Explore the rise and fall of the steel industry in the US, from traditional big steel companies to innovative mini mills. Learn how a smaller company challenged the established industry with cutting-edge technology, showcasing the importance of innovation and adaptation in a once-great industry.

Discover the intense economic competition between Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands in the rum industry, the history of rum wars, the $700 million rum tax payments, and how Captain Morgan shifted its operations to St. Croix, sparking the Rum Wars

Wind power business shows boom and bust, Gulf of Mexico offshore wind auction flops, keys to spark new market revealed. Wind turbine technician job projected to be fastest-growing in U.S. Reporter suits up to see job above the clouds. Challenges and opportunities in offshore wind energy explored.

Dive into the world of Oscars campaigns, where studios spend big bucks to sway Academy voters. Learn about the evolution of these campaigns, Netflix's aggressive tactics, and the economic value of winning Best Picture.

Explore the concept of dynamic pricing in supermarkets compared to other industries. Learn about the challenges of pricing perishable goods and the potential benefits of adopting a more flexible pricing strategy. Discover innovative supermarket practices in Norway, including the use of electronic shelf labels for dynamic pricing adjustments. Dive into the revolutionizing pricing strategies at Rema supermarket and the impact on reducing food waste and engaging in price wars with competitors.

Exploring the disparity in parental benefits worldwide, the podcast highlights the costly challenges of raising kids in the US. It contrasts the lack of federal support in the US with other countries offering cash incentives for having children. The host goes benefits shopping in Sweden, Singapore, South Korea, Estonia, and Canada to find the best deal for pregnancy. It discusses South Korea's aggressive parental benefits programs and Canada's affordable childcare initiatives, hinting at a logical future for supermarket pricing.

The podcast delves into the strange world of school fundraisers, questioning why schools turn kids into salespeople and allow companies to offer enticing prizes. Follow along with Villacorta Elementary's fundraising efforts to send students on a field trip. Discover the tactics companies use to win schools' business in this surprisingly strategic tradition.

Exploring the controversial topic of industrial policy and government intervention in the economy, focusing on President Biden's ambitious investments in microchip manufacturing and clean energy. Delving into the historical context, debate on market failures, and the shift towards embracing industrial policy. Analyzing the risks and rewards of government big bets on companies like Solindra and Tesla, highlighting the challenges and potential outcomes of this significant economic experiment.

Exploring the high costs of defense, from inflated pricing to bare-bones manufacturing. How the military's market differs from commercial, and the impact of overpayment on resources. Insights on defense industry economics, consolidation, competition, and the looming threat of an ammunition shortage in modern warfare.

Exploring the history of protecting cargo ships, the podcast discusses the attack on a non-US ship by a militant group, the role of the US Navy in safeguarding non-US affiliated cargo ships, and the concept of freedom of the seas in global trade. It delves into the historical context of free movement of ships, the importance of freedom of navigation, and the ineffective response to Houthi attacks on cargo ships.