The Indicator from Planet Money

Events like the recent dock worker's strike and hurricanes sparked panic buying among American shoppers. Today, a logistics expert helps us craft a shopper's guide for how to navigate a supply chain crisis.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

Economic news is buzzing everywhere! The urgent discussions around funding for climate change at COP29 are heating up, with wealthier nations facing tough commitments. Meanwhile, home builders are showing signs of confidence, spurred by trends that hint at a sector recovery. Plus, U.S. manufacturing is experiencing a fascinating resurgence after years of decline, with automation changing the landscape of jobs. Dive into these critical topics and discover the connections that shape our economy!

Zachary Crockett, host of The Economics of Everyday Things podcast, dives into the surprisingly rich world of pizza boxes. He shares a personal story from Israel that sparked his interest in their unique designs and cultural significance. The conversation uncovers the clever evolution of pizza box engineering and its impact on delivery. Innovations in assembly efficiency emerge as crucial for small pizzerias. Finally, he humorously explores the niche world of pizza box collecting, highlighting the hidden economics behind this quirky hobby.

Explore Netflix's bold move into live sports and how it aims to reshape its subscription model. Dive into the financial mess of 23andMe, facing issues from data breaches to board resignations. Unpack the thrilling rise of Bitcoin post-election and the psychology driving investor behavior. Discover the parallels between ancient games and modern speculation, revealing how our brains react to the highs and lows of financial risk.

Nuclear energy is making a surprising comeback, fueled by a push from the Biden administration to triple production by 2050. Major tech companies like Amazon, Microsoft, and Google are now investing in nuclear to power their operations sustainably. The discussion covers financial hurdles of traditional nuclear projects versus renewable alternatives, while small modular reactors emerge as a promising solution. The podcast also tackles critical issues like waste management and safety, underscoring the urgency of redefining nuclear's role in a carbon-free future.

Rising flooding events are wreaking havoc across the U.S., yet homeowners find themselves with limited flood insurance options. The National Flood Insurance Program is drowning in debt, struggling to stay afloat despite its role as the primary provider. The history of flooding in places like Waterbury, Vermont, reveals community challenges and the industry's hesitance to insure high-risk areas. Meanwhile, outdated flood maps and misaligned incentives complicate the program's reform, creating a costly dilemma for taxpayers.

Sheila Bair, a former banking regulator, is on a mission to boost financial literacy among children through her engaging children's books. The podcast dives into the challenges of teaching kids about money management and the gaps in adult knowledge that impede this process. It also addresses how the subprime mortgage crisis highlighted the need for better financial understanding. Through storytelling, Bair aims to equip the next generation with essential skills to navigate their financial futures and avoid common pitfalls.

Discover the intriguing evolution of weather forecasting in the U.S., from government dominance to the emergence of private companies. Explore the complexities of data control and accessibility, especially during critical weather events. The discussion highlights how accurate forecasts can save lives, using Hurricane Milton as a key example. Dive into personal experiences with weather apps and learn how public safety hinges on reliable weather predictions. This episode showcases the tension between commercial interests and the common good.

Amanda Arontic, a guest contributor with a keen insight into economic trends, delves into the aftermath of recent elections. She discusses the significant jump in stock prices while analyzing the temperamental shifts of the Mexican peso. The conversation also highlights the rise in minimum wage initiatives across several states, emphasizing the broader implications for workers' rights. With a focus on trade dynamics, Arontic connects fluctuating exchange rates to real-world impacts, including the effects on exporters and retailers relying on imported goods.

William Leogrand, a professor of government at American University and an expert on Cuban politics, dives into Cuba's ongoing economic turmoil. He discusses the recent hurricane-induced power outages and how they reflect deeper systemic failures. The conversation highlights the historical context of U.S. sanctions and the loss of Soviet support, illustrating how these factors shape daily life for Cubans. Leogrand also explores the rising tide of emigration as citizens seek better opportunities abroad amidst growing despair.