Make Me Smart

The Trump Administration today said it will restrict undocumented immigrants from accessing public programs, including Head Start. Kimberly explains how the move fits into the government's broader effort to change who's entitled to services in the United States. And, the Supreme Court gave Trump the green light to continue mass federal layoffs, for now. We'll get into the emotional rollercoaster many of these workers have been on this year. Plus, we'll play a round of Half Full/Half Empty!Here's everything we talked about today:"What the Media Gets Wrong About Medicaid ‘Cuts'" from DC Journal"Taxpayer-Funded Benefits Are for American Citizens — Not Illegals" from The White House "Trump to cut off Head Start for immigrants in US illegally" from AP News  "State Department fires more than 1,300 employees in downsizing plan" from The Washington Post "Federal workers fearful after Supreme Court backs Trump's mass firings plan" from The Washington Post"How Trump's immigration policies could threaten Social Security" from Marketplace "Tariffs push companies to rethink traditional forecasts" from Marketplace"In new food fad, protein products are no longer just for gym-goers" from Marketplace"Microsoft Pledges $4 Billion Toward A.I. Education" from The New York Times"A 70-hour work week? Some job listings are foregoing work-life balance" from Marketplace”The disturbing parallels between modern accounting and the business of slavery” from MarketplaceWe love hearing from you. Leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART or email makemesmart@marketplace.org.

Even before the catastrophic flooding in Texas, weather experts were ringing alarm bells over how staffing cuts at federal weather agencies could affect the reliability of weather forecasts in the United States. Marketplace's Amy Scott joins us on the show today to explain how these cuts are impacting the day-to-day at the National Weather Service, and look at other headwinds the agency could face in the future, including privatization efforts and the ever-complicating factor of climate change. Here's everything we talked about today:"Burning Questions: How do cuts to NOAA impact all of us?" from “How We Survive” "FEMA cuts put more pressure on local disaster relief" from Marketplace "Debate erupts over role job cuts played in weather forecasts ahead of deadly Texas floods" from AP News"Flood predictions could worsen when Trump's cuts take hold" from Politico"As Floods Hit, Key Roles Were Vacant at Weather Service Offices in Texas" from The New York Times"Republicans want to privatize weather forecasts. Do Trump appointees stand to benefit?" from Fast Company We love hearing from you. Leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART or email makemesmart@marketplace.org.

Now that the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” is law, Congress is turning its attention to another matter: avoiding a government shutdown. We'll explain what it will take to keep the government running beyond Congress' Sept. 30 deadline. And, we'll fill you in on another deadline: President Trump's new due date for trade deals before a slew of higher tariff rates kick in. Plus, a listener's story of frozen pizza and facing fears.Here's everything we talked about today:"Why the federal government will shut down. And why it won't" from Punchbowl News"Trump combats TACO reputation as White House extends tariff deadline" from The Washington Post"Too Many Goods Are About To Face Historically High Tariffs" from Tax Policy Center"Flint finally replaced its lead pipes" from The Washington PostGot a question for the hosts? Call 508-U-B-SMART or email makemesmart@marketplace.org.

Republicans' freshly passed spending bill sets aside $45 billion just to expand immigration detention centers. And a number of private companies are poised to profit from the surge in funding. On the show today, Deirdre Conlon, co-author of the new book “Immigration Detention Inc" explains how immigration detention became dominated by private companies, how local economies have become entangled with the business of detention, and how Trump's spending law changes everything.Plus, we'll celebrate a listener's cross-country move. And, a reminder to try being a local tourist.Here's everything we talked about today:"Trump got $170 billion for immigration. Now he has to enact it." from Politico "We Asked Trump's Former Prisons Chief How $45 Billion Will Reshape Immigrant Detention" from Mother Jones"Budget Bill Massively Increases Funding for Immigration Detention" from the Brennan Center for Justice"Trump administration seeks to turn mass deportations into an efficient business ‘like Amazon'" from PBS News"Unchecked Growth: Private Prison Corporations and Immigration Detention, Three Years Into the Biden Administration" from the ACLUGot a question for the hosts? Email makemesmart@marketplace.org or leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART.

Republicans' newly passed tax and spending law establishes the first major federal program for shifting public money to private schools. It comes in the form of a wonky tax break. We'll explain how it will work. And, we'll get into how massive cuts to Medicaid will impact rural hospitals across the United States. Plus, anime is more popular than ever on Netflix.Here's everything we talked about today:"Burning Questions: How do cuts to NOAA impact all of us?" from Marketplace"Congress Passes National Private School Voucher Program as Part of Policy Bill" from The New York Times"The new wave of private school vouchers" from Make Me Smart  "Rural hospitals will be hit hard by Trump's signature spending package" from The Conversation"Trump bill's health effects won't be felt until after midterms" from Axios "Netflix Says 50 Percent of Global Users Now Watch Anime, Reveals Expanded Slate" from The Hollywood Reporter "A new start after 60: I quit my job, bought a camera – and became a successful wildlife photographer" from The Guardian"At 40, She Discovered She Was One of America's Best Free Divers" from Texas Monthly  Got a question for the hosts? Call 508-U-B-SMART or email makemesmart@marketplace.org.

Since President Trump began imposing on-and-off tariffs earlier this year, “tariff” has become a buzzword. And you might have a kid in your life who's asked what the deal with tariffs is all about. So today, we're sharing an episode from the latest season of Million Bazillion that breaks down how they work. Hosts Bridget and Ryan help out a local fifth-grader whose slime business is facing competition from a rival school. Could a tariff solve her problem?

The Labor Department today reported the United States added 147,000 jobs in June. The number beat economists expectations, and it sits in stark contrast to yesterday's ADP report which showed private sector lost 33,000 jobs last month. So what gives? We'll explain what the two reports can tell us about the labor market right now. And, President Trump's immigration crackdown could lead to more federal surveillance on all Americans. Plus, we want to hear about the wins in your life!Here's everything we talked about today:"ADP report June 2025: Private sector lost 33,000 jobs, missing expectations" from CNBC"Republican Budget Bill Signals New Era in Federal Surveillance" from Tech Policy Press"Steady Hiring Added 147,000 Jobs to U.S. Economy in June" from The Wall Street Journal"Can We Trust a Jobs Report From the Trump Administration? Yes, With Caveats." from The New York TimesGot a question for the hosts? Call 508-U-B-SMART or email makemesmart@marketplace.org.

On today's show, we'll discuss some headlines that might've slipped under the radar this week. First, most staff at the U.S. Agency for International Deveopment officially marked their final day with the agency. What might the dismantling of USAID mean for U.S. influence abroad? Plus, school districts are scrambling as federal education dollars are on hold. Then, we'll smile about Andy Weir's latest sci-fi novel being adapted for the big screen and the WNBA expanding into more cities! Here's everything we talked about today: “Bush, Obama and Bono Commend USAID Staff Members on Their Last Day” from The New York Times“The US says 'little to show‘ for six-decade aid agency. Supporters point to millions of lives saved” from The Associated Press“USAID cuts could lead to 14 million deaths over the next five years, researchers say” from NBC News“Education Department freezes cash for school districts, teacher training, migrant students” from POLITICO“Watch the first trailer for ‘Project Hail Mary'” from Popular Science“WNBA adds three more franchises as league's popularity continues to grow” from The Washington Post“‘Friendship' Review: Tim Robinson and Paul Rudd Hit Maximum Cringe” from The New York TimesIf you have a question, give us a call: 508-U-B-SMART or email makemesmart@marketplace.org

Summer is here and like many you might be planning your next vacation. But here's the thing, a lot of popular destinations are grappling with the pressure of overtourism or mass tourism.On today's episode, we dig into the phenonmenon of over tourism, the growing tensions between locals and visitors and the global economic forces at play. Plus, is it possible to be a responsible tourist or have we pushed some destinations too far? Later, listeners sound off on the power of labor unions and food allergies. Finally, are you team check-in bag or carry-on? This week's answer to the Make Me Smart question might make you rethink everything! Here's everything we talked about today: "Destination dupes" offer glam vacation vibes at a fraction of the price from Marketplace“Surging travel in Europe spikes concerns over tourism's drawbacks” from AP News“Overtourism was the buzzword of 2024. This summer looks to be just as crowded and chaotic” from CNN“Affordable travel is to blame for Europe's overtourism problem, spoiling its most sought-after cities like Barcelona, Amsterdam and Athens” from Fortune“Hawaii will tax vacation stays and use money to help counter climate crisis” from The Guardian“The Goal: Tourism That Regenerates Hawai‘i, Not Degrades It” from Hawaii BusinessWe want to hear your answer to the Make Me Smart question: What's something you thought you knew, but you later found out you were wrong about? Leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART!

We've been a bit obsessed with the GOP's budget bill lately. And with a Senate vote expected any day now, we're keeping a close eye on the debate. We'll break down how the GOP is playing with the numbers to make the bill look less costly on paper than it actually is. Plus, Gen Z's not just good at memes and TikTok, they're better at saving for retirement than millllenials. So how'd they do it? And a mildly terrifying story with a happy ending! Here's everything we talked about: “What is a vote-a-rama? Senate vote marathon ahead of Trump legislative package” from USA Today“Senate Republicans reject Democrats' accounting baseline challenge” from POLITICO“A List of Nearly Everything in the Senate G.O.P. Bill, and How Much It Would Cost or Save” from The New York Times“Gen Z, It Turns Out, Is Great at Saving for Retirement” from The New York Times“They sing to remember: The power of memory choirs” from National Geographic“Child reportedly fell overboard on Disney cruise. Her dad jumped in after her.” from USA Today “Heroic Dad Jumps Off Disney Dream to Rescue Overboard Daughter” from CruisehiveQuestions? Thoughts? Suggestions? Email makemesmart@marketplace.org or leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART and we just might feature it on the show!

The Supreme Court today ruled to limit the ability of federal judges to issue nationwide injunctions blocking President Trump's executive orders. The decision will have major implications for how businesses push back against federal policy in the United States. We'll get into it. And, American consumers aren't feeling too hot about the economy. How much do those feelings matter? Plus, we'll play a round of Half Full/Half Empty!Here's everything we talked about today:"Supreme Court sides with Trump administration on nationwide injunctions in birthright citizenship case" from SCOTUSblog"America's Top Consumer-Sentiment Economist Is Worried" from Bloomberg"Opinion | How the N.B.A. and M.L.B. Shattered America's Sports Culture" from The New York Times"Bumble stumbles as dating apps struggle" from Marketplace"Latest time use survey shows Americans are spending more time at home" from Marketplace"The colleges using ultimate frisbee to boost enrollment" from Marketplace"After a tough decade, American malls are reinventing themselves" from MarketplaceGot a question for the hosts? Email makemesmart@marketplace.org or leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART.

The ceasefire between Israel and Iran appears to be holding for now. But as this conflict has played out, along with other ongoing wars around the world, it got us thinking: What does war even look like in 2025? In Ukraine, it looks like drone and missile attacks side-by-side with everyday life. On the show today, longtime international correspondent Deborah Amos joins us from Kyiv, Ukraine to talk about how modern warfare has changed.Here's everything we talked about today:"Bank hacks, internet shutdowns and crypto heists: Here's how the war between Israel and Iran is playing out in cyberspace" from Politico"Combat drones: We are in a new era of warfare - here's why" from BBC News"FPV drones in Ukraine are changing modern warfare" from Atlantic Council"Cyber Operations during the Russo-Ukrainian War" from the Center for Strategic and International Studies “‘Will Trump give up the store?' Edward Fishman on how US economic warfare works – and doesn't" from The GuardianGot a question for the hosts? Email makemesmart@marketplace.org or leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART.

Many Americans are enduring a brutal heatwave this week. For those who work outside, the heat can be deadly. On today's show, we'll check in on a proposed heat safety law that would require employers to offer more breaks when the temperature rises above a certain threshold. Under the Trump administration, the law's future is uncertain. And, the housing market can't seem to break out of its slump. Plus, the lengths some Americans will go to score some Indian mangoes.Here's everything we talked about today:"Heat Injury and Illness Prevention in Outdoor and Indoor Work Settings Rulemaking" from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration "As U.S. Sizzles, Business Groups Push Back on OSHA's Heat Safety Law" from Inc."Heat Safety Experts behind OSHA Rules Were Laid Off, which Could Make It Easier to Scrap Regulations" from Scientific American"Trump's OSHA Nominee Has a History With Heat and UPS Drivers" from The New York Times"U.S. New Home Sales Slump as High Mortgage Rates Persist" from The Wall Street Journal'"You'll never be ready to buy a home"' from “This Is Uncomfortable”"New York City is using ranked choice voting in its Democratic mayoral primary. Here's how it works" from AP News "What you need to know about ranked choice voting" from “Make Me Smart” "The Perilous Business of Importing Indian Mangoes to the U.S." from The New York TimesGot a question for the hosts? Email makemesmart@marketplace.org or leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART.

The United States' entanglement in Iran and Israel's current conflict has a long, complicated history. Today we're looking back at how it led up to the U.S. strikes on Iran over the weekend. Two major factors: Iran's nuclear capabilities and economic sanctions, which the U.S. used to deter Iran's nuclear program and to incentivize Iran to sign on to the 2015 nuclear deal. Rose Kelanic, director of the Middle East Program at Defense Priorities, explains some of the history behind tensions between the U.S. and Iran, the role sanctions played in the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, and how the deal broke down. Later, one listener's take on the Trump administration's threats to the Pell Grant program. And, a gardening blogger was wrong about DIY plant food hacks.Here's everything we talked about today:"Strike Set Back Iran's Nuclear Program by Only a Few Months, U.S. Report Says" from The New York Times"Trump tries to maintain fragile ceasefire hours after he announced it" from Politico "Iran's Nuclear Dreams May Survive Even a Devastating American Blow" from The New York Times "History of US-Iran relations: From the 1953 regime change to Trump strikes" from Al Jazeera "Why Israel will resist any US-Iran nuclear deal" from Atlantic Council "Satellites show damage to Iran's nuclear program, but experts say it's not destroyed" from NPR  Got a question for the hosts? Email makemesmart@marketplace.org or leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART.

Oil markets went into a state of panic after the United States launched strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities over the weekend, stoking fears that Iran could retaliate by closing the Strait of Hormuz. But Iran's control over the key oil trade route may not be the economic weapon many think it is. We'll explain. And, several provisions in the Republicans' reconciliation bill haven't made it through the so-called “Byrd Bath” and risk being axed from the legislation. Plus, did you know killer whales aren't really whales?Here's everything we talked about today:"Capitol agenda: How Johnson may block an Iran rebuke" from Politico "11 days until July 4: Byrd Bath and policy fights on deck" from Punchbowl News"Senate parliamentarian rejects GOP attempt to authorize states to conduct immigration enforcement" from The Hill"G.O.P. Can't Include Limits on Trump Lawsuits in Megabill, Senate Parliamentarian Rules" from The New York Times  "Iran Has an Oil Card to Play. So Does the U.S." from The Wall Street Journal  "The largest digital camera ever built has released its first shots of the universe" from AP News  "Vera C Rubin Observatory first images" from BBC Sky at Night Magazine  "Killer whales seen grooming each other with kelp in first for marine tool use" from The Guardian Got a question for the hosts? Email makemesmart@marketplace.org or leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART.

This week, we've looked at the budget reconciliation bill and its effects on student debt, taxes, health care and social programs. The bill is currently moving through the Senate. Today, we discuss the reconciliation bill and the national deficit. And we dig into other proposals such as AI regulation ban and private foundation taxes. Plus, we play a special budget round of Half Full/Half Empty.Here's everything we talked about today:“AI moratorium sparks GOP battle over states' rights” from The Hill“Introduction to Budget “Reconciliation” from The Center on Budget and Policy Priorities“One, Big, Beautiful Bill: Impact on Philanthropy” from Council on Foundations“Senate Judiciary Unveils Its Own Plan To Curtail Court Orders” from CATO Institute“Parliamentarian rulings would kill key climate provisions in GOP megabill” from PoliticoGot a question for the hosts? Email makemesmart@marketplace.org or leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART.

Every day this week, we'll take a look at the ripple effects of the budget reconciliation bill moving through Congress that would enact President Donald Trump's agenda. Today, we focus on the bill's impact on health care and social programs. We explain how the Senate's version of the reconciliation bill cuts Medicaid more aggressively than the House of Representatives' previous version. Then, we hear from a listener about how the bill's Medicaid cuts could affect the hospitals they work with, particularly in underserved rural areas. Plus, we answer a listener question about how states would absorb the costs of the bill's federal funding cuts. Here's everything we talked about today:“Senate Bill Would Make Deep Cuts to Medicaid, Setting Up Fight With House” from The New York Times“Hundreds of rural hospitals at risk if Medicaid cuts pass, Democrats say” from Healthcare Dive“2025 Budget Impacts: House Bill Would Cut Assistance and Raise Costs for Seniors” from The Center on Budget and Policy Priorities“GOP bill would have states picking up more of the tab for programs like Medicaid and SNAP” from Marketplace“How Would Potential Federal Budget Cuts Impact State Budgets?” from Urban-Brookings Tax Policy Center“What are the Implications of the 2025 Budget Reconciliation Bill for Hospitals?” from KFFGot a question for the hosts? Email makemesmart@marketplace.org or leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART.

Today, we take a deep dive into the provisions affecting small businesses and taxes in the “One Big Beautiful Bill,” which aims to enact President Donald Trump's agenda. The bill passed the U.S. House of Representatives in May, and the U.S. Senate released its proposed version of the bill on Monday. The Senate's draft upheld many policies from the House of Representative's version, including cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. We explain how the ripple effects of those cuts could affect small businesses such as grocery stores and farmers. Also, we dig into the implications of the Senate's proposal to make permanent several business tax breaks. Here's everything we talked about today: “Here's what's in the Senate GOP's version of Trump's ‘big, beautiful bill'" from The Hill“Senate Republicans seek tougher Medicaid cuts and lower SALT deduction in Trump's big bill” from The Associated Press“Tax Cuts and Jobs Act: A comparison for businesses” from the Internal Revenue Service“The Farm Safety Net: A Closer Look at ARC and PLC” from the National Sustainable Agriculture CoalitionGot a question for the hosts? Email makemesmart@marketplace.org or leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART.

Every day this week, we're going to take a closer look at the “One Big Beautiful Bill,” which aims to enact President Donald Trump's agenda. It proposes a tax cut and increased spending for border security and the military. It also includes cuts to health, nutrition, education and clean energy programs. Today, we explain the rules around what provisions can go into reconciliation bills, and where the bill currently stands in the legislation process now. Plus, we answer questions from listeners on how the bill could affect their student loans and access to higher education.Here's everything we talked about today:“Senate sidesteps parliamentarian, widens reach of CRA” from Roll Call“Republicans face critical week on Trump megabill” from The Hill“The Senate is assessing the "Big Beautiful Bill" line by line to eliminate non-budgetary measures” from Marketplace“Senate Republican education plan may trigger ‘avalanche of student loan defaults,' expert says” from CNBCGot a question for the hosts? Email makemesmart@marketplace.org or leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART.

The economic position of the baby boomer generation has long been the envy of younger ones in the United States. But the tides may be turning as the Trump administration seeks deep cuts to social benefits that older Americans rely on. We'll get into it. And, Kimberly joins the show from the National Press Club in Washington D.C., to make us smarter about how the GOP's reconciliation bill could impact the richest and poorest Americans. Plus, we'll play a round of Half Full/Half Empty!Here's everything we talked about today:"GOP tax bill would cost poor Americans, boost highest earners, CBO says" from AP News "Megabill would cost poorest households $1,600 a year, boost richest by $12K, CBO predicts" from Politico "Baby Boomers' Luck Is Running Out" from The Atlantic"Why is everyone so crazy for Labubu toys?" from Marketplace"Booming sales of the latest Nintendo Switch bode well for the gaming industry" from Marketplace"You've Heard of Fine Wine. Now Meet Fine Water" from The New York Times"A federal judge ruled AI chatbots don't have free speech protections — for now" from Marketplace Got a question for the hosts? Email makemesmart@marketplace.org or leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART.

More than 100 years after the Tulsa Race Massacre, the Oklahoma city's mayor recently announced a $105 million reparations package to address the Massacre's lasting impact. Marketplace's Mitchell Hartman joins us on the show today to explain how we got here, and more from his reporting on economic injustice in Tulsa's Greenwood neighborhood. Plus, we'll get into what the new reparations package could mean for Black Tulsans and the push for reparations in other cities.Here's everything we talked about today:"The Tulsa Race Massacre destroyed Black lives and wealth. What's owed to survivors' descendants?" from Marketplace"Black Tulsans still feel effects of Greenwood neighborhood's "second destruction'" from Marketplace "$105 Million Reparations Package for Tulsa Race Massacre Unveiled by Mayor" from The New York Times"$105 million trust to be built for 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre reparations, city says" from Public Radio TulsaWe want to hear from you. Email makemesmart@marketplace.org or leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART.

President Trump announced a new trade deal with China after days of negotiations. Here's the thing: Trump's tariffs on China will stay the same. So what did the two countries actually agree to? We'll get into it. And, after Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. fired a panel of experts that advises the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on vaccines, doctors and insurance companies are wondering who they should look to for guidance. Plus, a life-sized stuffed moose on Capitol Hill makes us smile.Here's everything we talked about today:"Trump Hails Progress With China, but Details Are Sketchy"  from The New York Times"RFK Jr. just fired the government's vaccine experts. What do you do now?" from Vox"Former CDC director reacts to RFK Jr.'s firing of entire vaccine advisory panel" from PBS News"If you move a moose through the Senate" from Roll Call"An 84-Year-Old Woman on a Pony Inspires Awe—and Concern—in the U.K." from The Wall Street JournalWe want to hear from you. Email makemesmart@marketplace.org or leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART.

For decades, going to college has been seen as a reliable path to good jobs and economic success in the United States. But a recent Indeed survey reported that over half of Gen Z respondents beg to differ. As tuition prices continue to rise and the Trump administration takes aim at higher education institutions, is the way we view college changing? On the show today, Bryan Alexander, a higher education writer and senior scholar at Georgetown University, explains why college is still a worthy investment for most students, why more people are considering certificate programs and technical schools, and how President Trump's attacks on elite universities are a risk to higher education as a whole.Then, Kimberly breaks down the difference between the reconciliation bill and government spending bills in Congress. And, Casey Johnston, author of “A Physical Education,” answers the Make Me Smart question.Here's everything we talked about today:"Report: 51% of Gen Z Views Their College Degree as a Waste of Money" from Indeed  "Against college for all: the AFT president" from Bryan Alexander "Americans Are Losing Faith in the Value of College. Whose Fault Is That?" from The New York Times"Good Jobs Project" from Georgetown University"House considers Trump cuts as Senate Republicans work on reconciliation bill" from Roll Call"Deal or no deal? Inside reconciliation and gov't funding" from Punchbowl News"A muted backlash to Trump's new travel ban" from Politico "Have Americans grown numb? Trump's new travel ban met with muted reaction" from MSNBC"Finding Strength in a Bigger Body" from The Cut Got a question about the GOP's reconciliation bill? Email makemesmart@marketplace.org or leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART.

President Donald Trump deployed California National Guard troops to Los Angeles on Sunday, following demonstrations over the weekend protesting the Trump administration's immigration crackdown. The decision was made without California Governor Gavin Newsom's approval, and the state is now suing the “illegal and immoral” move. We get into all the potential ramifications of the uptick in immigration raids. Then, we discuss how people in other countries have coped with anti-democratic forces in their own communities. Finally, we smile at the original cast of “Hamilton” reuniting for the musical's 10-year anniversary. Here's everything we talked about today: “The Beautiful Danger of Normal Life During an Autocratic Rise” from The New York Times“The 78th Annual Tony Awards® | Hamilton 10 Year Anniversary Performance” from CBS“The original cast of ‘Hamilton' reunites on the Tonys stage with rousing performance” from CNN“When to see June's full strawberry moon on Tuesday night” from The Washington PostGot a question or comment for the hosts? Email makemesmart@marketplace.org or leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART.

From our sponsor: Imagine if you could ask someone anything you wanted about their finances. On “What We Spend,” people from across the country and across the financial spectrum are opening their wallets — and their lives — to tell you everything: What they make, what they want, and — for one week — what they spend.“What We Spend” is available wherever you get your podcasts!

Hey Smarties! Make Me Smart is taking a short break while Kimberly and Reema cook up something good for you! In the meantime, we're bringing you an episode from “Financially Inclined” a podcast from Marketplace that helps families learn more about money. It turns out where you park your money can actually make a difference in the fight agains climate change. Today, host Yanely Espinal speaks with author and financial educator Kara Perez about how you can spend, save and invest your money in a way that aligns with your values, without sacrificing your financial goals. Plus, they share practical tips for how to use your money to make a real impact.

It's Kai's last day as a regular co-host of “Make Me Smart” and he's got a solid rant (and two bleeps). We'll get into the Trump administration's push to block international students at Harvard, thretening one of American's biggest exports: higher education. Plus, we'll unpack the Supreme Court's 4-4 split over a separation of church and state case. And, could penguin poop be a tool against global warming?Here's everything we talked about today:“Supreme Court deadlocks, blocking creation of first religious public school” from The Washington Post“Trump Administration Halts Harvard's Ability to Enroll International Students” from The New York Times“Harvard University Loses Student and Exchange Visitor Program Certification for Pro-Terrorist Conduct” from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security“Stop making cents: US Mint moves forward with plans to kill the penny” from AP News“Penguin Poop Could Limit Global Warming's Impact on Antarctica” from Bloomberg“Make Me Smart” is going on a break! Kimberly and Reema will be back with new episodes June 9. We'd love to hear from you while we're away. Email makemesmart@marketplace.org or leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART.

The Senate unexpectedly passed the No Tax on Tips Act, one of President Trump's many campaign promises. We'll explain what's actually in the bill and where it goes from here. Plus, the Trump administration has officially accepted a $400 million luxury jet from Qatar for use as Air Force One. We'll get into the grift of it all. Plus, one man's search for younger looking skin and a manga story to smile about.Here's everything we talked about today:"The Senate passed Trump's No Tax on Tips Act. Here's what it could mean." from The Washington Post"No Tax on Tips Act: What to know about the bill and what comes next" from The Hill  "Republicans Think They Have a Way to Blow Up the Filibuster Without Anyone Noticing" from Slate"A Terrible Idea" from Just Security  "A 70-Year-Old Man's Search for Younger-Looking Skin"  from The Wall Street Journal"Defense Department accepts Qatari luxury jet for Air Force One use" from The Washington Post"Trump Lectures South African President in Televised Oval Office Ambush" from The New York Times"How Manga Megastar Junji Ito Makes Terrifying Series Like ‘Uzumaki'" from The New York Times"Shark fisherman uses drone to save teenage girl from rip current at Pensacola Beach" from CBS News We need your help to reach our fundraiser goal in a moment when public media is threatened like never before. Give now: https://support.marketplace.org/smart-sn

Things aren't looking so good for the U.S. dollar. Though it's spent decades as the world's reigning reserve currency, it's been weakening lately thanks to tariffs and uncertainty in the U.S. economy.But its declining value, has been in the making for a while, according to Harvard economist and author of the new book, “Our Dollar, Your Problem,” Kenneth Rogoff. “The problem we're facing is that, independent of this dollar phenomenon, interest rates are going up,” said Rogoff. “And if you're the world's biggest debtor, that's tough.”Rogoff joins Kai and Kimberly to unpack how the greenback became the world's go-to currency, what a reserve currency actually is, why it's been losing some of its value lately and what might take its place. Plus, how does military power tie into all this? We'll also get into some potential cryptocurrency regulation coming down the pipeline and discuss the troubling parallel between Trumpism and Brexit. Then, you tell us what books help you reset – from classic literary romances to an apocalyptic sci-fi tale. And, our intern, Zoha Malik (hi!) shares her answer to the Make Me Smart question. Here's everything we talked about today:“Our Dollar, Your Problem,” by Kenneth Rogoff from Yale University Press“How Trump Could Dethrone the Dollar” from Foreign Affairs“Why Is The US Dollar Weakening? Trump's Tariffs Push Dollar Index To 3-Year Low.” from Forbes“Senate advances landmark crypto bill with Democrats divided” from Politico“Senate Advances Crypto Regulation Bill With Bipartisan Support” from The New York Times“Senate advances a major crypto regulation bill on a bipartisan vote” from NBC News“Brexit's Failures Could Foreshadow Trump's. Just Not in the Way You Might Think.” from The New York TimesGot a question or comment for the hosts? Email makemesmart@marketplace.org or leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART.

Walmart had said it would raise prices in response to tariffs. Then, it got a call from the White House. Now, the retailer says it will swallow some of the costs. This has us wondering: where have all the free market diehards gone? Plus, Kimberly reflects on the tornadoes that hit her hometown of St. Louis, Missouri and explains FEMA's plan to shift disaster costs to the states. Also? Did the GOP really name their reconciliation bill the “One Big Beautiful Bill?”Here's everything we talked about today:"Bessent says Walmart will absorb 'some tariffs' after speaking with retailer's CEO" from Fox Business"FEMA will shift more disaster recovery responsibilities to the states, acting chief says" from PBS News"Here's the latest information on Friday's tornado in St. Louis" from STLRP"Trump's bill advances in rare weekend vote as House conservatives negotiate changes" from NPRIt's the final matching opportunity of our May Fundraiser! Double your impact when you give right now: https://support.marketplace.org/smart-sn

On today's show, Kai makes a special annoucement! But first, Moody's knocked the United States' government's credit rating down a peg below Triple-A. We'll break down what that actually means and why it may not be as dire as it sounds but still matters a lot for the vibes. Plus, we'll explain why, even with a majority, the House GOP hasn't been able to pass its budget bill. And, we'll play a round of Half Full/Half Empty and nerd out on “Star Wars” spin-off shows.Here's everything we talked about today:"House budget panel rejects GOP megabill amid conservative opposition" from Politico "Army to place large metal plates on DC streets to protect them from tanks during June parade" from WTOP News "U.S. Loses Last Triple-A Credit Rating" from The Wall Street Journal "Airbnb Is in Midlife Crisis Mode" from Wired"Why banks still have branches — and why some are motivated to add more" from Marketplace"Gen Z's 'conscious unbossing' should be a wake-up call for businesses" from Business Insider​​"Is the Next Great American Novel Being Published on Substack?" from The New Yorker "Warner's Streaming Service Has New Name: Its Old One. Meet ‘HBO Max.'" from The Wall Street Journal  Got a message for the hosts? Email makemesmart@marketplace.org or leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART.

In today's show, Kimber-Kai are answering your questions about all the wild things going on in the U.S. economy. Isn't the 30% tariff rate on China still crazy high? And, how are local governments preparing for potential federal funding cuts? We'll discuss how states are weighing their next moves, and how the “Trump Slump” has taken shape in California. Then, we'll get into the Federal Reserve's wait-and-see tariff strategy. Here's everything we talked about today:“State of U.S. Tariffs: May 12, 2025” from The Budget Lab at Yale“States, Cities Face Funding Collapse Threat With Trump Cuts” by Bloomberg“Higher prices or higher unemployment? The economy could face a no-win dilemma” by NBC NewsJoin us tomorrow for “Economics on Tap.” The YouTube livestream starts at 3:30 p.m. Pacific time, 6:30 p.m. Eastern.Donate during our May Fundraiser and get a classic public radio thank-you gift: tote bags, mugs, t-shirts, hats, and more! Give now: https://support.marketplace.org/smart-sn 

On today's show, Kimberly continues to make us smart about the GOP's massive tax bill. This time, we're digging into a small (but important) detail buried in the bill that could have enormous consequences for the regulation of artificial intelligence: a clause that would block states from enforcing AI laws for ten years. We'll break down what's at stake. And, the U.S. dollar is getting weaker. We'll explain what it could mean for the economy. Here's everything we talked about today:"House panel advances tax portion of Trump agenda bill after marathon meeting" from The Hill"State AI laws would be banned under clause buried in House budget bill" from Stat News"G.O.P. Targets a Medicaid Loophole Used by 49 States to Grab Federal Money" from The New York Times"US Is Not Negotiating for Weaker Dollar as Part of Tariff Talks" from Bloomberg"Republicans push for a decadelong ban on states regulating AI" from The Verge With looming threats to federal funding for public media, we need support from listeners more than ever. Donate now: https://support.marketplace.org/smart-sn 

Today we're ditching the drama on Earth and talking about K2-18b, an exoplanet 120 light-years away. K2-18b recently made headlines after researchers claimed to observe possible “signs of life” in the planet's atmosphere. So, did we find aliens? Michaela Musilova, an astrobiologist and analog astronaut, said it's too early to tell. On the show today, Musilova breaks down the debate over K2-18b, why better telescopes are needed to find definitive proof of life on another planet, and why President Trump's proposed funding cuts to NASA could disrupt this search. Plus, what's it like to be an analog astronaut, and what do they actually do?Then, why a healthy reading diet contains both “broccoli” and “chocolate pie” books. And, Jessamine Chan, author of “The School for Good Mothers,” answers the Make Me Smart question.Here's everything we talked about today:"Astronomers Detect a Possible Signature of Life on a Distant Planet" from The New York Times"Does exoplanet K2-18b host alien life or not? Here's why the debate continues" from Space "Experts alarmed as White House proposes 'largest single-year cut to NASA in American history'" from Space "NASA's Don Pettit Shot 220 Days of Amazing Photos From the I.S.S." from The New York Times "What's in Trump and Republicans' giant tax and immigration bill?" from The Washington Post"Republican Tax Plan Boosts SALT Deduction, Ends Green-Energy Breaks" from The Wall Street Journal Got a question or comment for the hosts? Email makemesmart@marketplace.org or leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART.

House Republicans' newly released tax plan includes trillions in tax breaks. But those tax cuts will come at a cost. We'll get into it. And, Apple plans to raise iPhone prices but won't point fingers at President Trump's tariffs. We'll unpack how all the tariff chaos could lead to elevated prices, no matter what they actually cost companies. Plus, sci-fi escapism and Pope Leo XIV's love of baseball make us smile.Here's everything we talked about today:"Exclusive | Apple Considers Raising iPhone Prices, Without Blaming Tariffs" from The Wall Street Journal "With China tariffs on hold, will Americans stop stockpiling goods?" from Marketplace "House GOP unleashes sweeping tax legislation" from Politico "House tax writers eye SALT deduction cap rejected by key lawmakers last week" from The Hill"Why Tolkien thought "sub-creation" was the secret to great fantasy and science fiction" from Big Think "Pope Leo asks fan 'Sox or Cubs?' as he signs a baseball" from The Chicago Sun-Times Got a question or comment for the hosts? Email makemesmart@marketplace.org or leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART.

As the Trump administration heads into a weekend of trade talks with Chinese officials, the President is floating a new tariff rate on Chinese imports: 80%. While it's much lower than the current tariff rate of 145%, it's still far too high for many businesses. We'll get into it. And, a recent legal win for Epic Games could shake up Apple's App Store. Plus, we'll weigh in on mass producing orchids and going cashless during a round of Half Full/Half Empty!Here's everything we talked about today:"DOJ, FTC open inquiry into the concert industry" from The L.A. Times "Fortnite applies to launch on Apple's App Store after Epic Games court win" from CNBC "How Apple Created a Legal Mess When It Skirted Judge's Ruling" from The New York Times "Ahead of China-US talks, Trump says 80% tariff 'seems right'" from Reuters"Revenge RTO: Workers are coming in late, leaving early and stealing snacks as they find small ways to get back at their bosses" from Fortune"Trump Revives Push for Higher Taxes on the Rich" from The New York Times"How the Exotic Orchid Became a Mass-Market Commodity" from The Wall Street Journal "The drawbacks of an increasingly cashless society" from MarketplaceStand up for Marketplace and public media during this critical time. Donate today: https://support.marketplace.org/smart-sn

Following Trump's so-called “Liberation Day” tariffs, the United States has now struck a trade deal (sorta) with the United Kingdom. We'll get into it. Plus, childcare costs a lot – and in some places, more than rent. Then, we'll smile at the unexpected joy of “swole culture.” And what if, instead of sports metaphors, we used makeup lingo at work?Here's everything we talked about today:“Trump unveils United Kingdom trade deal, first since 'reciprocal' tariff pause” by CNBC“U.S., Britain strike first major trade deal of Trump tariff era” by Axios“Sending 2 Kids to Daycare Costs More Than Rent in Most Major U.S. Metros” from Redfin“Head Start avoids Trump's cuts, but advocates are ready to defend it: ‘There's too much good in this'” by The GuardianLISTEN: “Will you be my nanny?” from “This Is Uncomfortable” “Life of the Mother” by ProPublica“Finding Strength in a Bigger Body” from The Cut“How one writer quit dieting and discovered her strength through weightlifting” by NPRJoin us tomorrow for “Economics on Tap.” The YouTube livestream starts at 3:30 p.m. Pacific time, 6:30 p.m. Eastern.

On today's episode: Marketplace's Reema Khrais joins Kimberly to discuss two stories from opposite ends of the housing spectrum – cuts to rental assistance programs and the soaring cost of starter homes. Then, Kimberly explains yet another reason why the rest of the world is giving the U.S. major side-eye. And we'll smile about a slimy substance that might help keep microplastics at bay and parrots connecting over Facetime.Here's everything we talked about today:“Proposed cuts to housing programs could affect millions, experts warn” from The Washington Post“Where starter homes cost at least $1 million” by AxiosThis Is Uncomfortable Season 11 from Marketplace“You Have a Message From Taiwan” by The Wall Street Journal“Why the Asian currency blowup matters” from Axios“Scientists Taught Pet Parrots to Video Call Each Other—and the Birds Loved It” from Smithsonian Magazine“Okra and fenugreek extracts remove most microplastics from water, finds research” on Phys.org Got a question or comment for the hosts? Email makemesmart@marketplace.org or leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART.

So far, President Trump's “drill, baby, drill,” agenda has proven to be a sharp turn from Biden-era climate initiatives, including the landmark spending bill the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). And thanks to President Trump's attempts to claw back control over IRA funds, as well as his recent budget proposal which drastically cuts climate spending, the future of America's fast-growing clean energy economy looks uncertain. “The world is switching to electric vehicles, the world is switching to solar and wind,” said Christopher Knittel, economics professor and associate dean for climate and sustainability at the MIT Sloan School of Management. “And the less we do domestically, the less capability we build domestically to provide those clean energy resources, the worse off our industries will be in the future.”Knittel explains President Trump's efforts to phase out Biden-era climate initiatives, why some Republicans are reluctant to get rid of the IRA entirely, and why the U.S. getting left behind in a world committed to decarbonization poses a threat. Plus, the new Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney told President Trump that Canada is “not for sale” in a meeting earlier today. And, the REAL ID deadline is coming in hot, though not all states seem equally prepared. Then, we'll hear about how Seattle businesses are showing love for Canadian visitors and a listener share's her daughter's frustrations with “shrinkflation.”Here's everything we talked about today:- Trump administration cancels clean energy grants as it prioritizes fossil fuels by AP News- What Trump's budget cuts could mean for the environment by AP News- The Race to the Top in Six Charts and Not Too Many Numbers from RMI- Republicans haggle over green tax credits as battle lines deepen from Politico- How We Survive from Marketplace- Trump's trade war with Canada has backfired on America. Now he has a crucial meeting with Mark Carney from CNN Business- Trump knocks Canada ahead of Carney meeting by The Hill- @carlquintanilla.bsky.social‬ on Bluesky- What you need to know about the REAL ID requirements for air travel from NBC News- Real ID deadline is weeks away and most states aren't fully compliant yet from CBS News- Seattle Restaurants Are Offering Canadian Tourists a Discount, and an Apology by Eater SeattleGot a question or comment for the hosts? Email makemesmart@marketplace.org or leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART.

The Trump administration is hoping tariffs will spur companies to bring manufacturing back to the United States. But a new survey from the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas found that most companies are planning to deal with tariffs another way. (Spoiler alert: we totally saw this coming!) We'll also discuss how the Department of Homeland Security is hoping to cut the cost of mass deportations. Plus, did Trump get the idea to reopen Alcatraz from a movie?Here's everything we talked about today:-Post on Bluesky from Carl Quintanilla-"Tariff Politics; Rent-Stabilized Tenants May See a Rent Hike; Surviving Wall Street; Celebrating NYC's Mexican Communities" from The Brian Lehrer Show -"DHS Announces Historic Travel Assistance and Stipend for Voluntary Self-Deportation" from Department of Homeland Security -"US offers $1,000 stipend to encourage migrants to self-deport" from Reuters-"Mass Deportation: Devastating Costs to America, Its Budget and Economy" from American Immigration Council-"Trump Seems to Have Decided to Reopen Alcatraz Because of a Movie" from The New Republic-"Trump Says He Wants to Reopen Alcatraz as a Functioning Prison" from The New York Times-"Met Gala 2025: Highlights from exhibit of Black style and designers" from AP News  -​"'Tailoring Black Style': Dandyism shines at the 2025 Met Gala" from NPRGot a question for the hosts? Email makemesmart@marketplace.org or leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART.

On today's episode, Kimberly joins "Economics on Tap" from the Toronto airport. We'll unpack President Trump's elimination of a tariff loophole known as the de minimus exemption that went into effect today, meaning low-cost shipments will no longer enter the United States tariff-free. Without it, Americans could start to feel some serious tariff pain. And, President Trump is renewing threats to revoke Harvard University's tax-exempt status. Plus, we'll play a round of Half Full/Half Empty.Here's everything we talked about today:-"Trump's tariffs come for fast fashion, and the blowback could be fierce."  from Politico -"Harvard President Says Any Move to Revoke Tax-Exempt Status Would Be ‘Highly Illegal'" from The Wall Street Journal -"Trump aims to cut $6 billion from NASA budget, shifting $1 billion to Mars-focused missions" from CNBC-"Visit this store for a free iris scan to ‘prove' you're human, not AI" from The Washington Post-"MoviePass' Next Big Bet: A Fantasy Box Office App" from The Hollywood Reporter-"A little retirement, as a treat" from MarketplaceGot a question for the hosts? Email makemesmart@marketplace.org or leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART.

This week, President Trump acknowledged his tariffs were resulting in costlier items in the U.S., but maintained his position that China was taking the majority of the heat. If people can't afford to buy as much, might that be a recipe for recession? We'll discuss, and answer a listener's question on what exactly is a recession. Plus, how uncertain economic conditions might make someone reconsider a luxury cheese purchase.Here's everything we talked about today:- Recession defined by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA)- “Trump says US kids may get '2 dolls instead of 30,' but China will suffer more in a trade war” from the Associated Press- WATCH: “Trump says kids may get '2 dolls instead of 30' because of trade war with China” from the Associated Press- “Trump, on Tariffs, Says ‘Maybe the Children Will Have 2 Dolls Instead of 30'” from The New York Times- “Spending by American companies on computers in Q1 grew at the fastest pace since 1983” by Marketplace- Check out the Canadian cheese shop Kimberly mentions in this episodeJoin us tomorrow for “Economics on Tap.” The YouTube livestream starts at 3:30 p.m. Pacific time, 6:30 p.m. Eastern.