Researchers leave their ivory towers to experience real-world economics, including visiting a chain restaurant and a repair shop. The misunderstood Luddites and workers confronting technology are explored. The impact of self-driving trucks on truck drivers is discussed, as well as the decline of the Teamster labor market due to automation.

FTC Chair Lina Khan, a law school scholar, discusses the flaws in current antitrust enforcement and her proactive approach. She highlights the FTC's new lawsuit against Amazon and its efforts to rein in unchecked power. The podcast explores the shift in antitrust thinking, Lina Khan's responsibilities as the Chair of the FTC, and their aggressive enforcement strategy against big tech companies like Facebook, Meta, Microsoft, and Amazon. The antitrust case against Amazon and the possibility of breaking up the company are also discussed.

The podcast explores the Federal Trade Commission's lawsuit against Amazon, delving into the history of antitrust and discussing the impact of the Standard Oil case. It examines the power of John D. Rockefeller, the role of journalist Ida Tarbell in exposing his tactics, and the transformation of antitrust law by lawyer Robert Bork. The podcast also touches on the significance of antitrust in the 1960s and the influence of Bork on contemporary antitrust laws.

Explore the economics of all-you-can-eat buffets, from the evolution of upscale gourmet experiences to pricing strategies and biases. Discover the application of economic concepts like price discrimination, adverse selection, and sinking costs. Learn about the allure of flat rate pricing and the importance of maximizing happiness instead of eating your money's worth. Join us on a journey through Las Vegas and indulge in the buffet of economic insights.

School districts across the country are switching to a four-day school week to combat teacher shortages. While teachers and parents love the shorter week, the impact on students is debated. It creates a daycare-like atmosphere and puts financial strain on parents. The decrease in education days also affects students' learning and behavior. The trade-offs between teacher retention and student achievement are explored.

The podcast discusses the difficulties of setting up a union in the U.S., focusing on the failed attempt to unionize the Volkswagen plant in Chattanooga. It explores the challenges faced by the United Auto Workers (UAW) and the opposition from management and politicians. The episode highlights the declining trend of union membership and the factors that determine the success or failure of union campaigns.

Discover the behind-the-scenes process of measuring the economy through inflation and jobs numbers. Learn about the meticulous calculation of the consumer price index and the impact of accurate data on government policies. Explore Argentina's currency crisis and the importance of attention to detail. Dive into the process of compiling the monthly jobs report and the role it plays in the economy and the Federal Reserve. Gain insights into the significance of building strong relationships while collecting data.

Comedian Maria Bamford shares her journey of financial transparency and recovery, including negotiating her commencement speech fee and giving it away to pay down student loans. She discusses her experience with Debtors Anonymous and the importance of financial disclosure. The podcast explores the connection between comedy and finance and delves into the value of financial transparency in relationships and the comedy industry.

Hosted by David Kestenbaum and featuring Planet Money's executive producer Alex Goldmark, this episode explores why the price of Coca-Cola remained unchanged for 70 years. The topics discussed include the clever tactics used to control syrup amounts, the struggle to raise the price, and the historical price changes of Coca-Cola over the years.

Uruguay faced an energy crisis in 2007 but found a solution through renewable energy. A scientist's plan for wind power led to 98% of the country's grid being powered by green energy. The challenges faced included funding and expertise, but innovative solutions were developed. Uruguay's white energy revolution led to successful public-private partnerships. The impact of wind power included cost savings, reduced pollution, and potential for replication.