Stephen Dubner, the mind behind the wildly popular podcast and book series 'Freakonomics', is taking his unique brand of storytelling to the small screen with the launch of his new talk show, 'Better in Person'. This ambitious project marks a significant shift in Dubner's career, as he transitions from the audio realm to the visual medium, bringing his signature curiosity and in-depth conversations to a new audience.
In 'Better in Person', Dubner invites viewers into his New York City home and various intriguing locations, engaging in thought-provoking discussions with a diverse range of guests. From chefs to architects, athletes to authors, the show promises to offer a unique perspective on the human experience, delving into the lives and passions of these individuals.
What sets 'Better in Person' apart is its commitment to substance over speed and spectacle. In an era dominated by short-form content and rapid-fire news cycles, Dubner aims to provide a refreshing take on media, focusing on depth and meaningful conversations. He believes that people are hungry for more than just the surface-level content that often dominates today's media landscape.
The show's first season, comprising 10 episodes, features an impressive lineup of guests. Danish architect Bjarke Ingels, executive chef Hillary Sterling, former NFL player and MIT professor John Urschel, thriller novelist Harlan Coben, senior rabbi Angela Buchdahl, CEO of Barnes & Noble 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 are just a few of the fascinating individuals who will grace the show.
Dubner's approach to interviewing is personal and intimate, aiming to get to know his guests on a deeper level. He describes 'Better in Person' as a show about 'how people work', in contrast to the more general focus of 'Freakonomics Radio' on 'how things work'. This shift in perspective reflects Dubner's desire to explore the human element behind the headlines and data.
The production values of 'Better in Person' are impressive, with six cameras, set design by Charlap Hyman & Herrero, graphics by Pentagram, and theme music by Michael Kiwanuka. The show is self-financed and produced independently, showcasing Dubner's passion and dedication to bringing this unique vision to life.
'Better in Person' is set to launch on July 14, with new episodes dropping every Tuesday. It will be available on the Freakonomics Radio Network YouTube channel, as well as various audio streaming platforms. The show aims to leverage the existing fanbase of 'Freakonomics Radio', which reaches a massive audience, and Dubner's reputation as a thought-provoking interviewer and storyteller.
As a journalist and podcaster, Dubner has always been known for his curiosity and ability to connect with people from all walks of life. 'Better in Person' is a natural evolution of his work, bringing his unique style of storytelling to a new medium. With its focus on depth and human connection, the show is sure to captivate audiences and offer a refreshing take on the talk show genre.
