Marketplace

Join Greg Ipp from The Wall Street Journal and Rachel Siegel from The Washington Post as they dive into the intriguing dynamics of consumer behavior amidst rising inflation and tariffs. They discuss why despite gloomy economic sentiments, consumers are still spending. The conversation also highlights the tension between economic pressures and retail growth, along with insights on wealth taxes and their complications. Plus, a surprising anecdote about Putin’s visit to a NYC gas station adds a quirky twist to the economic narrative!

Elizabeth Troval, a correspondent for Marketplace, dives into the intricacies of the U.S. oil refining industry, highlighting significant regional disparities. She discusses California's challenges compared to the more favorable conditions in the Midwest and Gulf Coast, driven by increasing demand in Latin America. The conversation also touches on rising wholesale prices and their potential impact on consumers, while exploring the ongoing chaos in the job market influenced by automation and hiring practices.

In this insightful discussion, Paul W. Downs and Jen Statsky, the creative minds behind HBO Max's 'Hacks', dive into the intricate dance between artistic vision and commercial success. They reflect on the show's portrayal of the comedy landscape, shedding light on their collaborative writing process and the pressures of the final season. Additionally, they explore the emotional bond audiences form with characters, while navigating the evolving dynamics of the television industry. Expect candid insights and behind-the-scenes stories that highlight the challenges of bringing humor to life!

Inflation rates are not as straightforward as they seem, varying significantly by region and product category. Discover why San Diego faces higher prices than Dallas and how specific industries are impacted. The rise in long-term unemployment and the challenges businesses face with clarity on tariffs add to the economic complexity. A conversation with the CEO of the largest Black-owned construction firm unveils the historical significance and resilience of Black builders in America, highlighting their contributions to iconic projects.

The podcast tackles the complex effects of tariffs on the U.S. economy and global oil demand. It highlights the unpredictable nature of trade policies, especially under the Trump administration, affecting semiconductor prices and electronics. Listeners learn about the surprising drops in certain consumer prices amid overall inflation. The discussion also delves into the challenges faced by first-time homebuyers and introduces an engaging approach to teaching kids about financial literacy.

The looming end of Temporary Protected Status threatens to deport crucial Haitian healthcare workers in the U.S., risking vital care roles in nursing homes. Meanwhile, tariffs imposed by the U.S. could stifle global economies reliant on exports and create challenges for local job growth. Personal stories bring to light the anxieties surrounding retirement against a backdrop of economic uncertainty, as individuals adjust their financial plans amid these shifting market conditions.

Productivity growth seems positive, but deeper analysis shows it's less robust than it appears. A bananas wholesaler shares the emotional toll of navigating tariffs affecting trade. Couples are creatively using weddings to support charities, showcasing a new trend in festive giving. Personal stories reveal the challenges faced by families, from a mother managing a sixth child to a nurse grappling with a baby's health issues, all set against a shifting economic backdrop. The podcast highlights how personal and economic dynamics intertwine.

Household debt is surging, with a notable rise in student loan delinquencies, but experts remain optimistic. Audi is considering building a U.S. factory to circumvent tariffs, while the decline in international students raises economic concerns. The episode also examines community benefits agreements in development, highlighting Nashville's activism. Additionally, it takes a look at the challenges in the cattle market amid record-high beef prices and explores how YouTube is reshaping the culinary landscape for chefs.

Elizabeth Troval, a reporter covering the U.S. oil and natural gas industry, dives into the tension between crude oil's declining demand and the surge in natural gas usage. She highlights the paradox that much of the natural gas is extracted while drilling for oil. The conversation also touches on the economic stagnation affecting various sectors, the impact of tariffs, and the challenges in global supply chains, including the smuggling of AI chips. Troval's insights paint a vivid picture of an industry at a pivotal crossroads.

Wendy Edelberg, a Senior Fellow at the Brookings Institution specializing in economic policy, joins the discussion to unravel the complexities of labor market data. They examine the impact of political pressure on the Bureau of Labor Statistics and share concerns about the trustworthiness of economic data, drawing parallels with China's practices. The conversation navigates the crucial role of immigration trends and Fed independence in shaping economic growth, all while tackling the challenges posed by fluctuating market conditions and rising interest rates.