This week, Freakonomics Radio examined how the New York Times has evolved far beyond its traditional role as a news organization, transforming into a games and puzzles company that now generates significant revenue and shapes reader engagement. The episode explores the tension between the Times' identity as a serious news institution and its increasingly sophisticated approach to entertainment products like Wordle and the daily crossword. It's a case study in how legacy media companies adapt—or reinvent themselves—to survive in the digital age.
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This Week in Freakonomics Radio (May 4 - May 10, 2026)
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