The Journal.

In this engaging discussion, Scott Calvert, a WSJ reporter, shares his firsthand experiences riding alongside repo men in a rapidly growing industry. They delve into the factors behind the surge in car repossessions, from rising prices and stagnant wages to the warning signs reminiscent of the Great Recession. Scott also explores the tech tools aiding repo efforts, the intense grind of night shifts, and the safety risks agents face, including tense confrontations with vehicle owners. Their insights reveal how repossession trends serve as a stark reflection of the current economic landscape.

In this enlightening discussion, WSJ reporter Margherita Stancati dives into the impending 107% tariffs on Italian pasta imports that could spell disaster for American pasta lovers. She shares insights from her tour of Italian pasta factories, highlighting what makes this cuisine special. Margherita explains the fears of producers like La Molisana’s CEO, the complex history of trade disputes, and the potential cultural ramifications of losing access to authentic Italian pasta. A must-listen for culinary enthusiasts and trade watchers alike!

Dan Gallagher, a WSJ technology reporter, dives into CoreWeave's surprising role in the AI boom. He discusses how the launch of ChatGPT drove massive demand for GPU resources. Mike Intrator, CEO of CoreWeave, shares insights on the company's shift from crypto to AI infrastructure, revealing their strategy of using debt for rapid expansion. They explore the possible bubble in AI spending and the risks posed by fluctuating demand. Intrator also discusses contracts with major players like Meta and NVIDIA to manage business risks.

Ben Fritz, an entertainment industry reporter for The Wall Street Journal, and Thomas Curley, an Oscar-winning sound mixer known for 'Whiplash,' discuss the alarming decline in Hollywood jobs. They delve into the impact of production cuts, increased competition, and shifting viewer habits. Thomas shares his personal struggles with lost work and financial uncertainty. Ben highlights how labor statistics reveal a 40% drop in productions and explores the lasting effects of recent strikes. The duo contemplates the bleak future of the Hollywood workforce.

Becky Peterson, a Wall Street Journal reporter specializing in Tesla, joins to discuss Elon Musk's eye-popping $1 trillion pay package approved by shareholders. The rationale? They want Musk back on Tesla's mission amid distractions from his other ventures. Becky lays out the ambitious milestones Musk must hit, including focusing on robotaxis and humanoid robots. They also dive into the growing concerns among shareholders about Tesla's performance and the challenge of meeting lofty targets that could reshape the company’s future.

James Romoser, a Wall Street Journal Supreme Court reporter, dives into the legal battle over Trump's tariffs. He explains the International Emergency Economic Powers Act and the challenges to its application for tariffs. Romoser highlights skepticism from several justices about the declared emergencies and discusses the implications of the major questions doctrine. With debates on presidential power dynamics and what a ruling could mean for future administrations, the conversation showcases the intersection of law and economics in a pivotal Supreme Court case.

Michael Kratsios, the Director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy and former U.S. CTO, dives into the high-stakes AI race between the U.S. and China. He discusses the importance of innovation leadership and infrastructure, stressing the need for public understanding of AI's benefits in healthcare and education. Kratsios also tackles the regulatory landscape, advocating for sector-specific regulations, and shares insights on the potential for an AI bubble, all while emphasizing the urgency of addressing power needs with nuclear solutions.

Anna Wilde Matthews, a WSJ insurance reporter, breaks down the complexities of ACA subsidies and the alarming rise in healthcare premiums. Kevin Foster shares his personal experience of a shocking increase from $7,000 to $38,000 in annual premiums, illustrating the real impact of these changes. They discuss the origins of the Affordable Care Act, the political battles over subsidies, and the implications of potential expiration. Rising healthcare costs from various factors and the risk of adverse selection are also explored, emphasizing the uncertainty enrollees face.

Craig Karmin, a reporter for The Wall Street Journal, dives into the tangled saga of the Waldorf Astoria's renovation. He discusses Wu Xiaohui's surprising $1.95 billion bid and ambitious plans that included extensive restoration and a vibrant social scene. Karmin reveals the implications of Wu's arrest amidst a Chinese crackdown on overseas investments and the project’s remarkable eight-year timeline that pushed costs to an astonishing $6 billion. He shares firsthand insights about the hotel's reopening and its mixed reception.

Chavie Lieber, a Wall Street Journal reporter, dives into the booming world of online witchcraft, revealing its economic implications. Tatiana Fernandez shares her journey of purchasing a spell during a job search, attributing her success to its effects. Carissa Perez discusses her spell-selling practice, the rituals involved, and how witchcraft has become a viable income source. The conversation explores the intertwining of spells with modern manifestation techniques and the motivations behind people's increasing reliance on witchcraft during tough times.