In this podcast, the Planet Money Summer School Class of 2023 learns the art of pitching their startup ideas. Listeners present their business ideas in a Shark Tank-like competition called Guppy Tank. The podcast explores various startup ideas including a book of the month subscription service, collapsible rain boots, and a service for long-term planning. The hosts discuss supply chain, product testing, and marketing strategies. They also delve into the market for unique funerals and the challenge of marketing such a product.

Amid picket lines in Hollywood, a secret neutral gate is discovered where production companies not involved in the strikes can enter. The concept of neutral gates during strikes is explored, along with the history of labor movements and the tactics used by unions. A determined strike captain catches a show illegally using the gate, leading to a quest to flip the gate and annoy Hollywood studios. The episode offers insights into broader labor battles.

Learn negotiation tactics and strategies for getting the best deal without being a jerk. Explore real-life examples, including a hostage negotiator buying a car and a passenger successfully negotiating with an airline. Discover the power of starting with a low offer and the art of asking for more. Understand the importance of empathy and alternatives in negotiations. Dive into the fascinating negotiation between Marvel and Sony regarding the rights to Spider-Man movies.

This podcast explores the difference in vacation culture between the United States and other countries. It discusses historical, cultural, and religious factors that contribute to the American work ethic. The concept of the Protestant work ethic is examined, as well as the impact of lower income taxes and lack of paid vacation on the work culture in the US. The reasons behind the variation in vacation time between Europe and the US are explored, including higher taxes, consumerism, and societal differences.

In this podcast, they discuss the challenges and trade-offs of operations management. They use a case study of transporting 25,000 roses for a flower shop on Valentine's Day to highlight the importance of planning and flexibility. They also explore the concept of the 'news vendor model' and discuss the pros and cons of self-checkout machines in retail stores. The podcast offers insights into handling uncertainty and optimizing operations.

President Biden's student loan forgiveness plan was struck down by the Supreme Court, but his SAVE plan could still erase student loans. This episode explores the history of income-driven repayment and how borrowers may end up paying less. The new Biden plan offers a slow-motion loan forgiveness approach, benefiting low to moderate-income borrowers. The episode also delves into the controversy surrounding the Biden administration's student loan erasure proposal.

Learn about the challenges and opportunities that technology presents for businesses. Explore the concept of the innovator's dilemma and the choices companies face when adopting new tech. Discover how consumers' resistance to change can hinder innovation and how trust plays a crucial role in automation. Dive into the S curve of adoption and the advantages it offers to entrepreneurs. Get insights into Kodak's struggle to adapt to new technologies and the importance of differentiation in tech-intensive industries.

Experts explore future of US economy through unconventional methods like tarot card readings. Soft landing vs hard landing in economy discussed. Role of inflation expectations in driving actual inflation explored. Tarot card reader predicts tumultuous start of year with eventual growth and job opportunities.

This podcast discusses the principles of marketing and creating customer value, the power of product demonstrations, closing sales, customer experience strategy, and the allure of the Birkin bag.

$195 billion of medical debt in America can be reduced or negotiated. The podcast offers tips on navigating medical debt, negotiating bills, and seeking support. Strategies for tackling medical debt include checking for charity care eligibility and fact-checking charges.