Flying in the U.S. is still exceptionally safe, but the system relies on outdated tech and is under tremendous strain. Six experts tell us how it got this way and how it can (maybe) be fixed. (Part one of a two-part series.)
Sep 18
687. Are Prediction Markets the Best Forecasting Tool Ever — or Just Another Casino?
The promise is that they can beat the experts at predicting inflation, elections, and FDA approvals. But right now, roughly 90 percent of the action is sports. Is this a future we want to bet on? Stephen Dubner speaks with, among others, the C.E.O. of Kalshi. (Part one of a two-p ... Show More
48m 39s
Sep 16
How to Be a Double Unicorn, with John Urschel | Better in Person
He was thriving in the N.F.L., but then he decided to focus on mathematics — a subject he now teaches at M.I.T. John walks Stephen Dubner through the whole story, teaches him some blocking techniques, and explains why some infinities are bigger than others. If you'd like to see t ... Show More
32m 32s
Sep 11
686. Why Is It So Hard to Find an NFL Quarterback?
For decades, teams have tried (and mostly failed) to predict which college quarterbacks will thrive in the pros. Is the science finally catching up? Stephen Dubner speaks with a scout, a psychologist, a data warrior, and a Hall of Fame quarterback who nobody wanted. SOURCES:Scott ... Show More
58m 20s
Aug 2023
Mile High Meltdowns: Air Travel Failures
From flight delays, to cancellations, to mid-flight fights, there is always chaos in sky. Desi Lydic and Roy Wood Jr. discuss air travel in America and the recent failures of the FAA. Trevor weighs in on flight attendants not being paid during boarding, and Ronny Chieng gives air ... Show More
22m 35s
Feb 2025
834 Aviation Ground Operations Technology
A look at aviation ground operations technology, recent fatal aviation accidents, fire aboard an A321, the successful XB-1 supersonic flight, the sentencing of a drone operator, and the threatened readiness of the US Air Force. Guest Loren Mathis is the Chief Strategy Officer of ... Show More
1h 35m
Dec 2023
Why does flying suck so much?
Flying can be a frustrating experience, but holiday travel tends to shift our stress levels into overdrive. Overbooking, delays, lost baggage, and long TSA lines are just the tip of the iceberg. Even pricey membership services can't promise a completely efficient or comfortable t ... Show More
28m 14s
Mar 2024
How Today’s Aircraft Accidents Could Make Future Planes Safer
In recent months, an Alaska Airlines jet lost a door plug mid-flight, and a Japan Airlines plane collided with another aircraft at an airport in Tokyo. Accidents like these are uncommon, but they could help engineers design safer airplanes. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University as ... Show More
10m 34s