Odd Lots

James Shields and the Zinopoulos brothers, Alex and Evan, are the culinary minds behind Zeno's Pizza, a new hotspot in NYC. They dive into the competitive pizza scene, revealing how they stand out amid the city's multitude of pizzerias. From location scouting to ingredient costs, they discuss the entrepreneurial spirit required to thrive. They also address the challenges of rising operational costs and the logistics of reliable pizza delivery, all while sharing anecdotes about navigating the city's unique restaurant landscape.

Andy Kadin, owner of Bub & Grandma's—a beloved LA bakery, sandwich shop, and soon-to-open pizzeria—shares his insights on the intersection of baking and economics. He discusses the challenges of adapting to rising costs and consumer demands while managing labor and logistics. The conversation reveals the impact of tariffs on food pricing and the complex balance of maintaining quality amid market fluctuations. Kadin's journey from advertising to bakery owner underscores the personal passion behind the business, highlighting resilience in a shifting economy.

Jeremy Allaire, co-founder and CEO of Circle, dives into the booming world of stablecoins, specifically USDC. He discusses how stablecoins are bridging the gap between cryptocurrency and traditional finance, reshaping payments and commerce. Allaire addresses the business models driving profitability and the impact of regulations like the GENIUS Act. He also explores the future of stablecoins in decentralized finance, emphasizing the need for transparency and safety in this evolving landscape.

Cameron Johnson, a partner at Tidalwave Solutions based in Shanghai, shares insights on the ongoing U.S.-China trade war. He discusses how Chinese manufacturers are adapting to tariffs while deepening ties with other nations. Cameron highlights China's manufacturing dominance and its rapid advancements in AI, showcasing the country's lead in practical tech applications. The conversation also considers shifts in production from China to Vietnam and the challenges posed by labor dynamics and U.S. tariffs on global supply chains.

Dale Copeland, a Professor of International Relations at the University of Virginia and author of 'A World Safe for Commerce,' delves into the escalating trade tensions between the U.S. and China. He highlights how historical trade conflicts have led to military confrontations, with current dynamics mirroring past events like Japan's invasion of Manchuria. The discussion covers the implications of rare earth metals and technological rivalry, emphasizing the need for strategic decision-making to avoid a hot war.

Nicholas Muller, a Carnegie Mellon economist and author of the paper on firewood in America's economy, joins to delve into the overlooked significance of firewood pricing. He discusses how firewood served as a dominant energy source from the 1700s until industrialization. The conversation reveals how 19th-century railroads boosted demand and how historical pricing trends relate to today’s economic indicators. Muller also highlights modern shifts back to wood as a renewable energy source, emphasizing its relevance in contemporary economic discussions.

Inigo Fraser Jenkins, a strategist at Alliance Bernstein, dives into the shifting tides of global finance. He discusses the ramifications of increasing debt loads, the impact of AI on the economy, and the challenges posed by de-globalization. Inigo highlights how these factors could alter the U.S. dollar's dominance and what that means for investors. He also emphasizes the necessity for fresh strategies in an era marked by volatility and inflation, urging listeners to rethink their approach to asset allocation amidst these transformations.

In this discussion, guest Ben Carlos Thypin, founder of Quantierra and a New York City landlord, explores the potential impacts of Zohran Mamdani's controversial proposals on the rental market. Thypin highlights concerns about rent freezes affecting housing development and landlords' distress. He contrasts this with opportunities for some real estate owners amid policy shifts, including the promise of expedited building approvals. The conversation tackles the nuances of affordability and political dynamics shaping NYC's housing landscape.

In this conversation, Carola Binder, an economics professor at the University of Texas-Austin specializing in central bank independence, discusses the increasing political pressures on the Federal Reserve. She highlights how the criticisms have escalated under President Trump, questioning the Fed's autonomy. Binder elaborates on the potential inflationary effects of mere criticism and examines whether the independence of the Fed has been irreversibly compromised. She reflects on the historical significance of the Fed's authority and its implications for future economic stability.

Join Eric Adams, the current mayor of New York City and former police officer, as he discusses his vision for the city's future. He tackles pressing issues like affordability, crime, and cleanliness, sharing insights on balancing vibrant nightlife with housing needs. Adams emphasizes the importance of collaboration with federal leadership to address public safety and immigration challenges. He also critiques the political landscape while reflecting on the necessity for reforms in housing policies and community engagement to foster a healthier urban environment.