Samantha Fields

Samantha Fields, a Marketplace reporter specializing in social safety nets, discusses the recent court-order mandating partial SNAP funding amid government shutdowns. Mitchell Hartman analyzes mixed signals in the manufacturing sector and the impact of tariffs, while Lane Florsheim introduces the quirky trend of 'pumpkin styling' as a burgeoning small business. The episode also touches on OPEC's strategies and the U.S. efforts to secure rare earth element supplies, highlighting the intricate dance of economics in everyday life.

Samantha Fields, a dedicated reporter focusing on SNAP benefits, discusses the complexities of food assistance amidst a government shutdown. Mitchell Hartman unpacks the conflicting indicators in the manufacturing sector, revealing why it feels 'meh' despite some positive signs. Lane Florsheim dives into the quirky world of pumpkin-styling, exploring its surprising rise as a microbusiness phenomenon during the pandemic. Together, they navigate the intricate links between economics, supply chains, and the creativity of entrepreneurs.