The Indicator from Planet Money What we're reading on the beach this summer
12 snips
Aug 11, 2025 Dive into a selection of intriguing beach reads that blend storytelling and economic insights. Discover the unsung heroes of public service and how one man's efforts transformed safety in coal mines. Explore a novel featuring sisters caught in a pyramid scheme, tackling themes of empowerment and societal pressure. Unpack how social media algorithms shape the language we use, as new terms emerge from platforms like TikTok. Enjoy personal anecdotes and relatable insights perfect for your summer reading list!
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Episode notes
A Miner Who Cut Roof-Fall Deaths
- Christopher Mark, a former coal miner, redesigned mine layouts and testing to dramatically improve safety.
- In 2016 there were zero US deaths from roof falls, credited largely to his work.
Government Work Shapes The Economy
- Michael Lewis's essays highlight thousands of unsung public servants who quietly fix big problems.
- Darian Woods says understanding these workers helps explain economic indicators like the CPI and policy outcomes.
Pyramid Scheme Pitched As Women's Club
- Willa Rubin describes "The Wheel" as a women's social club that charges $5,000 to join and pools cash for payouts.
- At meetings one woman wins $25,000 and only recruitment of new members funds the cycle.
