Models & Modeling

If you've ever wondered, "How does Josh's mind work?" this is the episode for you. We talk about what models are, why they matter, the model Josh uses for building mental models, and — in addition to a wide-ranging conversation — how it all applies to cycling.

Got a question you’d like to ask? Text or leave a voicemail at the Marginal Gains Hotline: +1-317-343-4506 or just leave a comment in this post!

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6 comments


  • Robert Chung

    Very nice.

    You’ve probably heard the quote by the statistician George Box, “All models are wrong. Some are useful.” I prefer another statistician’s quote on models. Sam Karlin said: “The purpose of models is not to fit the data but to sharpen the questions.” Jim Martin’s model helps us focus on newer, sharper, questions.

    My brother is an engineer and he once proclaimed, “Engineers think equations approximate reality. Physicists think reality approximates an equation.” I was trained as a mathematician so he waited two beats to let that sink in before finishing, “Mathematicians haven’t yet figured out there’s a connection.” So I have to work doubly hard to remind myself there’s a connection.


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