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Game Theory

by Game Theory

Speakeasy conversation about strategy, competition, economics, history, and policy from two non-experts. The episodes include some actual economic Game Theory such as the Prisoner's Dilemma, the Traveler's Dilemma, and the Public Good game. Episodes also include conversations on dilemmas in TV/Movies, sports, and board/card games, as well as the history of military, intelligence (spies), politics, and economics.The objective is simply to think critically about how people make strategic choices regarding the world around them and most importantly, about the people around them.

Publisher-supplied feed metadata · PodParley refreshed Mar 14, 2026 · Source feed

Episodes

  1. 119. Is Being Too Efficient At Your Job Bad? And How to Have Health Work Habits

    Summary In this episode, Nick and Chris discuss the efficiency paradox, where being good at your job can actually hinder your chances of getting promoted. They share examples from various industries, including eye surgery and software engineering, where employees who excel at their work are often...

  2. 118. Shrinkflation; Skimpflation & The Downfall of Subway

    At a glance: Takeaways Shrinkflation is the process of products decreasing in size or quality while maintaining the same price. Examples of shrinkflation include smaller food packages and thinner burger patties. Ben and Jerry's faced tax issues in Canada due to downsizing their ice cream pints....

  3. 117. Black Swans - What Are They? What Do They Mean? Can You Prepare for Them?

    In this episode, Nick and Chris discuss black swan events, which are rare and unpredictable events with significant consequences. They explore the criteria for a black swan event and provide examples such as the 2008 financial crisis and the 9/11 terrorist attacks. They also discuss the...

  4. 116. Short Selling & Squeezing - Billionaire Feuds; Meme Stocks & Movies

    In this episode, the hosts discuss short selling and short squeezes in the stock market. They provide examples from movies like 'The Big Short' and 'Casino Royale' to explain the concept of short selling. They also explain the mechanics of short selling, including opening a brokerage account,...

  5. 114. Why You Can't Get a Restaurant Reservation - Bots May Have Something to Do With It

    Summary In this episode, the hosts discuss various topics including Chris' recent wedding, changes in Adobe's terms and conditions, and the practice of scalping restaurant reservations. They explore the implications of Adobe's attempt to own the intellectual property of content created on their...

  6. 113. The Texas Sharpshooter Fallacy & Confirmation Bias - Facts to Suit Theories Instead of Theories to Suit Facts

    In this episode, the hosts discuss the Texas Sharpshooter Fallacy, which is when outcomes are analyzed out of context, giving the illusion of causation rather than attributing the outcome to chance. They provide examples of this fallacy, such as the alcohol industry pushing back on labels that...

  7. 112. Sell in May & Go Away -- Chicken or the Egg?

    In this episode, the hosts discuss the adage 'sell in May and go away' and its implications for the stock market. They explore the historical underperformance of the stock market during the summer months and the potential reasons behind it. They also touch on the impact of the presidential…

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  8. 111. Recruiting Games: Companies Are Recruiting Earlier; Why Game Play Can Help Find Talent

    In this episode, the guys talk about how early major firms are beginning their recruiting process and whether it's possible for game theory to apply to the hiring process.

  9. 110. Pizza Meter - How Pizza Orders Predict War & Waffle House Index - They Unofficial FEMA Designation

    Summary The conversation discusses the concept of the pizza meter, which suggests that an increase in pizza orders from government buildings can be indicative of important political or military events. The pizza meter has been observed to predict events such as the invasion of Grenada and Panama....

  10. 109. Spotify's Stream Farm Problem & Amazon's Fake Walk-Out Stores

    Summary The conversation explores the fraudulent practices of buying followers and streams in the music industry and social media platforms. It discusses the incentives for marketing firms to manipulate engagement numbers and the challenges of creating a level playing field. The conversation also...

  11. 108. AI-Generated Content: Sports Illustrated's Scandal; Gothika Cover; The Library of Babel

    Summary In this conversation, the hosts discuss various topics, including the New York State salary listing requirement, the impact of AI on creative expression, the importance of a paper co-authored by prominent thinkers in foreign policy, the revolutionary change brought about by nuclear…

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  12. 107. John Von Neumann - Father of Game Theory, Nuclear Scientist, Super Genius

    In this episode, Nick and Chris discuss their hiatus and receive feedback on their Match Day episode. They then introduce John von Neumann, a mathematician, physicist, computer scientist, and polymath who made significant contributions to game theory. We discuss his biography, academic career…

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  13. THROWBACK: Medical Match Day, The Stable Marriage Problem, and a Special Guest

    In this episode, Nick and Chris are joined by Nick's better half -- Dr. Kim Linden -- to talk about the medical match. What's it like? Do you like it? What are the problems? We'd all also like to congratulate and wish godspeed upon all those who matched! Remember, this show has a YouTube Channel...

  14. 106. Blue Dot Effect & Negative Journalism; 'Insh*tification'; Why Everything Seems So Bad

    In this episode, Nick and Chris various topics including the Atlanta Hawks' coin flip games, the Match Group lawsuit, Wendy's surge pricing, and the blue dot effect. The blue dot effect refers to the phenomenon where people change their concept of something based on its prevalence. This has...

  15. 105. Secretary Problem & Optimal Stop Theory: How to Choose One from Many

    Episode 105. In this episode, the hosts discuss various topics including the challenges of moving, a dating app lawsuit, the impact of Seattle's delivery laws, AI-generated content, the secretary problem, and the application of cardinal and ordinal information in decision making. They also touch…

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  16. 104. TikTok v Universal Music Group & How Licensing Deals Impact All Parties

    Contact the show: [email protected] _________________________________ Summary: The conversation explores the topics of licensing agreements, negotiations, ownership, compensation, and the influence of AI in the entertainment industry. The hosts discuss the challenges and dynamics of…

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  17. 103. Raven Paradox: What Constitutes Evidence & Why Logical Arguments Matter

    In this episode of the Game Theory podcast, the hosts discuss various topics including the Stanley Cup craze and lead contamination, international women's soccer tournaments, and the Raven paradox. They explore different solutions to the paradox, including Good's Baby Solution and the Red Herring...

  18. 102. Fraudster IV - Paolo Macchiarini: The Bad Surgeon, Fake Lover

    Summary This episode of the Game Theory podcast discusses the case of Paolo Macchiarini, a surgeon who committed medical and relationship fraud. Macchiarini gained fame for his experimental surgeries, particularly the implantation of lab-grown tracheas. However, his procedures resulted in the...

  19. 101. Stanley Cups: Conspicuous Consumption; Marketing to Women & Fads

    Summary The conversation begins with a reflection on the previous episode and a discussion on snow and winter. The main topic of the conversation is the Stanley Cup trend, which is a fad involving the popularization of Stanley mugs. The factors contributing to the trend, such as novelty and fear…

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  20. EPISODE 100 REVIEW AND CONTEST

    Thanks for hanging out with us for 100 episodes!

  21. THROWBACK: 39. Quiet Quitting & Laying Flat - Game Theory of The American (And Chinese) Worker

    In this episode, Nick and Chris dive into the new phenomenon known as quiet quitting and laying flat. Connect with us: Website: https://www.gametheorypod.com Game Theory on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gametheorypod Game Theory on Twitter: @GameTheoryPod https://twitter.com/GameTheoryPod…

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  22. 99. Occam's Razor, Newton's Flaming Laser Sword, and the 9 Philosophical Razors

    In this episode, the hosts discuss various philosophical razors, which are principles used to evaluate and simplify explanations and claims. They cover razors such as Alder's Razor, Einstein's Razor, Grice's Razor, Hume's Guillotine, Hitchens' Razor, Occam's Razor, Popper's Falsifiability, and...

  23. 98. Math Confirms Santa is Real; What the Nash Equilibrium Teaches Us About Gift Giving

    In this episode, the hosts discuss various Christmas topics, including the mathematics of Christmas and the existence of Santa Claus. They also talk about their upcoming episodes and milestones. The conversation delves into the philosophical and mathematical proof of Santa Claus, drawing…

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  24. 97. Conspiracy Theories & Hoaxes - Why They Last So Long, How They Start, Our Favorites

    In this episode, the hosts discuss conspiracy theories and hoaxes. They explore the factors that contribute to the lifespan of a hoax and the challenges of debunking conspiracy theories. They also highlight the importance of distinguishing between harmless conspiracy theories and those that can...

  25. 96. Rank Choice Voting; American Primary Elections; College Football Playoff Conundrum

    In this episode, the boys discuss rank choice voting, an alternative to the normal elections in the US.

  26. 95. Marchetti's Constant: Why All Commute Times Are the Same; the Rise of 15 Minute Cities

    In this episode, the boys discuss Marchetti's Constant and why it always takes about an hour (round-trip) to get to work.

  27. 94. Weber-Fechner Law: Why You Suddenly Notice Change and How We Observe Our World

    In this episode the boys talk about the Weber Fechner Law and how our brains are logarithmic.. Googliography: Weber-Fechner Law: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Weber%E2%80%93Fechner_law Best Subreddit Ever?...

  28. 93. Keith Lee's ATL Drama; Dave Portnoy's Pizza Scores; the Art of Criticism & the Power of Reviews

    In this episode, the boys talk about the recent drama between TikTok food reviewer Keith Lee and various restaurants in Atlanta including The Real Milk and Honey and The Atlanta Breakfast Club. ____________________________ Watch the show on YouTube: ___________________________ Googliography: Real...

  29. 92. Inductive vs Deductive Reasoning - Eating Lambs and Popping Quizzes

    In this episode the boys break down the differences between inductive reasoning and deductive reasoning and why it matters.

  30. 91. Diderot Effect - How Buying Something Nice Can Make You Hate Your Stuff

    In this episode, the boys get into something called the Diderot Effect. Googliography: TBD

  31. 90. Delta's Meltdown & Starbucks Stars: How Company's Turned Loyalty Into a Bank

    In this episode, the boys talk about the Delta Sky Miles mess and how Starbucks Stars have evolved to a $2 billion source of revenue.

  32. 89. Social Contagion: TikTok Tourrette's; Salem Witch Trials; & The Great June Bug Hysteria

    In this episode, the guys break down how ideas can spread out of control. Googliography: Social contagion: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Social_contagion Nudge Theory: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nudge_theory 'TikTok Tics: A Pandemic Within a Pandemic':...

  33. 88. The Pink Tax - Oil Changes, Calculators, & Laxatives: Why Business Charge More for Products Marketed to Women

    In this episode, the boys look into all aspects of the pink tax -- what it means, how it happened, and what we can do about it.

  34. 87. Benford's Law: How is This a Real Thing; Using Naturally Occurring Numbers to Fight Fraud

    In this episode, the guys break down Benford's Law -- what it is, what it means, and what we can learn from the world around us. Check out the scientific american story here: https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/what-is-benfords-law-why-this-unexpected-pattern-of-numbers-is-everywhere/

  35. 86. The Bad-Vibes Economy: Why Do We Feel This Way?

    In this episode, the boys talk about the so-called Vibe-session and what it means for our biases in the American economy.

  36. 85. The Great Ice Cream Lie, Learning Styles Are Fake, & How Conventional Wisdom Can Hurt You

    In this episode, the boys talk about how scientists may have known for years now that ice cream may be good for you. _____________________________________________ Googliography:

  37. 84. Tipping Wars: The Dictator Game, Supply & Demand, and That Awkward Moment at the Register

    In this episode, the boys talk about the great American tipping wars _____________________________________________ Connect with the show: Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/gametheorypod/comments/w35b8d/welcome_to_rgametheorypod/ Website: https://www.gametheorypod.com Game Theory on Facebook:...

  38. 83. Random Walks & Markov Chains: How To Lose All of Your Money Gambling & Predict the Future

    In this episode, the boys talk about a mathematical hypothesis and its tentacles that help describe probability with practical implications for drivers, gamblers, and anyone with money invested. _____________________________________________ Googliography : Markov...

  39. 82. Data Torture: Harvard Dishonesty Scandal; Purdue Pharma Chart; Men Lying About Height

    In this episode, the boys examine how data is manipulated and tortured to show different results. And how you can tell _____________________________________________ JOIN OUR SUMMER READING BOOK CLUB - https://bit.ly/3X3E3m0 T _____________________________________________ Connect with the show:...

  40. 81. Assassin's Mace: How an Ancient Saying Explains China's Current Military Strategy

    In this episode, the boys look into an ancient Chinese saying and how it can explain what the world power is doing now. And, how to level the playing field against a bigger or stronger opponent. _____________________________________________ JOIN OUR SUMMER READING BOOK CLUB…

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  41. 80. Taylor's Version: Her Battle With Scooter, Eras Tour, History

    In this episode, the boys get Swifty _____________________________________________ JOIN OUR SUMMER READING BOOK CLUB - https://bit.ly/3X3E3m0 T _____________________________________________ Connect with the show: Reddit:...

  42. 79. How a Terrible BBQ List Teaches Us About Content Analysis - Feat. Cally Alessi

    In this episode, Chris' partner Cally Alessi joins to talk about content analysis and why Trip Advisor/Chef's Table got it so wrong. NOTE: Trip advisor denounced the list and claims to have had nothing to do with it. _____________________________________________ JOIN OUR SUMMER READING BOOK CLUB…

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  43. THROWBACK - The Good Assassination: McKinley & Roosevelt and How JP Morgan, Carnegie, and Rockefeller Screwed Up

    Throwback episode from the first year of the show in 2021! In this episode, we discuss the assassination of President William McKinley and the presidency of Theodore Roosevelt. Resources: The Men Who Built America Review: (https://n.pr/3dVcRja) Robert Todd Lincoln Curse: (https://bit.ly/3sihdG2)

  44. 78. Wagner Group Revolution, Putin's Power, & Social Media's Roll in Revolt

    In this episode, Nick and Chris rehash the Wagner revolt and what it means. _____________________________________________ JOIN OUR SUMMER READING BOOK CLUB - https://bit.ly/3X3E3m0 T he Book We're Reading: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Swerve Amazon -...

  45. College Admissions Scandal - Fraudster Files IIII William Rick Singer

    In this episode, Nick & Chris break down and review the fourth Fraudster in their Fraudster Files - William Rick Singer, the mastermind behind the college admissions scandal. _____________________________________________ JOIN OUR SUMMER READING BOOK CLUB - https://bit.ly/3X3E3m0 The Book We're...

  46. Is America Nearing the End? - The Great Divide and the Life Cycle of Empires

    In this episode, Nick & Chris look into a bevy of semi-recent writing that suggests America is in trouble as the world power. _____________________________________________ JOIN OUR SUMMER READING BOOK CLUB - https://bit.ly/3X3E3m0 The Book We're Reading: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Swerve...

  47. Bottlenecks: Bridal Parties, Chinese Bureaucracy, and Going Around Your Boss

    In this episode, bottlenecks and constraints and how so much work gets stuck behind one little thing. Also, Chris' Favorite T-Swift Song _____________________________________________ Buy Justin's Book!! https://bit.ly/3KaMdnZ _____________________________________________ Connect with the show:...

  48. Debt Ceiling Brinksmanship; Implications, Strategy; Fallout From the Debt Ceiling Policy

    In this episode, debt ceiling brinksmanship _____________________________________________ Buy Justin's Book!! https://bit.ly/3KaMdnZ _____________________________________________ Connect with the show: Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/gametheorypod/comments/w35b8d/welcome_to_rgametheorypod/...

  49. Fake Job Postings (Ghost Jobs); Job Opening Scammers; Careers vs Jobs; & The Godfather

    In this episode, Nick and Chris break down the current job market. They get into jobs vs careers and ghost jobs (34:00). _____________________________________________ Buy Justin's Book!! https://bit.ly/3KaMdnZ _____________________________________________ Connect with the show: Reddit:...

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

Speakeasy conversation about strategy, competition, economics, history, and policy from two non-experts. The episodes include some actual economic Game Theory such as the Prisoner's Dilemma, the Traveler's Dilemma, and the Public Good game. Episodes also include conversations on dilemmas in TV/Movies, sports, and board/card games, as well as the history of military, intelligence (spies), politics, and economics.The objective is simply to think critically about how people make strategic choices regarding the world around them and most importantly, about the people around them.

HOSTED BY

Game Theory

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does Game Theory have?

Game Theory currently has 120 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is Game Theory about?

Speakeasy conversation about strategy, competition, economics, history, and policy from two non-experts. The episodes include some actual economic Game Theory such as the Prisoner's Dilemma, the Traveler's Dilemma, and the Public Good game. Episodes also include conversations on dilemmas in...

How often does Game Theory release new episodes?

Game Theory publishes regularly with 120 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.

Where can I listen to Game Theory?

You can listen to Game Theory on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.

Who hosts Game Theory?

Game Theory is created and hosted by Game Theory.
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