Ed Glaeser

Chad Syverson, an economics professor at the University of Chicago, Ed Glaeser from Harvard, and Vaughan Buckley, CEO of Volumetric Building Companies, dive into the perplexing inefficiencies of the U.S. construction sector. They discuss why construction productivity has stagnated since the 1970s, explore the potential of modular and prefabricated solutions, and share insights on the impact of regulations and labor dynamics. The conversation challenges preconceived notions about modular designs and highlights innovative approaches to address housing shortages.

Ed Glaeser, a Harvard economist focused on cities, Bethany Brookshire, a science writer on animal villains, and Kathy Corradi, New York’s former rat czar, dig into why rats became urban public enemy number one. They explore plague myths, how culture shapes animal reputations, why rats thrive beside humans, and how cities try to control them without turning them into monsters.

Rebecca Diamond, an economics professor at Stanford, and Harvard's Ed Glaeser delve into the pitfalls of rent control. They discuss a new proposal from the Biden administration and why economists believe it spells disaster. The conversation uncovers historical contexts and unintended consequences of rent control measures, illustrating their impact on housing supply and affordability. With insights from case studies and real-world effects, they tackle the ongoing debate about the balance between tenant support and market realities.

Ed Glaeser, a Harvard Professor of Economics and author of Triumph of the City, discusses the challenges in rebuilding Los Angeles, particularly the Pacific Palisades after devastating fires. He examines the complexities of zoning laws and the impact of insurance fraud on pricing. Glaeser advocates for innovative redesigns to increase urban density and improve resilience. The conversation highlights the need for effective fire safety regulations and community responsibility, while promoting a pragmatic, compassionate approach to urban recovery and development.

Amy Tomasso, housing innovator focused on scalable affordability. Jason Furman, macroeconomist and former CEA chair. Ed Glaeser, urban economist who studies cities and land use. They discuss why homebuilding has slowed, how interest rates and deficits shape housing, the role of NIMBYism and zoning, missing-middle housing, new ownership models, and cautious reasons for optimism about solutions.