The Journal.

In this engaging discussion, author Penn Cole, known for the Kindred's Curse Saga, shares insights on the impact of BookTok on the publishing landscape. She highlights how TikTok redefines reader engagement and marketing strategies, especially in romance and fantasy genres. Cole also dives into the rise of diverse romance subgenres, like sports romance, and discusses the balance between self-publishing and traditional routes. With nearly a million copies sold, the conversation reveals how personalized algorithms on BookTok are reshaping reader preferences and driving a new wave of sales.

In this engaging discussion, Hannah Erin Lang, a Wall Street Journal reporter who focuses on financial markets, explores Gen Z's unique approach to economic indicators. She delves into how this generation interprets fashion trends, like the return of low-rise jeans and other early 2000s styles, as signs of impending recession. The conversation highlights the contrast between the economic anxieties of Gen Z and older generations, examining how cultural expressions serve as barometers for financial sentiment in today's world.

In this engaging discussion, Patrick Thomas, WSJ's agriculture reporter, dives into the controversy surrounding Cal-Maine, the major player in the U.S. egg market. With soaring egg prices linked to a national shortage and bird flu, many blame the company for profiting during this crisis. Thomas reveals insights from a visit to their production facilities, examining their biosecurity measures and ethical concerns over price gouging. The podcast also discusses ongoing investigations into their pricing strategies amid public outrage and market dynamics.

In this insightful discussion, Peter Loftus, a reporter with the Wall Street Journal, unpacks the surprising ousting of Novo Nordisk's CEO, Lars Jorgensen, amid Ozempic's skyrocketing success. He explores the unique nonprofit structure of Novo Nordisk and how it affects corporate governance. The conversation also delves into the fierce rivalry with Eli Lilly, revealing how the market landscape for anti-obesity drugs has evolved, and the implications of recent clinical trial setbacks on investor confidence.

Richard Rubin, a tax policy writer for the Wall Street Journal, joins to dissect Trump's ambitious multitrillion-dollar tax and spending plan. He dives into the GOP's struggle for unity as members express mixed feelings about the bill's tax cuts and increased spending. Rubin highlights the potential $3 trillion deficit increase, debates over middle-income tax benefits, and the internal rifts among Republicans over fiscal strategies. He also discusses how these reforms could impact low-income protections, showcasing the tensions within the party.

Kelly Crow, an art market reporter for WSJ, dives into a shocking turn of events at New York’s auction week where Alberto Giacometti’s highly anticipated sculpture went unsold. She discusses the implications of this rare auction bust on the evolving art market. Crow unpacks how economic confidence affects art sales and shares insights on surprising trends, like a banana artwork selling for millions. The conversation also reflects on shifting collector preferences and the haunting legacy of Giacometti's work amidst today’s uncertainties.

Brad Reagan, a WSJ reporter, dives into a jaw-dropping scheme by a team of betting experts led by the elusive 'The Joker' and a London banker. They orchestrated a plot to dominate the Texas Lottery, printing 99% of tickets for a $100 million jackpot. The duo's meticulous planning and strategic partnerships reveal how they manipulated the system. Reagan uncovers the legal gray areas and the ensuing investigations, raising questions about the integrity of lotteries and parallels to Wall Street's exploitive practices.

Jonathan Stewart, an air traffic controller at Newark Liberty International Airport, shares his gripping insights on the dangers faced in his high-stress job. He discusses frequent radar and radio failures that pose serious risks to passengers. The conversation dives into the intense workload caused by staffing shortages and outdated technology, underscoring the urgent need for reform. Stewart also reflects on the mental toll and pressure air traffic controllers endure, bringing a human perspective to a critical safety role in aviation.

Navigating the labyrinth of health insurance can be a life-or-death struggle. One family's battle against a denied liver transplant illustrates the emotional chaos sparked by insurance hurdles. They face immense challenges as they tackle the appeals process, revealing the frustrating reality of the claims system. Amid despair, determination shines through, leading them on a path of relentless advocacy. This story sheds light on the broader implications of insurance practices and the emotional toll on families fighting for crucial medical care.

Brian Schwartz, an economic policy reporter for WSJ, shares insights on the unexpected U.S.-China trade agreement that took global investors by surprise. He discusses how Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent navigated challenging negotiations in Geneva to reach a temporary truce, significantly cutting tariffs. Schwartz highlights the initial skepticism surrounding talks and the pivotal role of e-commerce in shaping future trade dynamics. His analysis reveals the intricate balance of tension and cooperation in the ongoing U.S.-China relationship.