
Marc Levinson
Economist, historian, and journalist; author of "The Box" and "An Extraordinary Time."
Top 5 podcasts with Marc Levinson
Ranked by the Snipd community

34 snips
Jul 7, 2025 • 48min
563. How the Container Changed the World feat. Marc Levinson
Marc Levinson, a prominent journalist and economist, delves into the transformative power of the humble shipping container. He shares captivating insights into how this innovation ignited globalization and reshaped global trade. Levinson recounts the labor-intensive woes of pre-container shipping and the fierce union battles that followed. He also uncovers the unexpected repercussions of global supply chains and how containerization altered economic dynamics. The discussion even touches on the evolution of trade from physical goods to digital exchanges.

22 snips
Jan 18, 2021 • 46min
Why the Cost of Shipping Goods From China Is Suddenly Soaring
In this insightful discussion, economist and historian Marc Levinson sheds light on the ongoing global shipping crisis that intensified since the pandemic. He reveals how shipping costs from China have skyrocketed, quadrupling on some routes due to rising demand. Levinson also explores the intricate dynamics of shipping contracts, the dominance of major alliances in the industry, and the inefficiencies brought about by larger vessels. Plus, he discusses the humanitarian concerns affecting crew members caught in this turmoil.

18 snips
Mar 31, 2021 • 32min
How Gigantic Ships Are Creating Global Supply Chain Havoc
Marc Levinson, an esteemed economist and historian known for his expertise on global trade, dives into the issues surrounding massive cargo ships that are strangling supply chain logistics. He discusses the Ever Given’s infamous Suez Canal incident, revealing the larger system flaws it exposed. Levinson sheds light on the operational challenges posed by ultra-large vessels, from port difficulties to evolving shipping demands post-pandemic. He also emphasizes the need for companies to rethink purchasing strategies and enhance inventory management to sidestep future disruptions.

17 snips
Dec 3, 2019 • 34min
Of Container Ships, Supply Chains, and Retail
Marc Levinson, an economist and author renowned for his insights on global trade, shares his expertise on the pivotal role of container shipping. The discussion delves into how containerization has revolutionized supply chains, contrasting the rise and decline of retail giants like A&P. Levinson highlights the clash between innovation and tradition facing retailers today, alongside a reflection on economic shifts since the post-war boom. He also touches on modern challenges in logistics, revealing the interconnectedness of global supply chains and the future of retail.

6 snips
May 5, 2025 • 56min
From Shipping Things to Spreading Ideas (unboxing global trade with Marc Levinson)
Marc Levinson, an economist and author, discusses the revolutionary impact of containerization on global trade. He delves into how this innovation reshaped economic geography and the shipping industry. This conversation also explores the evolving nature of trade, highlighting the shift from tangible goods to intangible exchanges like services and ideas. Levinson uncovers the complexities of modern logistics and the challenges posed by automation, while emphasizing the need for adaptability in the face of globalization.