Make Me Smart

Philip Joyce, a public policy professor at the University of Maryland, discusses the pitfalls of running government like a business, emphasizing that unlike businesses, governments can't afford to take risks. He highlights the historical roots of this idea and contrasts success metrics between the two sectors. Joyce also analyzes the implications of business-minded leaders like Trump and Musk on governance. The conversation touches on special elections' stakes in Wisconsin and Florida and offers reflections on community engagement and the value of admitting mistakes.

Sabree Beneshore, a Marketplace contributor and keen observer of economic trends, joins the discussion to unpack the implications of impending tariffs and their historical context. They analyze whether Trump's promised manufacturing growth echoes past failures, citing George W. Bush's steel tariffs that backfired. With a rising 'buy Canadian' movement and its impact on U.S. businesses, the conversation shifts to fun topics like the social etiquette of punctuation in texting, revealing how emojis and punctuation shape our communication today.

CoreWeave's IPO offers a glimpse into the AI boom, showcasing market volatility and operational challenges. A key ruling enhances presidential powers over independent agencies, potentially reshaping governance. Meanwhile, the hosts explore the societal impacts of credit reliance for essential needs, while the rising popularity of Crocs among youth highlights the comfort versus style debate. They also engage in lighthearted banter and celebrate community support for public radio, making for a lively and thought-provoking discussion.

The podcast dives into the alarming detention of a Turkish doctoral student at Tufts University, sparking discussions about academic freedom and political repression. The hosts highlight the chilling effects on activism and free speech. Additionally, they examine the inequality faced by women in sports, as exemplified by the disparity between WNBA facilities and those of men's teams. The episode also touches on security blunders by a national security adviser, showcasing the potential risks of being too open about personal finances.

Rima Kreis, host of the podcast "This is Uncomfortable," dives deep into significant current events. They discuss the overlooked repercussions of U.S. military operations in Yemen and the humanitarian crisis at hand. The chilling effects of the Trump administration on U.S. tourism are highlighted, predicting a $18 billion hit to the economy. Kreis also shares insights on unique car-free communities, promoting innovative social interaction, and touches on amusing linguistic blunders in broadcasting.

Gracelin Baskaran, a mining economist and founding director of the Project on Critical Mineral Security at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, shares insights into the U.S. and Ukraine's negotiations over rare earth minerals. She explains why these minerals, pivotal for technology, aren’t as rare as believed and discusses the U.S.'s struggle to compete with China's production. Baskaran also highlights that recycling is only part of the solution. The conversation takes a humorous turn with musings on dreaming and Canadian travel boycotts.

Imagine receiving sensitive military plans by accident! A journalist got included in a secret chat with Trump administration officials discussing imminent war operations. Also, there's a staggering $2.1 billion verdict against Bayer over Roundup weed killer, echoing health concerns. Meanwhile, Manhattan's congestion pricing shows early successes, improving public transit while challenging state intervention. Plus, Broadway is buzzing with Denzel Washington and Jake Gyllenhaal smashing box office records in 'Othello.' A lot happening in this dynamic landscape!

Celebrate the vibrant cherry blossom season in D.C.! The discussion swings from Columbia University's federal funding challenges to the alarming impact of USDA's $500 million cut on food banks. Dive into the cultural significance of cherry blossoms and their role as a climate change indicator. The hosts engage in a fun game, blending political insights with seasonal joy. Plus, hear about the tourism boost from the National Cherry Blossom Festival and personal travel reflections!

Curious about tariffs? This discussion breaks down how they’re applied and what they’re based on. Learn who really pays for them and why countries impose retaliatory tariffs. Discover the complex relationship between tariffs and the automotive industry, where prices can soar due to trade policies. The conversation also touches on targeted products like bourbon and motorcycles, revealing how consumers often feel the pinch. Tune in for an insightful exploration of these economic intricacies!

Tensions rise as the EU accuses U.S. giants Google and Apple of antitrust violations, potentially escalating trade conflicts. The erasure of significant Black history from military records raises critical concerns. Meanwhile, Elon Musk is set to enjoy a financial windfall with nearly $1 billion in new funding for X. Adding a lighthearted touch, listeners are treated to a whimsical exploration of the funniest and quirkiest bumper stickers spotted around Los Angeles, blending humor with economic insights.