Stephen Dubner, the renowned journalist, podcaster, and bestselling author behind the Freakonomics franchise, is taking his expertise to the next level with a self-financed TV-style talk show, 'Better in Person'. This new venture marks a significant shift in the media landscape, as Dubner aims to bring depth and substance to a world often optimized for speed and spectacle. With a launch date set for July 14, the show will be available on the Freakonomics Radio Network YouTube channel, offering a unique and intimate experience for viewers.
In 'Better in Person', Dubner invites guests into his New York City home, creating a cozy and conversational atmosphere. However, the show's true magic lies in the diverse locations it explores, from a chef's kitchen to a musician's rehearsal space, showcasing the human element behind the scenes. Dubner's goal is to delve into conversations that are often missing from today's fast-paced media environment, providing a refreshing and insightful take on various topics.
The first season of the show features a stellar lineup of guests, each bringing their unique expertise and perspectives. Danish architect Bjarke Ingels, executive chef Hillary Sterling, former NFL lineman and MIT math professor John Urschel, thriller novelist Harlan Coben, senior rabbi Angela Buchdahl, CEO James Daunt, stand-up comedian Gary Gulman, Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist Jennifer Egan, author Warren Zanes, director Anne Pasternak, and president Michael Roth are just a few of the distinguished individuals who will grace the show.
Dubner's approach to the show is personal and greedy, as he aims to get to know his guests on a deeper level. He believes that 'Better in Person' is about understanding how people work, as opposed to the mechanics of 'Freakonomics Radio'. The show's production values are impressive, with six cameras, set design by Charlap Hyman & Herrero, graphics by Pentagram, and theme music by Michael Kiwanuka, ensuring a high-quality viewing experience.
'Better in Person' will leverage the existing fanbase of 'Freakonomics Radio', which boasts 2.5 million unique podcast listeners monthly, as well as additional audiences on 400 public radio stations and SiriusXM. The show's audio-only version will also be available on the 'Freakonomics Radio' podcast feed and a standalone 'Better in Person' feed, catering to a wide range of listeners.
Stephen Dubner's journey to this point is an intriguing one. Starting as a kid published in Highlights magazine, he later formed a rock band signed to Arista Records, but ultimately quit music to pursue an MFA at Columbia University. His work experience includes New York magazine and the New York Times, before he dedicated himself to writing books full-time. The success of 'Freakonomics', co-authored with Steve Levitt, has been remarkable, selling millions of copies in dozens of languages since its publication in 2005.
'Better in Person' promises to be a thought-provoking and engaging addition to the media landscape, offering a unique perspective on the human condition and the world of ideas. With Dubner's expertise and passion, the show is sure to captivate audiences and spark meaningful conversations.
