Episode Description: Organ Donation and Kidney Exchange

In this episode of the podcast, host Stephen Dubner takes a detour from the originally scheduled episode on super agent Ari Emanuel and instead presents a mashup of two previous episodes that delve into the fascinating world of organ donation and kidney exchange.

The episode features an insightful interview with Al Roth, a Nobel laureate in economics renowned for his work in market design and kidney exchange. Roth provides a comprehensive explanation of market design and how it specifically applies to the realm of kidney exchange. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the intricacies involved in matching donors with recipients and the challenges faced in creating efficient exchange programs.

Throughout the episode, personal stories from individuals who have been directly involved in kidney exchange are shared. These stories include both donors and recipients, offering a firsthand perspective on the impact of kidney exchange on their lives. These heartfelt accounts underscore the importance of kidney exchange in saving lives and highlight the transformative power of organ transplantation.

As the episode progresses, the potential for future advancements in organ transplantation is explored. Listeners will gain insight into the cutting-edge research and developments that hold promise for improving the lives of those in need of organ transplants.

This episode is a captivating exploration of the world of organ donation and kidney exchange, shedding light on the remarkable individuals and groundbreaking advancements that are shaping the future of organ transplantation.

Sure, markets work well in general. But for some transactions — like school admissions and organ transplants — money alone can’t solve the problem. That’s when you need a market-design wizard like Al Roth. Plus: We hear from a listener who, inspired by this episode, made a remarkable decision.