28 Mar 2026
1h 14m

Maximizing Luck: Masters in Business with Judd Kessler

Podcast cover

Masters in Business

The podcast explores market design, focusing on how resources are allocated in unconventional markets. Judd Kessler, Wharton professor and author of "Lucky by Design," discusses how understanding hidden economic rules can improve outcomes in everyday situations, from securing restaurant reservations to navigating college admissions. Kessler highlights the importance of recognizing scarcity and competition, advocating strategies like settling for silver in high-demand scenarios. The conversation touches on organ donation, the Vietnam draft lottery, and live event tickets, illustrating how market design impacts equity, efficiency, and ease of access. Kessler also critiques first-come, first-served systems, suggesting lotteries with verified fan processes as a fairer alternative for ticket distribution.

Outlines

Part 1: Introduction and Academic Background

Part 2: Understanding Hidden Markets and Mechanisms

Part 3: Market Design in Practice: Admissions and Performance

Part 4: Social Policy and Resource Allocation

Part 5: Personal Strategy and Career Reflections

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