Who is behind FiveThirtyEight?
FiveThirtyEight, a popular online publication known for its data-driven journalism and statistical analysis, has become a go-to source for insights on politics, sports, and other topics. But who is behind this influential platform? The story of FiveThirtyEight’s creation and leadership is a fascinating one, involving a mix of data experts, journalists, and innovative thinkers.
The brainchild of Nate Silver, a renowned statistician and writer, FiveThirtyEight was launched in 2008. Silver, who had gained fame for his accurate predictions during the 2008 U.S. presidential election, envisioned a website that would combine the power of data with the art of storytelling. He gathered a team of like-minded individuals who shared his passion for using data to inform and engage readers.
One of the key figures behind FiveThirtyEight is Silver himself. As the founder and editor in chief, he has been instrumental in shaping the publication’s direction and maintaining its commitment to data-driven journalism. Silver’s expertise in statistics and his ability to communicate complex ideas in an accessible way have been crucial to the site’s success.
Another key player is ESPN’s parent company, Disney. In 2014, Disney acquired FiveThirtyEight, allowing the publication to expand its reach and resources. This move has enabled FiveThirtyEight to hire more talent, invest in technology, and produce a wider variety of content.
Several other notable individuals have contributed to the success of FiveThirtyEight. One of them is Emily Oster, a professor of economics at the University of Chicago and the author of “Expecting Better: Why the Conventional Wisdom About Pregnancy Is Wrong—and What You Really Need to Know.” Oster joined FiveThirtyEight as a columnist and has since become a prominent voice on the site, offering insights on a range of topics, including parenting and personal finance.
Other notable contributors include:
– David Goldstein, a former data scientist at Google and the co-author of “The Signal and the Noise: Why So Many Predictions Fail – but Some Don’t.”
– Jim Caple, a sports journalist and author who has written for ESPN and other publications.
– Carl Bialik, a former Wall Street Journal reporter who has covered a variety of topics, including sports, politics, and economics.
These individuals, along with the rest of the FiveThirtyEight team, work together to produce high-quality, data-driven content that has earned the publication a loyal following. By combining the power of data with storytelling, FiveThirtyEight has become a leading voice in the world of journalism and a shining example of how data can be used to inform and inspire.
