The Tough Call

What happens when you trust your gut and get it wrong?

Veteran political journalist Jon Ralston joins James Hartigan and Maria Konnikova to explore the art of making tough decisions, and why even decades of experience can't guarantee you'll get them right.

From getting a major US election prediction wrong to facing career-defining editorial dilemmas, Jon reveals what he's learned about trusting instinct, following the data and admitting mistakes.

They also explore the surprising similarities between politics and poker, the growing influence of AI in journalism, and why fear might be the biggest obstacle to making good decisions.

When the stakes are high, should you trust your gut or trust the numbers?

Why do even the smartest people make bad decisions?
Poker legend Jason Koon joins Maria Konnikova and James Hartigan to explore risk, instinct and what it really takes to think clearly under pressure.
From his upbringing and journey to the top of professional poker to making life-changing decisions with millions of dollars at stake, Jason reveals how he approaches risk, manages emotions and stays calm when the pressure is on.
Together, they explore why winning doesn't always mean you've made the right decision, why doing nothing is still a choice, and how lessons from the poker table can help us make better decisions in everyday life.
ABOUT THE TOUGH CALL
Every decision has a story. But what separates a good decision from a bad one?
The Tough Call is a podcast exploring the art of decision-making, hosted by New York Times bestselling author, psychologist and professional poker player Maria Konnikova, alongside award-winning broadcaster James Hartigan.
Through open, honest and thought-provoking conversations with fascinating people from the worlds of poker, business, entertainment and beyond, the series explores how we think, assess risk, handle pressure and navigate uncertainty.
From life-changing choices to everyday dilemmas, The Tough Call uncovers the psychology, experiences and instincts behind the decisions we make, and what we can learn from them.
New episodes every Tuesday.
JOIN THE CONVERSATION
What's the toughest decision you've ever had to make? Have a question for Maria and James, an interesting dilemma or a suggestion for a future guest?
We'd love to hear from you!
Contact the show: [email protected]
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Subscribe and join us each week as we explore the art of decision-making.

The Tough Call is brought to you by PokerStars.