Freakonomics Radio

In this enlightening discussion, Ezekiel Emanuel, an oncologist and healthcare policymaker, delves into the transformative potential of GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic. He highlights their unexpected benefits for weight loss and other health issues, while addressing the ethical complexities surrounding accessibility and insurance coverage. Emanuel also shares insights on the future of cancer care and the impact of emerging technologies like AI in healthcare. His reflections on healthcare policy reveal crucial implications for equity and innovation in the U.S. healthcare system.

Shane Hamilton, a historian at the University of York and author of "Supermarket USA," joins Peter Timmer, a former Harvard economist and expert in agricultural policy. They discuss the strategic role supermarkets played in Cold War propaganda, shaping American eating habits and showcasing abundance to contrast against the USSR. The conversation dives into agricultural innovations like the 'Chicken of Tomorrow,' the influence of government policies on the food supply chain, and the ideological clash represented by consumerism in the Cold War.

John J. Sullivan, a former U.S. Deputy Secretary of State and Ambassador to Russia, shares his expertise on U.S.-Russia relations and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. He recounts a crucial meeting between Biden and Putin, predicting how a second Trump term might reshape foreign policy. Sullivan discusses missteps in U.S. diplomatic strategies and the pressing threats posed by Russia and China. He also delves into the complexities of Russian identity and geopolitics, highlighting the need for a solid response to ensure global stability.

Tony Spring, CEO of Macy's Inc., shares insights on revitalizing the iconic brand amidst evolving retail challenges. Mark Cohen, former director of retail studies at Columbia, discusses the impact of market shifts on traditional stores like Macy's. Jeff Kinney, beloved author of the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series, reveals his commitment to restoring his hometown through his independent bookstore. The conversation dives into the importance of cultural events, customer loyalty, and community connections in navigating the future of retail.

Explore the iconic Macy's Thanksgiving Parade, a cherished tradition with unexpected economic significance. Discover the meticulous planning that makes the parade a marketing powerhouse, and dive into the creative journey behind the beloved character balloons. Hear insights from event producers and city officials about the challenges faced, from security measures to weather unpredictabilities. The episode also highlights Macy's ongoing struggle to adapt in a changing retail landscape, blending nostalgia with modern marketing strategies.

David Autor, an MIT economist focused on labor markets, James Rosenman, CEO at Andrus on Hudson specializing in senior care robots, and Karen Eggleston, a Stanford economist researching robotic healthcare solutions in Asia, discuss the evolving role of robots in the workforce. They explore the balance between job displacement and the creation of new opportunities, the integration of cobots in nursing homes to enhance patient care, and the global perspectives on technological adaptation, particularly in Japan’s aging care landscape.

Fareed Zakaria, a renowned journalist and CNN host, dives into the fallout of Donald Trump's dramatic return to power. He explores the societal backlash following the election, emphasizing the urban-rural divide and the complex dynamics of civic engagement. Zakaria reflects on Biden's pivotal decisions, challenges within the Democratic Party, and shifts in Republican ideology. The conversation also touches on U.S. geopolitical relationships with countries like Russia and China, underscoring the importance of democratic integrity and global engagement.

Join Jared Polis, Governor of Colorado, and cannabis experts like John Calkins and Yasmin Hurd as they delve into the impact of legalizing cannabis in the U.S. They discuss the contrasting visions for the cannabis economy, from craft markets to government monopolies. The conversation also highlights the need for a balanced regulatory framework, the challenges of public health research, and the interest of traditional industries in this emerging market. Tune in for a lively debate on the future dynamics of cannabis legalization!

Chris Weld, founder and owner of Berkshire Mountain Distillers and The Pass, shares his journey from emergency medicine to cannabis farming. He dives into the complexities of running a cannabis farm, discussing regulatory hurdles and the environmental impact of different cultivation methods. Weld reflects on the evolving perceptions of cannabis, its potential health benefits compared to alcohol, and the challenges posed by market oversupply. He highlights the intricate processes behind cannabis production and the industry's ever-changing landscape.

Steve Levitt, Professor emeritus of economics at the University of Chicago, explores the unexpected link between legalized abortion and declining crime rates with Stanford's John Donohue and Amherst's Jessica Wolpaw Reyes. They delve into their groundbreaking research, revealing how abortion legalization may correlate with reduced crime and the complexities surrounding this controversial finding. The conversation also addresses misconceptions, the influence of environmental factors like lead exposure, and the role of data in public debates about sensitive topics.