EconTalk
Russ Roberts
EconTalk: Conversations for the Curious is an award-winning weekly podcast hosted by Russ Roberts of Shalem College in Jerusalem and Stanford's Hoover Institution. The eclectic guest list includes authors, doctors, psychologists, historians, philosophers, economists, and more. Learn how the health care system really works, the serenity that comes from humility, the challenge of interpreting data, how potato chips are made, what it's like to run an upscale Manhattan restaurant, what caused the 2008 financial crisis, the nature of consciousness, the conflicts and history of the Middle East, and more. EconTalk has been taking the Monday out of Mondays since 2006. All 1000+ episodes are available in the archive. Go to EconTalk.org for transcripts, related resources, and comments.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jul 13, 2020 • 1h 14min
Josh Williams on Online Gaming, Blockchain, and Forte
Josh Williams, co-founder and CEO of Forte, dives into the dynamic world of online gaming and blockchain technology. He discusses the staggering 3 billion gamers and the massive revenue potential of the industry. Williams highlights how blockchain can revolutionize player ownership of virtual goods and enhance real-world economic activities within games. He also delves into the rise of virtual concerts and their impact on community building, showcasing the evolving relationship between gaming, culture, and commerce.
Jul 6, 2020 • 1h 3min
Robert Lerman on Apprenticeships
In a captivating discussion, Robert Lerman, an economist at the Urban Institute, sheds light on the power of apprenticeships to address youth unemployment. He compares U.S. and European models, emphasizing the need for inclusive vocational training that equips young people with practical skills. Lerman critiques the traditional college pathway, advocating for apprenticeships as viable alternatives. He also highlights the value of skilled trades and ongoing education, showcasing how craftsmanship enriches both individual lives and society as a whole.
Jun 29, 2020 • 1h 5min
Vivian Lee on The Long Fix
Vivian Lee, a physician and author of "The Long Fix," discusses transformative changes needed in U.S. healthcare. She critiques the fee-for-service model that incentivizes procedures over actual patient health. The conversation dives into innovations in Medicare and digital health technologies that could reshape treatment incentives. Lee also highlights the complexities of hospital pricing, the necessity for transparency, and how COVID-19 has accelerated potential reforms towards value-based payments, aiming for a healthier, more efficient system.
8 snips
Jun 22, 2020 • 1h 9min
Agnes Callard on Philosophy, Progress, and Wisdom
Agnes Callard, a philosopher and author renowned for her insights on aspiration and agency, joins the discussion with fascinating thoughts on the evolution of philosophy. She explores the unique nature of philosophical inquiry versus scientific methods and how historical narratives shape our moral understanding. Callard also tackles the Sisyphus-like challenges of parenting and the modern role of universities in fostering critical thinking. The relevance of classical philosophers and the endangered value of humanities in education are pivotal topics, emphasizing their importance in nurturing wisdom and ethical behavior.
5 snips
Jun 15, 2020 • 1h 2min
Diane Ravitch on Slaying Goliath
Diane Ravitch, an author and historian at New York University, critiques the charter school movement in her latest discussion. She explains her journey from supporter to skeptic, emphasizing how charter schools drain resources from public education. Ravitch explores the detrimental effects of billionaires' investments in education and the misinformation spread by 'Waiting for Superman.' She also highlights the dedication of teachers in underfunded schools and calls for a systemic rethink of educational equity and support.
Jun 8, 2020 • 1h 6min
Rebecca Henderson on Reimagining Capitalism
Rebecca Henderson, a Harvard Business School professor and author of "Reimagining Capitalism in a World on Fire," discusses transformative ideas for capitalism. She critically examines how an obsession with shareholder value undermines societal stability. Henderson emphasizes the urgency of addressing economic inequality, climate change, and corporate accountability. She advocates for a more ethical business model that balances profit with social responsibility, highlighting the potential for companies to foster a humane and sustainable economic environment.
Jun 1, 2020 • 1h 1min
Sarah Carr on Charter Schools, Educational Reform, and Hope Against Hope
Sarah Carr, a journalist and author known for her work on education, discusses her book, Hope Against Hope. She shares insights about three charter schools in New Orleans following Hurricane Katrina, diving into the challenges and successes of educational reform. Carr highlights socio-economic factors that impact student experiences, the mixed results of reforms, and the necessity of trust between educators and students. She emphasizes the importance of holistic support for students and critiques the reliance on programs without addressing deeper issues.
May 25, 2020 • 1h 12min
Martin Gurri on the Revolt of the Public
Martin Gurri, author of "The Revolt of the Public" and a former CIA analyst, dives into how information technology is reshaping political authority and societal norms. He argues that the digital explosion has destabilized trust in traditional institutions and fueled populist movements globally. Gurri discusses the increasing alienation among protesters and critiques the disconnect of elites from the populace. He also examines how political identity and media influence contribute to rising polarization, urging a need for new forms of leadership and local empowerment.
May 18, 2020 • 1h 21min
Robert Pondiscio on How the Other Half Learns
Robert Pondiscio, an author and senior fellow at the Thomas B. Fordham Institute, shares his transformative experience at a Success Academy Charter School. He highlights the innovative approaches that lead low-income students to remarkable academic success. The conversation also addresses the complexities of educational equity, parental involvement, and the need for a well-rounded curriculum beyond just core subjects. Pondiscio challenges conventional perspectives on education reform and emphasizes the importance of structure in fostering effective learning environments.
May 15, 2020 • 1h 2min
Paul Romer on the COVID-19 Pandemic
Paul Romer, a distinguished economist and Nobel Laureate from NYU, shares his insights on navigating the COVID-19 pandemic. He argues for the urgent need to transition from lockdowns to effective testing solutions, emphasizing the role of innovative tests like the 'Jiffy Tube.' Romer highlights how relaxing regulations could create a supply chain for testing, aiding economic recovery. The discussion also covers labor market challenges, showcasing the emotional toll of job losses and the importance of government intervention to support workers.
