Make Me Smart

Jay Seabold, guest host and insightful commentator, dives into NASA's delay of the Artemis II mission, now pushed to 2026. He discusses the competitive landscape of space exploration and political funding priorities. The conversation also explores potential TikTok bans, examining their national security implications and effects on small businesses. Plus, a lighthearted game segment balances serious topics with humor, as they joke about holiday stress and consumer culture while referencing pop culture like Dolly Parton's upcoming Broadway musical.

This discussion highlights Spotify's new AI-driven Wrapped feature, which provides personalized podcast summaries—though not without hiccups. There's a deep dive into Amazon's strides in the AI chip realm, challenging giants like NVIDIA. The conversation also covers the Federal Reserve's essential independence amidst political currents and a disappointing outcome from recent global talks on plastic pollution, stressing the urgency for a binding treaty to combat this environmental crisis.

President Biden's recent $600 million investment in a rail project aims to connect African nations and enhance U.S. access to critical minerals, raising questions about competing with China’s influence. The appointment of Trump’s trade advisor, Peter Navarro, sparks conversations about his controversial past and implications for trade policies. Meanwhile, Dylan Bachelet from the Great British Baking Show delights with his culinary journey, contrasting the show with American baking competitions. The hosts also celebrate community support and holiday shopping deals.

David Sirota, founder and editor-in-chief of The Lever, delves into the hefty influence of billionaires on the 2024 U.S. elections, revealing they contributed 18% of total funds. He argues that this trend leans the U.S. towards oligarchy, with big money corrupting the electoral process. Sirota emphasizes the urgent need for campaign finance reform to support democratic integrity. The discussion also touches on the implications of China’s chip trade war with the U.S., sparking an intriguing exploration of global economics.

The podcast dives into the geographic imbalance of the Federal Reserve, suggesting it skews towards the East. It discusses how upcoming tariffs may influence consumer behavior, urging shoppers to buy before price hikes. An inspiring tale unfolds about a runner’s ambitious 700-mile journey resulting in breathtaking GPS art. Finally, there’s exciting talk about new password security guidelines promoting emoji use and the influence of wealth in electoral politics, adding layers to the conversation around civic engagement.

Explore how small acts of kindness can create monumental changes in society. A firsthand account from a journalist sheds light on the harsh realities of homelessness. Delve into the legal challenges faced by the National Association of Realtors regarding commission transparency. Learn about France's innovative solar energy initiative transforming parking lots into sustainable power sources. Celebrate the essence of gratitude and its impact on fostering connections and driving social change.

Uncover the surprising origins of Black Friday, linked to a Philadelphia football game. Explore the cultural significance of this shopping frenzy, with insights into personal experiences and gift-giving traditions. Dive into the intense competition among shoppers, complete with humorous anecdotes about waiting lines and holiday chaos. Learn smart shopping tips to navigate the festive season without losing your mind. It's all a delightful mix of nostalgia, humor, and camaraderie amidst the holiday hustle.

Negotiators at COP29 agreed on a $300 billion aid plan for developing nations, but it's still far short of their $1.3 trillion request. Tesla faces scrutiny over pollution violations that threaten its eco-friendly reputation. Meanwhile, Arizona’s ambitious school voucher program raises concerns over educational equity and budget impacts. Farm groups are urging protection for workers amid looming deportations under the Trump administration. Finally, a quirky AI grandma emerges as a surprising ally in the fight against phone scams.

The rise of women's sports takes center stage as the National Women's Soccer League prepares to expand with a new team. The hosts discuss the economic impact and increasing popularity of women's athletics, spotlighting cities like Denver and Cincinnati. They also tackle serious issues, such as the Supreme Court's review of crucial communication subsidies for low-income areas. Lightening the mood, they engage in a fun Thanksgiving-themed debate over condiments and desserts.

The potential appointment of Howard Lutnick as Secretary of Commerce could reshape Trump's tariff strategies. Mixed earnings from retailers like Target and Walmart highlight changing consumer habits. The Justice Department is taking aim at Google's dominance in online search, stirring discussions on market competition. Meanwhile, Bitcoin is soaring towards a record high, prompting fascination with its future and the implications of a crypto-friendly administration.