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
4 snips
Jul 8, 2023 • 58min
109. David Simon Is On Strike. Here’s Why.
David Simon, creator of acclaimed series like "The Wire" and a prominent figure in the Writers Guild strike, discusses the pressing issues surrounding TV writing. He delves into the economic landscape of the industry, emphasizing the need for fair compensation and union solidarity. Simon shares his thoughts on the evolving role of writers amid the rise of AI, highlighting concerns about creativity and job security. He also reflects on the streaming industry's challenges and the necessity for writers to adapt while preserving their narrative power.
Jul 1, 2023 • 19min
The Economics of Everyday Things: T. rex Skeletons
Dive into the fascinating world of dinosaur fossils as the podcast explores how a T. rex skeleton fetched nearly $32 million at auction. Discover the intricate balance between fossil hunting on public versus private land and hear the journey of an amateur paleontologist uncovering valuable finds. The discussion addresses the financial challenges fossil hunters face and raises ethical questions about commercialization versus scientific research. Learn about the crucial need to preserve significant fossils in the name of science, not just profit.
28 snips
Jun 24, 2023 • 54min
108. Ninety-Eight Years of Economic Wisdom
Nobel Prize-winning economist Robert Solow, at 98, shares his remarkable insights on economic growth and inequality. He discusses the challenges of reducing wealth disparity in a stationary economy and critiques the traditional GDP metrics. Solow reflects on his experiences during the Great Depression and their impact on his views about economic security. He also touches on the political dynamics influencing economics and shares light-hearted trivia from his life, blending serious topics with his remarkable journey through history.
8 snips
Jun 10, 2023 • 59min
107. Bringing Data to Life
In this discussion, Talithia Williams, a statistician at Harvey Mudd College and PBS NOVA host, emphasizes the importance of tracking personal health data for better medical decisions. She shares insights on the need for inclusivity in math education and highlights the vital role of mentorship in overcoming barriers in STEM fields. Talithia and Steve Levitt also explore the challenges Black individuals face in mathematics and discuss how real-world applications of data can engage students and transform education.
86 snips
May 27, 2023 • 57min
106. Will A.I. Make Us Smarter?
In this engaging discussion, Kevin Kelly, co-founder of Wired Magazine and celebrated futurist, shares his visionary insights on AI's impact on society. He argues that while AI presents challenges, it also offers extraordinary opportunities, much like electricity did. Emphasizing the need for long-term thinking, he critiques simplistic models and advocates for embracing complexity in decision-making. With anecdotes on timeless wisdom and personal growth, Kelly inspires optimism in navigating the future shaped by technology.
4 snips
May 13, 2023 • 51min
105. Can Data Keep People Out of Prison?
Clementine Jacoby, founder of Recidiviz, transitioned from circus performer to advocate for criminal justice reform using data. She discusses innovative strategies to reduce incarceration rates and improve probation processes. The conversation explores how data-driven decisions helped manage prison populations during the pandemic, emphasizing low recidivism rates. Jacoby also shares personal stories about navigating the complexities of the justice system, blending humor and insight from her unique career path.
5 snips
Apr 29, 2023 • 53min
104. The Joy of Math With Sarah Hart
Joining the conversation is Sarah Hart, Gresham Professor of Geometry and author known for weaving math into literature. She dives into the beauty of patterns in everyday life and how constraints can spark creativity in storytelling. Sarah discusses the fascinating intersection of math and literature, from haikus to graph theory in narratives. She advocates for engaging teaching methods that blend creativity with math, sharing how innovative approaches can inspire students to embrace the subject with joy and curiosity.
18 snips
Apr 15, 2023 • 57min
103. Rick Rubin on How to Make Something Great
Rick Rubin, a legendary music producer known for his work with icons like Johnny Cash and Run-DMC, delves into his new book and creative philosophy. He shares insights on the evolution of hip-hop, emphasizing powerful collaborations that transformed the genre. The discussion highlights the complexities of creative expression and the importance of personal satisfaction over commercial success. Rubin also reflects on the role of meditation in enhancing creativity, encouraging artists to embrace both their successes and failures.
50 snips
Apr 1, 2023 • 57min
102. Adding Ten Healthy Years to Your Life
Peter Attia, a physician specializing in longevity and author of "Outlive," shares groundbreaking insights on extending healthy life. He discusses the evolution from Medicine 2.0 to 3.0, emphasizing lifestyle changes over mere lifespan extension. Attia critiques modern medicine's limits and advocates for proactive health investments to enhance vitality. He also examines the impact of genetics, exercise, and emotional health on longevity, while navigating complex medical decisions and the implications of new weight loss drugs like Ozempic.
11 snips
Mar 18, 2023 • 50min
101. Celebrating 100 People I (Mostly) Admire
Morgan Levey, the producer behind the podcast, reflects on its first 100 episodes. The discussion highlights surprising insights from guests, blending genius with eccentricity, like a Nobel Prize-winning chemist who played in a band. Listeners share transformative stories influenced by episodes, emphasizing the power of storytelling in personal growth. The conversation also delves into innovative cancer treatments, the balance of ambition and happiness, and the complexities of grief, all while celebrating the journey and anticipating future guests.
