This episode explores Michael Lewis's career as an author, focusing on his approach to storytelling and his latest book, "Who is Government?". Lewis describes his writing process as one driven by curiosity and a sense of obligation to tell important stories, often stumbling upon subjects rather than actively seeking them out, and notes the role of luck in finding himself at the forefront of significant events. Against the backdrop of his book "The Fifth Risk" and its sequels, Lewis explains how he identifies compelling characters within often overlooked government departments, emphasizing their dedication and expertise. More significantly, Lewis discusses his method of embedding himself in unfamiliar environments to gain insights, as exemplified by his time with the Oakland A's for "Moneyball," and the importance of letting the story unfold naturally. As the discussion pivots to the collaborative nature of "Who is Government?", Lewis highlights the value of diverse perspectives in understanding the role of public servants. The conversation reveals Lewis's knack for finding universal themes within specific narratives, reflecting emerging industry patterns of valuing authenticity and purpose-driven storytelling.
