

Peter St Onge Podcast
Peter St Onge, Ph.D
Peter St Onge, Ph.D economist explains news on the economy in plain English and why it matters.
Episodes
Mentioned books

7 snips
Dec 8, 2025 • 20min
Ep 150 Weekly Roundup: Deficit Hits All-Time Record
This week dives into the staggering record of the federal deficit and its causes, highlighting the implications of skyrocketing interest and entitlement spending. Discover how Japan and El Salvador have successfully tackled violent crime with innovative approaches. Discuss the concerning trend of the median homebuyer aging to 59 years, alongside the persistent high housing prices. Canada's booming public sector employment raises questions about future economic stability, while a study reveals AI could replace a significant chunk of jobs, with young workers facing the brunt of this shift.

8 snips
Dec 1, 2025 • 20min
Ep 149 Weekly Roundup: Americans Have Jobs. Foreigners do not.
This week, a surge in jobs for native-born Americans contrasts sharply with a drop in foreign-born employment. A looming energy crunch driven by AI data centers raises concerns about electricity supply. The failure of a Universal Basic Income trial highlights its negative employment impact. Consumer confidence is faltering, revealing troubling expectations for the future. Meanwhile, disillusioned college grads are turning to radical leftist ideologies, linking a declining wage premium to their frustrations.

9 snips
Nov 24, 2025 • 19min
Ep 148 Weekly Roundup: Inflation is Crushing Repubilcans
This week, inflation is spotlighted as a major force reshaping voter sentiment against Republicans. Trump’s promise to tackle inflation is critiqued as stalled and underwhelming. The show explores the surprising funding behind U.S. protests, linking it to European donations. As the economy shifts, a stark divide grows between wealthy and struggling citizens. The discussion also covers potential Fed rate cuts and their implications, along with the unsettling job impacts of AI automation.

5 snips
Nov 17, 2025 • 19min
Ep 147 Weekly Roundup: Highest Layoffs in 22 Years
This week highlights the highest layoffs in 22 years, with insights into affected sectors like IT and media. Elon Musk's colossal $1 trillion paycheck raises questions about future industries. Political discussions include Trump's call to end the filibuster and the implications of the recent government shutdown. Last but not least, the controversial 50-year mortgage proposal is examined, addressing its potential to lower payments but also its long-term costs. Tune in for the real solutions to soaring housing prices!

5 snips
Nov 10, 2025 • 20min
Ep 146 Weekly Roundup: “Tax Armageddon" for Blue States
A fascinating discussion on looming tax hikes in blue states and the potential flight of taxpayers is presented. Bill Gates’ surprising shift away from alarmist climate rhetoric raises eyebrows, hinting at changes in climate funding. Meanwhile, European studies wake us up to the hidden costs of migration. In Argentina, the seismic victory of Javier Milei promises sweeping reforms. Finally, a sobering look at the staggering $38 trillion federal debt leaves listeners contemplating future financial stability.

Nov 3, 2025 • 19min
Ep 145 Weekly Roundup: Inflation Slows Despite Tarrifs
Roundup of the Week's Top Stories in Economics and FreedomInflation Slows Despite TariffsShutdown "Could go to 2027"Foodstamps Freeze for 42 MillionFrance to Impose "Wealth Tax"Amazon Lays off 600,000Read the full article "Federal Debt hits $38 Trillion" at https://www.profstonge.com/Visit our Sponsor: Monetary MetalsEarn 5% to 12% interest on your physical gold and silver, paid in physical gold and silver.Visit our Sponsor: CoinKiteProtect your Bitcoin with an Ultra-Secure Hardware WalletDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

7 snips
Oct 27, 2025 • 18min
Ep 144 Weekly Roundup: Biggest Budget Surplus in History
Dive into a record-setting $198 billion budget surplus and the role of tariff revenues. Explore how GOP redistricting could shift up to 20 House seats in the midterms. Hear about the potential end of the government shutdown and strategies for Republicans. Discover how Trump's tariffs are affecting Jeep investments in Ontario. Unpack the alarming crash of regional bank stocks tied to loan fraud and the risks in commercial real estate. A whirlwind of economic insights awaits!

7 snips
Oct 20, 2025 • 19min
Ep 143 Weekly Roundup: China Trade War Blows Up
The trade war heats up as China imposes a rare earth export ban, prompting potential tariffs. Federal workers face uncertainty with the possibility of losing back pay. Silver's price skyrockets due to high demand from AI and solar industries. The podcast discusses creative funding strategies amid federal layoffs. Lastly, a look back at the 1990s reveals how fiscal restraint and the tech boom led to a balanced budget, offering lessons for today.

7 snips
Oct 13, 2025 • 21min
Ep 142 Weekly Roundup: Shutdown Crushes Democrats
This week dives into the political fallout of the government shutdown and how it shifts blame toward Democrats. An exploration of the permanent job cuts that could arise from the shutdown highlights its long-term implications. The discussion also critiques Obamacare's failure to control costs, affected by lobbying. Turning to Japan, populism emerges as a response to security concerns. Finally, a shocking statistic reveals that American incomes have stagnated for 25 years, raising urgent questions about potential solutions.

11 snips
Oct 6, 2025 • 19min
Ep 141 Weekly Roundup: Government Shuts Down
This week's discussion dives deep into the federal government shutdown and its ramifications. The mechanics of a shutdown are explained, highlighting which essential services could remain operational. Meanwhile, the podcast reveals China's economy is faltering amidst the ongoing trade war, with clever strategies like tariff evasion. As GDP growth impressively rises to 3.8%, the conversation turns to inflation concerns and potential policy reforms to ease financial pressures. It's a dynamic exploration of politics, economics, and their impact on everyday lives.


