Est. 2026

The Side Quest

Let’s get weird.

Saturday, August 22, 2026

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Welcome to the land of thinking slow…

The Side Quest is a data-driven research publication and community for sports and economics nerds. We explore the questions that you’ve probably argued with someone about: if passing is better, why run? What are the odds of going pro? Is pop culture measurably more old than new?

Created by Michael MacKelvie and data scientist Nick Gurol, this community was launched because data science needs a home for curious people. It was also created because, well…

Everyone needs a side quest.

Quizzy - Microsoft Internet Explorer

Hello Questy…

Quizzy

Done

Community

How & why do I submit a side quest?

Every week, we will feature and publish one audience member’s Side Quest. Have an idea you want to investigate? Go on a side quest.

  1. Pitch. Drop your idea in the form. A 1-2 paragraph description is long enough, but longer is better.

  2. Build. Each week we pick one, meet with you, and pull the data together.

  3. Publish. It goes up right here, under your name.

Submit a Side Quest

Routes to contact@thesidequest.com.

Submitting a Side Quest: the rules

  1. It’ll probably suck at first. That’s chill. Just don’t copy n’ paste. That’s not chill.
  2. No AI or die. You’re still a wizard. Just write.
  3. Send it bro. Fill out the form above and hit Submit. It lands on our desk.

Side Quest TV

There’s a new Relative Age Effect (it’s worse)

The Side Quest was founded by Michael MacKelvie, a YouTuber who releases deeply researched short films every month. The research for these films co-lives here on The Side Quest. Feel free to check out the latest film by clicking the link below.

Watch the film → Read the article →

Join for free

Become a Questy.

Data science needs a home for curious people. Drop your email and get in.

  • New side quests in your inbox when they drop
  • Early signup number: being early is going to be worth something
  • Pitch eligibility for the weekly Questy feature
  • Community updates from Nick & Michael

Check your inbox. One click there confirms it and claims your number.

FAQ

Is it free?

Yes. Joining as a Questy is free.

What is The Side Quest?

The Side Quest is a data-driven research publication and community for sports and economics nerds. We chase the questions you’ve probably argued with someone about, with hardcore data science.

Who created The Side Quest?

Michael MacKelvie and data scientist Nick Gurol.

What is a Questy?

A Questy is a member of The Side Quest community: someone signed up to follow the work, pitch side quests, and hang with other curious people.

How do I become a Questy?

Enter your email in the “Become a Questy” box, confirm the link we send, and you’re in. That’s it.