The Economics of Everyday Things
Freakonomics Network & Zachary Crockett
Who decides which snacks are in your office’s vending machine? How much is a suburban elm tree worth, and to whom? How did Girl Scout Cookies become a billion-dollar business? In bite-sized episodes, journalist Zachary Crockett looks at quotidian things and finds amazing stories.
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To get every show in the Freakonomics Radio Network without ads and a monthly bonus episode of Freakonomics Radio, start a free trial for SiriusXM Podcasts+ on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus.
Episodes
Mentioned books
11 snips
Apr 22, 2024 • 16min
45. Storage Units
Guests Zachary Dickens, Anne Mari DeCoster, and Kara Kolodziej discuss the $45 billion self-storage industry in America. They explore the reasons for renting storage units, operations and economics, diverse use cases, nuances of auctions, and the economic viability of storage units. Real-life stories include valuable discoveries like a car from a James Bond film and handling cremated remains.
8 snips
Apr 15, 2024 • 19min
44. Movie Sound Effects
Gregg Barbanell, a Foley artist at Universal Studios, discusses the art of creating movie sound effects using everyday objects like raw liver and ice cream cones. He highlights the meticulous process of enhancing sound in films, from footsteps to cloth manipulation. The podcast delves into the importance of human craftsmanship in crafting authentic auditory experiences for movies.
5 snips
Apr 8, 2024 • 19min
43. Top-Level Domains
Experts delve into the economics of top-level domains, showcasing how small countries profit from domains like .ai. They discuss challenges faced by nations, the rise of AI-related domains, and the complexities of managing country code top-level domains. The podcast explores the financial impact on nations and the intriguing journey of domain ownership changes in Anguilla.
Apr 1, 2024 • 19min
42. Cemeteries
Experts in the burial industry discuss the financial intricacies and evolution of cemeteries in America, including costs, perpetual care, and market challenges. They cover topics like tax filing, planning for burial plots, online listing services, and the shift towards cremation. The podcast also explores the fascination with mausoleums and includes sponsored messages from Tax Act, Ashley, and Capella University.
Mar 25, 2024 • 16min
41. Pet Movers
Discover the challenges of flying pets internationally and the rise of specialized pet transport services. Explore the intricate process of moving pets across borders, the regulations set by Agriculture Departments, and the evolution of pet relocation overseen by professionals. Follow the extravagant journey of Bean and Wobbles, two ducks, as they undergo a luxurious 30-day quarantine before being transported to San Francisco.
Mar 18, 2024 • 17min
40. Prosthetic Limbs
Explore the costs and technology behind prosthetic limbs including advanced features like microprocessors. Learn about the challenges of obtaining insurance coverage and navigating administrative obstacles. Discover innovative solutions like 3D printing to make prosthetics more affordable. Reflect on the importance of community support for individuals adapting to life with prosthetic limbs.
Mar 11, 2024 • 15min
39. Houseplants
Exploring the booming houseplant trend with insights from industry experts. From rare plants to market dynamics, learn about the fierce competition, breeding challenges, and the impact of social media on plant popularity.
Mar 4, 2024 • 16min
Bowling Alleys (Replay)
Exploring the decline and comeback of bowling alleys, featuring insights on modern transformations and the challenges faced by operators. From trendy spaces attracting younger crowds to revenue maximization strategies, this podcast delves into the evolution of bowling and the joy it brings to its patrons.
8 snips
Feb 26, 2024 • 18min
38. Junk Mail
Exploring the history and impact of junk mail, the podcast discusses how the postal service relies on it for revenue. It delves into personalized direct mail marketing strategies and the effectiveness of physical advertisements in the digital age.
12 snips
Feb 19, 2024 • 18min
37. Personal Injury Lawyers
Three legal experts, including a personal injury lawyer, a law professor, and a legal entrepreneur, delve into the world of personal injury law. They discuss the impact of marketing on law firms, the intricacies of settlements, financial aspects of the industry, evolution of legal advertising, and competitive tactics used by law firms to attract clients.
