Planet Money

Meet John Rapp, an attorney who defends psychedelic religious groups, and Dave Hodges, pastor of the mushroom-focused Ziedor Church in Oakland. They walk through the church’s rituals, legal strategies for religious exemptions, a dramatic police raid and its fallout, how the organization operates and finances itself, and the broader legal patchwork facing psychedelic faith communities.

Jamie Walansky, a game consultant and retail expert, joins the discussion about naming a new board game inspired by economic principles. He emphasizes that a strong game title is crucial for retail success. The team grapples with various themes and settles on 'Sell Me a Sasquatch' due to its catchy appeal. They explore why nostalgia resonates with millennials and share insights on international market challenges. Ultimately, they decide to stick with the Sasquatch theme, inviting listeners to suggest their own cryptids for the game.

In this engaging conversation, Terry Karl, a political economist from Stanford with deep expertise in Venezuelan oil politics, dives into Venezuela's paradoxical relationship with oil. He explores how Venezuela became the world’s first petrostate and the complex consequences like Dutch disease and the resource curse. Terry also highlights Chevron's curious, decades-long partnership with this socialist nation, its navigation through corruption, and the impact of U.S. sanctions, questioning if a revival in oil could truly benefit the Venezuelan people.

Join New Yorker reporter David Kirkpatrick, who dives deep into the staggering nearly $4 billion in profits made by President Trump and his family during his time in office. He outlines how aggressive financial deals emerged in Trump's second term, including lucrative ventures in media and real estate. Ethics expert Fred Wertheimer highlights the unprecedented nature of these profits in U.S. history, discussing conflicts of interest and the potential impact on democracy. Tune in for a fascinating look at profit-making in politics!

Is the AI boom a bubble? Economists delve into the intriguing clues for spotting bubbles, highlighting high valuations and volatility. They explore the historical context of past bubbles and their potential economic fallout, while discussing the delicate balance policymakers face in managing them. The hosts also ponder the unexpected benefits bubbles can bring, like infrastructure development from the dot-com era. Will AI lead to a crash or contribute to innovation? Tune in for a mix of analysis and lighthearted insights!

George E. Johnson, co-founder of Johnson Products Company, shares his journey in the Black hair care industry. He reveals how Afro-Sheen funded Soul Train and supported the civil rights movement. Discussing product innovation, he explains how he transformed dangerous relaxers into popular cosmetics. Johnson reflects on building a thriving business while uplifting the Black community. Ultimately, he addresses the challenges and changes leading to the company’s sale, highlighting the shift in ownership within the hair care market today.

Alejandro Velasco, an academic expert on Venezuelan politics and economy, provides deep insights into Venezuela's tumultuous economic history. They explore how the oil boom contributed to dependency and eventual crisis. Listeners learn about the impacts of hyperinflation and informal dollarization on everyday life. Velasco discusses the role of U.S. sanctions, the ongoing political stalemate, and how remittances have brought about uneven economic stabilization. It's a compelling dive into a nation's struggles and resilience.

2025 was a rollercoaster for the economy, with consumer sentiment plunging to historic lows, signaling serious fears. Tariffs soared to unprecedented levels, triggering legal dramas, including a lawsuit from Costco. The CAPE ratio hit dot-com bubble highs, raising alarms about economic inequality and bubbles. As we edge into 2026, eyes are on the federal funds rate and the impact of AI data centers on electricity costs. Consumer spending remains uneven, thriving at the top while the rest face credit challenges.

David Autor, an MIT economics professor renowned for his research on trade's labor market impacts, joins to discuss the fallout from U.S.-China trade relations. He reveals how concentrated job losses in manufacturing have affected specific regions and the painful adaptation process for displaced workers. Autor critiques earlier economic models for overlooking local employment effects and emphasizes the complications of worker mobility and reskilling. He also addresses the implications of tariffs and advocates for strategic investment to rejuvenate industries and maintain economic leadership.

This week, Sarah Gonzalez, a Planet Money reporter known for her insightful coverage of international issues, dives into the ongoing situation in Gaza. She shares how cash shortages persist, while food availability has improved post-ceasefire. Sarah also touches on significant individual stories, shedding light on the resilience of those affected by the conflict. Additionally, listeners get updates on intriguing stories like a safer saw innovation and the evolving world of subscriptions in the digital age.