Academy Award-winning actor, producer, and director Halle Berry joins the Armchair Expert to discuss the longevity of her romantic relationships, her experience with stepdads, and what winning a beauty pageant did for her confidence. Watch Here: th-cam.com/video/TRgm2aQHcO4/w-d-xo.html
I truly love the relationship that Dax and Monica have built with Malcolm. What an amazing outcome of doing a podcast like this! Relationships with some of the most incredible and brilliant people on the planet!!
Glad to see more video episodes! "The power of his playful eyes" :). Love the studio but where are the La-Z-Boys? I gotta have more La-Z-Boys (said in a Christopher Walken voice) * not sponsored by La-Z-Boy*
Loving the videos. It's such an evolution and beautiful to see the growth. If possible, please make all episodes videos 😊🙏🏾 love from a loyal armcherry from Kenya ❤🇰🇪
It was fun to see Malcom, I’m enjoying the visuals more that I thought I would! Speaking of eyes I’ve noticed Dax has the most intense eye contact in the best way. Wish I could be in the receiving end!
MONICA! My gf and I went on one of our first few dates to the movies, then over to the book store and we wandered the store both together and apart. We talked about our favorite books and read eachothers horoscope prediction books. We've been together 5 years now! Fantastic date idea!
So loved the interview with Malcolm but was triggered by the discussion of pain killers. As a frequent migraine sufferer, i have had a great experience with an old fried ... Aspirin. Several options exist but I find a mix of Aspirin and Caffeine work better for me than ibuprofen or acetaminophen... just saying.
Just finished radio lab episode titled brave....a new shade of grey 🩶 in life ...called forgiveness 😭 Jesus Dax 🙏 I can never thank you, rob an Monica enough for bringing me these continuous gifts of wonder entertainment and knowledge 💗
Love the episode! Please interview Leeann Kreischer. She is not a conventional expert but she is a life expert. She has her own podcast called Wife of The Party, and Bert Kreischer is her husband. I think both of you would love her!!
The Borders around me, back when they existed, had Seattle's Best, not Starbucks. And the Javanilla Shake was worth the 2011 $6.00+ price tag (for a large). I got one at least once a week before or after work
I’m currently watching the bit on Cosby. His critiques and criticisms of prominent black figures can also be attributed to public perception of black people by white society. This is extremely common in his generation and in at least the two that proceeded it. Condemning young people for upsetting the persona of blackness permeates our family, career, and civic obligations. I would love to see a book, doc, or movie about the complexity of Cosby’s life.
Responding to docs that people skip because they think they know everything there is on the subject, watch the doc on The Beach Boys. I thought I knew everything there is to know about that band. NOPE! So much to learn about their trajectory. So much fun!
Love this! I don't know who your set designer is, but we need a smaller coffee table. maybe an oval with open below so there is more feet room! or small nesting tables.
On being so engaged by this podcast (agreeing and disagreeing both) -- at the end I have come to the point that it seems such inaccuracies in parts (unexpected for Malcolm Gladwell) that I wonder if this done to bait (me or someone like me). LOL Still a fan of Armchair....raised some questions more regarding M.Gladwell. As a long-time fan of Armchair Expert, I immediately headed over to TH-cam to listen to this episode, eager to share my thoughts. I'm excited to leave my comments and hope that Malcolm, Monica, and Dax will respond. I enjoyed the podcast, even as the discussion shifted toward Harvard. I was taking everything at face value until Malcolm Gladwell made an eye-opening statement: “The greatest sports factory in the U.S. is Harvard. Harvard has more varsity sports than any other institution in the country and a greater share of its students are recruited athletes than at any other school.” Something that I was unaware of. I start with the assumption that Malcolm Gladwell's observations are grounded in factual, well-researched data. However, the subsequent discussion took a downward turn, featuring several statements that are either inaccurate or easily debunked by anyone familiar with population growth . 1. Legacy Status Misconceptions: Contrary to popular belief, being a legacy does not guarantee admission to an Ivy League school like Harvard. While the number of legacy applicants tends to grow exponentially as more generations of alumni graduate and have children, Harvard's capacity to admit students remains relatively fixed at around 2,000 per year. This creates a bottleneck where the number of legacy applicants (and other highly qualified candidates) far exceeds available slots. In most cases, legacy status is rarely the sole factor tipping the scale toward acceptance, especially when considering the overall applicant pool and other criteria-especially given the significant donations involved. 2. No Athletic Scholarships: The Ivy League does not offer athletic scholarships, which may have been unclear during the discussion. While there may have been mentions of scholarships related to other non-Ivy institutions, it's important to clarify that Harvard does not award athletic scholarships. 3. Year-Round Play Restrictions: Until recently, Ivy League athletes were prohibited from participating in year-round team activities. Ideally, all schools should adopt similar restrictions to prevent burnout and maintain the balance between athletics and academics for undergraduates, ensuring that sports remain a part of a well-rounded education rather than a full-time occupation. But where discussion went off the rails for me was with one statement by Malcolm and a comment by Monica that Malcolm supported: Malcolm stated: “The Harvard soccer coach gets to let in kids and no one is looking over his shoulder. He gets to let in whoever he wants. [50 kids?/how many are on a soccer team and he goes on]… You don’t have to be a smart soccer player to be on the Harvard... you have to be a good soccer player.” 1. Cliché: The last statement resembles a cliché you'd expect in an average blockbuster jock movie, rather than an accurate depiction of how admissions work at Harvard. 2. Limited Coach Control: It is not true that coaches at Harvard have complete control over the admissions of their players. Harvard admits approximately one student for every ten applicants, resulting in a student population of just under 8,000. For context, in 1981, there were 16,000 applicants for a class of 1,600. Harvard's elitism is comparable to a limited release of Robert Mondavi wine; regardless of the quantity of grapes, only a select few cases are bottled under that label. 3. Criteria for Acceptance: With limited spots available, it stands to reason that additional criteria would influence acceptance decisions. Prioritizing candidates with strong academic and athletic backgrounds aligns with a philosophy that dates back at least to Plato's Republic. Students who excel academically and possess talents in athletics, music, or other occupations should logically rise in the ranking and acceptance process. 4. Personal Perspective: For full disclosure, I am a Harvard graduate, not a legacy, and I don't know anyone with a spare million, let alone $20 million. As a student-athlete on the women's soccer team, I can attest that my teammates and I were intellectually capable, defying your stereotypic notion of "dumb athletes." At Harvard, it’s common for hockey players to become orthopedic surgeons and women’s soccer players to pursue careers as attorneys or pediatric emergency physicians. There’s no thought that you’re a dumb athlete or just got in because you could throw a football. I’ll say (for the most part but) it’s not a thing. 5. Athletes' Academic Capabilities: The notion that one can be "not so smart" yet excel in sports does not hold true. Dumb athletes are not the norm (exist? I’d be pressed to name one…) Here’s why, you’d be miserable at Harvard if you had no capability to do the academics. While a rare few Ivy League athletes pursue professional sports or the Olympics, many others become successful professionals, from my day, Brian B.(orthopedic surgeon), Laura M (pediatric emergency physician), and Janet J (attorney and Title IX specialist). Monica immediately followed with “Also, you don’t have to be great because those schools don’t win very much, but insult to injury, Malcolm concurred, immediately saying “Yeah, perfect storm.” To me, this sounded like a high school clique, running their mouths about a group they were not a part of, while lacking any accurate information. This assertion doesn’t align with the reality of Harvard athletics. • Many Harvard teams are successful, often leading the Ivy League and achieving national rankings, all while balancing rigorous academic workloads without the aid of athletic scholarships. While some Ivy League athletes do transition to professional sports or participate in the Olympics, the majority pursue advanced degrees and become leaders in their fields, with careers that only tangentially related to their athletic backgrounds, if at all. • This is long and the points I raised many but it was really disturbing that it was a chitchat of stereotyped (Harvard) and (sport) cliches and it involved and was supported by Malcolm Gladwell. I have to think his book does not have much indepth research related to Harvard and it was a mistake to go down this path. In this world with so much misinformation, I did not expect it to come from Malcolm. Monica, I hope you’ll indulge me walk down memory lane. The Harvard women’s soccer team has consistently been a strong competitor both in the Ivy League and nationally. They have frequently achieved top-25 national rankings, particularly in the 2020s. Specifically in 2022: Ranked 22nd nationally and in 2023: Achieved the most wins since 1999 and won the Ivy League title. The team's success is rooted in its early years, transitioning from club to varsity status in 1977 and quickly establishing itself as a powerhouse. Under coach Bob Scalise from 1978 to 1981, Harvard dominated the Ivy League and performed well in regional competitions. Here’s a specific example from Harvard Women’s Soccer and what winning looks like at Harvard from the inside. One significant achievement in Harvard women’s soccer history occurred when the team defeated UMass and UConn in one weekend in November, 1981: • Semi-Finals: Harvard overcame UMass with a 2-1 comeback victory, securing their place in the final. Both goals were scored in the final 5 minutes. • Final: In an intense match, Harvard upset UConn, winning 2-1 in overtime and claiming their first outright Eastern Championship. This victory marked a high point in the program's history, especially since they had only lost one match that season to UConn, which they avenged in the championship game. The team had navigated a season like no other I had been part of in my years leading up to Harvard. We won the Ivy’s and ranked first in the Eastern Division.
Me: adding every single book they mention that I haven't read yet to my Google history so I can borrow them and read them as soon as this episode ends!!!!
First time watching your podcast via video-what a trip to see y'all live! Wanted to chime in on the conversation about outside clothes in bed. I created a small, independent label, Maison des Rêves New York, centered around the idea of inside clothes that feel nice enough to wear outside but are designed for ultimate comfort indoors.
I think the neutral tones would even look great on set and fit the cozy vibe of your set. I've always thought Monica would look amazing in some of the pieces, and while Dax’s build might be a little too jacked for the fit, I’m sure he’d appreciate the design and concept. And Rob, judging by your restaurant knowledge, I can tell you’ve got great taste-would love to hear your thoughts too! P.S. I know Monica doesn’t read comments, but if someone could pass this along, I’d love to send some pieces over! Thanks so much! - Sky
I worked at the Borders cafe and it was its own thing. We were better than Starbucks cause we made drinks the Italian way. Then Seattle’s Best took over their Cafes shortly before they closed.
I'm with Dax on Borders over Barnes and Noble, although I'm biased as I used to work there back in the day. Sorry, Dax Borders did have a cafe, but it was NOT Starbucks. I'm happy you all discussed the super-spreader facts. One of the reasons obesity is tied to super-spreading is due to overall higher viral titers. COVID infects from the spike protein attaching itself to our ACE2 receptors, which can be found all over the body but are plentiful in adipose (AKA fat) tissue. This is why the mortality rate was so high in obese populations; they had such a high viral load, it was creating the "cytokine storm" that was so dangerous. I loved the book suggestions. I am going to use one as my next read. Dax, PLEASE consider reading "Sacred Cow" by Rob Wolf and Diana Rogers and/or "Kiss the Ground" by Josh Tickell. It will ease your mind to know that your meat consumption doesn't have to be an environmental threat; in fact, embracing meat from regenerative farms is a huge part of the solution to climate change. Love to you both! Great episode!
Love this episode. But I ran to this comment section when you guys started talking about sleeping in your clothes. Dax kept talking about how we don't need to worry about pathogens. But don't forget parasites. If you have ever had an outbreak of pinworms in your family, you will know how hard it is to get rid of them and their eggs. If you are exposed to pinworms you have to wash your hands, clothes and bedding & carpets repeatedly and their eggs can be transferred on your clothes. Once I found out about that, I have been really grossed out by outdoor clothing on the bed. Probably more of a worry for families with young kids though.
I wanted to share that I am someone who has been duped by married men multiple times. Three separate times I have gone on a date and slept with a married man, not knowing he was married. More common when I was you get because now I know the signs. But I do think it’s common for married men to be on dating apps and lying about being married.
Oleo ! 😂😂😂 Ray Romano had a hilarious bit re: oleo (i think on letterman) ….. reading the disclaimer on a can of fat - free pringles -- “may cause anal leakage “ “Anal leakage ???? That better be the best chip I ever ate, I gotta change my pants after.”
I put off listening to Malcolm Gladwells podcast episode because I really wanted to see his eyes on TH-cam. They really are, all that you promised. I sadly got extremely distracted watching feet on the coffee table. Pretty please with sugar on top… get rid of the table and give Monica something cute for her to rest her feet on. It must be super uncomfortable sitting cross legged for a couple of hours. I don’t know if it’s a kiwi thing (maybe a flightless bird idea) but in (Māori) NZ it’s extremely rude to put feet or god forbid, Bums, on tables or kitchen countertops or wherever you would put food or drinks. I really do think that Monica and Dax look fantastic on video.
Director. Less is more. U don’t need to jump to the wide 3 shot. So often. Keep it in the person speaking We don’t need to see people listening unless necessary.
For Dax, focusing on your comment about “a bunch of bullshit sports to cast the net wider and wider” I guess you might list as “BS sports” fencing, polo, rowing, and sailing. Tennis and golf traditionally sports with limited access slowly opens up. Would you advocate for their elimination from the Olympics as well? 1. Is the claim being made merely sensationalist, suggesting that Harvard adds these sports to maintain a predominantly white demographic? Or does it highlight a broader issue within U.S. society, where unequal opportunities exist for students, allowing those who are privileged greater access to resources? 2. Does Harvard contribute to the racial makeup of these sports, or does it reflect a societal structure that fails to maximize its human resources? Why do we have a school funding model that relies on local property taxes, effectively assigning students based on their home addresses? This perpetuates the inequality of funding, resulting in less money being spent on students in poorer neighborhoods. 3. Why wouldn’t we allocate the same amount of funding per student at least within a state? While recognizing that the U.S. is diverse, within states, spending should ideally be consistent per student and offer each student the same quality of education. The positive - this episode got me interested in the stats - and I looked them up quickly via ChatGPT (just to get some perspective - I’m sure you may have more refined numbers): For Context: Michigan and Georgia are BIG schools • University of Michigan (from MI - Dax): Div 1, 33,488 undergrads enrolled with 29 varsity teams • University of Georgia (from GA - Monica): Div 1, 31,515 undergrads with 31 varsity teams • Harvard Univ (from MA & attended - Debora): Div 1, 7,095 enrolled undergrads with 42 varsity teams Harvard has more varsity teams but there is no authority to accept whomever a soccer or a lacrosse coach wants; there are teams that not every school has but they are Olympic sports: fencing, polo, sailing, tennis. These are all student-athletes and no athletic scholarships are awarded, need-based blind admissions For reference - Here’s a list of 38 varsity sports, which are divided into men's and women's teams.
Men's Varsity Sports 1. Baseball 2. Basketball 3. Crew (Heavyweight) 4. Crew (Lightweight) 5. Cross Country 6. Fencing 7. Football 8. Golf 9. Ice Hockey 10. Lacrosse 11. Polo 12. Rugby 13. Sailing 14. Soccer 15. Squash 16. Swimming and Diving 17. Tennis 18. Track and Field (Indoor) 19. Track and Field (Outdoor) 20. Water Polo 21. Wrestling Women's Varsity Sports 1. Basketball 2. Crew (Heavyweight) 3. Crew (Lightweight) 4. Cross Country 5. Fencing 6. Field Hockey 7. Football (Club) 8. Golf 9. Ice Hockey 10. Lacrosse 11. Polo 12. Rugby 13. Sailing 14. Soccer 15. Squash 16. Swimming and Diving 17. Tennis 18. Track and Field (Indoor) 19. Track and Field (Outdoor) 20. Water Polo 21. Volleyball Harvard (all Ivy Leagues) do not offer athletic scholarships, all Harvard athletes carry a full course load and, in my experience, have more to consider than sports - despite a dedication and grit to competitive success in everything these athletes take on. Harvard is a value school because it sets tuition based on household income (Michigan and Harvard are essentially the same cost) Harvard has a robust financial aid program, providing need-blind admissions for all applicants, meaning they do not consider financial need during the admissions process. For the 2024-2025 academic year: • Tuition: $56,550 • Total Estimated Cost of Attendance: Approximately $82,860 (including room and board) Student Contribution Based on Income: 1. Income below $65,000: No expected contribution towards tuition, fees, or room and board. 2. Income between $65,000 and $150,000: Contribution typically ranges from 0% to 10% of the family's income, depending on specific circumstances .For more detailed information, visit Harvard's Financial Aid website. University of Michigan The University of Michigan also offers a need-based financial aid program but is not fully need-blind. Here’s how it breaks down: • Tuition (2023-2024): In-state: $17,154; Out-of-state: $57,022 • Total Estimated Cost of Attendance: Around $58,586 (in-state) and $88,254 (out-of-state) Student Contribution Based on Income: 1. Income below $65,000: Expected family contribution (EFC) typically capped around $0 to $3,000. 2. Income between $65,000 and $180,000: Contribution generally increases based on a sliding scale. For families earning $180,000, the contribution can reach about 15% of their incomes to meet the full demonstrated financial need for most students, it does not have a need-blind admission policy for all applicants. More details can be found on the University of Michigan Financial Aid website.
My favorite part is when Monica knows that Pepsi was the company Malcom was referring to and Malcom whispers "very good". I think Monica loved that and I loved that for Monica ❤️
Watching this in the car with my husband driving and he’s SHOOOK that Monica isn’t Kristen. He said that for the last 7 YEARS he thought Monica was, “Dax’s wife”
![ILLSLICK - THE KING'S LANDING [Freestyle]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/feIJJnNkTfk/mqdefault.jpg)
Academy Award-winning actor, producer, and director Halle Berry joins the Armchair Expert to discuss the longevity of her romantic relationships, her experience with stepdads, and what winning a beauty pageant did for her confidence. Watch Here: th-cam.com/video/TRgm2aQHcO4/w-d-xo.html
I truly love the relationship that Dax and Monica have built with Malcolm. What an amazing outcome of doing a podcast like this! Relationships with some of the most incredible and brilliant people on the planet!!
thank you for the love!
Malcom Gladwell talking about Taylor Swift is the crossover I didn’t know I needed of some of my favorite things 🤩
Best video episode yet! It’s so fun getting to see Malcolm on video instead of just his voice!
Glad to see more video episodes! "The power of his playful eyes" :). Love the studio but where are the La-Z-Boys? I gotta have more La-Z-Boys (said in a Christopher Walken voice) * not sponsored by La-Z-Boy*
I didn’t realize how well read Dax was. Thoroughly enjoyed this podcast. Thank you!
psychprofile AI fixes this. Malcolm Gladwell on Armchair Expert
Yasss! My first couple of hours of work are gonna kick ass because of this!
hell yeah!
Loving the videos. It's such an evolution and beautiful to see the growth. If possible, please make all episodes videos 😊🙏🏾 love from a loyal armcherry from Kenya ❤🇰🇪
Ok so I can't tell you how I excited I am to know that I can now WATCH your podcasts. Just delicious!
My favorite humans in one room! What witty and interesting conversation!!!
😄😄😄
Former Borders cafe worker here! We sold Seattle's Best, not Starbucks.
Same here! I thought we served Pete's - but Seattle's best does sound familiar. I miss Borders. It was the less snobby bookshop chain, IMO.
@@kblauryl8160 Agreed! My general manager used to say "B&N is a bookstore run by business people, Borders is a business run by book people." ❤
Such a wonderful start to the workday!! 🎉
love to hear it!
It was fun to see Malcom, I’m enjoying the visuals more that I thought I would! Speaking of eyes I’ve noticed Dax has the most intense eye contact in the best way. Wish I could be in the receiving end!
Totally love watching the videos... more engaging than just listening to the podcast...
MONICA! My gf and I went on one of our first few dates to the movies, then over to the book store and we wandered the store both together and apart. We talked about our favorite books and read eachothers horoscope prediction books. We've been together 5 years now! Fantastic date idea!
I love Malcolm so much. He's my favorite person on this planet ❤️
Brilliant episode, I also can not wait to see David Sedaris on video with you all at some point (soon) 🥰
So loved the interview with Malcolm but was triggered by the discussion of pain killers. As a frequent migraine sufferer, i have had a great experience with an old fried ... Aspirin. Several options exist but I find a mix of Aspirin and Caffeine work better for me than ibuprofen or acetaminophen... just saying.
Was totally saying it out loud as if I was sitting with them 😂😂
Oh my I so enjoyed this episode , thank you .
Just finished radio lab episode titled brave....a new shade of grey 🩶 in life ...called forgiveness 😭 Jesus Dax 🙏 I can never thank you, rob an Monica enough for bringing me these continuous gifts of wonder entertainment and knowledge 💗
Can’t find it 😟
Have to get all of Malcolms 📚 books and listen in order...I was late to revisionists history...now his books. They sound extremely captivating
Love the episode! Please interview Leeann Kreischer. She is not a conventional expert but she is a life expert. She has her own podcast called Wife of The Party, and Bert Kreischer is her husband. I think both of you would love her!!
Malcolm is awesome.
The camera view moving so much when Malcolm is talking 😮💨
The Borders around me, back when they existed, had Seattle's Best, not Starbucks. And the Javanilla Shake was worth the 2011 $6.00+ price tag (for a large). I got one at least once a week before or after work
I’m currently watching the bit on Cosby. His critiques and criticisms of prominent black figures can also be attributed to public perception of black people by white society. This is extremely common in his generation and in at least the two that proceeded it. Condemning young people for upsetting the persona of blackness permeates our family, career, and civic obligations. I would love to see a book, doc, or movie about the complexity of Cosby’s life.
Looove the videos - I was thinking need to try these bars 😂 and I totally know the person as well :))) Dr A
Responding to docs that people skip because they think they know everything there is on the subject, watch the doc on The Beach Boys. I thought I knew everything there is to know about that band. NOPE! So much to learn about their trajectory. So much fun!
Love this! I don't know who your set designer is, but we need a smaller coffee table. maybe an oval with open below so there is more feet room! or small nesting tables.
On being so engaged by this podcast (agreeing and disagreeing both) -- at the end I have come to the point that it seems such inaccuracies in parts (unexpected for Malcolm Gladwell) that I wonder if this done to bait (me or someone like me). LOL Still a fan of Armchair....raised some questions more regarding M.Gladwell.
As a long-time fan of Armchair Expert, I immediately headed over to TH-cam to listen to this episode, eager to share my thoughts. I'm excited to leave my comments and hope that Malcolm, Monica, and Dax will respond.
I enjoyed the podcast, even as the discussion shifted toward Harvard. I was taking everything at face value until Malcolm Gladwell made an eye-opening statement: “The greatest sports factory in the U.S. is Harvard. Harvard has more varsity sports than any other institution in the country and a greater share of its students are recruited athletes than at any other school.” Something that I was unaware of.
I start with the assumption that Malcolm Gladwell's observations are grounded in factual, well-researched data. However, the subsequent discussion took a downward turn, featuring several statements that are either inaccurate or easily debunked by anyone familiar with population growth
.
1. Legacy Status Misconceptions: Contrary to popular belief, being a legacy does not guarantee admission to an Ivy League school like Harvard. While the number of legacy applicants tends to grow exponentially as more generations of alumni graduate and have children, Harvard's capacity to admit students remains relatively fixed at around 2,000 per year. This creates a bottleneck where the number of legacy applicants (and other highly qualified candidates) far exceeds available slots. In most cases, legacy status is rarely the sole factor tipping the scale toward acceptance, especially when considering the overall applicant pool and other criteria-especially given the significant donations involved.
2. No Athletic Scholarships: The Ivy League does not offer athletic scholarships, which may have been unclear during the discussion. While there may have been mentions of scholarships related to other non-Ivy institutions, it's important to clarify that Harvard does not award athletic scholarships.
3. Year-Round Play Restrictions: Until recently, Ivy League athletes were prohibited from participating in year-round team activities. Ideally, all schools should adopt similar restrictions to prevent burnout and maintain the balance between athletics and academics for undergraduates, ensuring that sports remain a part of a well-rounded education rather than a full-time occupation.
But where discussion went off the rails for me was with one statement by Malcolm and a comment by Monica that Malcolm supported:
Malcolm stated: “The Harvard soccer coach gets to let in kids and no one is looking over his shoulder. He gets to let in whoever he wants. [50 kids?/how many are on a soccer team and he goes on]… You don’t have to be a smart soccer player to be on the Harvard... you have to be a good soccer player.”
1. Cliché: The last statement resembles a cliché you'd expect in an average blockbuster jock movie, rather than an accurate depiction of how admissions work at Harvard.
2. Limited Coach Control: It is not true that coaches at Harvard have complete control over the admissions of their players. Harvard admits approximately one student for every ten applicants, resulting in a student population of just under 8,000. For context, in 1981, there were 16,000 applicants for a class of 1,600. Harvard's elitism is comparable to a limited release of Robert Mondavi wine; regardless of the quantity of grapes, only a select few cases are bottled under that label.
3. Criteria for Acceptance: With limited spots available, it stands to reason that additional criteria would influence acceptance decisions. Prioritizing candidates with strong academic and athletic backgrounds aligns with a philosophy that dates back at least to Plato's Republic. Students who excel academically and possess talents in athletics, music, or other occupations should logically rise in the ranking and acceptance process.
4. Personal Perspective: For full disclosure, I am a Harvard graduate, not a legacy, and I don't know anyone with a spare million, let alone $20 million. As a student-athlete on the women's soccer team, I can attest that my teammates and I were intellectually capable, defying your stereotypic notion of "dumb athletes." At Harvard, it’s common for hockey players to become orthopedic surgeons and women’s soccer players to pursue careers as attorneys or pediatric emergency physicians. There’s no thought that you’re a dumb athlete or just got in because you could throw a football. I’ll say (for the most part but) it’s not a thing.
5. Athletes' Academic Capabilities: The notion that one can be "not so smart" yet excel in sports does not hold true. Dumb athletes are not the norm (exist? I’d be pressed to name one…) Here’s why, you’d be miserable at Harvard if you had no capability to do the academics. While a rare few Ivy League athletes pursue professional sports or the Olympics, many others become successful professionals, from my day, Brian B.(orthopedic surgeon), Laura M (pediatric emergency physician), and Janet J (attorney and Title IX specialist).
Monica immediately followed with “Also, you don’t have to be great because those schools don’t win very much, but insult to injury, Malcolm concurred, immediately saying “Yeah, perfect storm.” To me, this sounded like a high school clique, running their mouths about a group they were not a part of, while lacking any accurate information. This assertion doesn’t align with the reality of Harvard athletics.
• Many Harvard teams are successful, often leading the Ivy League and achieving national rankings, all while balancing rigorous academic workloads without the aid of athletic scholarships. While some Ivy League athletes do transition to professional sports or participate in the Olympics, the majority pursue advanced degrees and become leaders in their fields, with careers that only tangentially related to their athletic backgrounds, if at all.
• This is long and the points I raised many but it was really disturbing that it was a chitchat of stereotyped (Harvard) and (sport) cliches and it involved and was supported by Malcolm Gladwell. I have to think his book does not have much indepth research related to Harvard and it was a mistake to go down this path. In this world with so much misinformation, I did not expect it to come from Malcolm.
Monica, I hope you’ll indulge me walk down memory lane.
The Harvard women’s soccer team has consistently been a strong competitor both in the Ivy League and nationally. They have frequently achieved top-25 national rankings, particularly in the 2020s. Specifically in 2022: Ranked 22nd nationally and in 2023: Achieved the most wins since 1999 and won the Ivy League title.
The team's success is rooted in its early years, transitioning from club to varsity status in 1977 and quickly establishing itself as a powerhouse. Under coach Bob Scalise from 1978 to 1981, Harvard dominated the Ivy League and performed well in regional competitions.
Here’s a specific example from Harvard Women’s Soccer and what winning looks like at Harvard from the inside.
One significant achievement in Harvard women’s soccer history occurred when the team defeated UMass and UConn in one weekend in November, 1981:
• Semi-Finals: Harvard overcame UMass with a 2-1 comeback victory, securing their place in the final. Both goals were scored in the final 5 minutes.
• Final: In an intense match, Harvard upset UConn, winning 2-1 in overtime and claiming their first outright Eastern Championship. This victory marked a high point in the program's history, especially since they had only lost one match that season to UConn, which they avenged in the championship game.
The team had navigated a season like no other I had been part of in my years leading up to Harvard. We won the Ivy’s and ranked first in the Eastern Division.
I would 1000% get a David Sedaris book for my date. The sense of humor and connection from that would be so playful & easy.
Me: adding every single book they mention that I haven't read yet to my Google history so I can borrow them and read them as soon as this episode ends!!!!
Anyone know if u have to read The Tipping Point first in order to understand the new one?
"Volvo. They're boxy but they're good." a quote from Crazy People! ❤
the small TS conversation, loved it unexpected.
Love the subtle callout for David protein bars. They are soooo good but fortunately I don’t have the same “evacuation” experience as Dax
Love that Malcolm is repping Tracksmith!!
Dax and Monica both look amazing today!!!! 😍
thank you 😍
First time watching your podcast via video-what a trip to see y'all live! Wanted to chime in on the conversation about outside clothes in bed. I created a small, independent label, Maison des Rêves New York, centered around the idea of inside clothes that feel nice enough to wear outside but are designed for ultimate comfort indoors.
I think the neutral tones would even look great on set and fit the cozy vibe of your set. I've always thought Monica would look amazing in some of the pieces, and while Dax’s build might be a little too jacked for the fit, I’m sure he’d appreciate the design and concept. And Rob, judging by your restaurant knowledge, I can tell you’ve got great taste-would love to hear your thoughts too! P.S. I know Monica doesn’t read comments, but if someone could pass this along, I’d love to send some pieces over! Thanks so much! - Sky
I worked at the Borders cafe and it was its own thing. We were better than Starbucks cause we made drinks the Italian way. Then Seattle’s Best took over their Cafes shortly before they closed.
Hi Dax ... are they David bars ... if yes ... coconut oil is an ingredient. Just curious if its these.
I'm with Dax on Borders over Barnes and Noble, although I'm biased as I used to work there back in the day. Sorry, Dax Borders did have a cafe, but it was NOT Starbucks.
I'm happy you all discussed the super-spreader facts. One of the reasons obesity is tied to super-spreading is due to overall higher viral titers. COVID infects from the spike protein attaching itself to our ACE2 receptors, which can be found all over the body but are plentiful in adipose (AKA fat) tissue. This is why the mortality rate was so high in obese populations; they had such a high viral load, it was creating the "cytokine storm" that was so dangerous.
I loved the book suggestions. I am going to use one as my next read. Dax, PLEASE consider reading "Sacred Cow" by Rob Wolf and Diana Rogers and/or "Kiss the Ground" by Josh Tickell. It will ease your mind to know that your meat consumption doesn't have to be an environmental threat; in fact, embracing meat from regenerative farms is a huge part of the solution to climate change.
Love to you both! Great episode!
Love this episode. But I ran to this comment section when you guys started talking about sleeping in your clothes. Dax kept talking about how we don't need to worry about pathogens. But don't forget parasites.
If you have ever had an outbreak of pinworms in your family, you will know how hard it is to get rid of them and their eggs. If you are exposed to pinworms you have to wash your hands, clothes and bedding & carpets repeatedly and their eggs can be transferred on your clothes.
Once I found out about that, I have been really grossed out by outdoor clothing on the bed. Probably more of a worry for families with young kids though.
Can anyone explain why you have to be rich to be good/have longevity at tennis? Is it the cost of lessons, the equipment, etc? Thank you!
I wanted to share that I am someone who has been duped by married men multiple times. Three separate times I have gone on a date and slept with a married man, not knowing he was married. More common when I was you get because now I know the signs. But I do think it’s common for married men to be on dating apps and lying about being married.
Oleo ! 😂😂😂 Ray Romano had a hilarious bit re: oleo (i think on letterman) ….. reading the disclaimer on a can of fat - free pringles -- “may cause anal leakage “ “Anal leakage ???? That better be the best chip I ever ate, I gotta change my pants after.”
I put off listening to Malcolm Gladwells podcast episode because I really wanted to see his eyes on TH-cam.
They really are, all that you promised.
I sadly got extremely distracted watching feet on the coffee table.
Pretty please with sugar on top… get rid of the table and give Monica something cute for her to rest her feet on. It must be super uncomfortable sitting cross legged for a couple of hours.
I don’t know if it’s a kiwi thing (maybe a flightless bird idea) but in (Māori) NZ it’s extremely rude to put feet or god forbid, Bums, on tables or kitchen countertops or wherever you would put food or drinks.
I really do think that Monica and Dax look fantastic on video.
Here for the PLAYFUL EYES!!!
Director. Less is more. U don’t need to jump to the wide 3 shot. So often. Keep it in the person speaking We don’t need to see people listening unless necessary.
Yeah, I was starting to get a headache. Had to listen to the Spotify version.
Sometimes editors go to different shots to hide when they cut parts out, but I see what you mean, it's a bit jumpy/distracting at times.
Same 😢 @@christinahernandez1637
For Dax, focusing on your comment about “a bunch of bullshit sports to cast the net wider and wider” I guess you might list as “BS sports” fencing, polo, rowing, and sailing. Tennis and golf traditionally sports with limited access slowly opens up. Would you advocate for their elimination from the Olympics as well?
1. Is the claim being made merely sensationalist, suggesting that Harvard adds these sports to maintain a predominantly white demographic? Or does it highlight a broader issue within U.S. society, where unequal opportunities exist for students, allowing those who are privileged greater access to resources?
2. Does Harvard contribute to the racial makeup of these sports, or does it reflect a societal structure that fails to maximize its human resources? Why do we have a school funding model that relies on local property taxes, effectively assigning students based on their home addresses? This perpetuates the inequality of funding, resulting in less money being spent on students in poorer neighborhoods.
3. Why wouldn’t we allocate the same amount of funding per student at least within a state? While recognizing that the U.S. is diverse, within states, spending should ideally be consistent per student and offer each student the same quality of education.
The positive - this episode got me interested in the stats - and I looked them up quickly via ChatGPT (just to get some perspective - I’m sure you may have more refined numbers):
For Context: Michigan and Georgia are BIG schools
• University of Michigan (from MI - Dax): Div 1, 33,488 undergrads enrolled with 29 varsity teams
• University of Georgia (from GA - Monica): Div 1, 31,515 undergrads with 31 varsity teams
• Harvard Univ (from MA & attended - Debora): Div 1, 7,095 enrolled undergrads with 42 varsity teams
Harvard has more varsity teams but there is no authority to accept whomever a soccer or a lacrosse coach wants; there are teams that not every school has but they are Olympic sports: fencing, polo, sailing, tennis. These are all student-athletes and no athletic scholarships are awarded, need-based blind admissions
For reference - Here’s a list of 38 varsity sports, which are divided into men's and women's teams.
Men's Varsity Sports
1. Baseball
2. Basketball
3. Crew (Heavyweight)
4. Crew (Lightweight)
5. Cross Country
6. Fencing
7. Football
8. Golf
9. Ice Hockey
10. Lacrosse
11. Polo
12. Rugby
13. Sailing
14. Soccer
15. Squash
16. Swimming and Diving
17. Tennis
18. Track and Field (Indoor)
19. Track and Field (Outdoor)
20. Water Polo
21. Wrestling
Women's Varsity Sports
1. Basketball
2. Crew (Heavyweight)
3. Crew (Lightweight)
4. Cross Country
5. Fencing
6. Field Hockey
7. Football (Club)
8. Golf
9. Ice Hockey
10. Lacrosse
11. Polo
12. Rugby
13. Sailing
14. Soccer
15. Squash
16. Swimming and Diving
17. Tennis
18. Track and Field (Indoor)
19. Track and Field (Outdoor)
20. Water Polo
21. Volleyball
Harvard (all Ivy Leagues) do not offer athletic scholarships, all Harvard athletes carry a full course load and, in my experience, have more to consider than sports - despite a dedication and grit to competitive success in everything these athletes take on. Harvard is a value school because it sets tuition based on household income (Michigan and Harvard are essentially the same cost)
Harvard has a robust financial aid program, providing need-blind admissions for all applicants, meaning they do not consider financial need during the admissions process. For the 2024-2025 academic year:
• Tuition: $56,550
• Total Estimated Cost of Attendance: Approximately $82,860 (including room and board)
Student Contribution Based on Income:
1. Income below $65,000: No expected contribution towards tuition, fees, or room and board.
2. Income between $65,000 and $150,000: Contribution typically ranges from 0% to 10% of the family's income, depending on specific circumstances
.For more detailed information, visit Harvard's Financial Aid website.
University of Michigan
The University of Michigan also offers a need-based financial aid program but is not fully need-blind. Here’s how it breaks down:
• Tuition (2023-2024): In-state: $17,154; Out-of-state: $57,022
• Total Estimated Cost of Attendance: Around $58,586 (in-state) and $88,254 (out-of-state)
Student Contribution Based on Income:
1. Income below $65,000: Expected family contribution (EFC) typically capped around $0 to $3,000.
2. Income between $65,000 and $180,000: Contribution generally increases based on a sliding scale. For families earning $180,000, the contribution can reach about 15% of their incomes to meet the full demonstrated financial need for most students, it does not have a need-blind admission policy for all applicants. More details can be found on the University of Michigan Financial Aid website.
My favorite part is when Monica knows that Pepsi was the company Malcom was referring to and Malcom whispers "very good". I think Monica loved that and I loved that for Monica ❤️
Monica I love your boots in the fact check!!!! So cool
Sadly, many people will treat the boys as special.
Watching this in the car with my husband driving and he’s SHOOOK that Monica isn’t Kristen. He said that for the last 7 YEARS he thought Monica was, “Dax’s wife”
Excedrin Migraine guys…every headache!
Now I want to know the protein bars…
David Protein Bars. Same thing happened to me!! 🫣😂
I'm feeling like Dax, Monica, and Wobbie Wob are my bestest friends that I have in-depth poop convos with- I've never felt so seen 🤎 Love you guys!