Make Me Smart

Julie Rovner, Chief Washington correspondent for KFF Health News and host of the What the Health podcast, shares her insights on the ongoing struggles surrounding the Affordable Care Act. She discusses the potential rollback of COVID-era subsidies and the implications for enrollees. Julie highlights how changes in ACA subsidies could affect employer coverage and budgets, while explaining the risks of a potential ACA death spiral. With impending Medicaid cuts, she emphasizes that these changes may ripple through states and health systems, igniting fresh national health care debates.

Yvette Fernandez, a regional reporter for the Mountain West News Bureau, dives into the impact of immigration crackdowns on the Latin entertainment scene in Las Vegas. She shares insights from the recent Latin Grammys and how visa issues lead to event cancellations. Yvette also discusses the city's ongoing tourism slump, especially among Canadian and Mexican visitors, and contrasts the experiences of high-priced Strip venues with local businesses that focus on community. Plus, they tackle the rise of AI in music and the nostalgia surrounding the return of holiday catalogs.

Kai Ryssdal, a seasoned public radio journalist and Marketplace host, dives into the ongoing power struggles in Washington. He critiques the political strategies surrounding the recent government shutdown and explains why Republicans might endure more political fallout. Ryssdal also discusses the weak position of the government's case on recent tariffs and warns of a constitutional crisis due to the imbalances between Congress and the Executive Branch. He emphasizes the urgent need for accountability and political engagement from citizens.

Peter McGraw, a behavioral economist and host of the podcast 'Solo,' dives into the fascinating rise of the solo economy and its cultural implications. He explores Singles Day, a massive $150 billion retail holiday in China, and discusses why it hasn’t gained traction in the U.S. McGraw highlights the 'singles tax,' detailing how singles often face financial disadvantages, especially in housing. He emphasizes the need for better marketing towards singles and offers practical financial advice tailored for a solo lifestyle.

Patrick Larsen, a reporter for VPM News, dives into the impact of rising energy costs on Virginia's recent elections. He reveals how affordability became a priority for voters, affecting housing and healthcare discussions. Larsen also explores the connection between energy prices and the state's booming data center industry, as well as contrasting energy policies between Democrats and Republicans. With Virginia leaning blue in urban areas, he provides insights into how these trends may shape future governance.

Dan Garisto, a freelance science journalist with a focus on physics and technology, dives into the fascinating world of quantum computing. He explains the fundamental concepts like superposition and how quantum bits, or qubits, differ from classical bits. Garisto discusses the current state of quantum technology and its potential applications, from materials science to energy solutions. He emphasizes that while enthusiasm is high, practical consumer impacts are still a decade away, urging listeners to approach claims about its promise with caution.

Asma Khalid, co-host of The Global Story with a background in U.S. foreign policy and trade, joins to dissect the significant implications of Trump's tariffs. She explains the ongoing Supreme Court challenge regarding presidential power over tariffs and how it could reshape trade policy. Asma also highlights the shifting international relationships, particularly between allies like Canada and rivals such as China and India, and the broader geopolitical realignment in response to U.S. trade strategies under Trump.

Reema Khrais, a journalist and host of the podcast This Is Uncomfortable, dives into the world of financial anxiety alongside Kimberly. They tackle the rising fears around money, from retirement savings worries to the impact of potential government shutdowns on healthcare. Reema offers practical strategies like clarifying financial goals and having family discussions about money and meaningful work. The conversation lightens up with a fun Halloween-themed game, balancing serious topics with some spooky entertainment!

Claire Casey, President of the AARP Foundation, advocates for older workers' economic participation. Sam Caucci, founder of OneHuddle, introduces gamified training for frontline workers. Margaret McMenamin, President of Union College, focuses on personalized education to close gaps in opportunity. Together, they explore the impact of AI on job markets, the difference between skills and opportunity gaps, and visions for a resilient workforce. The group emphasizes the importance of transferable skills and proposes metrics like earnings and access to learning to track progress in the labor market.

In this discussion, budget and appropriations reporter Aris Foley unpacks the ongoing government shutdown and its implications. He highlights how expiring SNAP benefits and the approaching open enrollment for healthcare create urgent pressures for Congress. Aris also explains the complexities of fund shifting and the legality of impoundments during a shutdown. Additionally, he addresses the growing list of legislative tasks and the impact of one-off bills on negotiation dynamics. What's at stake for Americans becomes ever clearer as deadlines loom.