Discover the inspiring journey of a Syrian economist exiled by civil war, who continues to fight for freedom from afar. He uncovers troubling financial patterns of how the Assad regime exploits humanitarian aid. This story not only highlights the resilience of individuals committed to change but also reveals the significant risks faced by those providing crucial information about economic mismanagement during the conflict.

The Federal Reserve's last Beige Book of 2024 is like Spotify Wrapped but for the economy. There's a little bit of everything inside — labor markets, inflation and even natural disasters. On today's show, we spotlight Western North Carolina's challenging recovery after Hurricane Helene, and check in with an Asheville malt manufacturer on the impact to local businesses. For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org. Music by Drop Electric. Find us: TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Newsletter. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

In a shocking tale, Mozambique's hidden debt scandal unveiled over $1 billion in secret borrowing linked to a tuna fishing initiative. Economists delve into the haunting consequences of undisclosed public debt, revealing staggering figures hidden across 150 nations. The discussion highlights how such financial misconduct leads to crises, like those experienced in Greece and Mozambique, plunging individuals into poverty and sparking austerity measures. The alarming revelations shed light on the critical issue of transparency in government borrowing.

Steve Martin, Faculty Director of Behavioral Science at Columbia Business School, dives into the intricacies of influence in professional settings. He challenges the common belief that mere information sharing sways minds, using a fascinating recycling study as a backdrop. Listeners also gain insight into the psychology behind financial requests, emphasizing timing and ethical storytelling. The discussion highlights the importance of mastering influence to improve motivation and build stronger workplace relationships.

Richard Reeves, President of the American Institute for Boys and Men, shares insights on the troubling economic trends for men without college degrees. He discusses how many feel they're falling short compared to their fathers. The conversation highlights significant wage stagnation since 1979 and how inflation has further strained their purchasing power. Reeves suggests exploring improved vocational training and a shift in cultural perceptions to address these disparities, opening the door to a hopeful dialogue about future solutions.

In a thrilling discussion, experts delve into SpaceX's staggering 2024 launch achievements, including the much-anticipated Starship. They highlight the breathtaking yet delicate Texan landscape affected by these ambitious projects. Environmental concerns come to the forefront, particularly regarding the rapid launch schedule and lack of infrastructure to mitigate impact. The possibility of a second Trump administration adds a layer of intrigue, as regulatory and funding changes could reshape the future of SpaceX and its groundbreaking endeavors.

One-day strikes are becoming a powerful trend among workers from retail to nursing. They can highlight immediate concerns yet raise questions about their long-term effectiveness. The podcast explores the tactics behind these short protests, particularly among low-wage workers. It features a case study of nurses in New Orleans demanding better conditions, showing how timing and visibility can greatly enhance their impact. The discussion delves into the shifting dynamics of union power and the strategic use of brief strikes in labor negotiations.

Boeing is in crisis, facing safety issues, labor strikes, and layoffs. The shift from engineering excellence to financial engineering is highlighted as a key factor in its troubles. The podcast dives into Boeing's struggle between maximizing shareholder profits and delivering quality products. It also covers the aftermath of their acquisition of McDonnell Douglas, illustrating how this cultural shift has jeopardized safety and operational integrity. The urgent need for a cultural transformation at Boeing is underscored as the company grapples with significant debt and reputation challenges.

Kyla Scanlon, an economic commentator and author of *In This Economy*, shares her insights on President-elect Trump’s ambitious tariff plans. She explores how these tariffs could reshape the economy and whether they will genuinely lower the U.S. trade deficit or just lead to higher prices for everyday goods. The conversation dives into the impact on consumer costs, particularly for popular items like chocolate chip cookies, and raises concerns about the potential job creation in the tech sector amidst economic skepticism.

The recent nomination of Scott Bessent as Treasury Secretary raises questions about his role in shaping economic policies. The podcast unpacks how the Treasury Department affects everyday Americans, from Social Security to stimulus checks. It dives into the Treasury's responsibilities during financial crises, including the historical implications of bailouts. The discussion also touches on the influence of tariffs and the complex challenges that the new Secretary will face in managing fiscal policies and national debt.