People I (Mostly) Admire

Richard Prum, a groundbreaking ornithologist from Yale, challenges traditional evolutionary notions by integrating queer theory with biology. He reveals how female ducks have developed unique contraceptive strategies against forced copulation, showcasing their reproductive autonomy. Prum also discusses the evolution of beauty in birds, emphasizing the role of female choice in driving diversity. Additionally, he explores the complexity of feather evolution and bird vocalization, shedding light on the intricate interplay of aesthetics and survival in the animal kingdom.

Thomas Hildebrandt, a wildlife veterinarian and professor at the Freie Universität Berlin, is on a mission to save the northern white rhino from extinction. He discusses innovative techniques like in vitro fertilization and using southern white rhinos as surrogates. Thomas shares his emotional journey and the challenges faced in wildlife conservation, including securing funding and navigating technological ethics. With a hopeful vision, he aims to boost the rhino population to 50 by 2099, all while reflecting on his childhood dreams and the impact of the Berlin Wall.

Sue Bird, one of the all-time greatest basketball players and a champion for women's sports equity, shares her journey with Steve Levitt. She discusses the untold truths about clutch performance and the stark pay gap between male and female athletes. Bird dives into the negotiations that led to better contracts for WNBA players and reflects on her experience as part of the first same-sex couple featured in ESPN's Body Issue. Their conversation also touches on the emotional strain of injuries and the importance of self-advocacy in sports.

In this conversation with Conrad Wolfram, a mathematician and entrepreneur known for his push towards computer-based math education, he argues for a radical transformation in how math is taught. He discusses his success in convincing Estonia to adopt a modern curriculum but delves into the global resistance to change. The dialogue touches on the need for practical applications of math, the debate over California's shift from Algebra II to data science, and the importance of computational tools in enhancing critical thinking and real-world problem-solving.

Ellen Langer, a Harvard psychologist renowned for her work on mindfulness and the mind-body connection, shares eye-opening insights on how mindset affects health. She discusses fascinating studies showing that merely changing environments can rejuvenate the elderly’s physical health. Langer emphasizes that mindfulness can enhance memory and perception, reshaping how we view everyday experiences. She also advocates for a new health paradigm that integrates mindfulness into patient care, challenging conventional approaches to wellness.

Bestselling author and YouTuber John Green shares his journey to fame with 'The Fault in Our Stars.' He reflects on the emotional challenges of writing and the unexpected pressures of success. Green delves into the art of storytelling and its connection to personal vulnerability. The discussion also touches on his philanthropic efforts in Sierra Leone, exploring the complexities of impactful giving. Plus, he opens up about the balance of YouTube content creation and literature, revealing insights on authenticity and mental health.

Suleika Jaouad, a renowned author and New York Times columnist, shares her poignant experiences battling cancer from a young age. She discusses the significance of honest conversations around illness, challenging the notion of toxic positivity. Suleika emphasizes the emotional impact of personal connections and storytelling during health crises. The conversation also explores the complexities of grief, organ donation, and her reflective journey through vulnerability, providing listeners with a heartfelt glimpse into resilience and hope amidst adversity.

Caroline Paul, an adventurous author and former firefighter, shares her exhilarating life experiences from battling fires to wing walking. She passionately encourages women to embrace adventure as they age, discussing how life can still be thrilling and meaningful. The conversation explores the emotional toll of her firefighting career, the positive impacts of connection with nature, and the need to redefine aging narratives. With humor and insight, Caroline emphasizes that adventure can range from extreme feats to the simple awe of birdwatching.

Amanda Levitt, an author focusing on social anxiety, and her sister Lily, who speaks candidly about her battle with anorexia, share their personal journeys. They discuss how growing up with different personalities shaped their paths, with Amanda reflecting on her decision not to pursue college due to social anxiety. Lily opens up about her recovery journey, emphasizing the importance of family support. Together, they explore the emotional complexities of identity, societal pressures, and the significance of open communication in overcoming personal challenges.

Joseph Stiglitz, a Nobel Prize-winning economist, shares his insights on the complexities of freedom and market failures. He discusses winning debates against Milton Friedman and the misconception that small governments equate to more freedom. Stiglitz emphasizes the importance of information economics, critiques traditional economic models, and argues for progressive capitalism to tackle income inequality. He reflects on his transition from academia to government, advocating for policies that enhance opportunities for all, and warns of existential risks like climate change and AI.