People I (Mostly) Admire

Kate Douglass, an Olympic gold medalist swimmer and data scientist, shares her unique journey combining athletics and academics. She discusses the underwhelming reality of the Olympics compared to childhood dreams and the mental strategies she used to win gold in the 200m breaststroke. Kate dives into how mathematical modeling and data analysis enhance swimming techniques, revealing insights into performance improvement. She also reflects on the challenges athletes face post-competition, including identity shifts and exploring opportunities in data science.

In this intriguing discussion, Ken Ono, a math prodigy and professor at the University of Virginia, shares his unique journey from high school dropout to Hollywood contributor. He sees mathematics as an art form and dives into the abstract beauty of the subject, spotlighting its connections to the mysteries of the universe. Ono reveals how he applies math to enhance Olympic swimming performance, demonstrating the practical impact of numbers in sports. His unexpected path to cinema highlights serendipity and the power of opportunity.

Wendy MacNaughton, an artist and graphic journalist known for her work in The New York Times and author of 'How to Say Goodbye,' shares profound insights from her experiences. She juxtaposes art and economics, reflecting on the emotional complexities of grief and the importance of presence in life's fragile moments. Wendy discusses the ethical challenges of depicting sensitive subjects in her work from Rwanda to Guantanamo Bay. Lastly, she emphasizes rediscovering joy and creativity, highlighting how fun and spontaneity can positively impact mental health.

Join James Nestor, a bestselling author and journalist known for his exploration of breathwork and freediving. He shares surprising insights on how altering breath can transform health, even persuading Steve to tape his mouth shut at night! Delve into how humans can dive to remarkable depths and fascinating marine communication. Nestor highlights the health perks of nasal breathing, including better sleep and reduced anxiety, while challenging common misconceptions about breath and oxygen. Unlock the power of breath for a healthier life!

Ingrid Newkirk, founder of PETA, has been a fierce advocate for animal rights for over 40 years. In a lively discussion, she shares her journey from activism to significant legal battles against animal cruelty. Newkirk tackles the complex ethics of euthanasia in shelters and discusses societal biases against 'less popular' animals like rats. She humorously critiques the fashion industry while also exploring the challenges of dietary changes among meat-eaters. With her intriguing anecdotes and bold ideas, Newkirk inspires a reconsideration of our relationship with animals.

Sendhil Mullainathan, a MacArthur genius and behavioral economist from the University of Chicago, shares insights on the power of experiences over material wealth. He discusses how virtual reality can revolutionize education and workplaces. The conversation explores how memory is influenced by external factors, illustrated through a humorous seminar story. Mullainathan highlights the cognitive load of scarcity and its effects on decision-making, urging a rethinking of support systems for those in need. Tune in for thought-provoking ideas on learning and psychological dynamics!

Chris Anderson, the Head of TED, revolutionized how we share ideas globally, transforming TED from a niche gathering to a powerhouse platform. He discusses the art of public speaking, emphasizing authenticity and connection. The conversation covers 'infectious generosity,' TEDx's impact on local communities, and the necessity of strategic funding in tackling climate change. Chris also reflects on personal experiences with vulnerability in storytelling, illustrating how grief can inspire innovation and strengthen institutions in society.

In this poignant discussion, Susan Wojcicki, former CEO of YouTube and an early Google employee, reflects on her groundbreaking career in tech. She shares how her economics background shaped her leadership style and the need for greater diversity in the industry. Wojcicki discusses Google's strategic decision to acquire YouTube, overcoming initial skepticism about the platform's future. She also offers insights on balancing a demanding tech career with parenting and emphasizes the importance of making long-term, meaningful life choices.

Richard Dawkins, a renowned evolutionary biologist and author, delves into thought-provoking discussions on science and religion. He highlights the intriguing concept of DNA as an 'immortal replicator' and draws parallels between evolutionary biology and economics. Dawkins also critiques popular science writing and explores the extraordinary survival strategies of cuckoo birds. The conversation emphasizes the importance of storytelling in science education and the need to foster curiosity about the natural world.

Victoria Groce, a world-class trivia champion and winner of the 2024 World Quizzing Championship, shares her fascinating journey through the trivia landscape. She discusses the mechanics behind crafting effective trivia questions and how her unique study methods, like knitting during competition, keep her calm. Groce also dives into the world of spaced repetition, detailing how she memorized 160,000 flashcards. From the challenges of quiz shows to the personal growth pivotal in her success, Groce inspires with her passion for knowledge.