Cato Podcast
Cato Institute
Each week on Cato Podcast, leading scholars and policymakers from the Cato Institute delve into the big ideas shaping our world: individual liberty, limited government, free markets, and peace. Whether unpacking current events, debating civil liberties, exploring technological innovation, or tracing the history of classical liberal thought, we promise insightful analysis grounded in rigorous research and Cato’s signature libertarian perspective. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Oct 7, 2023 • 18min
High Interest Rates and the Debt Doom Loop
Analyzing the behavior of interest rates and their implications for markets and fiscal policy, the impact of high interest rates and uncertain inflation expectations, the consequences of rising interest rates on government debt including healthcare and social security spending, challenges posed by high interest rates on the US debt amidst key spending programs, and potential actions the Fed can take to address the growing debt crisis.
Oct 6, 2023 • 13min
Pregnant Workers, Fairness, and Maximizing Workplace Flexibility
The podcast discusses the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act and the potential impact on pregnant workers and employers, as well as the challenges and risks associated with expanding accommodations. It also explores the impact of accommodating pregnant workers on employers, the role of the Americans with Disabilities Act in employment for disabled workers, and the trade-offs and compromises in employment situations. Vanessa Brown-Caldor from the Cato Institute is mentioned.
Oct 5, 2023 • 11min
An Overbroad Federal Swipe at 'Gamified' Investing
SEC's worries about the gamification of investing and proposed federal regulations. Lack of consideration for accessibility and availability of new investing forms. Concerns about AI and conflicts of interest in the industry.
Oct 4, 2023 • 21min
The Unprecedented Removal of the U.S. House Speaker … and What’s Next
The podcast explores the recent removal of the House Speaker and its implications. It discusses the clash between strong leadership and the division of powers within the U.S. legislative system. The speakers also speculate on potential outcomes of selecting a new House Speaker. They delve into the role of the interim speaker and the potential consequences of not having one. Additionally, they explore the ramifications of a small group determining the functioning of the House compared to the Senate.
Oct 3, 2023 • 17min
Defending Globalization Means Embracing Comparative Advantage
Exploring the concept of comparative advantage and its relevance to international trade. How individuals, not countries, possess comparative advantage. The impact of subsidies on comparative advantage. The unseen consequences of protectionism, such as the loss of jobs and reduction in efficiency and wealth for a country.
Oct 2, 2023 • 10min
Feds vs. States on Trimming Medicaid Rolls
Explore the growth of Medicaid rolls and the Biden administration's request to slow down the auditing process. Understand the incentives behind federal control over Medicaid administration and the struggle between federal and state flexibility. Discuss the impact of Medicaid expansion and the need for alternative coverage options. Learn about the process and purpose of auditing state Medicaid rolls and the impact of the Biden administration on healthcare access.
Sep 28, 2023 • 11min
A Federal Plan to Expand Racial Categories Is a Bad Idea
This podcast explores the proposal to expand racial categories, focusing on the potential discrimination and historical misuse of data. It discusses the debate surrounding the creation of a new racial category for Middle Eastern and North Africans, and examines the impact of adding this category on affirmative action systems and advocacy groups.
Sep 27, 2023 • 11min
California May Join States Legalizing Psychedelics
The California Governor Gavin Newsom is considering legalizing small amounts of psychedelic drugs. Cato's Jeff Singer discusses the exclusion of physicians, the slow federal response, and Oregon's cautious approach. They explore the risks, controversy, and potential of psychedelic-assisted therapy, including ongoing research and promising clinical trials. They also discuss the positive impact of psychedelics on patients and the barriers they face in FDA approval and pharmaceutical industry support.
Sep 27, 2023 • 11min
The Nonemergency Emergency Spending Causing a Fiscal Emergency
Learn how emergency spending has contributed to the fiscal crisis and the importance of regular budgeting. Discover strategies used by countries like Sweden and Switzerland for dealing with unexpected expenses. Explore concerns about abuse of emergency powers and the need for reforms in government spending.
Sep 24, 2023 • 10min
A Glimpse at a Trump Foreign Policy Agenda for 2025
The podcast discusses the Heritage Foundation's foreign policy recommendations, such as increasing military spending to counter China and Russia and reducing restrictions on weapon transfers. They also explore Donald Trump's proposal to decrease Congress's control over foreign arms sales. Additionally, the chapter highlights concerns about the increasing power of the administrative state and the president in defense spending and decision-making.
