Stephen Dubner, the renowned journalist, podcaster, and author of the Freakonomics franchise, is taking his expertise to the next level with the launch of his self-financed TV-style talk show, 'Better in Person'. This new venture marks a significant shift in the media landscape, as Dubner aims to provide a platform for in-depth conversations that are often lacking in today's fast-paced world. With a focus on substance over spectacle, 'Better in Person' promises to offer a unique and engaging experience for audiences.
Dubner, known for his curiosity and diverse interests, will host the show from his New York City home, inviting guests from a wide range of fields, including architecture, business, literature, sports, music, and more. The first season will feature a star-studded lineup of guests, including 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 of Wesleyan University Michael Roth.
What sets 'Better in Person' apart is its approach to conversation. Dubner aims to create an environment where guests can share their insights and stories in a more intimate and revealing manner. He believes that the depth of these conversations is what will resonate with audiences, providing a refreshing change from the typical media fare.
The show's production values are also impressive, with six cameras, set design by Charlap Hyman & Herrero, graphics by Pentagram, and theme music by Michael Kiwanuka. This attention to detail further enhances the show's ability to engage and captivate viewers.
'Better in Person' will be available on the Freakonomics Radio Network YouTube channel, with new episodes dropping every Tuesday, starting July 14. Additionally, the show will be accessible on various streaming platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and SiriusXM. An audio-only version will also be available on the Freakonomics Radio podcast feed and a standalone Better in Person feed.
Dubner's journey to this point is an intriguing one. He started as a kid published in Highlights magazine, then formed a rock band signed to Arista Records. However, he eventually quit music and pursued an MFA at Columbia University. His career in journalism and writing took off, with 'Freakonomics' becoming a bestseller and selling millions of copies in multiple languages since its publication in 2005. This new venture, 'Better in Person', is a testament to Dubner's passion for storytelling and his desire to provide a platform for meaningful conversations.
In my opinion, 'Better in Person' is a bold move by Stephen Dubner, and it's exciting to see him venture into the world of television. With his unique approach to conversation and impressive guest lineup, the show has the potential to become a must-watch for those seeking insightful and engaging content. As an expert in the field, I am eager to see how Dubner's vision for 'Better in Person' unfolds and how it will resonate with audiences worldwide.
