Capitalisn't

Financial expert Jim Grant joins the hosts to discuss the rise of private credit post-2008 crisis, its $1.7 trillion industry size, and lack of traceability. They analyze risks in unregulated lending, potential spillover effects, and the public interest implications. The conversation emphasizes the need for transparency, regulation, and honesty in private credit markets to protect investors and the financial system.

Ralph Nader, a longtime consumer advocate and former presidential candidate, discusses ethically profitable business, political disillusionment, and reclaiming democratic control of capitalism in his new book with the hosts.

Longtime journalist Ben Smith discusses the future of journalism in the digital era with a focus on financial viability, social media's influence, and the role of investigative journalism. They explore the challenges and opportunities facing the news industry, emphasizing the importance of quality news in informing and holding power to account.

Debates on poverty in America persist due to conflicting perspectives: is it a terrible scourge or a measurement error? Former Senator argues poverty is overstated, while sociologist claims no progress. Podcast delves into nuanced debate on poverty, income inequality, and government assistance policies.

The podcast delves into the dangers of financial consolidation, focusing on the power of the 'Big Four' index funds and private equity firms. They discuss the lack of transparency, challenges of concentrated financial power, and potential solutions for a more equitable economic system.

Legendary short seller Jim Chanos sat down with Luigi and Bethany to discuss the relationship between short sellers and our information environment, the fallout from the 'meme stock' craze, the effects of the Federal Reserve's interest rate policies, and how short selling can contribute to market efficiency and resilience.

Emily Hund, author of 'The Influencer Industry: The Quest for Authenticity on Social Media,' joins the hosts to discuss the rise of social media influencers and their impact on the media landscape and capitalism. They explore hidden incentives driving influencer messaging and the control and impact of platforms on the industry. The podcast also delves into the selling of worldviews, the clash between personal branding and research in the fashion industry, and the importance of professionalism and standards in journalism.

Anat Admati, a Stanford finance professor, discusses the issues of guaranteeing financial institutions that are too big to fail. She dissects new financial developments, such as the failure of Silicon Valley Bank and the crypto industry. Admati also explores how the current financial system is rigged for the few and offers suggestions on building a fairer and more accountable system. The podcast covers topics including the current state of banking, academic myths in the industry, views on banks holding more equity, challenging global banking behemoths, and the importance of highly leveraged banks in the financial system.

Luigi Zingales answers questions on competition policy, the impact of green energy on prices, regulating the shadow economy, and his struggles with his favorite soccer team. The podcast also explores dangers and benefits of direct democracy, SEC actions, the informal economy, and an alternate approach to addressing the influence of big tech firms.

Prof. Sendhil Mullainathan discusses the firing and rehiring of OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, governance of AI and innovation, regulating AI in comparison to the nuclear industry, profit vs. non-profit strategies in AI, citizen governance in various sectors, expressing viewpoints and regulating competition in the AI field, AI as a winner-takes-all business, and Larry Summers' stance on technology and AI.