Make Me Smart cover image

Make Me Smart

Latest episodes

undefined
7 snips
Oct 28, 2024 • 9min

Keeping calm in the eye of the election storm

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.
undefined
9 snips
Oct 26, 2024 • 37min

Make Me Smart: Live in Boston

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!
undefined
Oct 24, 2024 • 34min

How We Survive: The Last Frontier

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 The conversation dives into outdated military infrastructures struggling against modern challenges, the urgent need for modernization, and the personal impacts of extreme weather on local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.
undefined
Oct 23, 2024 • 11min

Texts, emails and the deception of elderly political donors

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.
undefined
Oct 22, 2024 • 31min

Things are changing fast in the home insurance market

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.
undefined
Oct 21, 2024 • 20min

The rise of pharmacy deserts

Pharmacy closures are creating dangerous 'pharmacy deserts' in low-income and rural areas, leaving residents without essential medications. A revealing New York Times investigation uncovers the middlemen fueling this crisis. Meanwhile, the American Dream is being redefined, with rising housing costs pushing people toward townhouses. The conversation also explores a shift in family dynamics, highlighting more stay-at-home fathers and the challenges working women face in achieving balance between career and family life.
undefined
Oct 19, 2024 • 27min

Birkin bag buyers and the consumer-driven economy

Exploring the divide between wealthier Americans driving retail spending and the struggles of lower-income households reveals a unique insight into the consumer economy. The rise of the Birkin bag on TikTok highlights this disparity vividly. Meanwhile, Cuba faces a severe power outage affecting millions, creating economic paralysis. The conversation also takes a fun twist with Halloween treats, comparing chocolate to gummy candy while reminiscing about childhood traditions and spooky movies, ensuring a blend of insightful discussion and lighthearted banter.
undefined
Oct 17, 2024 • 11min

The risky business of corporate political spending

Amy Scott, a Marketplace reporter known for her insightful coverage on climate change, dives into the intricate world of corporate political spending. She highlights the risks companies face when navigating political donations, pondering their alignment with company values. The conversation also addresses the struggles disaster survivors face in securing assistance post-hurricanes due to funding shortages. Additionally, Scott explores how immigration impacts agriculture and why tech giants are eyeing nuclear energy to tackle future demands driven by AI advancements.
undefined
Oct 16, 2024 • 11min

The rise of the podcaster’s political capital

The discussion kicks off with Kamala Harris's strategy of engaging popular podcasts to boost voter turnout, particularly among Black audiences. It highlights how traditional media is evolving in this fragmented landscape. The talk then shifts to the sad news for savers as lower interest rates signal the end of easy yields. Listeners are also treated to charming stories, like the return of pandas to D.C. and the transformation of a cherished maple tree into stunning wooden bowls, weaving together themes of nature and community.
undefined
Oct 15, 2024 • 34min

Mining and the clean energy paradox

Vince Beiser, the author of "Power Metal: The Race for the Resources That Will Shape the Future," dives into the hidden costs of sourcing metals like lithium, cobalt, and copper for renewable energy. He explores the environmental and social consequences of mining practices and exposes China's dominance in the supply chain. Beiser also suggests sustainable solutions like recycling and discusses why space mining remains just a fantasy. This insightful conversation reveals the complexities of transitioning to green energy.

Get the Snipd
podcast app

Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
App store bannerPlay store banner

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode

Save any
moment

Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways

Share
& Export

Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode