Sandeep Vaheesan

Join John Cassidy, a staff writer for The New Yorker and author of "Capitalism and Its Critics," alongside Sandeep Vaheesan, legal director at the Open Markets Institute. They dive into the changing perceptions of capitalism post-2008 and examine historical critiques that spotlight exploitation and instability. The conversation touches on key figures like Adam Smith and the enduring legacy of the Luddites. They also confront the harsh realities of AI on labor and advocate for rethinking economic frameworks and reviving public investment to address modern challenges.

Sandeep Vaheesan, antitrust legal director focused on corporate power. Mike Konczal, policy lead on inequality and industrial strategy. Jerusalem Demsas, housing and affordability reporter. Baillee Brown, pro-building policy advocate. They debate how to scale housing, clean energy, and public goods while preserving democratic power. Conversation touches on permitting, market control, zoning, NEPA, and political tradeoffs.

Exploring the evolution of middle-out economics from a new theory to mainstream practice, with insights from economists, researchers, and former officials. Discussing the impact of middle-out economics on economic growth, antitrust enforcement, public satisfaction, infrastructure investments, workers' rights, and advocating for a more equitable economic approach.

Join economist Isabella Weber, legal director Sandeep Vaheesan, and climate accountability lawyer Aaron Regunberg as they dissect the controversial 'Abundance' ideology. They challenge the oversimplified narratives around housing and clean energy, arguing for the need to address complex capitalism rather than relying on corporate-friendly solutions. The trio critiques current messaging that mirrors right-wing rhetoric and champions a return to robust government roles reminiscent of the New Deal while highlighting the dangers of corporate influence on essential services, urging a renewed focus on equity.

Sandeep Vaheesan, legal director at the Open Markets Institute and author on electrification history. He walks through how New Deal public power programs remade rural life and spurred mass appliance adoption. He explains dam-building, TVA impacts, and how public and cooperative utilities shaped wartime mobilization. He also addresses the era’s racial injustices and why public leadership matters for decarbonization.