Make Me Smart

David Wallace-Wells, a science writer for The New York Times, discusses the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on American society. He highlights how the rush to recover often neglected the collective trauma experienced, resulting in increased individualism and less empathy. Wallace-Wells points out the shift from public health responses to a privatized approach and reflects on how this impacts trust in institutions. The conversation also dives into the new consumer behaviors shaped by the pandemic and personal stories from listeners about their experiences.

The future of clean energy tax credits hangs in the balance as GOP lawmakers show support for their continuation, even as the administration rolls back climate resiliency measures. Tensions rise with the arrest of a pro-Palestinian activist, sparking discussions about civil liberties and activism in education. Lively banter also includes the cherry blossoms in D.C. making their annual comeback, providing a refreshing contrast to the heavier political themes.

The Trump Organization's lawsuit against Capital One raises eyebrows over consumer protection laws. A deep dive into media bias and the Pentagon's historical censorship highlights the challenges of accessing accurate information. Recent legal changes from the White House could reshape law firm dynamics. Meanwhile, discussions on Trump’s Bitcoin strategy and tariff impacts add a modern twist. The playful debate on the 2026 World Cup halftime show rounds off a mix of serious themes and lighthearted banter, reflecting on leadership accountability and pandemic lessons.

Donald Trump administration officials disbanded two expert committees on economic data this week and suggested altering the way the U.S. calculates gross domestic product. It’s not the first time the administration has hinted at fiddling with important numbers, and a listener wrote in to ask how all this might impact businesses and the market. We’ll break it down. Plus, why is nobody talking about the debt limit? And, congrats to Bill in Ohio on scoring a hat trick!Here’s everything we talked about today:“Trump administration disbands two expert panels on economic data” from Reuters“Can the U.S. delete government spending from GDP?” from Marketplace“Key House Republican Warns May Debt-Ceiling Breach Possible” from Bloomberg“Explainer: Why would the US government shut down?” from Reuters“A campus sign said ‘Tell us something good.’ Students delivered.” from The Washington PostJoin us tomorrow for “Economics on Tap.” The YouTube livestream starts at 3:30 p.m. Pacific time, 6:30 p.m. Eastern.

On today’s episode, we’re discussing a pair of recent rulings about the Trump administration’s efforts to cut foreign aid and fire federal workers, leaving us with a “Through the Looking-Glass” moment, where the nonsensical is reality. Plus, we’ll explain some ways to catch a breath in the midst of uncertain economic times. And, we’ll smile at a math problem solved through the power of anime fans.Here’s everything we talked about today:“Supreme Court Rejects Trump’s Bid to Freeze Foreign Aid” from The New York Times“How to handle the stress of tariff escalation and stock market jitters” from The Washington Post“‘He Finally Shot the Hostage’: Trump’s Trade War Is a Brutal Reality Check” from Politico“OPM retroactively edits probationary firing guidance to note it did not order probationary firings” from Government Executive“How Anime Fans Stumbled upon a Mathematical Proof” from Scientific American“Steve Carell tells students affected by wildfires that prom tickets are paid for” from The Washington Post Got a question or comment for the hosts? Email makemesmart@marketplace.org or leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART.

The National Women’s Soccer League’s regular season kicks off next week. And thanks in part to a record-breaking media rights agreement and the growth of women’s professional sports across the board, the league is gaining more attention — and investment — than ever. Angel City Football Club became the highest-valued women’s sports team in the world last year when Willow Bay and Bob Iger acquired a controlling stake in the franchise for $250 million. Julie Uhrman, the team’s CEO and co-founder, says Angel City is just the beginning. On the show today, Uhrman explains how she and her co-founders got investors to see their vision, why a game day experience that leaves you with FOMO is key to Angel City’s growth, and how to watch the NWSL’s season. Later, how proposed funding cuts at the National Institutes of Health could leave a generational impact on the United States’ reputation as a science leader. And Adam Grant, host of the “Re:Thinking” podcast, answers the Make Me Smart question.Here’s everything we talked about today:“How Angel City became ‘the most valuable women’s sports team in the world’ with new owners” from The Athletic“Ranking new 2025 NWSL team jerseys: Which kits hit?” from ESPN“Without the Draft, NWSL Clubs Are Navigating a Changing Landscape in College Recruitment” from Sports Illustrated“NWSL announces landmark media partnerships with CBS Sports, ESPN, Prime Video and Scripps Sports” from NWSL“National Women’s Soccer League Playoffs Docuseries Gets Premiere Date At Prime Video” from DeadlineListen: Adam Grant’s interview with Sabri Ben-Achour on Marketplace Morning ReportGot a question or comment for the hosts? Email makemesmart@marketplace.org or leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART.  

The decline in 10-year Treasury yields sparks fascinating discussion around its implications for borrowing costs and consumer impact amid economic uncertainty. Insights into the potential consequences of restricting public participation in health policy reveal concerns over transparency. Meanwhile, tales from a vibrant Carnival in Venice bring joy to the forefront, highlighting its cultural significance and the challenges of over-tourism. The hosts weave together personal anecdotes and pressing issues, creating an engaging tapestry of modern economic and social dynamics.

Nova Safo, a guest host known for her insights on global economics and politics, discusses the heated Trump-Zelenskyy meeting and its potential to reshape the global economic order. She explores U.S. reliability in international partnerships and reflects on the moral complexities of U.S. support in the Ukraine conflict. The conversation shifts to tech innovations, including the decline of Skype and the rise of quantum computing, topped off with light-hearted debates about book marketing and ice cream flavors.

In this engaging discussion, the hosts tackle the impact of federal workforce cuts on unemployment rates and explore the overlooked signs of a private sector recession. They highlight how freelancers may be affected by layoffs without unemployment benefits. Economic indicators suggest resilience despite rising concerns, while sectors like transportation and healthcare continue to thrive. The conversation wraps with heartwarming listener stories, emphasizing community positivity and anticipation for upcoming events like Mardi Gras!

Marie McRace, a guest host and insightful commentator on current events, dives into pressing issues affecting the media landscape. She discusses the rising fears of layoffs among U.S. workers, particularly younger ones, as economic uncertainties loom large. Attention shifts to the influence of Jeff Bezos on the Washington Post, as staff express concerns over editorial integrity. The episode also highlights innovative conservation efforts in Costa Rica using bioacoustics. Finally, there's a humorous yet relieved update on asteroid 2024 YR4, with NASA clearing the air on potential threats.