The Indicator from Planet Money

Edward T. O'Donnell and Rebecca Edwards, historians specializing in the Gilded Age, delve into the parallels between the late 19th century and today. They discuss how rapid industrialization and urbanization shaped daily life and the economy. Wealth inequality, labor unrest, and political corruption are strikingly similar to current issues. Both guests ponder if we are witnessing a second Gilded Age and raise concerns about AI's potential to displace jobs, while also contemplating the need for a new Progressive Era to address these challenges.

Chris Garver, a former day trading addict turned advocate, shares his harrowing journey from excitement to debt, reaching £145,000. He describes how a major win led to risky trades, secretive habits, and strain on family life. Insights from neuroeconomist Waylon Wong and Camelia Kunin reveal the similarities between trading and gambling, highlighting how small chances of big wins lure investors. Ultimately, Chris founded Project Wellbeing to promote awareness and support for those struggling with gambling issues.

Richard Reeves, President of the American Institute for Boys and Men, dives into the economic struggles of men without college degrees. He highlights alarming wage trends since 1979, showing declines for non-graduates and the impacts of deindustrialization. Reeves discusses how men’s identities are tied to being providers, with rising women’s wages creating psychological shifts. He advocates for vocational training and diversifying job markets to include healthcare and education, pushing for a cultural redefinition of masculinity beyond mere earnings.

This podcast highlights Nintendo's fascinating evolution from a card company to a gaming titan. Discover how the 1983 video game crash reshaped the industry and how Nintendo revitalized it with the NES in the U.S. Their clever strategies focused on game quality and user experience. The hosts delve into the philosophy of using older technology for innovative gameplay, exemplified by the Wii's broad appeal. Finally, learn how Nintendo's unique culture and aesthetic draw gamers in, creating memorable experiences beyond just playing.

John Legend, the award-winning singer-songwriter and entrepreneur, shares insights into his entrepreneurial journey, particularly with his skincare brand, Loved One. He delves into why numerous celebrities are diversifying their income by launching personal brands, highlighting the shift from sponsorships to ownership. John reminisces about the thrill of seeing his products in stores like CVS and discusses the challenges of maintaining reputation and scaling in retail. The conversation also touches on the financial motivations driving actors and musicians towards business ventures.

Explore the transformation of Warren Buffett from a short-term investor to an empire builder through Berkshire Hathaway. Discover how his reputation became a business tool, attracting companies seeking his endorsement. Delve into his bold investments, particularly in Salomon Brothers, and the challenges he faced during the dot-com era. Hear how Buffett's warnings against inflated tech valuations proved prescient when the bubble burst, and acknowledge the mistakes he made along the way. What does the future hold for Berkshire after Buffett?

Explore the fascinating journey of Warren Buffett, from his childhood hustles to his pivotal acquisition of Berkshire Hathaway. Discover how a visit to GEICO changed his investing strategy and his collaboration with Benjamin Graham shaped his value approach. Learn about the spite behind the Berkshire purchase, which turned a failing textile mill into an empire. The transformation of Berkshire Hathaway into a diverse holding company is a testament to Buffett's genius and resilience, marking a legendary career in investing.

What a year 2025 was for the U.S. economy! Consumer sentiment hit alarmingly low levels, while tariffs surged to their highest point in nearly a century, stirring legal debates and market chaos. Meanwhile, the CAPE ratio raised eyebrows as it reflected pre-dot-com bubble valuation levels, hinting at potential long-term downturns. The hosts engage in a lively ‘Family Feud’ format, grappling over which economic tale truly defined the year. Tune in for the experts' insights and predictions!

The podcast checks in with a former federal employee who navigated unexpected layoffs. She shares how media exposure helped her secure a new legal role. The discussion shifts to a Louisiana shrimper reflecting on the impact of tariffs, revealing price fluctuations in the shrimp market. Lastly, a riveting update on a fraud case involving inflated metrics sheds light on legal repercussions for a major financial institution. The hosts emphasize the importance of follow-up reporting on these unfolding stories.

Tricia Pena from Hermitage, Tennessee, shares a heartfelt story about how changes to ACA premium subsidies will drastically raise her insurance costs. Health policy researcher Cynthia Cox dives into the impact of expanded tax credits, detailing how they doubled marketplace enrollment and stabilized insurance risk pools. They discuss projected premium increases if subsidies expire, the historical roots of Obamacare, and the ongoing political gridlock that complicates future reforms. The conversation highlights the real stakes for individuals like Tricia navigating this complex landscape.