Works in Progress Podcast

Discover the fascinating journey of insulin, from its crude beginnings with animal extracts to the cutting-edge genetic engineering that revolutionized diabetes treatment. Hear how bacteria became the powerhouse for insulin production, shaping the biotech industry. The episode dives into the evolution of insulin delivery methods, showcasing advancements from glass needles to high-tech solutions like insulin pens and glucose monitors. Get ready for a captivating tale of innovation that transformed millions of lives!

Alice Evans, a social scientist at King's College London and writer of 'The Great Gender Divergence,' discusses the unique success of Western feminism compared to East Asia's movements. They explore how dating markets and traditional values affect gender dynamics and marriage roles. Evans critiques family policies like baby bonuses and the need for joint tax filing to support changing family structures. The conversation also delves into workplace culture, advocating for inclusivity and alternative bonding practices beyond alcohol, showcasing the complexities of modern parenting and social norms.

Dive into the fascinating world of proteins as they unfold like a vibrant city’s layout. Discover how proteins fold into complex shapes, impacting everything from medicine to cooking. Learn about the largest human protein, Titan, and its astonishing structure. Explore the swift and precise actions of enzymes, the unsung heroes of biochemistry. The episode also touches on the intriguing interplay between mRNA size and micro proteins, inviting you to ponder the boundaries of protein function.

Dan Wang, author of "Breakneck: China's Quest to Engineer the Future," dives into the complexities of Chinese politics and economy. He debates whether engineers or lawyers make better leaders, revealing insights on China's political landscape under Xi Jinping. The conversation shifts to the secret of success for young professionals and the culinary diversity of China, offering tips on finding the best restaurants abroad. Wang also explores the intricate dynamics of Sino-American relations, highlighting the impact of influencer culture on dining trends in China.

In this engaging discussion, Mike Bird, Wall Street editor at The Economist and host of Money Talks, delves into the intriguing economics of land. He examines why China's housing remains costly despite oversupply and traces the historical roots of land reforms that sparked the Bolshevik Revolution. Mike also highlights the complexities of leasehold systems in regions like Hong Kong and Singapore and underscores the intricate ties between land ownership and credit access. His insights open a window into the past while spotlighting present economic challenges.

Historian Anton Howes, known for his Age of Invention Substack, dives into the surprising origins of the Industrial Revolution, born from the chaos of Henry VIII’s England. He reveals how mismanagement and inflation during Henry's reign slumped Britain into economic despair. Yet, a savvy group of innovators turned the tide. From advancements in infrastructure to the role of currency debasement, Howes illustrates how human agency, not mere luck, propelled Britain into an era of unprecedented growth and change.

Stian Westlake, Executive Chair of the Economic and Social Research Council and author of *Capitalism Without Capital*, dives into the nuances of the intangible economy. He explores why London's economy is distinct from Germany's, while questioning why restaurants struggle to scale. Westlake debates the government’s role in funding social science research, and the complexities of navigating intellectual property rights in an economy driven by intangibles. He also highlights the challenges and biases that arise in securing diverse funding for impactful research.

Samuel Hughes, a writer focused on urban planning and housing policy, delves into the historical shift known as The Great Downzoning. He discusses how cities once allowed more freedom for building, only to see restrictions tighten in the early 20th century. Hughes explores the repercussions of this change on suburban developments, highlighting the impacts of zoning laws and rent control. He argues for necessary reforms like upzoning to address today's housing shortages and emphasizes the need to balance urban density with community aesthetics.

Lenacapavir is turning heads as a near-100% effective HIV treatment, potentially revolutionizing global health. The hosts dive into the history of HIV, from its discovery to groundbreaking drugs like AZT. They explain how lenacapavir disrupts the virus's lifecycle and discuss the importance of long-acting medications in patient care. The podcast also tackles the economic challenges of accessing effective treatments in low-income regions and highlights the significant role of public funding in HIV programs. It's a hopeful look at the future of AIDS treatment!

Coming soon: the Works in Progress Podcast. Featuring underrated ideas to improve the world – for bigger, more beautiful cities; clean energy that's too cheap to meter; truly pathbreaking scientific research; everyday progress in things like food and drink; and more.Plus: Hard Drugs, a new series hosted by Saloni Dattani and Jacob Trefethen about medical progress and the quest to eradicate the world's worst diseases.Subscribe now.