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Listen to the Story

Latest episodes

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Jun 27, 2025 • 9min

Call Center Workers Are Tired of Being Mistaken for AI

Surreal conversations are prompting introspection about what it means to be human.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Jun 22, 2025 • 15min

Silicon Valley's 'Tiny Team' Era is Here

Silicon Valley is embracing a new era where revenue per employee takes precedence over lofty valuations. The introduction of 'botscaling' allows startups to harness AI for growth while minimizing personnel. Learn how solo founders are navigating this shift, relying on AI as a supportive co-founder. Discover the evolving dynamics of decision-making and workflow management in entrepreneurship, raising questions about the balance between human intuition and AI efficiency. This transformation heralds a leaner, smarter approach to building successful ventures.
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Jun 21, 2025 • 6min

China’s Spiritual Economy Is Booming as Gen Z Turns to Tarot

Anxious about their prospects, younger Chinese are seeking a glimpse of the future through astrology and other forms of fortune-telling.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Jun 20, 2025 • 12min

Japan Is Cracking Down on Host Clubs Where Men Flirt for Money

Once considered a harmless curiosity, the niche corner of the nightlife industry is being blamed for driving vulnerable women into debt.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Jun 18, 2025 • 35min

The Quest to Fix the Gap

Can the iconic ’90s retailer finally make a comeback—and survive tariffs? By Amanda Mull and Lily MeierSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Jun 15, 2025 • 8min

Professional Athletes Can’t Get Enough of Chess.com

Social media is a minefield for professional athletes. But online chess offers rankings, instant analysis, wholesome interactions and few trolls.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Jun 14, 2025 • 14min

The Stress of Wall Street Is Sending Men to Pelvic Floor Therapy

Physical therapists in New York are seeing an uptick in younger male patients with penile and bladder issues.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Jun 13, 2025 • 30min

The Next Reality TV President?

Mark Cuban is a self-made billionaire, sports mogul, small-business influencer, media personality, Democratic surrogate and possible health-care disruptor. There’s only one job he doesn’t yet have on his résumé. By Max Chafkin and John TozziSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Jun 13, 2025 • 8min

A Unesco-Protected Site in Mali Is Becoming a Burden for Locals

Known for its mud-brick architecture, the town of Djenné is struggling to attract tourists and maintain buildings that have been damaged by floods.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Jun 9, 2025 • 23min

American Mid

Hampton Inn has become the nation’s most powerful hotel chain, and a global export, by being rigorously OK. By Patrick ClarkSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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