This edition highlights stories by Robin Kaiser-Schatzlein, David Gauvey Herbert, Kit Chellel, Ashley Stimpson, and Nate Rogers.
Bloomberg Businessweek
The Gambler Who Beat Roulette
“For decades, casinos scoffed as mathematicians and physicists devised elaborate systems to take down the house. Then an unassuming Croatian’s winning strategy forever changed the game.”
Dungeons & Dragons’ Epic Quest to Finally Make Money
“Can Hasbro overcome 50 years of D&D business disasters without enraging its fan base?”
What Happens When Sexting Chatbots Dump Their Human Lovers
“People who grew accustomed to sexting with Replika’s AI-powered companions were heartbroken when the company blocked its bots from engaging in racy chats.”
Can a Better Technology Dethrone the Gas Stove?
“While culture warriors and foodies panic over their favorite kitchen appliance, the induction range is still waiting for America to fall in love.”
How Target Got Cozy With the Cops, Turning Black Neighbors Into Suspects
“For decades, Target fostered partnerships with law enforcement unlike those of any other U.S. corporation.”
Airbnb Is Spending Millions of Dollars to Make Nightmares Go Away
“When things go horribly wrong during a stay, the company’s secretive safety team jumps in to soothe guests and hosts, help families—and prevent PR disasters.”
The Top 5 Longreads of the Week
This week, we’re sharing stories from Elizabeth Weil, Amirah Mercer, Jason Motlagh, Esmé E. Deprez, and Michael Paulson.
The Top 5 Longreads of the Week
This week, we’re sharing stories from Timothy Snyder, Austin Carr, James Murdock, Myriam Lahouari, and Brian Hiatt.
