The Indicator from Planet Money

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act is setting off a $3.4 trillion deficit bomb, driven by major tax cuts. Experts explore whether these cuts can truly pay for themselves or if it's just a myth. Dive into the Laffer Curve theory, which claims lower tax rates might boost revenue, but then scrutinize the evidence suggesting otherwise. Discussions reveal a consensus that recent tax cuts could hurt government revenue, raising questions about their long-term implications for businesses and workers.

Discover the intriguing reasons why trees aren't insured like other crops in the U.S. Explore the devastating impact of extreme weather on forests, particularly through the lens of maple syrup producers. Understand the financial risks landowners face and learn about past attempts to create a sustainable timber insurance market. Delve into the complicated economics of insuring trees and how community advocacy is paving the way for innovative solutions in the face of climate change.

Jon Cohen, Senior Correspondent with Science magazine, discusses the critical state of HIV/AIDS treatment in Eswatini and Lesotho. He shares firsthand experiences from his reporting trip, highlighting the serious impacts of U.S. funding cuts on healthcare. The conversation delves into the vital role of PEPFAR in combating the HIV crisis and the urgent need for continued support to protect vulnerable populations. Cohen emphasizes the challenges posed by changing foreign policy and the importance of global cooperation to sustain progress in fighting the epidemic.

The podcast explores the significant impact of immigration crackdowns on the U.S. labor market. It highlights how fear of ICE raids is causing anxiety among immigrant workers in crucial industries like agriculture and construction. A firsthand account from a cherry picker reveals the troubling consequences of missed work and wasted produce. Additionally, the discussion delves into how these policies are worsening labor shortages, leaving essential sectors like long-term care struggling to maintain their workforce.

Listeners dive into the intriguing concept of 'recession pop,' where upbeat music emerges during tough economic times. They explore why the tech job market feels bleak for recent grads amid AI advancements and high interest rates. The discussion also tackles tariffs and the historical context of price controls, revealing their rare application today. Plus, there's a nostalgic look at past recession hits, showing how cheerful tunes provide a much-needed escape from financial woes.

The podcast dives into the fascinating contrast between soaring population numbers and declining fertility rates. Experts warn that if this trend continues, we may witness a significant population crash with dire consequences. Key discussions include the implications of such a shift on economic progress and innovation, as well as the societal challenges of family planning and shared parenting. The episode also emphasizes the connection between population dynamics and climate change, urging a nuanced approach to these intertwined issues.

Elon Musk’s Starlink dominates the satellite internet market, controlling a staggering 90% of traffic. The discussion dives into how it maintains this lead amid growing competition from the EU and China. Insights reveal the challenges of providing global high-speed internet and the complexities of satellite communication. The podcast also addresses concerns about Starlink's monopolistic tendencies and the implications it has on pricing and regulation, along with Musk's influence in international conflicts affecting service availability.

Is a rising birth rate a solution to climate change? Discover how population growth might shape our planet's future. Legal battles are heating up in AI, with a judge ruling on copyright issues tied to training models. Meanwhile, the bond market is surprisingly relaxed, with companies still landing big loans despite economic jitters. Explore how tariffs and inflation are impacting consumer spending and why many are holding back as they await clearer financial forecasts. It's a dynamic look at how various factors are influencing the economy.

The podcast dives into the rich history of U.S. shipbuilding, once a titan during World War II, now nearly vanished. It discusses the role of the Brooklyn Navy Yard and the impacts of the post-Cold War decline. Protectionist strategies are explored, particularly the Trump administration's attempts to revitalize the industry. The interplay between commercial and military shipbuilding is crucial for national security. Additionally, recent policies aim to counter China's maritime dominance while navigating the complexities of the Jones Act and its effects on American competitiveness.

Jon Cohen, a Senior Correspondent for Science magazine, dives deep into the implications of PEPFAR cuts in Eswatini and Lesotho. He talks about the life-saving legacy of this U.S. program since 2003, highlighting the stark realities faced by clinics due to recent budget reductions. Cohen shares heartrending stories, like that of a pregnant woman battling HIV, reflecting the urgent need for accessible treatment amid soaring rates of infection. The conversation reveals the complex intertwining of U.S. foreign aid and public health in Southern Africa.