musical compositions, enhancing our auditory experiences. Hart also delves into the patterns and rhythms that connect numbers with narratives, highlighting Lewis Carroll's playful use of logic and the creative potential within mathematical constraints. Listeners are invited to appreciate the beauty found in the harmony of math, music, and storytelling.
264 snips
Jan 4, 2025 • 59min
148. How to Have Good Ideas
Sarah Stein Greenberg, executive director of Stanford's d.school, shares her insights on design as a powerful problem-solving tool. She discusses the frustrating nature of traditional brainstorms and the value of empathy-driven design in healthcare, illustrated by student projects improving communication in hospitals. Sarah also emphasizes the importance of community engagement in development work and the transformative potential of design in addressing social issues. Additionally, she shares her passion for underwater photography and the patience required to capture marine life beautifully.
75 snips
Dec 21, 2024 • 58min
147. Is Your Gut a Second Brain?
Elsa Richardson, a medical historian at the University of Strathclyde and author of "Rumbles: A Curious History of the Gut," discusses the fascinating evolution of our understanding of gut health. She reveals the gripping story of Alexis St. Martin, whose unusual medical condition led to important digestion studies. The conversation delves into the gut-brain connection, illustrating how gut microbiome health impacts emotions and decision-making. Richardson also touches on the journey of writing her book, blending historical insights with modern perspectives on holistic health.
126 snips
Dec 14, 2024 • 50min
Turning Work into Play (Update)
Dan Gilbert, a Harvard psychologist and author of "Stumbling on Happiness," shares his journey from high school dropout to academic success. He discusses the 'end of history illusion,' revealing how we underestimate changes in our preferences over time. Gilbert also delves into perceptions of morality, noting a disconnect between beliefs and reality. He emphasizes valuing relationships over material wealth for happiness and reflects on redefining success and fulfillment through personal anecdotes. His insights encourage self-awareness and embracing simple joys in life.
