Planet Money

Discover the realities of garment manufacturing in the U.S. through the inspiring story of Maria, a dedicated worker in Los Angeles. Uncover the challenges she faces, from piece-rate pay to striving for skill enhancement. The discussion sheds light on wage theft, labor conditions, and the stark differences between American workers and their international counterparts. Delve into the potential for growth in domestic manufacturing and explore the tough choices Americans face about labor in the garment industry today.

Join Simon Johnson, a prominent MIT professor and former chief economist of the IMF, as he dives into the intricate relationship between government and economic success. He argues that government influence has always been present in economics, countering the notion of a purely free market. The discussion spans intriguing stories from India, New York City, and Peru, touching on how bureaucratic efficiency can make or break economies, particularly for informal sectors like Jamaican street vendors. Johnson emphasizes the critical roles of innovation, wealth distribution, and inclusive governance in fostering prosperity.

This discussion delves into the complexities of a massive tax and spending bill, revealing how it proposes significant tax cuts funded by cuts to Medicaid and growing national debt. The analysis uncovers the math behind these decisions, showing that the balance simply doesn’t add up. Listeners learn about the uneven benefits across different income groups and the implications for public services. There's a spotlight on the potential $3 trillion deficit impact and the broader economic ripple effects that could follow.

Explore how the U.S. national debt skyrocketed to $30 trillion and the historical lessons that can be learned from post-World War II. Economists discuss using economic growth as a remedy for debt, emphasizing innovative strategies like tax cuts and bolstering R&D funding. Discover how adjusting immigration policies could enhance productivity and reduce deficits. Additionally, the podcast tackles infrastructure challenges and regulatory reforms needed to stimulate economic growth while balancing the responsibilities of national debt management.

Andrea Bernstein, a reporter covering Trump and his businesses, shares insights from her time at the Bitcoin 2025 conference. She discusses Trump's surprising shift from critic to crypto entrepreneur, including the Trump's investments in stablecoins and meme coins. Bernstein reveals the striking presence of political figures at the conference, creating a fascinating blend of crypto and state. The podcast also explores the evolving regulatory landscape amid the crypto boom and highlights the complexities of navigating this burgeoning financial frontier.

In a thrilling competition, contestants tackle serious economic topics with a creative twist. From rhyming tax cut impacts to country songs about Medicaid's history, humor flows freely. Participants explore the national debt through romantic comedy narratives, all while navigating tight time limits. They discuss how rising interest rates affect various debts, injecting fun into fiscal analysis. The blend of comedy and critical insights makes for an entertaining showdown, culminating in an exciting celebration for the reigning champion.

The U.S. has long led the global fight against bribery, but recent policy shifts may change that. The case of Glencore reveals how cash bribes influenced contracts in South Sudan. Discussions touch on the origins of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and its role in regulating corporate ethics. The podcast also dives into the history of anti-bribery treaties and how some companies have exploited lax laws in countries like Switzerland. With changing enforcement, what does the future hold for American businesses in the international arena?

Shai Akabas, a Vice President at the Bipartisan Policy Center, dives into the complexities of the U.S. debt ceiling. He discusses how Congress's decisions impact the nation’s ability to manage debt, the looming 'X-Date' that could spell disaster for the economy, and historical crises that have shaped the current landscape. Akabas shares insights on how transparency is vital amidst political chaos and misinformation, and emphasizes the urgency of raising the debt limit to secure fiscal stability. It's a thought-provoking look at our financial future!

Sahil Lavingia, a former DOGE staffer at the Department of Veteran Affairs and startup founder, shares his unique perspective on the controversial initiative. He discusses the secrecy surrounding DOGE, revealing insights about the challenges faced by federal employees. Lavingia reflects on his initial excitement to drive efficiency in government and his disillusionment with bureaucratic practices. He also examines the intersection of personal beliefs and political choices while navigating a rapidly changing work environment.

Kathleen Clausen, a law professor at Georgetown and former trade lawyer, joins to discuss the controversial tariffs imposed by Trump. She examines the unusual legal theory underpinning these tariffs, which hinges on declaring national emergencies. Clausen explains the vital role of Congress in regulating tariffs and how the International Emergency Economic Powers Act is being used in unprecedented ways. The conversation also covers the ongoing legal challenges against these tariffs and what they mean for the future of trade law.