Freakonomics Radio

Ever wondered what happens to those tiny hotel soaps after your stay? Discover the fascinating history and evolution of these amenities, sparked by a traveler’s concern for waste. Learn about a nonprofit turning used soaps into critical hygiene products, with a founder overcoming obstacles to improve global health. Dive into the creative recycling process, guided by the 'soap whisperer,' and explore the innovative financial models driving this change. Plus, get a glimpse into engaging with niche communities and what's next on the horizon!

Join Gina Raimondo, U.S. Secretary of Commerce, and Brian Deese, Director of the National Economic Council, as they explore the Biden administration's ambitious push to reshape American industrial policy. They discuss the drastic budget increase for the Commerce Department and the challenges of revitalizing U.S. manufacturing in the face of global competition, particularly with China. The conversation also touches on the complexities of semiconductor supply chains and the socio-economic implications of the fentanyl crisis, highlighting the necessity for collaborative governance.

Discover how the 1979 hit 'My Sharona' still thrives financially decades later. Explore the intricate world of songwriting royalties, including the influence of parodies and samples. Learn about the economics of music licensing as streaming reshapes revenue landscapes. Uncover the song's origin story and its impact on a young woman's life in 70s Los Angeles. Delve into the band's journey from struggle to success, and ponder the bittersweet legacy of one-hit wonders in the music industry.

Kate Raworth, a renegade economist and author of 'Donut Economics,' takes on the traditional economic model, arguing that the relentless pursuit of GDP is harming the planet. She teams up with Marike van Doornink, Amsterdam's deputy mayor, to showcase how the city is implementing this sustainable framework. They discuss the limitations of GDP as a measure of success and explore innovative strategies for social equity and environmental sustainability. Their conversation offers a fresh perspective on achieving well-being in urban development.

Discover the fascinating world behind America's favorite cookies, as billions of Thin Mints, Samoas, and Tagalongs are sold each year. Learn how a determined young seller achieved record-breaking sales thanks to community support and enticing incentives. Explore the strategic planning and tactics involved in cookie sales, including the vital role of the 'cookie mom.' Delve into the competitive dynamics of the cookie market, especially the shift from door-to-door selling to online platforms, all while navigating the challenges of the pandemic.

In this discussion, veterinary neurologist Rose Peters and Greg Hartman, CEO of National Veterinary Associates, delve into the impact of corporate ownership on veterinary practices. They share personal anecdotes about how private equity acquisitions affect staff and customer experiences. The conversation highlights the challenges of corporate oversight, wage stagnation, and changes in care standards that can compromise the veterinarian-client relationship. They also explore the implications of antitrust laws and the broader economic effects on the pet care industry.

Dive into the surprising world of gas stations, where the real profits lie beyond the pump. Discover the ownership landscape that reveals most stations are run by independent operators. Learn about the complexities of fuel pricing and why station owners often struggle with slim margins. Uncover the impact of rising fuel prices, gasoline theft, and the emergence of electric vehicle infrastructure. This exploration cleverly blends humor with insightful economic analysis, shedding light on everyday items that shape our lives.

Eileen Applebaum, co-director at the Center for Economic and Policy Research, and Josh Lerner, a Harvard Business School professor, dive into the rising trend of private equity in veterinary care. They explore how big investors are buying local vet practices, potentially reshaping pet care for your scruffy little Max. The discussion covers the implications for service quality, the effects on pet ownership trends, and the controversial financial strategies of private equity. Expect a blend of humor and serious insights into the future of our beloved pets!

In this engaging conversation, Samin Nosrat, author of the bestseller 'Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat' and Netflix cooking series creator, unpacks her complex relationship with fame. She reflects on the emotional weights of her immigrant experiences and the impact of family tragedy on her creativity. Samin candidly discusses the struggles of balancing her culinary and literary worlds amidst personal loss, and the challenges of navigating success in the culinary industry while maintaining authenticity. Her humor and insights make for a heartfelt exploration of ambition and identity.

Join Samin Nasrat, bestselling author of "Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat," along with creativity experts Marcus Baer and Justin Berg, as they dive into the fascinating world of one-hit wonders. They discuss the emotional toll of sudden fame and societal perceptions of fleeting success. The trio explores the pressures creators face after their breakthrough, including impostor syndrome and the struggle to replicate success. Their insights on how even the most beloved artists navigate creativity in a competitive landscape are both thought-provoking and entertaining.