The Economics of Everyday Things

Unravel the fascinating journey of T. rex fossils from the ground to prestigious museums. Discover the clash between public and private fossil ownership and the rules guiding their excavation. Learn how commercial fossil hunting operates, including revenue splits and the lengthy search for valuable specimens. Hear about shocking auction prices and the challenges faced by collectors in selling rare finds. Explore the rising trend of private collectors funding digs while balancing the need for scientific access, all highlighted by new discoveries of juvenile T. rex fossils.

Join Dave Raymond, the original Philly Fanatic and designer of over 130 mascots, alongside Bonnie Erickson, a former Muppet Show designer who created the Fanatic. They dive into the cultural significance of sports mascots, exploring the challenges of design and character fitting. Discover the financial side of mascots, including their revenue potential and celebrity-like salaries. Learn about viral sensations like Gritty and the quirky rituals behind mascot maintenance, including cleaning techniques and the fascinating world of mascot boot camps.

In this engaging discussion, Sean Seipler, the founder of Clean the World, explores the hidden life of used hotel soaps. He shares how he embarked on a mission to recycle these forgotten amenities into hygiene products for those in need. Sean recounts his early experiments and the significant health impact soap can have on reducing child mortality. He also highlights the partnerships with hotels and the environmental benefits of repurposing waste, shedding light on the innovative processes behind transforming discarded soaps into new bars.

Burton Averre, the co-writer of the hit 'My Sharona' and guitarist for The Knack, shares firsthand stories about the song's quirky creation and its meteoric rise in 1979. Michael Kloster, a music publishing expert, explains the complexities of royalties and licensing that keep the song financially relevant. They discuss everything from the record advance and the unusual points deal for the band to the impact of parody and sync licensing in the modern music landscape, showcasing how a song can continue to thrive decades later.

Katie Francis, a former Girl Scout and record-breaking cookie seller, shares her creative strategies for success. She talks about the behind-the-scenes planning that led her to massive sales, including the role of her mom as the troop's 'cookie mom.' The impact of technology on sales, including the shift to online orders, is also discussed. Katie reflects on the entrepreneurial skills gained through selling cookies and addresses challenges faced during the pandemic, highlighting the lessons learned through teamwork and persistence.

The host shares reflections on three years of exploring the economics behind everyday objects and intriguing stories. They discuss the show's diverse range and significant reach, highlighting memorable topics and insights. The creator invites listeners to stay connected through his newsletter for future updates. Overall, it's a heartfelt look back at a unique journey into the world of everyday economics.

Dean Lyons, the CEO of Bright Nights, shares how a simple favor turned into a nationwide holiday lighting business, with installations ranging from $2,500 to over $400,000. He discusses marketing strategies focused on affluent neighborhoods and the importance of operational efficiency. Chuck Smith, the founder of Planet Christmas and a lighting enthusiast, reveals how the shift to LED technology revolutionized holiday displays. Together, they explore the economics behind seasonal lighting and the artistry involved in creating stunning displays.

Geoffrey Donovan, a natural resource economist, showcases the economic value of urban trees and how they boost property values. Urban forester Jana Dilley shares insights on Seattle's comprehensive tree management, focusing on environmental justice and species selection. Kathleen Wolf, a social scientist, discusses the positive impacts of trees on crime reduction and shopping behaviors. They all highlight the health benefits of urban trees and urgent concerns over declining canopies, emphasizing that trees are critical for city well-being.

Bob Mellano, the VP of wholesale operations at Mellano & Company, shares insights from his family's multi-generational flower business. Jasmine Gomez-Gonzalez, COO of OC Wholesale Flowers, reveals the logistics behind sourcing imported blooms. They dive into the complexities of the global flower trade, examining labor issues and Rainforest Alliance certification. The duo also discusses how the cold chain preserves flowers during transit and the pricing challenges around peak holidays, like Valentine's Day.

Jim McFarland, a fourth-generation cobbler and owner of McFarland's Shoe Repair, shares his journey in the declining world of shoe repair. He highlights the surprising increase in demand for cobblers, despite the industry's challenges with fast fashion. McFarland discusses the intricate process of recrafting shoes and the appeal of high-end footwear. He also dives into his growing mail-in business and use of social media to teach the craft, aiming to inspire the next generation of cobblers.