Jimmy Chen

In a compelling conversation, Jimmy Chen, the founder and CEO of Propel, shares his journey from a financially constrained immigrant background to creating a tech platform that aids over 5 million low-income Americans in navigating government benefits. He discusses how the Propel app simplifies access to food stamps and financial management. The dialogue addresses the urgent need for modernization within the American safety net and explores the impact of policy changes on families facing poverty, emphasizing the importance of user-centric technology and community engagement.

This episode features a lineup of insightful guests. Derek Thompson discusses how neoliberalism has stifled growth, while Jimmy Chen shares how Propel is revolutionizing government benefits with user-friendly tech. Arthur Brooks delves into the deeper meaning of life in the age of screens, warning against the emptiness they can exacerbate. Gunjan Banerji highlights the rise of compulsive trading behaviors in modern markets. Lastly, Yoni Applebaum explores how zoning laws limit American mobility, offering policy solutions to unlock opportunities.

Jimmy Chen, the founder and CEO of Propel, shares his journey from food insecurity to launching an app that aids over 5 million low-income households in managing government benefits. He discusses how his personal struggles inspired a mission to create technology with social impact, challenging the stereotype of tech entrepreneurs. The conversation touches on the disconnection in Silicon Valley, the urgent need for equitable innovations, and how his app empowers SNAP recipients by modernizing outdated systems, proving that tech can indeed serve the poorest Americans.

Propel, founded by Jimmy Chen, aims to improve America's safety net by making government benefits more accessible. They started with SNAPs, now offer a full money app. Propel serves over 5 million people in all 50 states. The podcast explores the challenges faced by low-income individuals and the company's evolution into a mobile banking and benefits info provider. It also discusses the impact of the platform's cash transfer program and partnerships with nonprofits.

Join Ed Coss, a passionate military historian, and Peter Molloy, an engaging analysis enthusiast, alongside a stellar panel including Marcus Cribb, Beatrice de Graaf, Josh Provan, Jacqueline Reiter, Jimmy Chen, and Rachael Stark. They dive into the most irritating myths of the Napoleonic Era, tackling misconceptions about Wellington's tactics, the contributions of Irish soldiers, and the realities of Napoleon's Russian campaign. The lively banter and insightful critiques illuminate the complexities of history, inviting listeners to rethink what they thought they knew.