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In this limited series, Odd Lots explains some of the thorniest issues facing the US economy through the medium of … chicken. Chicken occupies a unique position in the US diet, but issues facing the poultry industry illustrate wider points about the development of the US economy and the decisions being made about how it's structured and who benefits from it. So why has the chicken industry evolved in the way that it has? What’s been driving the price increases in eggs and meat? And what does it all say about things like inflation, the labor market and the nature of American capitalism? Check out Beak Capitalism on Odd Lots wherever you get your podcasts.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brake like a ballerina. Keep the fizz in the cup.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Free markets have been doomed since 2008. A modern version of mercantilism is emerging to replace them.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With state of the art consoles, bunkbeds and an unlimited supply of instant noodles, even the most diehard gamer’s perfect vacation is covered.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Five years after Covid-19 emerged, governments are relying on companies like Abbott Laboratories to spot the next big threat. By Riley GriffinSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The basic logic of white-collar apprenticeship — grunt work for on-the-job learning — is suddenly at risk. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A court decision may allow it to be imported, but won’t diminish the authorities’ appetite for proscribing books. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Boston Celtics star Jaylen Brown wants to reimagine the universe of athlete shoe deals. How scared should the sneaker giants be?  By Gordy Megroz   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fred Smith, its legendary founder, has stepped aside, sort of. CEO Raj Subramaniam now has the complicated job of reorganizing the company, soothing investors and keeping an eye on a second Smith. By Devin Leonard & Kiel PorterSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

North Dakota wants to entomb millions of tons of CO2 emissions a mile deep—but not for the reason you might think. A central goal of the state’s ambitious carbon- capture program is to allow it to keep pumping oil and burning coal. By Adam WillisSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.