Slate Money

In this Money Talks: Emily Peck is joined by journalist and author Adam Chandler to discuss what he discovered about how Americans think about work while writing his book 99% Perspiration. They’ll get into America's often misguided and misinformed obsession with rugged individualism, the long-term effects of de-emphasizing community, and of course, Emily in Paris. Want to hear that discussion and hear more Slate Money? Join Slate Plus to unlock weekly bonus episodes. Plus, you’ll access ad-free listening across all your favorite Slate podcasts. You can subscribe directly from the Slate Money show page on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Or, visit slate.com/moneyplus to get access wherever you listen.Podcast production by Jessamine Molli and Cheyna Roth. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kyle Chayka, a staff writer for The New Yorker and author of "Filter World," delves into intriguing issues surrounding technology and its impact on society. He discusses Trump's outrageous $5 million 'gold card' proposal for citizenship, exploring its implications for immigration and economic policies. Chayka also draws parallels between modern technocrats and the fascists of 1930s Japan, raising concerns about power dynamics in governance. Additionally, the episode highlights the absurdity of consumer fears around black plastic utensils stemming from a simple math error.

The podcast dives into the U.S.'s shift from Europe towards Russia, warning of potential economic fallout. It questions Intel's rumored deals with foreign firms and examines the implications in the semiconductor industry. The hosts discuss the rise of Quince, a brand redefining affordable luxury through stealth wealth. They also humorously tackle fashion dupes and egg market trends, including renting chickens and the quirky fallout from bird flu strategies. A blend of geopolitics and consumer culture makes for an engaging listen!

Lizzie O’Leary, a savvy business journalist and host of What Next: TBD, dives into the alarming reduction of government databases during the Trump administration. She discusses how this trend threatens the reliability of economic data, which is essential for informed policy-making and public trust. The podcast also tackles the challenges statistical agencies face due to budget cuts and rising skepticism, emphasizing the critical role of accessible data in shaping economic understanding and maintaining a healthy democracy.

The discussion kicks off with Trump's suspension of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, raising eyebrows about its global impact on corruption. Then, they dive into Elon Musk's controversial move to take FEMA funds from NYC, questioning its legality and implications. Inflation takes center stage, especially the skyrocketing prices of eggs, leading to humorous anecdotes and the complexities of consumer economics. The team wraps up by exploring trends in financial safety, reflecting on the evolving landscape of banking and government spending.

The potential trade war with Canada and Mexico was averted, sparking a lively discussion about diplomatic maneuvers and their economic implications. The absurdity of a proposed U.S. sovereign wealth fund is examined, along with contrasting global models. The conversation then shifts to innovative event betting during Super Bowl season, highlighting the cultural phenomenon and regulatory nuances. To wrap things up, ticket prices and celebrity culture surrounding the Super Bowl are humorously explored, showcasing the extravagance of major sporting events.

Quinn Slobodian, a historian at Boston University and author of "Crack-Up Capitalism," dives into the drastic intertwining of capitalism and politics in today's climate. He reveals the alarming ambitions of Silicon Valley elites during Trump’s second term and their vision of a democracy-free capitalist society. The discussion broaches topics like the rise of a startup-like governance model, the impact of big tech on political allegiance, and the tension between economic freedom and democratic values in contemporary policy-making.

This week, the discussion centers on a dubious resignation offer to federal employees that raises red flags about its true intentions. There's also a deep dive into Nvidia's stock plunge, a cautionary tale about AI competition disrupting markets. Surprisingly, physical bookstores are making a comeback, with Barnes & Noble leading the charge in creating unique consumer experiences. Additionally, social media trends are transforming backlist books into bestsellers, while egg prices spark a humorous examination of agricultural policies.

This week, the team dives into the surprising reversal on TikTok's ban and the implications of a potential American stake. They also analyze Trump's controversial launch of a meme coin and the mixed reactions from the crypto community. Additionally, the phenomenon of digital shoplifting among Gen Z and Millennials is scrutinized, revealing a bold challenge to traditional consumer ethics. The episode juxtaposes political maneuvering with the evolving landscape of social media and cryptocurrency, illuminating the complexities of modern digital culture.

Harold Pollack, a Helen Ross professor at the University of Chicago and co-author of The Index Card, shares his personal journey of navigating the financial challenges of caregiving after his brother-in-law came under his care. He discusses the hidden costs and gender dynamics associated with long-term caregiving. Pollack emphasizes the simplicity of financial wisdom through practical advice, while also addressing the emotional complexities faced by families and the need for better access to disability benefits. The conversation highlights urgent societal needs surrounding caregiving.