Explore every episode of the podcast Econ Nerds Live
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fed Speak vs. Trump Speak | 01 Aug 2025 | 00:49:07 | |
In this episode of Econ Nerds Live, hosts Matt Hill and Ariel Slonim first have a news quiz before discussing Fed Independence and Trump v. Powell. The conversation shifts to vacation experiences, highlighting the cost of living and consumer surplus, before wrapping up with a discussion on economic observations from their travels. 02:46 News Quiz 14:28 Federal Reserve Independence and History 20:03 Volcker's Impact and Political Relationships 22:49 Fed Speak vs. Trump Speak 26:45 Vacation Talk: Experiences and Observations 33:49 Consumer Insights from Travel 38:26 The Price is Right? Camping Economics 42:58 Consumer Surplus and Deadweight Loss in Daily Life Be sure to check out the Econ Nerds on youtube here: | |||
| Great Depression Myths with Price Fishback | 26 Jul 2025 | 01:24:57 | |
In this episode, we have economic historian Price Fishback on to bust Great Depression myths, including:
Check out Fishback's JEL article here https://www.aeaweb.org/articles?id=10.1257/jel.20161054 And his book chapter in this volume: https://www.amazon.com/Government-American-Economy-New-History/dp/0226251284 Be sure to check out the Econ Nerds on youtube here: | |||
| Home Alone, Taylor Swift, misnamed Econ Concepts and more with Jadrian Wooten | 18 Jul 2025 | 01:03:25 | |
In this episode of Econ Nerds Live, host Matt Hill and co-host Ariel Slonim welcome Jadrian Wooten from Monday Morning Economist (https://www.mondayeconomist.com/). They start with a news quiz. Then talk about their favorite Monday Morning Economist posts:
Then the conversation also gets very nerdy with a discussion on confusing terminology used in Economics. 00:00 Introduction to Monday Morning Economist 02:27 News Quiz 18:39 Pop Culture Economics and Home Alone 20:09 Challenges in Adjusting Prices Over Time 24:10 Comparing Historical Prices: Time vs. CPI 28:10 The Alchian-Allen Effect Explained (why are you buying more expensive eggs?) 31:54 The Impact of Taylor Swift on Local Economies 38:13 Teaching Economics: Challenges and Insights 41:03 The Challenge of Economic Terminology 55:03 Consumer Surplus/ DWL: Transformers, home buying, Delta Referenced in the podcast: https://www.mondayeconomist.com/ Planet money on sugar prices: https://www.npr.org/sections/money/2013/04/26/179295426/episode-454-the-lollipop-war Subscribe to our youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@EconNerds | |||
| Fertility Crisis: Myths and Solutions with Susannah Petitt | 11 Jul 2025 | 01:04:48 | |
In this episode, Matt Hill and Ariel Slonim discuss the fertility crisis with guest Susannah Petitt. They explore the decline in birth rates, the impact of education and marriage trends, and the economic implications of a shrinking population. The conversation delves into the importance of innovation, the role of social media, and potential policy solutions to encourage family growth. Susannah shares insights on the misconceptions surrounding fertility and the need for supportive community structures. The episode concludes with reflections on the cultural narratives surrounding parenthood and the opportunity costs associated with raising children. Chapters 04:16 The Shift from Overpopulation to Depopulation Concerns 19:11 Housing and Its Impact on Family Planning 25:08 The Influence of Technology and Social Change on Fertility 34:41 Balancing Childbearing and Career 45:29 Current Reads and Interesting Finds 57:16 Current Events: Tariffs and Trade Agreements Check out Susannah’s substack Upward Bound: https://theupwardbound.substack.com/ | |||
| Pole Vaulting, NY Mayor, AI Video, Buy Nothing | 19 Jun 2025 | 00:48:44 | |
In this episode of the Econ Nerds podcast, hosts Matt Hill and Ariel Slonim explore various economic themes ranging from pole vaulting incentives to the impact of tariffs on job creation. They discuss the implications of NYC's free bus proposal, the economic contributions of K-Pop sensation BTS, and the evolving landscape of creative jobs in the age of AI. Then a life advice involving Bitcoin and personal finance decisions. The episode concludes with reflections on community initiatives like the Buy Nothing group and the hidden costs associated with them. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and News Quiz Kickoff 16:52 AI and Art: The Future of Creativity 32:25 Life Advice 35:47 Consumer Surplus vs. Deadweight Loss: Buy Nothing | |||
| Debt, Blueberries, Tattoo Removal and Homesteading | 13 Jun 2025 | 00:43:58 | |
In this episode of Econ Nerds Live, hosts Matt Hill and Ariel Slonim delve into the pressing issue of national debt, exploring its implications and the government's options for managing it. Then a news quiz segment, where they test each other's knowledge on current events and economic trends. Then they unveil their new segment: "Not Investment Advice", where they give investment advice. The episode wraps up with discussions male friendships, homesteading and Lego Masters 00:00 - Government Spending and Economic Consequences 10:15 - Transitioning to Current Economic News and Quizzes Investing Insights: Predictions and Market Trends 23:24 - NOT Investment Advice: Tattoo Removal 30:12 - Consumer Surplus and Deadweight Loss: Male Friendships, Homesteading and Lego Masters Articles mentioned All articles for the news quiz can be found at our substack: https://econnerds.substack.com/ Supersonics are back https://marginalrevolution.com/marginalrevolution/2025/06/supersonics-takeoff.html Male Friendships https://www.aaronrenn.com/p/male-friendship Homesteading: https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2025/06/05/i-tried-homesteading/ | |||
| Tariff Pause?, Trader Joes' Prices and Magic Wands | 06 Jun 2025 | 00:49:41 | |
In this episode of Econ Nerds, hosts Matt Hill and Ariel Slonim discuss the recent legal challenges surrounding tariffs, the economic implications of presidential power over tariffs, and the collective action problems faced by Congress. They explore how uncertainty in tariff policies affects businesses and consumers, and delve into the broader economic concepts at play. The conversation also includes a fun news quiz that highlights various economic principles. Then they try to figure out the pricing strategies of Trader Joe's. Finally, Ariel and Matt debate the best place to get wands. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Personal Anecdotes 03:00 Tariff Pause and Legal Challenges 09:02 Congressional Power and Collective Action Problems 12:10 Impact of Tariffs on Business and Consumers 18:10 News Quiz and Economic Insights 34:26 Understanding Trader Joe's Pricing Strategy 45:39 Consumer Surplus and Deadweight Loss 50:23 Experiential Marketing: The Magic of Harry Potter World Sign up to our newsletter: https://econnerds.substack.com/ | |||
| Pennies, Ozempic, Are Ideas harder to find? and Slop | 30 May 2025 | 00:48:43 | |
In this inaugural episode of Econ Nerds Live, hosts Matt Hill and Ariel Slonim discuss various economic topics, including the recent decision to stop minting pennies, the impact of AI on jobs, the price fluctuations of Ozempic. They also explore the challenges of innovation and idea generation, the pricing of non-alcoholic beverages, and the economic lessons learned from personal experiences, such as dealing with crows in the backyard. 00:00 - Introduction to Econ Nerds Podcast 01:13 - The Death of the Penny 07:56 - AI and Job Market Changes 09:59 - Video of the Week: Ozempic Pricing Loophole 14:51 - Post of the Week: Scott Sumner on Populism 19:46 - Paper of the Week: Are Ideas Getting Harder to Find, Nicholas Decker summarizes the paper here 22:44 - The Price is right? Price of Mocktails and Non-Alcoholic Beverages 29:48 - Consumer Surplus and Deadweight Loss of the week 33:55 - Archaeology Meets Economics - How to find ancient cities with trade theory 39:20 - The Impact of War on Economies 43:41 - Econ in the Wild: Personal Anecdotes Other posts mentioned: | |||
| BLS firing, US Open, and the futility of presents | 22 Aug 2025 | 00:59:22 | |
In this episode of Econ Nerds Live, hosts Matt Hill and Ariel Slonim discuss various economic topics, including the recent turmoil at the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) following the firing of its head. They explore the implications of this event on data accuracy and public trust in economic statistics. Additionally, they introduce a new segment called 'Economic Illiterate of the Week. Chapters 00:00 News Quiz 14:08 The BLS Firing and Its Implications 31:37 Economic Illiteracy of the Week 40:18 Consumer Surplus and DWLs of the week Be sure to check out the Econ Nerds on youtube here: https://www.youtube.com/@EconNerds | |||
| Can apprenticeships fix the Labor Market? with Kelly Vedi | 14 Aug 2025 | 00:43:28 | |
Kelly Vedi from https://kellyvedi.substack.com/ comes on to explore the significance of apprenticeships as a viable training strategy in the U.S., contrasting them with traditional education models. She outlines the historical context, current state, and cultural differences surrounding apprenticeships, emphasizing their potential benefits for both employers and young people. We discuss barriers to expanding apprenticeship programs, the role of AI, and the social aspects of vocational training compared to college education. 00:00 The Importance of Apprenticeships 05:47 Cultural Differences in Apprenticeship Models 10:30 Apprenticeships vs. Traditional Education 17:48 Barriers to Expanding Apprenticeships in the US 22:19 The Value of Practical Learning 27:30 Career Exploration Through Apprenticeships 31:01 The Impact of AI on Apprenticeships 33:52 The Social Aspects of College vs. Apprenticeships 38:22 The Need for Viable Alternatives to College Be sure to check out the Econ Nerds on youtube here: https://www.youtube.com/@EconNerds | |||
| Everything you wanted to know about Driverless Cars with Andrew Miller | 08 Aug 2025 | 00:48:36 | |
In this episode of Econ Nerds Live, we dive into the transformative world of driverless car technology with Andrew Miller, author of the substack: Changing Lanes and the forthcoming book "The End of Driving." We start with a transportation quiz before discussing the technological, regulatory and cultural barriers to a driverless car future. In the end, we get Andrew's takes on some prediction market driverless car bets. Check Andrew's substack here: https://www.changinglanesnewsletter.com/ Be sure to check out the Econ Nerds on youtube here: | |||
| H1B Visas, Apples and Hot Yoga | 02 Oct 2025 | 01:06:11 | |
In this episode of Econ Nerds Live, hosts Matt Hill and Ariel Slunum, along with guest Rob Raffety, debate the new $100,000 fee. Then we have our news quiz featuring apples and our old friend EJ Antoni, PhD. Then we our economic illiterates of the week and a poorly named segment. Chapters 02:49 Discussion on H1B Visa Fee Proposal 07:01 Economic Implications of H1B Visa Holders 22:11 ChatGPT Conversations: Interesting or Boring? 26:12 Weekly News Quiz: Government Shutdown Insights 44:09 Poorly Named Economic Concepts 47:29 Econ Illiterates of the Week 52:48 Econ in the Wild: Real-Life Applications Subscribe in podcast form https://open.spotify.com/show/6W1pgHpoGGhejB5CkrlHzZ?si=uhokpBurRMShTSBuR2pMjQ Be sure to check out the Econ Nerds on youtube here: https://www.youtube.com/@EconNerds | |||
| Interview: Richard Sylla on Alexander Hamilton | 27 Sep 2025 | 00:45:45 | |
Prof. Richard Sylla tells how Alexander Hamilton, a poor immigrant from the West Indies, dreamed up and then revolutionized America’s financial system, paving the way for 250 years of growth. Then Prof. Sylla tells us what the architect of the U.S. National debt would think about today’s national debt. 00:00 Hamilton's Early Life and Move to America 00:51 The Differences Between the West Indies and American Colonies 04:56 Hamilton's Education and Early Writings 08:25 Hamilton's Military Career and Role in the Revolution 11:31 Hamilton's Financial Insights and Strategies 20:32 Hamilton's Role in the Constitution's Ratification 23:30 Key Components of a Modern Financial System 27:05 The Room Where It Happened: Political Bargaining 34:53Establishing the Bank of the United States 39:20 Hamilton's Perspective on Modern Fiscal Policy Be sure to check out the Econ Nerds on youtube here: https://www.youtube.com/@EconNerds | |||
| Recession Fears, Firewood and Betting on the NY Mayor | 19 Sep 2025 | 00:58:56 | |
01:09 Recession Fears and Economic Indicators 04:57 Alternative Indices for Predicting Recessions 09:03 Current Economic Data and Concerns 14:10 News Quiz 25:05 The Economists are fighting! 35:02 Not Investment Advice: NY Mayor Bet 39:49 Econ Illiterate of the Week 44:23 Econ in the Wild Be sure to check out the Econ Nerds on youtube here: https://www.youtube.com/@EconNerds | |||
| Occupational Licenses, Capitalism/Social popularity and more with Noah Trudeau | 12 Sep 2025 | 00:59:33 | |
Do you have license for that haircut? What’s more popular socialism or capitalism? and does NPR know what a Depression is? All that on today’s Econ Nerds live. Noah Trudeau joins the Nerds to discuss occupational licensing. What is it? Why should you despise it? Which states are the worst offenders? Then we have anews quiz segment. Matt unveils a new segment where he fails to promote the podcast on Twitter. All that plus Econ Illiterate of the Week and Econ in the Wild. 00:00 Introduction to Occupational Licensing 09:32 The Impact of Licensing on Accessibility 11:12 State Patterns in Occupational Licensing 13:42 Reforming Occupational Licensing 15:57 News Quiz: Jobs numbers and Capitalism 30:39 New Segment: Marketing 34:55 Econ Illiterate of the Week: Planet Money Tiktok 39:50 Econ in the Wild 41:38 Sunk Cost Fallacy in Reading 44:34 Finding the Right Books to Read 47:52 Econ in the Wild: Beach Flag Systems 50:16 Asymmetric Information in Dentistry Subscribe in podcast form https://open.spotify.com/show/6W1pgHpoGGhejB5CkrlHzZ?si=uhokpBurRMShTSBuR2pMjQ Be sure to check out the Econ Nerds on youtube here: https://www.youtube.com/@EconNerds | |||
| Kawhi Salary, De Minimis, DeForestation | 05 Sep 2025 | 00:55:46 | |
In this episode of Econ Nerds Live, hosts Matt Hill and Ariel Slonim discuss various economic topics, starting with the implications of Kawhi Leonard's signing with the LA Clippers. They explore the economics behind sports contracts, price ceilings, and market dynamics. The conversation shifts to a weekly news quiz covering economic regulations, including the de minimis loophole and its impact on trade. They also analyze misconceptions in the housing market, before concluding with a light-hearted discussion about a potential wedding-themed club and navigating child education. 01:08 Kawhi Leonard's NBA Signing and Economic Implications 13:22 Weekly News Quiz and Current Events Discussion 28:02 Ask the Experts: Understanding the De Minimis Exception 34:46 Econ Illiterate of the Week 40:16 Paper of the Week: Analyzing College Wage Premiums 41:55 Econ in the Wild: Weddings and weighted vests Subscribe in podcast form https://open.spotify.com/show/6W1pgHpoGGhejB5CkrlHzZ?si=uhokpBurRMShTSBuR2pMjQ Be sure to check out the Econ Nerds on youtube here: https://www.youtube.com/@EconNerds | |||
| Lisa Cook's research and firing, AI art, and Korean Holograms | 29 Aug 2025 | 00:42:03 | |
In this episode of Econ Nerds Live, hosts Matt Hill and Ariel Slonim have their usual news quiz. Then they discuss into the controversial firing of Lisa Cook from the Fed. Matt then summarizes Cook’s most famous paper and the data issues with it. The episode also features a segment on the 'Econ Illiterate of the Week,' focusing on Trump's dealings with Intel. Also discussed: Boeing and AI art. 00:00 Introduction 02:46 News Quiz 08:31 Holographic Crime Prevention in South Korea 11:06 Federal Reserve and Lisa Cook's Controversy 16:17 Analysis of Lisa Cook's Research and Its Implications 18:59 The Controversy Surrounding Lisa Cook's Research 23:12 Econ Illiterate of the Week 32:21 AI's Role in Creativity and Personal Connection 34:53 Consumer Surplus and Deadweight Loss in our personal life Subscribe in podcast form https://open.spotify.com/show/6W1pgHpoGGhejB5CkrlHzZ?si=uhokpBurRMShTSBuR2pMjQ Be sure to check out the Econ Nerds on youtube here: https://www.youtube.com/@EconNerds | |||