Make Me Smart The Cuban dispatch II
Jan 31, 2025
Kimberly shares her vibrant adventures in Cuba, offering a firsthand look at the local culture and economy amid U.S. policies. The discussion dives into the harsh realities of living under a trade embargo, from medicine shortages to navigating a pandemic without modern technology. Resilience shines through as locals adapt to economic struggles and labor market challenges. Meanwhile, the hosts reflect on the uplifting spirit of Cubans who rely on tourists for vital support while engaging with their rich artistic heritage.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Cuban Ingenuity
- Cuba developed its own COVID-19 vaccines due to sanctions.
- They also resorted to educational television broadcasts for children when Zoom was inaccessible.
Cuban Employment
- Cuba's official 1% unemployment rate might be misleading, as jobs are often assigned by the government.
- A significant portion of the workforce transitions to the private sector for higher wages.
Medicine Shortages in Cuba
- Tourists in Cuba are approached for medicine due to shortages.
- This highlights the impact of sanctions and the reliance on dollars for essential goods.