Episode 29: Random w/ Mark Rank

Mark R. Rank is recognized as a foremost expert on issues of poverty, inequality and social justice. To date he has written 10 books on a range of subjects, including an exploration of the American Dream and a new understanding of poverty and inequality. In this episode, I talk to Mark about his latest book, The Random Factor which looks at the role of luck and chance in shaping the course of our lives. It was a fascinating discussion, one I was lucky to have. I hope you enjoy.

Show Links:

Mark R. Rank

The Random Factor

Poverty Risk Calculator

Your American Dream Score

Sign up here to receive Moving Up Mondays

Receive our weekly email, delivering inspiration and perspective every Monday morning.

Why do some people make it, while others don’t? How do the facts of our lives differ from our perception of it? And how does our psychology shape how we view ourselves and others?

Attribution is, where people from all walks of life, reflect on who and what has contributed to where they ended up. Our hope is after each episode, you feel a little more inspired, grateful, or supported, then when you first hit play.

Bob McKinnon is a writer, designer, and teacher who asks us to reconsider the way we see success and the American Dream.

His work has been featured in the New York Times, Esquire, Parents, CBS, Boston Globe, Fast Company, NPR, and PBS.

His own journey out of poverty was captured in his TEDx talk: How Did I End Up Here. Through his writing and this podcast, he hopes to pay tribute and thanks to all those who have helped him and others move up in life.

Attribution was originally created with support from Chasing the Dream, a public media initiative from The WNET Group, reporting on poverty, justice, and economic opportunity in America. It is currently distributed by NPR.

This show was edited by No Troublemakers, Ltd. Music by Jonnie “Most” Davis.

Our final credit goes to you, the listener, and to everyone who helped you get to where you are today. If this show has reminded you of someone in particular, make their day and let them know.