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
Aug 13, 2024 • 32min
EXTRA: Remembering Susan Wojcicki
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.
13 snips
Aug 3, 2024 • 53min
137. Richard Dawkins on God, Genes, and Murderous Baby Cuckoos
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.
16 snips
Jul 27, 2024 • 40min
What It Takes to Know Everything (Update)
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.
9 snips
Jul 20, 2024 • 1h 4min
136. The World’s Most Controversial Ornithologist
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.
Jul 6, 2024 • 56min
135. How to Grow a White Rhino
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.
Jun 29, 2024 • 43min
Sue Bird: “You Have to Pay the Superstars.” (Replay)
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.
22 snips
Jun 22, 2024 • 59min
134. Why Do We Still Teach People to Calculate?
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.
201 snips
Jun 8, 2024 • 60min
133. Pay Attention! (Your Body Will Thank You)
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.
22 snips
Jun 1, 2024 • 1h 2min
John Green’s Reluctant Rocket Ship Ride (Update)
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.
19 snips
May 25, 2024 • 1h 4min
132. Suleika Jaouad’s Survival Mechanisms
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.
