Ones and Tooze

The podcast delves into the recent record-high inflation and the Federal Reserve's largest interest rate hike in nearly three decades. It explores the implications of these economic shifts and potential strategies for the Biden administration. The hosts also examine Colombia's upcoming presidential election, where a leftist candidate could bring significant change. They discuss Colombia's history of right-wing economics and analyze Gustavo Petro's proposals aimed at addressing income inequality and social issues, marking a pivotal moment for the nation's future.

Explore the surprising resurgence of nuclear bunkers in Germany, driven by the ongoing war in Ukraine. Discover the complexities of civil defense strategies from the Cold War era and their relevance today. Journey to the Faroe Islands, where a unique fishing industry thrives in a harsh environment, revealing its Viking heritage and geopolitical significance. Delve into the islands' rich culture, climate, and community ties, shedding light on their evolving identity amidst modern challenges.

Discussing the potential economic fallout of restricted abortion access, experts examine how such policies disproportionately affect women's financial stability. They delve into U.S. abortion statistics and the historical context of Roe v. Wade, highlighting societal consequences of changing laws. Additionally, parallels are drawn between today's economic anxieties and the turbulent 1970s, exploring inflation and energy crises. The conversation critiques simplistic views on population growth while mapping the shift in economic ideologies that have shaped the modern landscape.

The discussion opens with a heartbreaking reflection on the Uvalde school shooting and its tragic implications. It delves into how billions are spent on school safety measures, questioning their effectiveness and impact on student well-being. The conversation extends to the long-term effects of these tragedies on children's futures. Segments highlight Switzerland's remarkable economy, its luxurious watch industry, and banking secrecy, providing a sharp contrast to American policies. This thought-provoking dialogue explores pressing issues of safety, finance, and education.

Explore the fallout from the dramatic collapse of the TerraUSD stablecoin and its ripple effects on the broader cryptocurrency market. The hosts dive into stablecoins, comparing their stability against traditional currencies and discussing regulatory concerns. The volatile nature of crypto assets is unpacked, revealing misconceptions about their decline. Additionally, there's an intriguing look at how air conditioning boosts productivity and its growing importance in an era of climate change, with a call for sustainable cooling solutions.

The U.S. unemployment rate is impressively low, but it raises questions about inflation and job market dynamics. The hosts tackle the paradox of low unemployment alongside rising inflation and a declining labor force participation. They share insights into Africa's population boom, examining its economic implications and the challenges it presents. The conversation emphasizes the need for investment and innovative policy solutions to address complex issues impacting both the U.S. and Africa, uncovering opportunities amid these shifts.

The recent turmoil in the U.S. stock market has seen significant drops, prompting a discussion on underlying factors beyond interest rates. Insights reveal a disconnect between market performance and public sentiment. The show also explores the complex dynamics of arms procurement in Ukraine, emphasizing challenges tied to international laws and private manufacturing. Additionally, historical ties to past military aid efforts frame the current geopolitical landscape, revealing the urgent need and ethical considerations surrounding military support.

The discussion unpacks the dual nature of May Day in Berlin, highlighting festive day celebrations that clash with nighttime violence. It dives into the historical tension between labor unions and anarchist groups that fueled these noisy protests. The evolution from chaos to the MyFest community festival is explored, showcasing a shift in how locals engage with the holiday. The conversation also reflects on the vibrant squatting culture of the 1980s, revealing its impact on the character of May Day festivities in a time of urban crisis.

Explore the origins of May Day and its significance to the labor movement, celebrating over a century of workers' rights struggles. Delve into the differences between the U.S. Labor Day and International Workers' Day, highlighting cultural implications and activism. Uncover the complex relationship between labor, nationalism, and leftist ideals, while examining the decline of unions in today’s post-industrial landscape. Finally, analyze the economic impacts of the Ukrainian refugee crisis on both host countries and the challenges faced by those displaced.

Inflation's grip on the U.S. economy is affecting households, adding an extra $5,200 annually for essentials. The podcast dives into historical inflation crises, revealing how past policies, like the Volcker shock, shaped today's economic landscape. They also explore the unique challenges of current inflation compared to the 1970s, focusing on labor market dynamics and the rise of organized labor. Sri Lanka's default on foreign debt serves as a stark warning, indicating potential ripples that could impact other developing economies still recovering from Covid-19.