Plain English with Derek Thompson

David Berri, an economist at Southern Utah University, unpacks the baffling world of predicting NFL quarterbacks. He argues that scouts often miss the mark, revealing the chaos behind hiring decisions. The conversation delves into why even talented players, like Tom Brady, can be overlooked due to context and team dynamics. Berri challenges traditional metrics, stressing that success relies more on collective effort than just individual talent. Prepare for a deep dive into the unpredictability of talent evaluation in football!

What can save Netflix? Who killed CNN+? What the hell is going on between Disney and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis? It's a big media hellscape roundup. Rich Greenfield, general partner at LightShed Ventures, forecasts a rocky future for streaming. Nick Papantonis, a reporter for WFTV in Orlando, explains that Florida's war against Disney might have some surprising collateral damage.Host: Derek ThompsonGuests: Rich Greenfield and Nick PapantonisProducer: Devon Manze Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Charlie Warzel, author of the Galaxy Brain newsletter at The Atlantic, dives into the seismic shift following Elon Musk’s $44 billion acquisition of Twitter. The talk explores potential changes to content moderation and the advertising landscape, raising questions on free speech and political implications. Warzel examines the controversial public reactions and comparisons to Donald Trump, alongside the possible return of Trump to the platform. Ultimately, they discuss how Musk's approach could reshape media dynamics and influence user experience in a new Twitter era.

Jonathan Haidt, an NYU social psychologist and author, dives into the alarming rise in teenage sadness and anxiety, revealing that over 40% of high school students report persistent feelings of despair. He discusses the detrimental effects of social media, comparing its impacts on mental health to alcohol. Haidt emphasizes the challenges of modern parenting, advocating for the concept of 'anti-fragility' to foster resilience in children. The conversation explores how a balance of support and exposure to challenges is vital for healthy emotional development.

Kristen Soltis Anderson, a Republican pollster and author of "The Selfie Vote," dives into the alarming decline of Joe Biden's approval among younger voters, plummeting by 19 points since his inauguration. She discusses the disconnect between youth expectations and political realities, touching on why traditional parties may not resonate with them. The conversation also reveals how conservatives perceive Trump's influence and explores the struggles of modern masculinity amid cultural shifts, highlighting feelings of social alienation.

Dan Wang, a Chinese writer and tech analyst, reveals the shocking realities of Shanghai's harsh COVID lockdown. He describes the extreme restrictions that confine residents to their homes and separate families, leading to desperate food shortages. The discussion addresses the growing public dissent against the Chinese government's zero-COVID policy and its implications for future governance. Wang also explores the shift in Shanghai’s identity from a vibrant city to one symbolizing repression, amidst fears of rising unrest.

Ben Thompson, a tech writer and author of the popular Stratechery newsletter, joins to unpack Elon Musk's audacious bid to buy Twitter. He highlights Twitter's undervaluation and its vital role in global communication. The conversation dives into Musk's vision for the platform, exploring a potential shift towards subscription services and how he might reshape user engagement. They also discuss the broader implications of corporate governance and the concentration of power in the tech world, sparking intriguing predictions about the future.

Casey Newton, author of the insightful newsletter 'Platformer,' joins the discussion on the chaotic saga of Elon Musk's erratic Twitter antics, including his rise as a major shareholder and bizarre tweets. Paul Poast, a political science professor at the University of Chicago, analyzes the grim reality of the Ukraine war, revealing Russia's strategic miscalculations and the potential for a bloodier conflict ahead. The conversation dives into the geopolitical complexities and the implications of military support for Ukraine amidst heightened tensions.

In this engaging discussion, Olga Khazan, a staff writer at The Atlantic known for her keen insights into social trends, sheds light on America's alarming rise in bad behavior. She explores how chronic stress and the COVID-19 pandemic have fueled violent crime and antisocial actions. The ripple effect of rudeness in high-stress situations is revealed, alongside the impacts of political rhetoric and isolation on societal norms. Khazan provides a thought-provoking analysis on how these factors have made communities more unruly.

Matthew Yglesias, author of the Slow Boring newsletter and 'One Billion Americans,' dives into the alarming drop in U.S. population growth. He discusses how the pandemic has led to higher death rates, lower birth rates, and decreased immigration. Yglesias argues for the benefits of a growing population, not only for America but also for global well-being. He explores political failures in addressing family policies and immigration, while advocating for optimistic approaches to foster growth and balance environmental concerns.