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The discussion kicks off with the impact of Trump's removal of the de minimis exemption, hinting at rising consumer prices. Controversial policies, including threats to Harvard’s tax status and cuts to NASA, raise eyebrows. They explore the unsettling potential of biometrics with World ID and iris scanning. Meanwhile, a new fantasy film league offers film buffs a chance to curate their own rosters. Finally, the concept of mini retirements shines a light on work-life balance, encouraging professionals to rethink time off.

President Trump acknowledges that tariffs are making life more expensive for American consumers, fueling concerns about a potential recession. The hosts discuss how economic uncertainty prompts some shoppers to reconsider luxury purchases, like gourmet cheese. They define recession in modern terms and explore the impact of rising costs on consumer behavior. Investments in technology are on the rise, sparking debate about whether this signals resilience or just a strategy against inflation. The importance of accurate financial information is also stressed.

The Commerce Department reported the U.S. economy contracted by 0.3% in the first quarter of this year. We’ll break down the GDP math formula and dig into what the latest report says about where the US economy may be headed. And, should businesses be transparent about the impact of tariffs on prices? A nixed plan from Amazon serves as a cautionary tale of the political risks. Plus, feeling stressed these days? Cow cuddling and bee therapy might help.Here’s everything we talked about today:-"Trump blames Biden after GDP shrinks in first quarter, says growth will 'take a while'" from CNBC -"Businesses weigh how much to tell customers about tariffs' impact on price" from Marketplace-"Trump-Bezos call sets stage for tense earnings report from Amazon" from CNBC-"Trump vs. Amazon’s Brilliant Tariff Idea" from The Wall Street Journal -"The Americans Fled Vietnam 50 Years Ago. I Visited the Buildings They Left Behind."  from The New York Times"Anxious about the world? Cow cuddling or bee buzzing might help ease your stress" from The Denver PostGot a question for the hosts? Email makemesmart@marketplace.org or leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART.

Patricia Goff, a political science professor at Wilfrid Laurier University and an expert on trade relations, shares her insights following the recent Canadian election. She discusses how the tensions from Trump’s tariffs have reshaped Canadian political dynamics and affected trade relationships. Goff argues that completely disentangling the Canadian and U.S. economies is unrealistic. The conversation also touches on the implications for the future of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada trade agreement and evolving perceptions of Canadian industry in this new political landscape.

On Canada’s election day, a lively atmosphere unfolds at a polling station in Ontario. Voter turnout is high, driven by economic concerns tied to President Trump's trade war. Canadians are contemplating boycotting American products and opting for local alternatives. The friction between blue-collar workers and affluent citizens highlights a growing national identity. As U.S. policies shape the political landscape, the implications for Canadian businesses and trade relations come into sharp focus, sparking discussions throughout the nation.

Americans expect inflation to rise to 6.5% this year according to the University of Michigan’s latest consumer sentiment survey. That’s the highest outlook since 1981. We’ll explain why those high inflation expectations could be keeping Federal Reserve Chair Powell up at night. And, the deal filmmaker Ryan Coogler made with Warner Bros. to make his latest horror movie “Sinners” is anything but ordinary. Could it shake up the Hollywood studio system? "Trump administration reverses abrupt terminations of foreign students’ US visa registrations" from Politico"Ryan Coogler's 'Sinners' isn't just scaring audiences. It's scaring Hollywood." from MSNBC"Inflation expectations remain at highest level since 1981 even after Trump's 90-day tariff pause" "Pickle, a Fashion App, Lets Strangers Borrow Your Clothes" from The Cut"Subtitling Your Life" from The New Yorker"Is community fact-checking the future of social media moderation?" from Marketplace"The $20,000 American-made electric pickup with no paint, no stereo, and no touchscreen" from The VergeGot a question for the hosts? Email makemesmart@marketplace.org or leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART.

Today, we’re answering questions from our listeners about everything going on in this economy (we know, it’s a lot). Like, whatever happened to that bipartisan bill that would pass authority over tariffs back to Congress? We’ll get into the status of the legislation and how states are jumping into the fight. Plus, we’ll discuss the legality of the Trump administration’s funding freezes and how foreign trade zones are helping some companies avoid sky-high tariffs.Here’s everything we talked about today:“Congress gave presidents power over tariffs. They could aways take it back” from CNN Politics“12 States Sue Trump Over His Tariffs” by The New York Times“Trump says he has 'no intention' of firing Fed Chair Jerome Powell” from AP News“If Trump wants rate cuts, he would likely need to replace the Fed's full board along with Powell” by CNBC“How Congress — and not the president — controls how taxpayer money is spent” from Marketplace“Trump tariffs lead to surge of companies parking imports in tax-free 'foreign trade zones’” from CNBC“How Foreign Trade Zones In The U.S. Came Into Existence” by NPRGot a question or comment for the hosts? Email makemesmart@marketplace.org or leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART.

Discover the intriguing concept of the 'Ryssdal Window' and its relevance to today's shifting market dynamics. The hosts discuss the ramifications of potential tariff changes on China and the impact on American consumers. With a humorous twist, they explore the consequences of FDA budget cuts on milk testing and public health. Plus, learn about the science behind brewing the perfect cup of coffee. They also dive into quirky news, including a vanity project at the Pentagon, making for an engaging blend of serious topics and lighthearted banter.

Hey Smarties! Today we’re sharing an episode from our friends over at “How We Survive,” Marketplace’s climate solutions podcast. This season, host Amy Scott and the team dig into the rise of environmental, social and governance-based investing, or ESG, and the right wing backlash that followed. In this episode, the story of ESG’s start revolves around some unexpected players: rabbis, nuns and other faith-based investors.

Obamacare is back in the spotlight as the Supreme Court takes on a case that could dismantle preventative care mandates. Meanwhile, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth finds himself in hot water over a signaling group chat. The discussion also takes a historical turn, reminding us that Paul Revere wasn't the only midnight rider warning of threats. Add to that a light-hearted look at personal quirks and a sneak peek into future episodes covering ESG investing and home improvement. It's a mix of politics, history, and fun!