Make Me Smart

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’”“The Appropriations Process Was Already Broken. The Rescission Bill May Have Just Shattered It.”“Meta investors, Zuckerberg reach settlement to end $8 billion trial over Facebook privacy litigation”“This ‘Iron Dome’ for mosquitoes shoots down bugs with lasers”“Angels, witches, crystals and black cats: How supernatural beliefs vary across different groups in the US” We 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""Missouri Rolls Back Paid Sick Leave Entitlement; $15 Minimum Wage Remains"“Missouri’s voters restored abortion rights. Their leaders are trying to overrule them”"D.C. budget update: Tipped minimum wage compromise fails, ranked choice voting funded as budget advances""Inflation picks up again in June, rising at 2.7% annual rate" We 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”“Advocates warn that Medicaid cuts in the big budget law put home-based health care at risk”“New AARP Report: Majority of Adults 50-plus Want to Age in Place, But Policies and Communities Must Catch Up”“A Closer Look at the Medicaid Work Requirement Provisions in the “Big Beautiful Bill”“Medicaid cuts: The how and why”“As the need for nursing homes grows, nurses are in short supply” We 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”“Schumer warns package to claw back funding would ‘poison’ annual spending talks”“A Senate vote this week will test the popularity of DOGE spending cuts”“Bitcoin Soars Past $120,000 as House Takes Up Crypto Bills”“‘Crypto Week’ on Capitol Hill”“Trump Rescission Proposal Builds on Illegal Impoundments, Would Undermine Future Funding Deals” We 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'""Taxpayer-Funded Benefits Are for American Citizens — Not Illegals""Trump to cut off Head Start for immigrants in US illegally""State Department fires more than 1,300 employees in downsizing plan""Federal workers fearful after Supreme Court backs Trump’s mass firings plan""How Trump’s immigration policies could threaten Social Security""Tariffs push companies to rethink traditional forecasts""In new food fad, protein products are no longer just for gym-goers""Microsoft Pledges $4 Billion Toward A.I. Education""A 70-hour work week? Some job listings are foregoing work-life balance"”The disturbing parallels between modern accounting and the business of slavery” from Marketplace We 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?""FEMA cuts put more pressure on local disaster relief""Debate erupts over role job cuts played in weather forecasts ahead of deadly Texas floods""Flood predictions could worsen when Trump’s cuts take hold""As Floods Hit, Key Roles Were Vacant at Weather Service Offices in Texas""Republicans want to privatize weather forecasts. Do Trump appointees stand to benefit?" 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""Trump combats TACO reputation as White House extends tariff deadline""Too Many Goods Are About To Face Historically High Tariffs""Flint finally replaced its lead pipes" from The Washington Post Got 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.""We Asked Trump’s Former Prisons Chief How $45 Billion Will Reshape Immigrant Detention""Budget Bill Massively Increases Funding for Immigration Detention""Trump administration seeks to turn mass deportations into an efficient business ‘like Amazon’""Unchecked Growth: Private Prison Corporations and Immigration Detention, Three Years Into the Biden Administration" Got 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?""Congress Passes National Private School Voucher Program as Part of Policy Bill""The new wave of private school vouchers""Rural hospitals will be hit hard by Trump’s signature spending package""Trump bill's health effects won't be felt until after midterms""Netflix Says 50 Percent of Global Users Now Watch Anime, Reveals Expanded Slate""A new start after 60: I quit my job, bought a camera – and became a successful wildlife photographer""At 40, She Discovered She Was One of America’s Best Free Divers" 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""Republican Budget Bill Signals New Era in Federal Surveillance""Steady Hiring Added 147,000 Jobs to U.S. Economy in June""Can We Trust a Jobs Report From the Trump Administration? Yes, With Caveats." Got 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” The US says 'little to show‘ for six-decade aid agency. Supporters point to millions of lives savedUSAID cuts could lead to 14 million deaths over the next five years, researchers sayEducation Department freezes cash for school districts, teacher training, migrant students”Watch the first trailer for ‘Project Hail Mary’” WNBA adds three more franchises as league’s popularity continues to grow‘Friendship’ Review: Tim Robinson and Paul Rudd Hit Maximum Cringe” If 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 priceSurging travel in Europe spikes concerns over tourism's drawbacksOvertourism was the buzzword of 2024. This summer looks to be just as crowded and chaotic” Affordable travel is to blame for Europe’s overtourism problem, spoiling its most sought-after cities like Barcelona, Amsterdam and AthensHawaii will tax vacation stays and use money to help counter climate crisisThe Goal: Tourism That Regenerates Hawai‘i, Not Degrades It” We 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“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”They sing to remember: The power of memory choirs”Child reportedly fell overboard on Disney cruise. Her dad jumped in after her.Heroic Dad Jumps Off Disney Dream to Rescue Overboard Daughter Questions? 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""America’s Top Consumer-Sentiment Economist Is Worried""Opinion | How the N.B.A. and M.L.B. Shattered America’s Sports Culture""Bumble stumbles as dating apps struggle""Latest time use survey shows Americans are spending more time at home""The colleges using ultimate frisbee to boost enrollment""After a tough decade, American malls are reinventing themselves" Got 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""Combat drones: We are in a new era of warfare - here's why""FPV drones in Ukraine are changing modern warfare""Cyber Operations during the Russo-Ukrainian War"“‘Will Trump give up the store?’ Edward Fishman on how US economic warfare works – and doesn’t" Got 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""As U.S. Sizzles, Business Groups Push Back on OSHA's Heat Safety Law""Heat Safety Experts behind OSHA Rules Were Laid Off, which Could Make It Easier to Scrap Regulations""Trump’s OSHA Nominee Has a History With Heat and UPS Drivers""U.S. New Home Sales Slump as High Mortgage Rates Persist"'"You'll never be ready to buy a home"'"New York City is using ranked choice voting in its Democratic mayoral primary. Here's how it works""What you need to know about ranked choice voting""The Perilous Business of Importing Indian Mangoes to the U.S." from The New York Times Got 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""Trump tries to maintain fragile ceasefire hours after he announced it""Iran’s Nuclear Dreams May Survive Even a Devastating American Blow""History of US-Iran relations: From the 1953 regime change to Trump strikes""Why Israel will resist any US-Iran nuclear deal""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""11 days until July 4: Byrd Bath and policy fights on deck""Senate parliamentarian rejects GOP attempt to authorize states to conduct immigration enforcement""G.O.P. Can’t Include Limits on Trump Lawsuits in Megabill, Senate Parliamentarian Rules""Iran Has an Oil Card to Play. So Does the U.S.""The largest digital camera ever built has released its first shots of the universe""Vera C Rubin Observatory first images""Killer whales seen grooming each other with kelp in first for marine tool use" 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”“Introduction to Budget “Reconciliation”“One, Big, Beautiful Bill: Impact on Philanthropy”“Senate Judiciary Unveils Its Own Plan To Curtail Court Orders”“Parliamentarian rulings would kill key climate provisions in GOP megabill” Got a question for the hosts? Email makemesmart@marketplace.org or leave us a voicemail at 508-U-B-SMART.