Planet Money

Maureen Thorson, a poet and international trade lawyer, blends art and law to explore the complexities of product origins. She reveals how 'Made in China' can be misleading, with products often having intricate global journeys. The discussion dives into the Substantial Transformation Test that determines a product's real origin, and the perplexing sticky note dilemma highlights the challenges of classification. Thorson illustrates how trade laws are not just legal jargon, but also shaped by philosophical nuances.

Finding a public bathroom can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. The journey through the story of pay toilets reveals how a grassroots movement fought to abolish them, leading to unintended consequences. Challenges in maintaining public restrooms are examined, reflecting the struggle between urban policy and societal needs. Experts emphasize the crucial role of access to clean toilets for community health. Ultimately, the podcast highlights disparities in restroom availability and the ongoing quest for better facilities in urban settings.

Join a lively conversation as hosts vent about their shared frustrations as consumers. They tackle annoyances like excessive promotional emails and unrepairable products, all while uncovering deeper economic truths about customer satisfaction. The discussion takes a humorous turn when exploring the challenges of appliance repairs and the quirky world of coffee shop expectations. Plus, a revelation about how our happiness is impacted by modern consumer culture will leave you pondering your own spending habits.

Aunt Vovi's journey with 23andMe leads to unexpected revelations about ancestry, touching on the emotional weight of genetic data. As the company faces bankruptcy, concerns about privacy and the future of customers' data emerge. Discussion shifts to the complexities of consumer rights in data handling during financial crises. There's contemplation on the role of Chief Privacy Officers and the evolving landscape of data regulations. Listeners will resonate with the struggles of reclaiming privacy amidst the murky waters of corporate financial turmoil.

Tensions rise as President Trump criticizes Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, threatening the central bank's independence. The discussion covers the Fed's complex role in balancing inflation and employment while maintaining monetary policy. Historical insights reveal how the Fed amassed power and its strategies during economic crises. With executive orders posing challenges, the podcast highlights the crucial need for the Fed to remain insulated from political pressure, ensuring stability in turbulent times.

Join a quirky exploration of an egg shortage as colleagues navigate innovative ways to distribute farm-fresh eggs without price gouging. From humorous backyard chicken antics to a playful survey assessing breakfast preferences, the podcast dives into the love for eggs and their true market value. Discover the fascinating Becker-DeGroote Marshak method, where participants hilariously evaluate their willingness to pay for eggs, blending economics with lighthearted fun and surprising insights into consumer behavior.

Dive into the intriguing world of OIRA, the federal office gaining unprecedented power under a new executive order. Explore how this shift could shake up independent agencies like the SEC and FCC, affecting financial markets and democracy itself. Discover the delicate balance between agency independence and presidential control, and the implications of changing regulatory landscapes. With a rich history of influence, OIRA's evolving role is at the forefront of crucial political dynamics and public policy.

In this talk, Alex Rodrigues, the owner of Nut Hut in Vancouver, shares her journey running a specialty nut shop amid turbulent trade policies. She discusses the intricate relationships with local farmers and the challenges of sourcing unique products like native pecans affected by tariffs. The conversation dives into how rising nationalism influences consumer choices and the growing Canadian movement to prioritize local goods over U.S. imports. Ultimately, it highlights the delicate balance between supporting local businesses and navigating the complexities of global trade.

The discussion dives into the complexities of trade deficits, questioning whether they're inherently bad or indicative of economic vitality. It highlights the Trump administration's tariffs and their real-world consequences on imports. The hosts clarify the distinction between global and bilateral perspectives on trade while exploring how foreign investment interacts with U.S. dollars. Through relatable examples, they unpack the nuanced impacts of trade imbalances, encouraging listeners to rethink common perceptions and the role of tariffs in international relations.

Discover the surprising connection between blueberries and the war on drugs. The show explores how U.S. initiatives helped Peruvians transition from coca to crops like asparagus and blueberries. Personal stories reveal the challenges faced by farmers in this shift, highlighting resilience amidst corruption. Learn about the blueberry boom, driven by trade agreements and U.S. demand. Taste tests showcase the Biloxi blueberry's reliability despite its flavor. Pop culture also plays a role in shaping consumer preferences for this wintertime delight.