People I (Mostly) Admire

Annie Duke, a former professional poker player turned bestselling author, dives into the art of quitting as a strategic decision. She discusses the societal stigma surrounding quitting and its emotional toll, advocating for the freedom from guilt that comes with making thoughtful changes. Personal stories illustrate the balance between persistence and knowing when to pivot, particularly in competitive environments like poker and academia. Duke also highlights the unique challenges faced by women in poker, urging listeners to rethink their own unproductive pursuits.

In this engaging conversation, John Green, bestselling author of young adult novels and creator of the Crash Course YouTube channel, shares his unexpected journey from aspiring priest to literary sensation. He reflects on the challenges of vulnerability in writing, the emotional weight of grief, and the complexities of navigating fame. Green also discusses his philanthropic work in Sierra Leone and the importance of sustainable healthcare. With personal anecdotes, he highlights the art of letting go in creative pursuits and the impact of educational platforms on society.

Jane Goodall, the pioneering ethologist and conservationist, shares her extraordinary journey studying chimpanzees in the wild. At 88, she reflects on the emotional depth of animal intelligence and the importance of nurturing, inspired by chimpanzee mothers. Goodall discusses engaging communities in conservation and the vital link between human welfare and wildlife. She also offers profound thoughts on death as an adventure, emphasizing hope and connection in our lives. Her passion for animal welfare and education continues to inspire younger generations.

Peter Singer, a highly influential philosopher renowned for his groundbreaking work on ethics and animal rights, joins the discussion. He critiques Steve Levitt's moral inconsistencies and explores the ethical implications of speciesism, drawing parallels to racism and sexism. The conversation dives into the ethics of pain, the complexities of economic self-interest, and the responsibilities we bear towards suffering beings. Singer also addresses the rising costs of college tuition, shedding light on the economic pressures affecting higher education.

Carolyn Bertozzi, a Stanford professor and 2022 Nobel laureate in chemistry, shares her groundbreaking work in bioorthogonal chemistry and glycobiology. She discusses her innovative ideas for immune therapy that could change the landscape of disease treatment. The conversation dives into the crucial role of glycans in health, cancer research, and the challenges in antibiotic development. Carolyn also reflects on the tension between her scientific achievements and her dreams of a career in music, blending science with a touch of creativity.

Charity Dean, a physician and public health advocate, shares her passion for infectious diseases and her pivotal role in the early COVID-19 response. She discusses the challenges of combating tuberculosis and the balance between individual rights and public safety. Dean also reflects on her unique journey from a restrictive upbringing to the private sector, emphasizing the importance of data and community initiatives in health crises. Her insights into healthcare communication innovations highlight the potential of simple ideas in transforming patient experiences.

Ken Burns, a renowned documentary filmmaker known for his impactful works like 'The Civil War' and 'The U.S. and the Holocaust', delves into the complexities of history. He examines America's troubling role during the Holocaust, stressing the importance of recognizing our past. Personal stories highlight the human toll of this dark period and the need for vigilance against oppression today. Burns also discusses the filmmaking process and emphasizes the significance of mental health narratives in storytelling, connecting diverse communities through shared experiences.

In this engaging discussion, Harvard economist Raj Chetty, a trailblazer in researching inequality and social mobility, dives into the crucial role of early education. He highlights how choosing the right teachers—and even friends—can shape long-term success. Chetty explores the decline of economic mobility in the U.S. and the importance of social connections for children from low-income families. The conversation also touches on ethical dilemmas in education and healthcare, emphasizing the need for equitable access and meaningful community support.

Join Will MacAskill, an Oxford philosopher and effective altruism pioneer, as he unpacks how our choices today impact future generations. He navigates the challenges of moral decision-making in a long-term context and explores the ethical dilemmas of wealth disparity and charitable giving. MacAskill also highlights the importance of personal sacrifice for the greater good and the existential threats we face. Through thought-provoking insights, he champions a philosophy that aims for maximizing global well-being across time.

Victoria Groce, a top trivia contestant celebrated for her performances on 'The Chase,' shares her fascinating journey into the world of competitive trivia. She discusses the art of crafting compelling questions and her unique approach of knitting during competitions. Groce reveals her mastery of 160,000 flashcards through spaced repetition, highlighting effective memory techniques. The conversation also dips into her experiences at the World Quizzing Championship, where unexpected challenges transformed her perspective on competition.