The Interviews | Michael Lewis, Min Jin Lee, Erica Chenoweth, and Teddy Schleifer
Summary
Michael Lewis discusses his book *Blockers*, detailing the "hostile takeover" of the US civil service by DOGE and the trauma inflicted on federal workers. He highlights the absurdity of the Institute of Peace siege and the cruelty of targeting scientists like Francis Collins. The conversation shifts to Lewis’s new novel, *American Hog One*, exploring the Korean diaspora, the role of hagwons in education, and the sacrifices made by immigrant families navigating financial crises.
Topics discussed
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Introduction of Michael Lewis and his book 'Blockers'
The anonymous heroes of the federal workforce
The hostile takeover of government by DOGE
The Institute of Peace security guard story
Russell Vought and the targeting of Francis Collins
The human cost of political weaponization
The true intent behind DOGE's workforce cuts
Optimism and the need for narrative change
Introduction of Lee Min Jin and 'American Hagwon'
Personal experiences with tuition centers and beating
The disconnect between theory and practice in education
Declining competence and the role of hagwons in the US
Diaspora, sacrifice, and family dynamics
Why terrible things happen to good people
The value of Ivy League education and grad school
Lessons from financial crises and problem solving
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Interview with Erica Chenoweth on civil resistance
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Interview on billionaire influence and dark money
Show Outro and Promotion
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