How to Make Your Own Luck (Update)

In this episode of Freakonomics Radio, host Angela Duckworth interviews writer Maria Konnikova about her book "The Biggest Bluff," detailing her journey from a poker novice to a professional player. Konnikova, who holds a Ph.D. in psychology, discusses how poker serves as a metaphor for life, highlighting the balance between skill and chance in decision-making. She recounts her initial ignorance of the game, her mentorship with poker legend Eric Seidel, and the psychological challenges she faced, including gender stereotypes and the need to balance internal and external locus of control. Konnikova also addresses the ludic fallacy, arguing that poker provides a valuable, albeit simplified, environment for improving decision-making skills applicable to real-life situations, such as relationships and managing emotional resilience.