Planet Money

Joanne-Ricard Uguet, an associate professor in political science, joins former co-host David Kestenbaum to dive into the complex world of government regulations. They discuss whether regulations truly protect consumers or merely the wealthy elites. The conversation takes lively turns as they explore the licensing hurdles faced by hair braiders and the innovative quest to patent meat processing methods. Tune in for an insightful look at how regulations can stifle creativity while also keeping public safety in check.

Joining the discussion is Sarah Bowerly-Danzman, a political economist and former CFIUS case officer. The conversation dives into the hotly debated acquisition of U.S. Steel by Japan's Nippon Steel, especially the implications of the ‘golden share’—a rare control mechanism allowing government oversight. Sarah unpacks the historical context of golden shares, weighing their potential benefits for attracting foreign investment against concerns of government overreach. It’s a lively examination of the intersection between national security and economic interests.

Aviva Arundine, Director of the Hamilton Project at the Brookings Institution, shares her insights on government spending. She explains the challenges of budgeting against rising national debt and the complexities of deciding what to fund. The discussion highlights the significant allocations for Medicare and Medicaid, the influence of lobbying on fiscal priorities, and how politicians juggle personal interests with public responsibilities. Discover how strategic investments shape economic sustainability and the tricky balance between political goals and responsible spending.

Delve into the political obsession with reviving manufacturing in the U.S. and why it holds a unique place in the economy. Discover the paradox of unfilled manufacturing jobs despite their high wages and job security. Explore the stark contrast between thriving urban centers and struggling small towns, as revitalizing manufacturing emerges as a crucial strategy for economic growth. The discussion also highlights the need to redefine quality employment, particularly in the face of automation and shifting job landscapes.

Congress's recent decision to cut federal funding for public media raises serious concerns about the future of independent journalism. The impact of these cuts is profound, particularly for rural communities that rely on local storytelling and news. The podcast advocates for public support to ensure media remains free and accessible, highlighting the essential role it plays in our democracy.

Darrick Hamilton, a distinguished professor at The New School and expert in economic policy, dives into the multifaceted role of taxes in shaping behavior and society. He discusses how taxes can incentivize eco-friendly practices and promote homeownership. The transformative impact of the Earned Income Tax Credit is highlighted, showcasing its effectiveness in supporting low-income individuals. Furthermore, Hamilton explores Pigouvian taxes as a solution for negative externalities like pollution, illustrating how smart tax policy can drive significant change for the better.

Discover the realities of garment manufacturing in the U.S. through the inspiring story of Maria, a dedicated worker in Los Angeles. Uncover the challenges she faces, from piece-rate pay to striving for skill enhancement. The discussion sheds light on wage theft, labor conditions, and the stark differences between American workers and their international counterparts. Delve into the potential for growth in domestic manufacturing and explore the tough choices Americans face about labor in the garment industry today.

Join Simon Johnson, a prominent MIT professor and former chief economist of the IMF, as he dives into the intricate relationship between government and economic success. He argues that government influence has always been present in economics, countering the notion of a purely free market. The discussion spans intriguing stories from India, New York City, and Peru, touching on how bureaucratic efficiency can make or break economies, particularly for informal sectors like Jamaican street vendors. Johnson emphasizes the critical roles of innovation, wealth distribution, and inclusive governance in fostering prosperity.

This discussion delves into the complexities of a massive tax and spending bill, revealing how it proposes significant tax cuts funded by cuts to Medicaid and growing national debt. The analysis uncovers the math behind these decisions, showing that the balance simply doesn’t add up. Listeners learn about the uneven benefits across different income groups and the implications for public services. There's a spotlight on the potential $3 trillion deficit impact and the broader economic ripple effects that could follow.

Explore how the U.S. national debt skyrocketed to $30 trillion and the historical lessons that can be learned from post-World War II. Economists discuss using economic growth as a remedy for debt, emphasizing innovative strategies like tax cuts and bolstering R&D funding. Discover how adjusting immigration policies could enhance productivity and reduce deficits. Additionally, the podcast tackles infrastructure challenges and regulatory reforms needed to stimulate economic growth while balancing the responsibilities of national debt management.