Make Me Smart

Since President Trump's firing of the Bureau of Labor Statistics commissioner over a weak jobs report, we've been thinking a lot about the trustworthiness of U.S. economic data. Other countries like China can offer a glimpse of what happens when that trust erodes. On the show today, Marketplace's China correspondent Jennifer Pak explains how she works around unreliable data when reporting on the Chinese economy. Plus, could the United States be headed in the same direction?Here's everything we talked about today:"12 million students in China will graduate this year into a shaky job market" from Marketplace"China says its unemployment rate is “stable,” but job seekers remain gloomy" from Marketplace "Is GDP still a useful gauge of China's economy?" from Marketplace"How Bad Is China's Economy? The Data Needed to Answer Is Vanishing" from The Wall Street Journal  "How to deal with untrustworthy government economic data? Look to China" from Marketplace"Trump taps Heritage economist to lead BLS" from PoliticoWe love hearing from you. Leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART or email makemesmart@marketplace.org.

Today we're diving into some ongoing battles over athlete pay, from college athletics to the WNBA. In the case of college sports, a recent lawsuit settlement involving the NCAA allows colleges and universities to pay their athletes directly. On the show today, sports journalist Kennington Lloyd Smith III explains how college athlete pay has evolved, how the recent House v. NCAA settlement could strain athletic departments, and what could come from the WNBA players' current fight for more equitable pay. Plus, the sports private equity firms are eyeing.Then, we'll hear how one listener got involved in local government. Plus, Paralympic sled hockey gold medalist Declan Farmer answers the Make Me Smart question.Here's everything we talked about today:"How college athletes will be paid after House v. NCAA settlement: NIL changes, enforcement, contracts and more" from CBS Sports"Trump signs executive order to 'protect' college sports" from Politico "Down to Business: Valuations are wild, returns are rocky. But women's sports teams are in demand" from The Athletic "The WNBA Has a Good Problem on Its Hands" from The Atlantic "Private equity tees up to invest in youth sports" from Marketplace  "Travelers aren't big fans of TSA's facial recognition program, report finds" from Marketplace  We love hearing from you. Leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART or email makemesmart@marketplace.org.

President Trump today said he's temporarily taking over Washington's police department and sending in National Guard troops to crack down on crime. We'll get into the legal questions surrounding the move, and Kimberly shares her thoughts as a local. Plus, key inflation data set to come out this week could bring the impact of tariffs into clearer view. Then, we'll smile about meteor showers and beach glass.Here's everything we talked about today:"Trump says he's placing Washington police under federal control and deploying the National Guard" from AP News"Trump says crime in D.C. is out of control. Here's what the data shows." from The Washington Post "What Trump can — and can't — do in his bid to take over law enforcement in DC" from Politico  "Small Businesses Brace for the Punishing Side Effects of Trump's Tariffs" from The New York Times"July Inflation Data: What to Watch in Tuesday's CPI Report" from The Wall Street Journal "How to Watch the Perseids, the Strongest Meteor Shower of the Summer" from The New York TimesWe love hearing from you. Leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART or email makemesmart@marketplace.org.

President Trump will replace Billy Long as the head of the Internal Revenue Service, less than two months since he was confirmed. This comes after months of turmoil at the IRS. We'll explain. And, did you know could opt out of facial recognition software when going through airport security? Plus, we'll weigh in on Instagram's new map feature and more during a round of Half Full/Half Empty! Here's everything we talked about today:"Trump Is Removing Billy Long as the I.R.S. Head 2 Months After He Was Confirmed" from The New York Times"The Comply To Fly?" from The Algorithmic Justice League"This wedding season, some couples are using their registries to give back" from Marketplace"Should buy now, pay later factor into credit scores?" from Marketplace"The New York Post is launching a California edition. Why?" from The Washington Post "Instagram Map lets your friends, and possibly exes, track your every move'" from The Washington PostTell us about your experience with TSA's facial recognition system. Leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART or email us at makemesmart@marketplace.org.

Remember the K-shaped economy? It's the idea that the American economy recovered unevenly after the COVID-19 pandemic. Last week's bombshell jobs report showed a similar pattern in the labor market, where certain sectors are booming, while others are falling behind. We'll explain. And, we'll unpack President Trump's threats for a 100% tariff on semiconductors and the gap between what workers and employers want out of AI on the job. Plus, we'll celebrate a listener's career win!Here's everything we talked about today:"Tracking Trump's New Tariffs on Every Country" from The New York Times"Trump vows 100% tariff on chips, unless companies are building in the U.S." from CNBC"Employers Pull Back on Hiring as Uncertainty Weighs on Plans" from The New York Times"How much say do workers have over the tech employers make them use?" from Marketplace"Providing ChatGPT to the entire U.S. federal workforce" from OpenAI"What workers really want from AI" from Stanford Report We love hearing from you. Leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART or email makemesmart@marketplace.org.

Apple today plans to announce a new $100 billion investment aimed at boosting the compan's production in the United States. It's the latest in a string of moves by tech companies that could help maintain favor with the president and avoid tariffs. And, the Federal Aviation Administration wants to ease restrictions for drone package deliveries. We'll get into the pros and cons of more drone-friendly skies. Plus, the origins of Pac-Man and a funeral fit for an AI chatbot model.Here's everything we talked about today:"Federal Aviation Administration looks to expand drone package delivery" from ABC News"Video Shows Drone Rescuing Man During Flood in China" from The New York Times "Trump, Apple to Announce Fresh $100 Billion US Investment" from Bloomberg”Trump to Double India's Tariff to 50% Over Russian Oil Purchases” from The New York Times"'It's a reminder of childhood': How Pac-Man changed gaming - and the world" from BBC News"Claude Fans Threw a Funeral for Anthropic's Retired AI Model" from WiredWe love hearing from you. Leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART or email makemesmart@marketplace.org.

The Trump administration has vowed to roll back all sorts of federal regulations, from workplace safety standards to environmental protections. State and local governments have faced pressure from the White House to comply with this agenda. And it's turned them into even more important battlegrounds in the regulatory wars. On the show today, Liane Jollon, executive director of Western Leaders Network, explains how local officials grapple with threats of funding cuts coming from the White House, and how you can get more involved in your state and local politics.Later, listeners share some love for public libraries. And, Steve Pierson, co-host of “The Practivist Pod,” answers the Make Me Smart question. Here's everything we talked about today:"States Ramping Up Regulations Amid Federal Pullback" from Forbes "Trump administration moves to repeal climate ‘holy grail'" from Politico"Texas House issues arrest warrants for Democrats who left state to block congressional redistricting" from The Texas Tribune"Donald Trump wants states and cities to do as they are told" from The Economist"The Documenters Network" from City Bureau We love hearing from you. Leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART or email makemesmart@marketplace.org.

President Trump's firing of the Bureau of Labor Statistics commissioner is not without international precedent. Other countries have gone down the path of meddling with economic data for political gain. We'll get into lessons we can take from the rest of the world. And, can the U.S. continue to be a bastion of scientific research in the wake of deep federal funding cuts? Plus, we'll celebrate one listener's feat of digitizing years of her great grandmother's diaries.Here's everything we talked about today:"Every Scientific Empire Comes to an End" from The Atlantic "Trump to Name New Fed Governor, Jobs Data Head in Coming Days" from Bloomberg"Trump Fired America's Economic Data Collector. History Shows the Perils." from The New York TimesThread on X from Lulu Garcia NavarroWe love hearing from you. Leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART or email makemesmart@marketplace.org.

Following a weaker than expected jobs report today, President Trump said he'll fire the head of the Bureau of Labor Statistics, claiming the data was rigged. It's an unprecedented move with potentially enormous consequences for our understanding of the U.S. economy. We'll explain. And, we'll get into how Trump's tariffs are destabilizing economies across globe. Plus, we'll weigh in on tariff “rebates” and pricier desserts during a round of Half Full/Half Empty!Here's everything we talked about today:"The full list of Trump's tariffs – from India to Taiwan" from The Guardian "‘There's no work now, just debt': Cambodian garment workers face precarious future as US tariffs loom" from The Guardian "Tariffs Bring Disaster In Lesotho, the Country That Trump Says Nobody's Heard Of" from The Wall Street Journal "85 percent of parents worry about tariffs affecting back-to-school cost: Survey" from The Hill "Trump fires commissioner of labor statistics after weaker-than-expected jobs figures slam markets" from CNBC"Big Downward Jobs Revisions Could Be a Warning Sign for the Economy" The New York Times"Private equity tees up to invest in youth sports" from Marketplace"NYC's Luxury Dessert Scene Is Booming and Higher Priced Than Ever" from Eater"Subscription-based children's magazines are revitalizing the genre" from Marketplace"GOP senators reject Trump's pitch to use tariff revenue for ‘rebates'" from The Washington PostWe love hearing from you. Leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART or email makemesmart@marketplace.org.

The Federal Reserve left its benchmark interest rate unchanged after meeting yesterday, despite repeated pressures from President Trump to cut rates. But not everyone at the Fed was happy about it. On the show today, Marketplace's Nancy Marshall-Genzer joins Kimberly to fill us in on the recent debate over lowering interest rates and the political tension surrounding the Fed. Plus, thriving raspberry bushes make us smile.Here's everything we talked about today:"The Federal Reserve leaves interest rates unchanged" from Marketplace "Fed's Powell sticks with patient approach to rate cuts, brushing off Trump's demands" from AP News"Could Trump use Fed HQ renovations as a pretext to fire Powell?" from Marketplace "What's Holding Trump Back From Firing Powell" from The AtlanticWe love hearing from you. Leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART or email makemesmart@marketplace.org.

The United Nations this week warned that “widespread starvation, malnutrition and disease” are contributing to a rise in hunger-related deaths across the Gaza Strip. This comes as the flow of aid into Gaza has slowed in recent months and the price of food has increased drastically. On the show today, Reema shares what life looks like for her family there right now. And, we'll get into the growing international pressure on Israel to lift barriers that organizations have faced in delivering aid.Here's everything we talked about today:"In Gaza, mounting evidence of famine and widespread starvation" from UN News"How Food Supplies in Gaza Have Dwindled Under the New Israeli Aid Plan" from The Wall Street Journal "The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation Can Feed Starving Gazans" from The Wall Street Journal "What's Happening in Gaza? FAQ: Hunger and Humanitarian Aid" from World Food Program USA"A famine hasn't been declared in Gaza, but that may not matter, experts say" from ABC News"A conversation with Baba" from “This Is Uncomfortable”We love hearing from you. Leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART or email makemesmart@marketplace.org.

Along with some other federal agencies, the Trump administration has attempted to gut the Institute of Museum and Library Services. It's a small agency, but public libraries across the country rely on its funding. The loss of federal grants isn't the only thing these community hubs are up against. On the show today, Sam Helmick, president of the American Library Association, explains how public library funding works, the challenges presented by the shift to digital media, and what the culture wars look like on the ground at public libraries. Later, listeners share their thoughts on the new No Tax on Tips and Overtime laws. Plus, a librarian answers the Make Me Smart question.Here's everything we talked about today:"The Trump Administration Is Threatening Libraries, Museums, and Other Nonprofits That Support the Arts, Humanities, and Learning" from the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities "Libraries are cutting back on staff and services after Trump's order to dismantle small agency" from AP News"1 big thing: Libraries' e-book battle" from Axios“No Tax on Tips” Is an Industry Plant" from The New Yorker We love hearing from you. Leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART or email makemesmart@marketplace.org.

Over the weekend, President Trump announced a new trade deal with the EU: 15% tariffs on most goods in exchange for the EU's promise to purchase U.S. energy. But a court case brought by a group of small businesses could derail Trump's tariff agenda. We'll explain what's at stake. Plus, a reminder to get outside and enjoy what nature has to offer. (But stay cool!)Here's everything we talked about today:"EU-US tariffs: five key takeaways from the trade deal" from The Guardian"US and EU reach tariff agreement" from “Marketplace Morning Report” "EU's pledge for $250 billion of US energy imports is delusional" from Reuters "Japan Expects Only 1-2% of $550 Billion US Fund to Be Investment" from Bloomberg"Trump's economy faces historic week on interest rates, trade, jobs and more" from Axios"Trump's trade deals and tariffs are on the chopping block in court. What happens next" from CNBC"Texas buys land for new state parks that will be developed using $1 billion voter-approved fund" from The Texas Tribune "A 100-year-old on a bike? Yes. ‘The right to wind in your hair'" from The Washington Post We love hearing from you. Leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART or email makemesmart@marketplace.org.

Earlier this week, President Trump announced a “massive” trade deal with Japan. But as Japanese officials clarify some of the terms, it's not clear how concrete the deal actually is. We'll explain. Also, some wealthy Democrats who stand to benefit from Trump's tax cuts are rallying against them. Plus, we'll play a round of Half Full/Half Empty!Here's everything we talked about today:"Cracks widen in Japan and US's interpretation of tariff trade deal" from The Financial Times "Trump's Tariffs Are Being Picked Up by Corporate America" from The Wall Street Journal "Rich liberals do not want their big Trump tax cut" from The Washington Post"AI has come for the fragrance industry" from Marketplace "Want to pay down the national debt? The US government will take Venmo" from The Verge "Meme stocks have staged a surprising return" from Marketplace "Restaurants Are Trying to Tariff-Proof The Menu" from EaterWe love hearing from you. Leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART or email makemesmart@marketplace.org.

Republicans' newly passed tax and spending law makes good on a promise President Trump made over and over on the campaign trail: No Tax on Tips and Overtime. But the change likely won't have the drastic impact many workers think it will. Marketplace's Kristin Schwab joins us on the show today to break down the nuts and bolts of how the tax breaks will work and how American workers and businesses could be affected. Plus, Kimberly's cat Artax makes an appearance.Here's everything we talked about today:"How the new "No Tax on Tips" and overtime laws work" from Marketplace  "No Tax On Tips And Overtime: What Workers Should Know" from Bankrate"Here's A Tip: ‘No Taxes on Tips' May Be Good Politics But Is Bad Policy" from the Tax Policy Center“An Illustrated Guide to Who Really Benefits From ‘No Tax on Tips'” from The New York TimesJoin us tomorrow for Economics on Tap. The YouTube livestream starts at 3:30 Pacific/6:30 Eastern. See you then!

President Trump announced a trade deal with Japan that will impose 15% tariffs on imports. Wall Street is happy, but it could put the United States in an awkward position as the Trump administration continues to seek other deals. Sabri Ben-Achour explains. Also, the federal government is leading a major deregulatory crusade. And they want your input. Plus, quilts and blooming plants make us smile.Here's everything we talked about today:"Trump's Labor Department proposes more than 60 rule changes in a push to deregulate workplaces" from AP News"Trump Strikes Deal With Ally Japan Setting Tariff Rate at 15%" from BloombergListener Jen's quilting Instagram We love hearing from you. Leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART or email makemesmart@marketplace.org.

Lately, tech companies like Meta have been putting hundreds of billions toward building new data centers to power their AI ambitions. Some communities have been pushing back, however, arguing these facilities strain local resources. But demand for data centers isn't expected to slow down anytime soon. On the show today, Landon Marston, professor of civil and environmental engineering at Virginia Tech, explains what data centers actually are, why they require so much energy and water to operate, and how they can affect nearby communities. Plus, how can data centers become more sustainable?Later, reflections on Medicaid cuts and the power of journaling. And, a listener makes us smarter about “100-year floods.”Here's everything we talked about today:"Their Water Taps Ran Dry When Meta Built Next Door" from The New York Times"Coreweave stock pops after company announces $6 billion AI data center in Pennsylvania" from CNBC"Meta's Zuckerberg pledges hundreds of billions for AI data centers in superintelligence push" from Reuters "How A.I. Is Changing the Way the World Builds Computers" from The New York Times"China Is Putting Data Centers in the Ocean to Keep Them Cool" from Scientific American ”The 100-Year Flood” from the U.S. Geological Survey We love hearing from you. Leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART or email makemesmart@marketplace.org.

Acting head of Immigration and Customs Enforcement Todd Lyons said his agency's crackdown on unauthorized immigration will extend to employers as well. Industries that rely heavily on undocumented workers are pushing back. We'll get into it. And, American consumers are spending in the face of tariff-fueled inflation fears. (For now, at least.) Plus, Korean beauty loyalists and summer camps for sewing make us smile.Here's everything we talked about today:"ICE head says agency to crack down on American companies hiring unauthorized workers" from The Hill"Transcript: Acting ICE director Todd Lyons on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," July 20, 2025" from CBS News"The U.S. Economy Is Regaining Its Swagger Despite Trump's Tariffs" from The Wall Street Journal  "Teens Learn the Lost Arts of Sewing and Ironing at New Summer Camp Taught By Local Grandmas Staving off Loneliness" from Good News Network"A Year's Worth of Mascara? Fans of Korean Beauty Stock Up as Tariffs Loom." from The New York Times "After Pledging to Keep Prices Low, Amazon Hiked Them on Hundreds of Essentials" from The Wall Street Journal   We love hearing from you. Leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART or email makemesmart@marketplace.org.

The Trump administration has agreed to share the data of millions of Medicaid enrollees with Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials in an effort to locate immigrants who may be undocumented in the U.S. We discuss the implications of this agreement. And, we explain a White House executive order in the works than plans to target AI models seen as too “woke.” We get into how that aligns with the Trump administration's efforts to dismantle diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives. Plus, we'll play a round of Half Full/Half Empty!Here's everything we talked about today:“Trump administration hands over Medicaid recipients' personal data, including addresses, to ICE” from The Associated Press“White House Prepares Executive Order Targeting ‘Woke AI'” from The Wall Street Journal“A UK-based company hopes to use “robot dogs” to address labor shortages in health care” from Marketplace“Social media algorithms create “algospeak,” a kind of internet slang” from Marketplace“Roblox will scan users' video selfies to assess their ages” from WIRED“TSA to add a lane for families with children and members of the military” from Fast CompanyFederal funding for public media has been eliminated. This is a critical time for public media, including Marketplace. Give now: https://support.marketplace.org/smart-sn

The Senate approved the Trump administration's rescission package today, which proposes taking back $9 billion in federal funding already allocated for programs such as public media and foreign aid. We'll get into the implications for the bipartisan nature of the budgeting process. Plus, we explain the latest development of a lawsuit against Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg and company leaders, which stems back to the 2018 privacy scandal involving Cambridge Analytica. Then, we'll smile at a piece of new technology that claims to shoot mosquitoes using lasers. And, do you believe in supernatural forces?Here's everything we talked about today:“Russ Vought: Appropriations process ‘has to be less bipartisan'” from POLITICO“The Appropriations Process Was Already Broken. The Rescission Bill May Have Just Shattered It.” from NOTUS“Meta investors, Zuckerberg reach settlement to end $8 billion trial over Facebook privacy litigation” from Reuters“This ‘Iron Dome' for mosquitoes shoots down bugs with lasers” from Fast Company“Angels, witches, crystals and black cats: How supernatural beliefs vary across different groups in the US” from The ConversationWe love hearing from you. Leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART or email makemesmart@marketplace.org.

According to the latest consumer price index, the reported prices of several items, including apparel and household furnishings, increased in June, suggesting some preliminary effects of the Trump administration's tariff policies. We discuss President Donald Trump's response calling for the Federal Reserve to lower interest rates, and why it's so crucial to preserve an independent central bank. Then, we take a look at Missouri, where the state's legislature and the governor overturned the outcome of a ballot initiative. What does that say about the state of public participation in the democratic process? And, we celebrate some wins from listeners about a rekindled drive to write poetry and what it means to be a good friend. Here's everything we talked about today:"Missouri governor repeals paid sick leave law approved last year by voters" from The Associated Press"Missouri Rolls Back Paid Sick Leave Entitlement; $15 Minimum Wage Remains" from National Law Review“Missouri's voters restored abortion rights. Their leaders are trying to overrule them” from the newsletter The 19th News"D.C. budget update: Tipped minimum wage compromise fails, ranked choice voting funded as budget advances" from WAMU"Inflation picks up again in June, rising at 2.7% annual rate" from CNBCWe love hearing from you. Leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART or email makemesmart@marketplace.org.

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act is projected to cut Medicaid spending by more than $1 trillion. The law changes eligibility rules, and some predictions estimate at least 10.5 million people will be eliminated from the program. “For some adults, Medicaid will step in and help pay for care at home, or if care at home is not available, for care in nursing homes,” said Rachel Werner, executive director of the Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics at the University of Pennsylvania. “With the cuts to Medicaid funding, we are expecting that the availability of care in both of those settings will diminish, and it will be harder for people to get the care they need to live independently.” States will have to respond to the changes by either making up the funding gap or reducing services. On the show today, Werner explains how the funding cuts could limit the caregiving options for older Americans who need at-home care and place a larger responsibility on their families. Plus, we discuss how to start planning for long-term care amid all the legislative changes.Then, we'll celebrate a listener's win about her chocolate lab puppy. And, another listener's quest to find life on Mars.Here's everything we talked about today:“How Medicaid Cuts Could Force Millions Into Nursing Homes” from The Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics at the University of Pennsylvania“Advocates warn that Medicaid cuts in the big budget law put home-based health care at risk” from Marketplace“New AARP Report: Majority of Adults 50-plus Want to Age in Place, But Policies and Communities Must Catch Up” from AARP“A Closer Look at the Medicaid Work Requirement Provisions in the “Big Beautiful Bill” from KFF“Medicaid cuts: The how and why” from the newsletter Your Local Epidemiologist“As the need for nursing homes grows, nurses are in short supply” from MarketplaceWe love hearing from you. Leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART or email makemesmart@marketplace.org.

The Senate is expected to vote on President Donald Trump's rescissions package this week, which proposes rescinding $9.4 billion in previously approved spending to several programs, including public media and foreign aid spending. We discuss how this could undermine the bipartisan process. Then, we take a look at Bitcoin trading at new record highs, as U.S. lawmakers prepare to pass new regulations on cryptocurrency. We explain the bills being proposed in what's been dubbed “Crypto Week.” Plus, we hear listeners' wins about a resurgence of monarch butterflies and a lifelong dream of clubbing in Berlin. Here's everything we talked about today:“GOP leader faces showdown with Republicans on Trump-backed funding cuts” from The Hill“Schumer warns package to claw back funding would ‘poison' annual spending talks” from The Hill“A Senate vote this week will test the popularity of DOGE spending cuts” from The Associated Press“Bitcoin Soars Past $120,000 as House Takes Up Crypto Bills” from The New York Times“‘Crypto Week' on Capitol Hill” from Marketplace“Trump Rescission Proposal Builds on Illegal Impoundments, Would Undermine Future Funding Deals” from Center on Budget and Policy PrioritiesWe love hearing from you. Leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART or email makemesmart@marketplace.org.

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.