Make Me Smart

Explore how political affiliation shapes economic experiences and access to amenities across America. Discover the legal controversy surrounding Elon Musk's $1 million political lottery and its implications. Dive into the surge of early voting and its relationship with election data and accountability. The hosts reflect on the growing engagement in elections, hinting at future discussions on the rise of election betting. It's a fascinating look at the intersection of politics and personal lives!

The political landscape is heating up as both Kamala Harris and Donald Trump prepare for potential legal battles surrounding the election. With over 200 pending cases nationwide, the stakes are high. Trump's conflicts with major broadcasters hint at how he might retaliate if re-elected. Additionally, a lighthearted discussion on daylight saving time adds a twist to the serious topics at hand. Expect a mix of campaign strategies, media control, and the curious debate over changing clocks.

This Halloween special dives into the latest inflation data, revealing that the Fed is feeling optimistic with numbers dipping to 2.1%. The discussion shifts to Meta, where hefty AI investments have investors feeling jittery despite a strong earnings report. In a lighter tone, Starbucks is undergoing a brand makeover with new initiatives from its CEO, while the hosts celebrate the Dodgers' World Series triumph, blending humor with insights on sports and economics.

Matt Levin, a seasoned contributor known for his insights on tech and economics, guest hosts this enlightening discussion. The talk dives into Big Tech's massive investments in AI and the mixed results from recent earnings reports, with Google noting a quarter of its new code is now AI-generated. The conversation also touches on how tariff promises are leading American companies to preemptively raise prices. And in a lighter moment, the nostalgic rivalry between the Dodgers and Yankees is explored, complete with Ice Cube's recent performance.

Heather Cox Richardson, a historian and professor at Boston College, delves into the high stakes of this year's election and the intertwined nature of the economy and political narratives. She discusses the importance of protecting democracy and shares insights on voting accessibility, including proposals for making election day a holiday. The conversation also touches on lessons from Abraham Lincoln and addresses the challenges faced by the Republican Party amid rising authoritarianism. Plus, Heather candidly reveals her humorous misunderstanding about hummingbirds.

Amy Scott, a dedicated Marketplace reporter, joins the discussion to unpack the fallout from Trump’s recent rally and its media portrayal. They explore troubling incidents of ballot drop box arson, reflecting escalating political tensions. The hosts stress the importance of maintaining composure leading up to Election Day. Additionally, a lost Chopin waltz is unearthed, sparking a delightful conversation about its impact on music history. Together, these topics paint a vivid picture of the current political and cultural landscape.

Join the hosts as they tackle hot topics like the Washington Post's surprising non-endorsement and the looming implications of a potential U.S. trade war with Europe. Explore innovations in air travel, including American Airlines' quirky new boarding system, and dive into the exciting World Series rivalry between the Dodgers and Yankees. They also share some laughs discussing Halloween antics in Salem and engage the audience with a fun game, all while sipping on drinks in a lively Boston atmosphere!

Lieutenant Colonel Albert Moes oversees a crucial radar facility in Alaska, while Hina Kilioni directs the Port Authority in Utqiagvik. They discuss how climate change is reshaping national security in the Arctic. The conversation dives into outdated military infrastructures struggling against modern challenges, the urgent need for modernization, and the personal impacts of extreme weather on local communities. They also explore the necessary skills for survival in these harsh environments and the increasing military importance of the region as geopolitical tensions grow.

As campaigns ramp up, misleading emails and texts target elderly donors, causing significant financial harm. A CNN investigation reveals how cognitive decline makes seniors vulnerable to aggressive fundraising tactics. The episode also dives into controversial remarks linking Trump to Hitler, questioning military leadership. Plus, the legal fate of Rudy Giuliani unfolds as a court rules on the assets owed to election workers. With these pressing topics, awareness and action are highlighted in the fight against manipulation.

In this discussion, Amy Bach, Executive Director of United Policyholders, shares her expertise on the evolving home insurance market. She reveals how hurricanes have spiked premiums and coverage cuts, particularly in high-risk areas. New technologies, like drones and AI, are creating challenges for affordability. The economic pressures on homeowners and the implications of the recent hurricanes are explored. Additionally, the conversation touches on the need for transparency and support for consumers as they navigate these turbulent changes.