This episode dives into the significant political question posed by Ronald Reagan during the closing moments of his 1980 presidential debate with Jimmy Carter: 'Are you better off than you were four years ago?'

Ken Woodward explores the context of the 1980 political climate, marked by economic difficulties, high inflation, unemployment, and international issues such as the Iran hostage crisis and concerns about U.S. global standing and nuclear threats. Reagan's question, which became iconic in U.S. political discourse, was noted for its simplicity, personal relevance, emotional resonance, and strategic timing. The question invited voters to reflect on their circumstances rather than abstract policies, ultimately contributing to Reagan's landslide victory.

The episode details six crucial lessons for crafting influential questions, emphasizing audience perspective, engagement, simplicity, timing, self-reflection, and a call to action. Listeners are encouraged to consider how such questions have shaped their decisions and to apply these insights in personal and professional contexts.