Luigi Zingales, a finance professor at the University of Chicago, explores the evolution of macroeconomics and the dramatic debate between Keynes and Hayek. The conversation dives into economic concepts using a clever rap battle to dissect their differing views on government intervention and market dynamics. Expect insights on the paradox of thrift and how emotions shape economic decisions. Plus, a fun connection with pop culture shows how economics can resonate beyond the classroom!

Luigi Zingales, a Chicago Booth professor and expert on corporate governance, joins Amir Sufi, who studies financial crises and inequality. They explore the enduring factors behind Trump's appeal, highlighting the parallels between past and present electoral dynamics. Discussing economic anxieties, they reveal how inflation and globalization fears shaped voter sentiment. The rise of the far-right globally is also scrutinized, illustrating how systemic inequality and political disenchantment have fueled support for extreme movements, echoing earlier trends.

Luigi Zingales, a prominent economics expert, dives into the fascinating world of inflation and its real-life consequences. He shares the gripping story of Brazil's struggle with hyperinflation in the 90s, marked by supermarket chaos and economic despair. Zingales highlights the role of psychology in inflation, explaining how consumer expectations can exacerbate the crisis. He recounts how four drinking buddies developed an innovative currency solution, showing that even in dire circumstances, creative thinking can pave the way for recovery.

The podcast discusses the erosion of institutional accountability, focusing on bank failures and whistleblowing. It explores potential solutions like the abolition of NDAs and the role of activist investors. The conversation touches on the future of financial technology, including Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) and the impact on commercial banks. The episode also delves into the complexities of the American economy post-financial crisis and the challenges faced by the commercial real estate sector.

Vivek Ramaswamy, a scientist, lawyer, and former venture capitalist and entrepreneur, has a new book out: "Woke, Inc.: Inside Corporate America's Social Justice Scam". In this book, he argues that "wokeism" has become a way for corporations to wrap themselves in a mantle, which then furthers the idea of crony capitalism and extends their power into spaces they were never meant to be in. Luigi Zingales and Bethany McLean sit down with Ramaswamy to discuss his perspectives on the role of virtue, ethics, and politics in business and society.