A little bit of knowledge...

My colleague, Anthony Placet, and I have had the pleasure of getting to know Professor Simon Johnson over the past couple of months. Unfortunately, the reason behind getting to know him cannot really be termed a pleasure.  Simon has been interviewing with us regularly to provide his considerable insights on the global financial crisis that has sent the economy into a tailspin.  

But however concerned and apprehensive we might be about what lies ahead, listening to Simon has provided some great perspective—and even a semblance of calm.   In addition to his considerable expertise and energy, he’s given even an economics ignoramus like me an understanding of what governments, corporations, and individuals can do to turn the tide of the crisis.   It’s also pretty cool to talk to someone who’s headed the IMF and testified before congress, especially about issues that everyone I know is debating around the water cooler (that means you, General Motors).  I truly feel like I have a bit of the inside scoop, which isn’t actually so “inside” since anyone out there can listen to Simon’s podcasts, visit the website he’s created as a forum to discuss the crisis, or watch the webcast of his special weekly class on the subject (click on video box at right).

As the ramifications of this crisis continue to surface, our regular podcast sessions with Simon will serve as a nice port in the storm.  Our conversations will also continue to provide me with ammunition to look very smart and worldly to my family and friends—at least on this one subject.