Make Me Smart

From "Marketplace Morning Report": The Rural Healthcare Crisis

Rural hospital closures are surging across America due to low Medicare reimbursement rates and federal funding cuts.

From "How We Survive": How to Dim the Sun

Startups are testing solar geoengineering by releasing reflective particles into the atmosphere to cool the planet.

The TikTok-ification of music marketing

Artificial fan engagement and burner accounts are changing the way independent artists break through to new audiences.

The highs and lows of the global art market

The global art market is facing a difficult contraction as high overheads and falling sales hit galleries hard.

Kimberly's final cheers on "Economics on Tap"

David Brancaccio joins to discuss shifting from short-term market focus to the long-term impacts of future technology.

How the new WNBA CBA transforms player pay

The new WNBA collective bargaining agreement introduces revenue sharing and salary hikes to transform player pay.

Make Me Smart: Lunar Edition

The hosts of Make Me Smart turn their attention to the skies in this lunar-focused episode, exploring the historic significance of the Artemis II mission. Marking the first crewed return to the moon in over five decades, this mission represents a pivotal shift in space exploration. The conversation highlights how the industry has evolved from government-led initiatives to a landscape increasingly defined by the influence of private aerospace companies. Joining the discussion is Ars Technica senior space editor Eric Berger, who provides expert insight into the future of NASA and the commercial space sector. Listeners can expect a deep dive into the motivations behind returning to the moon and an analysis of how private players are reshaping spaceflight dynamics. From the evolving image of NASA to the intersection of space technology and finance, this episode offers a comprehensive look at the modern space race.

One wild year of Trump's tariffs

In this episode of Make Me Smart, the hosts examine the complex and lasting impact of President Trump’s tariffs one year after their implementation. Although some of these trade measures were recently overturned by the courts, the financial ripples continue to affect small businesses nationwide. To understand the real-world consequences, the program features candid conversations with two entrepreneurs: Justine Kahn, founder of Botnia Skincare, and Will Sissle, owner of Sissle & Daughters Cheesemongers & Grocers. Listeners will hear firsthand accounts of how these business owners have navigated fluctuating costs, supply chain disruptions, and shifting market conditions over the past year. The discussion provides a grounded look at how national trade policy filters down to local storefronts, offering listeners a clearer perspective on the ongoing economic challenges faced by independent businesses in the current climate.

Inside the "Super Bowl of energy”

In this episode of Make Me Smart, the hosts explore the shifting landscape of global energy, sparked by insights from CERAWeek, the industry’s premier conference. Joined by reporter Elizabeth Trovall, they examine how current geopolitical instability, specifically the conflict in the Middle East, is impacting global oil markets and domestic gas prices. The conversation goes beyond regional politics to analyze the broader forces reshaping the sector. Listeners will learn how surging energy demands driven by the rapid growth of artificial intelligence are creating new challenges for infrastructure and power consumption. The discussion also touches upon shifting production trends in nations like Venezuela and the economic ripple effects caused by potential disruptions to key shipping corridors. This episode provides a comprehensive look at how energy, technology, and global policy are colliding in an increasingly complex world.

Make Me Smart about the business of sake

In this episode of Make Me Smart, the hosts explore the fascinating world of sake, Japan’s iconic national beverage. Inspired by the peak bloom of Washington, D.C.’s cherry blossoms, the discussion highlights the deep cultural connection between the season and the traditional drink. Reiko Hirai, founder of D.C. Sake Co., joins the show to demystify the industry, explaining how sake is made and why it is experiencing a surge in popularity beyond Japan. The conversation covers the rise of American-based sake breweries and offers practical advice on how to properly enjoy and appreciate different varieties. Listeners can expect an educational deep dive into the business of sake, covering global sales trends and professional tasting tips. Whether you are a newcomer or a connoisseur, this episode provides a clear and engaging look at the craftsmanship behind the drink.

The humanitarian risks of a fertilizer shock

In this episode of Make Me Smart, the hosts explore the far-reaching and often overlooked consequences of the conflict with Iran, focusing specifically on the disruption of the global fertilizer trade. With approximately one-third of the world’s fertilizer supply passing through the Strait of Hormuz, the effective closure of this vital waterway is triggering a significant chain reaction across international markets. Guest Michael Werz from the Council on Foreign Relations joins the program to explain how this logistics bottleneck is not only destabilizing energy markets but also threatening to drive up global food prices. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the intersection between geopolitical conflict and food security, as the discussion highlights how these supply chain challenges are poised to exacerbate humanitarian crises in vulnerable regions worldwide. It is an essential deep dive into the hidden, essential links of the global economy.

The super PAC spending flooding the primaries

As the 2026 midterm primaries heat up, massive amounts of capital from super PACs are flooding the political landscape. In this episode of Make Me Smart, the hosts examine the true influence of this outside spending on current races. Guest and democratic strategist Tim Lim joins the discussion to analyze how these financial war chests are shaping candidate strategies and voter perception. The conversation also explores the potential fallout of a pivotal, under-the-radar Supreme Court case that could fundamentally alter campaign finance laws by easing coordination rules between parties and candidates. Listeners can expect an insightful breakdown of how these deep-pocketed groups operate, the mixed results of recent investments, and the legal uncertainties that could further upend the electoral process. It is a deep dive into the complex intersection of money, strategy, and shifting regulations in American politics.

The economics behind the rise of BTS and Korean culture

In this episode of Make Me Smart, the hosts explore the meteoric global rise of Korean culture, examining how the phenomenon is far from accidental. While stars like BTS and artistic exports such as K-pop Demon Hunters currently dominate headlines, this cultural wave is the result of decades of strategic investment by the South Korean government. Guest Michelle Cho, a researcher of East Asian pop cultures at the University of Toronto, joins the conversation to unpack the historical context behind this expansion. Listeners will gain insight into how these deliberate policies have fundamentally reshaped international industries, ranging from entertainment to the booming beauty sector. The episode provides a fascinating look at the intersection of government strategy, global market trends, and the widespread appeal of K-everything, offering a deeper understanding of the economic forces driving today’s cultural landscape.

Who gets to set limits on AI?

In this episode of Make Me Smart, the hosts dive into a high-stakes legal confrontation between the U.S. Department of Defense and AI company Anthropic. The conflict centers on the Pentagon’s desire to deploy the Claude AI model for unrestricted warfighting purposes, a move that has sparked significant safety concerns from the developer. Listeners will hear from Justin Hendrix, CEO and editor of Tech Policy Press, who breaks down the nuances of this lawsuit and explores its broader implications for artificial intelligence oversight. The conversation examines whether tech firms can effectively set safety boundaries when faced with pressure from powerful government entities. This episode provides a critical look at a potential turning point in the relationship between Silicon Valley and the current administration, offering insight into how these early legal battles may ultimately define the future of global AI safety standards.

How the farm bill became the everything bill

The hosts of Make Me Smart dive into the complex world of the United States farm bill, exploring why this massive piece of legislation matters to every American, regardless of whether they live on a farm. Often described as the everything bill due to its vast scope, this package is becoming increasingly difficult to pass as costs rise and political tensions mount. The discussion examines how recent legislative changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, have threatened the long-standing coalitions that typically ensure the bill's success. Joining the conversation is agriculture policy expert Chris Neubert from Arizona State University, who provides critical insights into the potential gridlock facing this year’s negotiations. Listeners can expect a deep dive into the historical significance of these policies and what the current fractured political climate means for the future of national food and agricultural support.

Can Hollywood make a comeback?

In this episode of Make Me Smart, the hosts explore the current instability within the film industry as the Oscars approach. Joining the conversation is Wall Street Journal entertainment reporter Ben Fritz, who helps break down the reasons behind slumping box office numbers and the potential long-term consequences for cinema. The discussion highlights the anxieties surrounding major corporate consolidations, such as the proposed Paramount and Warner Bros. merger, and examines how these shifts impact the workforce and the future of movie production. Beyond the corporate analysis, the episode offers a lighter moment as the hosts address the popular debate among audiences regarding the use of subtitles. Listeners can expect a comprehensive look at the obstacles facing Hollywood today, along with expert insights on what steps might be necessary for the industry to achieve a genuine comeback.

The economic ripple effects of ICE in Minnesota

In this episode of Make Me Smart, the hosts explore the lasting economic aftermath of Operation Metro Surge in Minnesota. Following the winding down of ICE operations in the state, communities are grappling with the potential for a severe eviction crisis, particularly within the Twin Cities area. The program features a conversation between host Kimberly and MPR News correspondent Dana Ferguson, who reports from St. Paul to provide an on-the-ground perspective. They examine how the state legislature is intervening to offer economic relief to vulnerable renters and discuss the broader implications for families affected by these shifts. Listeners can expect an insightful look at the intersection of immigration policy and housing stability, as well as an update on the evolving situation for those living at the center of these challenging economic ripple effects.

The ski industry squeeze

In this episode of Make Me Smart, the hosts examine the growing economic exclusivity of snow sports in America. Over the past decade, rising costs have increasingly pushed skiing and snowboarding out of reach for many families, creating significant ripples throughout local mountain economies. To understand these shifts, the program features a conversation with University of Waterloo professor and sustainable tourism expert Daniel Scott. Together, they break down the primary factors driving price hikes at resorts and analyze how the industry is grappling with the unpredictable realities of climate change. Listeners can expect a deep dive into the sustainability of mountain towns, the challenges facing seasonal workers, and what these broader industry trends mean for the future of winter recreation. It is an insightful look at how both market pressures and environmental concerns are fundamentally reshaping the ski world.

The big money in the Texas primaries

In this episode of Make Me Smart, the hosts dive into the high-stakes world of the recent Texas primary elections, which proved to be historic due to record-breaking campaign spending. Guest Blaise Gainey, a state politics reporter for The Texas Newsroom, joins the discussion to analyze key election takeaways and the primary economic concerns driving voters to the polls. The conversation also explores the surprisingly influential role of the Texas Railroad Commissioner regarding the state’s massive oil and gas industry. Beyond the political analysis, the episode features a lighthearted round of This or That, where the hosts debate legendary Texas icons. Listeners can expect an engaging look at how these primaries are shaping the political landscape for the upcoming November ballot and gain a better understanding of the complex financial forces currently at play in Texas politics.

The Trump administration scrapped the endangerment finding. Now what?

In this episode of Make Me Smart, the hosts explore the significant fallout from the Environmental Protection Agency’s decision to scrap the endangerment finding. This policy reversal creates deep uncertainty for the future of federal greenhouse gas regulation, leaving the landscape for emissions standards from vehicles and power plants in limbo. Guest Amy Scott from Marketplace joins the conversation to break down the far-reaching implications of this move. Listeners can expect an analysis of how this repeal might impact the domestic auto industry, what it means for the wallets of American consumers, and how it affects the United States’ broader role in the global shift toward clean energy. The discussion provides necessary context on the legal and environmental challenges ahead as the country navigates a changing approach to climate policy.