The Economics of Everyday Things

Joshua Hurwitz, a Tufts University economics lecturer, joins fire chiefs Eric Mackintosh and Steve Pegram to discuss the evolving role of firefighters. With fire incidents declining, they explore how firefighters are increasingly responding to medical emergencies. The conversation also highlights the rise of household fire hazards, such as cooking mishaps and lithium-ion batteries. They delve into the financial challenges faced by fire departments and the growing integration of emergency services, showcasing the shift from traditional firefighting to broader emergency response.

In this engaging conversation, romance novelist Delaney Diamond, educator and fan Danielle Flores, fellow author Brenda Hiatt, and Harlequin's Diane Moggy delve into the evolution of romance novels. They explore how these books transformed from niche to mainstream hits, particularly highlighting the rise of e-books and self-publishing. The guests discuss the financial realities faced by romance authors and the importance of representation within the genre. Personal anecdotes reveal the joy and escapism found in romance literature despite societal stigma.

Discover the fascinating world of exotic dancing, where performers navigate financial savvy and social trends to maximize their earnings. Explore the economic realities behind the glitz, including fees, lap dances, and the surprising financial dynamics at play. Dive into the evolution of strip clubs from seedy joints to trendy nightspots, and the impact of the pandemic and online platforms on the industry. Learn how dancers adapt their strategies amid changing demographics, safety concerns, and ongoing efforts for better worker protections.

Investigative journalist Zachary Crockett explores the high costs and intricate process of producing snake anti-venom, the disparities in access to treatment in the U.S. and abroad, and advancements in affordable antivenoms. The podcast also touches on protecting dogs from parasites and a humorous reference to Reese's Peanut Butter Cups.

Derek Hales and Joe Megibow discuss the challenges of direct-to-consumer mattresses, revolutionizing the industry with online sales. They talk about the importance of marketing, navigating the mattress review industry, and the lack of brand loyalty in the mattress industry.

Ghostwriters Valerie Frankel and Daniel Paisner discuss their experiences in channeling the voices of celebrities, highlighting the empathy, discretion, and literary skills required for the job. The podcast delves into the history and evolution of ghostwriting, the crucial role ghostwriters play in helping public figures transform their ideas into bestsellers, and the growing demand for their services in the publishing industry.

Mariel-Leona Edwards, Matthew Geller, and Evan Kidera discuss the evolution and economics of food trucks, the challenges of running a successful food truck business, obtaining necessary permits, regulations, transitioning to brick-and-mortar restaurants, and the unpredictable nature of sales in the food truck industry.

Guests including Linda Flanagan, Nick Mackenzie, R.J. Mackenzie, and John Miller discuss the commercialization of youth baseball and the shift from community leagues to for-profit travel teams. They explore the financial burdens on families, challenges in recruiting top players, and the impact on less skilled kids. The podcast addresses the disparity in youth sports participation and initiatives for affordable opportunities in underserved communities.

Delve into the history and significance of cork production, the challenges faced by the cork industry, innovative solutions to cork taint in the wine industry, the growth of trees and trends in the wine cork industry, and the economic and environmental benefits of cork recycling.

This podcast discusses the evolution of self-checkout in grocery stores with insights from Sara Alloy, Christopher Andrews, and Phil Lempert. Topics include the impact on customer loyalty, the rise of self-checkout theft, and the implications of automation on the retail industry.