Simon Rabinovich, The Economist's US economics editor, breaks down the urgent negotiations between President Biden and Speaker McCarthy over the daunting $31.4 trillion debt ceiling. He highlights the potential economic fallout from a possible sovereign default and the political challenges that complicate solutions. Meanwhile, John Fassman shares his delightful foraging escapades in the American Northeast, emphasizing the therapeutic joys of reconnecting with nature and the thrill of discovering wild edibles.