Scratch & Win

Rund Abdelfatah and Ramtin Arablouei, co-hosts of NPR’s Throughline, dive into the impactful legacy of consumer advocate Ralph Nader. They explore his role in challenging the auto industry and advocating for safety regulations, spotlighting the powerful grassroots movement, Nader's Raiders. Additionally, they discuss the evolving perceptions of government and the significance of public engagement in consumer advocacy, reflecting on how the cultural shifts of the 60s and 70s resonate today. Expect insights on rallying for democracy and accountability!

Marc Dunkelman, a research fellow at Brown University and author of "Why Nothing Works," dives into why some government projects are met with scrutiny while others succeed quietly. He contrasts the controversial Big Dig with the successful state lottery, exploring the dynamics of government efficiency and effectiveness. The discussion touches on historical governance tensions, the evolution of welfare programs, and the crucial balance between public involvement and efficient bureaucracy. Dunkelman’s insights invite listeners to reconsider the factors shaping government outcomes.

In this engaging discussion, historian Lily Geismer, a professor at Claremont McKenna College and co-editor of "Mastery and Drift," dives into the historical roots of patronage politics within the Democratic Party. She reveals how the party shifted from its patronage-driven past to a more technocratic approach. The conversation touches on the decline of traditional loyalty networks, the ramifications for labor movements, and the evolving challenges in contemporary urban governance. Geismer expertly analyzes the implications of these shifts for grassroots political representation.

Lotteries are part of a long trend toward more and more legal gambling: bingo helped open the door for lotteries, just as lotteries helped open the door for casinos. And by that logic, sports betting is just the latest addition to the trend. So why does it feel so different?In the first of three interview episodes expanding on themes from the series, host Ian Coss speaks with gambling historian Jonathan Cohen about why this expansion of legal gambling is unlike anything that came before it.Cohen’s new book "Losing Big: America’s Reckless Bet on Sports Gambling” is out April 1st, 2025.

Most lottery games follow a predictable life cycle: a burst of interest followed by a long decline. But something else happened with the scratch ticket, and it changed how every lottery in the country operates. ---------------------------Credits:Host and scriptwriter: Ian CossExecutive Producer: Devin Maverick RobinsProducers: Isabel Hibbard and Ian CossStory Editor: Lacy RobertsEditorial Advisor: Jenifer McKimFact Checkers: Ryan Alderman and Isabel HibbardScoring and Music Supervision: Ian CossProject Manager: Meiqian HeGraphic Design: Bill Miller

Bob Crane, the former Massachusetts State Treasurer renowned for transforming the lottery into a powerhouse, faces a fierce political duel. His challenger, Joyce Hampers, a former state revenue commissioner and fierce critic, accuses him of financial impropriety. They dive into the chaotic political landscape of 1986, filled with patronage, media warfare, and hilariously competitive political breakfasts. The tension reaches a peak during a heated debate, spotlighting accusations and campaign strategies that reveal the dirty tactics of political races.

Jack Connors, co-founder of Hill Holiday, shares his insights on the wild world of the Massachusetts Lottery during its explosive rise in the 1980s. He discusses the initial stumble of launching the state's first lotto game and how it unexpectedly sparked a craze. The impact of memorable ads, particularly Clara Peller's, on public perception and lottery participation is explored. Connors also examines the societal implications of mega-jackpots, weaving in stories of dreams and disillusionment amid shifting American financial landscapes.

Delve into the fascinating connection between lotteries and local government finance in Massachusetts. Discover how a firefighter-turned-mayor faced community challenges after a tragic event. Uncover the grassroots tax revolt led by the passionate Barbara Anderson, changing the landscape of local governance. Explore the drastic effects of Proposition 2.5 on public services and education. Learn how the lottery transformed from a mere income source to a vital funding mechanism amid economic turmoil. It's a gripping tale of community resilience and political dynamics!

Dive into the gritty world of Boston's organized crime scene in 1979! Discover the FBI's daring surveillance tactics as they infiltrate the mafia's headquarters and navigate turf wars with notorious crime figures. Uncover the connection between the state lottery and mafia operations, while legal battles rage in courtrooms over secret tape evidence. This thrilling tale showcases the unique challenges of prosecuting organized crime through innovative strategies and high-stakes drama.

Explore the gritty history of the Massachusetts Lottery as it confronts organized crime head-on. Delve into the legacy of Harlem's numbers game, where personal stories and cultural significance intertwine. Discover the vibrant cultural awakening in 1960s Boston, shaped by diversity and a booming jazz scene. Meet Gennaro 'Jerry' Angelo, a cunning figure in the mafia world who transformed numbers betting into a powerful enterprise. Lastly, examine the complex evolution from illegal gambling to state lotteries, revealing deep emotional ties and ongoing community impacts.