The Economics of Everyday Things
Freakonomics Network & Zachary Crockett
Who decides which snacks are in your office’s vending machine? How much is a suburban elm tree worth, and to whom? How did Girl Scout Cookies become a billion-dollar business? In bite-sized episodes, journalist Zachary Crockett looks at quotidian things and finds amazing stories.
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81. Guide Dogs
Before a guide dog can help a blind person navigate the world, it has to pass a series of tests, then go through $75,000 worth of training. Zachary Crockett sniffs around. SOURCES:Peggy Gibbon, director of canine development at The Seeing Eye.Charles Pat McKenna, assistant division director of the New Jersey Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired. RESOURCES:"Why Seeing Eye Dogs Are So Expensive To Breed and Train," by Abby Tang and Emily Christian (Business Insider, 2024)."For decades, t
80. Going-Out-of-Business Sales
Behind that 70% off sign, there’s a liquidation consultant trying to maximize retailer profits. Zachary Crockett seeks a deal. SOURCES:Bradley Snyder, executive managing director at Tiger Group.Zac Rogers, associate professor of supply chain management at Colorado State University RESOURCES:"What Went Wrong: The Demise of Toys R Us," by Angie Basiouny (Knowledge at Wharton, 2018)"Retail apocalypse 2024: All the once-popular stores and restaurants that shuttered locations this year," by Sarah Bre
79. School Photos
Picture day is an annual tradition for American families — and, for the companies that take the photos, a lucrative one. Zachary Crockett smiles for the camera. SOURCES:Ken Murphy, C.E.O. of LifetouchJeremy McColm, senior manager of photography at Lifetouch RESOURCES:"The money and stress and failed hairdos of school picture day," by Kaitlyn Tiffany (Vox, 2019)"The School Photo Industry Is a Master Class in Drama," by David Gauvey Herbert (New York Times, 2019)"With Lifetouch Acquisition, Shutte
78. Porta-Potties
They're not always the nicest places to go — but for their owners, portable toilets are a lucrative revenue stream. Zachary Crockett lifts the lid. SOURCES:Ron Inman, vice president of Honey BucketVeronica Crosier, executive director of Portable Sanitation Association International RESOURCES:"Providing Toilets for 39,000 Runners," by John Branch (New York Times, 2008)"Platinum Equity-owned United Site Services weighs $4B sale – Reuters," by Pam Rosacia (S&P Global, 2021)"Renting Portable Units,"
77. Hand Models
You can be a top model and still not get recognized on the street — as long as you keep your cuticles healthy and your moons white. Zachary Crockett points a finger. SOURCES:Dani Korwin, managing director of Parts Models.Ellen Sirot, hand model. RESOURCES:SAG-AFTRA Network TV Code 2024 - 2025 Extension Agreement Rates."How to Become a Hand Model," by Jack Smart (Backstage, 2024)."Meet New York’s Top Hand and Foot Model Agent (It’s a Real Thing!)," by Christian Allaire (Vogue, 2021). EXTRAS:"The
76. Hotel Art
A watercolor of a harbor? A black-and-white photo of a pile of rocks? Some hotels are trying to do better. Zachary Crockett unpacks. SOURCES:Melanie Kettring, director of studio design at Best Western Hotels.Jessica Poundstone, visual artist. Gavi Wolf, founder and C.E.O. of Indiewalls. RESOURCES:Indiewalls.Best Western. EXTRAS:"Used Hotel Soaps," by The Economics of Everyday Things (2023)."The Hidden Side of the Art Market," series by Freakonomics Radio (2021).
75. Butchers
Before beef ends up at your favorite steakhouse, it passes through the hands of a trained specialist with an encyclopedic knowledge of bovine anatomy. Zachary Crockett chews the fat. SOURCES:Bryan Flannery, co-owner of Flannery Beef.Katie Flannery, co-owner of Flannery Beef. RESOURCES:"National Weekly Boxed Beef Cutout And Boxed Beef Cuts — Negotiated Sales," U.S.D.A. Agricultural Marketing Service (U.S.D.A. Livestock, Poultry and Grain Market News, 2025)."Understanding Beef Carcass Yields and L
Pistachios (Replay)
How did a little green nut become a billion-dollar product, lauded by celebrities in Super Bowl ads? Zachary Crockett cracks open the story. SOURCES:Sawyer Clark, director of asset management at Gold Leaf Farming.Diana Salsa, vice president of marketing for Wonderful Pistachios. RESOURCES:"Almond Acreage Decline Prompts Industry Introspection," by Mitch Lies (West Coast Nut, 2023).American Pistachio Industry 2021 Annual Report, by American Pistachio Growers (2023)."California’s Agricultural Wate
Cashmere (Replay)
Once a luxury good, the soft fiber is now everywhere — which has led to a goat boom in Mongolia. Zachary Crockett tugs at the thread. SOURCES:Myagmarjav Serjkhuu, manager of the Mongolian Sustainable Cashmere Platform for the United Nations Development Programme.Carolyn Yim, designer and owner of Ply-Knits. RESOURCES:"Sandstorms and Desertification in Mongolia, an Example of Future Climate Events: A Review," by Jie Han, Han Dai, and Zhaolin Gu (Environmental Chemistry Letters, 2021)."How Sustain
74. Fonts
Behind almost every character you see displayed on a page or a screen, there’s a complex — and sometimes lucrative — web of licensing deals. Zachary Crockett is just your type. SOURCES:Lucas Czarnecki, creative director of Type Network.Gerry Leonidas, professor of typography at the University of Reading.Chantra Malee, co-founder and C.E.O. of Sharp Type.Lucas Sharp, professional font designer and co-founder of Sharp Type. RESOURCES:"What Fonts Are Used by The New York Times?" by Nona Blackman (E
73. Used Bookstores
Americans throw away 320 million books every year. How do some of them find a second life? Zachary Crockett is just browsing. SOURCE:Francisco Hernandez, owner of Leaves bookstore. RESOURCES:"Reinventing Retail: The Novel Resurgence of Independent Bookstores," by Ryan L. Raffaelli (Harvard Business School Working Paper, 2020).Gravity's Rainbow, by Thomas Pynchon (1973).The Bluest Eye, by Toni Morrison (1970).Leaves bookstore. EXTRA:"Dying Is Easy. Retail Is Hard
Greeting Cards (Replay)
The tradition of sending cards to loved ones was in decline — until it was rescued by a new generation. But millennials have their own ideas about what sentiments they want to convey. Zachary Crockett is thinking of you on your special day. SOURCES:Mia Mercado, writer and former editor at Hallmark.George White, president of Up With Paper and former president of the American Greeting Card Association. RESOURCES:34th Louie Awards - Finalists & Winners, (2022-2023)."Season’s (and Other...) Greeting
72. Helium
It’s unreactive, lighter than air, and surprisingly important to the global economy. Zachary Crockett goes up an octave. SOURCES:Sophia Hayes, professor of chemistry at Washington University in St. Louis.Phil Kornbluth, president of Kornbluth Helium Consulting.Bo Sears, C.E.O. of Helix Exploration PLC. RESOURCES:"Why Semiconductor Growth Will Drive Helium Demand," by Kitty Wheeler (Technology Magazine, 2024)."The World Is Running Out of Helium. Here's Why Doctors Are Worried," by Caroline Hopkin
Stadium Names, from The Indicator
How did Florida International University’s new football stadium come to be named after the rapper and singer Pitbull? Adrian Ma and Wailin Wong of The Indicator from Planet Money explain. SOURCES:Scott Carr, director of athletics at Florida International University.Adrian Ma, co-host of The Indicator from Planet Money.Wailin Wong, co-host of The Indicator from Planet Money. RESOURCES:The Indicator from Planet Money
71. Mannequins
Mannequins may be made out of plastic or fiberglass, but for retailers they’re pure gold. Zachary Crockett strikes a pose. SOURCES:Stacie Bornn, vice president of sales, marketing, and creative at Fusion Specialties.Judi Henderson, C.E.O. and president of Mannequin Madness. RESOURCES:"How This Oakland Business Gives Mannequins New Life (Almost)," by Christopher Beale (KQED, 2024)."Nike's Controversial Plus-Size Mannequin Is a Brilliant Business Decision," by Kate Taylor (Business Insider, 2019).
70. Prison Labor
Incarcerated people grow crops, fight wildfires, and manufacture everything from motor oil to prescription glasses — often for pennies per hour. Zachary Crockett reports from North Carolina.SOURCES:Laura Appleman, professor of law at Willamette University.Christopher Barnes, inmate at the Franklin Correctional Center.Lee Blackman, general manager at Correction Enterprises.Brian Scott, ex-inmate, former worker at the Correction Enterprises printing plant.Louis Southall, warden of Franklin Correct
69. Highway Signs
It takes millions of giant green placards to make America navigable. Where do they come from — and who pays the bill? Zachary Crockett takes the exit. SOURCES:Lee Blackman, general manager at Correction Enterprises.Gene Hawkins, senior principal engineer at Kittelson and professor emeritus of civil engineering at Texas A&M University.Renee Roach, state signing and delineation engineer for the North Carolina Department of Transportation. RESOURCES:"Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices for S
68. Zoo Animals
When a zoo needs an elephant, or finds itself with three surplus penguins, it doesn’t buy or sell the animals — it asks around. Zachary Crockett rattles the cages. SOURCES:Hollie Colahan, deputy director of the Birmingham Zoo and chair of the AZA's Animal Population Management Committee.Dwight Lawson, executive director and C.E.O. of the Oklahoma City Zoo. RESOURCES:"Oklahoma City Zoo Announces Near-Total Redesign in 2024 Master Plan," by Sam Royka (The Oklahoman, 2024)."Panda Diplomacy: What Ch
67. Tow Trucks
Tow-truck drivers: roadside rescuers or car confiscators? Zachary Crockett gets hooked. SOURCES:Bill Giorgis, president of Mike’s Wrecker Service.Max Karimi, co-owner of H&M Roadside.Teresa Murray, director of the Consumer Watchdog Program at U.S. Public Interest Research Group. RESOURCES:"Getting Off the Hook of a Predatory Tow - Part II," by Jacob van Cleef and Teresa Murray (U.S. PIRG Education Fund, 2022)."Getting Off the Hook of a Predatory Tow," by Grace Brombach (U.S. PIRG Education Fund,
66. Stradivarius Violins
Why are these 300-year-old instruments still coveted by violinists today? And how do working musicians get their hands on multimillion-dollar antiques? Zachary Crockett is not fiddling around. SOURCES:Frank Almond, professional violinist.Ziv Arazi, co-owner of Rare Violins of New York.Bruno Price, co-owner of Rare Violins of New York. RESOURCES:"When It Comes to String Instruments, Stradivariuses Are Still Pitch Perfect," by Ted Scheinman (Smithsonian Magazine, 2022)."Study Confirms Superior Sou
Card Counting (Replay)
Casinos think they can stop skilled gamblers from eking out a tiny edge at blackjack. Is that a losing bet? Zachary Crockett doubles down. SOURCES:"Ben," former professional card counter.Bill Zender, co-founder of Bill Zender and Associates casino consulting firm. RESOURCES:"Blackjack Player Sues Ameristar Casino, City of Black Hawk Over Alleged Detainment for Card Counting," by Megan Ulu-Lani Boyanton (The Denver Post, 2023)."Why Does the House Always Win? A Look at Casino Profitability," by J.
65. Stock Photos
Making money in the stock image business requires a sharp eye for trends, a very specific type of model, and a race against A.I. Zachary Crockett takes his shot. SOURCE:Yuri Arcurs, C.E.O. and founder of PeopleImages. RESOURCES:"The Last Stock Photographers Await Their Fate Under Generative A.I.," by Katie Deighton (The Wall Street Journal, 2024)."The Impressive 100-Year History of Stock Photography: From Analog to A.I.," by Ivanna Attié (Stock Photo Secrets, 2024)."How Much Can You Make Selling
64. Sushi Fish
How does a fresh tuna get from Japan to Nebraska before it goes bad? And how does its journey show up in the price of your spicy tuna rolls? Zachary Crockett gets schooled. SOURCES:Sasha Issenberg, journalist and author.David Utterback, owner of Yoshitomo and Ota sushi restaurants.Nobu Yamanashi, president of Yama Seafood. RESOURCES:"Wild or Farmed? Pacific or Atlantic? Here’s What to Know About Bluefin Tuna," by Jean Trinh (Los Angeles Times, 2023)."The Untold Story of Sushi in America," by Dan
63. Botox
Why do millions of people pay to have one of the world’s deadliest toxins injected into their faces? Zachary Crockett looks surprised. SOURCES:Dana Berkowitz, sociologist and author.Jean Carruthers, pioneer of cosmetic Botox, clinical professor of ophthalmology at the University of British Columbia, and owner of Carruthers Cosmetic.Steven Williams, president of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and owner of Tri Valley Plastic Surgery. RESOURCES:"Botox Is More Affordable Than Ever. Is That
62. Title Insurance
Almost everyone who buys a home spends thousands of dollars on title insurance. Most of them don’t understand it, and almost none of them use it. So why does it exist? Zachary Crockett closes the deal. SOURCES:Christy Bieber, personal finance writer.Laurie Goodman, institute fellow at the Urban Institute Housing Finance Policy Center.Kathy Kwak, chief operating officer of Proper Title. RESOURCES:"Remarks of President Joe Biden — State of the Union Address As Prepared for Delivery," (The White Ho
Truffles (Replay)
It takes fungi-sniffing dogs, back-room deals, and a guy named “The Kingpin” for the world’s most coveted morsel to end up on your plate. Zachary Crockett picks up the scent. SOURCES:Jason McKinney, co-founder and C.E.O. of Truffle Shuffle.Besart Morina, truffle dealer. RESOURCES:"Dogs Pay the Price in Italian Truffle War," by Margherita Stancati (The Wall Street Journal, 2022)."How Truffles Took Root Around the World," by Federico Kukso (Smithsonian Magazine, 2022)."Has the American-Grown Truff
61. Pigeons
Once considered noble and heroic, pigeons are now viewed as an urban nuisance — one that costs cities millions of dollars a year. Zachary Crockett tosses some crumbs. SOURCES:Andrew Blechman, journalist and author.David Champagne, owner of Bird Busters, Inc. RESOURCES:"Racing Pigeon Sells For A Record-Breaking $1.9 Million At Auction," by Carlie Porterfield (Forbes, 2020)."Feathers of Honor: U.S. Army Signal Corps Pigeon Service in World War I, 1917–1918," by Frank A. Blazich Jr. (Army History,
60. Money Laundering
How do criminals turn their ill-gotten gains into taxable income? And how does law enforcement stop them? Zachary Crockett follows the money. SOURCES:Patrick McKenzie, fraud prevention expert and strategic advisor at Stripe.Kerry Myers, associate professor of instruction at the University of South Florida and former F.B.I. special agent. RESOURCES:"National Assessments of Money Laundering Risks: Stumbling at the Start," by Joras Ferwerda and Peter Reuter (Risk Analysis, 2024)."Hacker 'Washes' $2
59. Restaurant Reservations
Thanks to online booking platforms, the way we make reservations has changed — but a table at a hot restaurant on a Friday night is still a valuable commodity. Zachary Crockett books a four-top for 7 p.m. SOURCES:Lisa Blount, director of marketing and public relations at Antoine’s Restaurant.Adam Iscoe, writer. RESOURCES:"Why You Can’t Get a Restaurant Reservation," by Adam Iscoe (The New Yorker, 2024)."New York Passes Bill to Make the Restaurant Reservation Black Market Illegal," by Emma Orlow
58. Firefighters
There are more firefighters than ever — and fewer fires for them to fight. So the job has changed. Zachary Crockett slides down the pole. SOURCES:Joshua Hurwitz, lecturer in economics at Tufts University.Eric Mackintosh, administrative battalion fire chief for San Mateo Consolidated Fire Department.Steve Pegram, retired fire chief and township administrator in Ohio. RESOURCES:"The Dire Shortage of Volunteer Firefighters in the US," by Sam Becker (BBC, 2024).San Mateo Consolidated Fire Department
Romance Novels (Replay)
How did love stories about vampires, cowboys, and wealthy dukes become the highest-grossing fiction genre in the world? Zachary Crockett gets swept away. SOURCES:Delaney Diamond, romance novelist.Danielle Flores, high school math teacher and avid romance novel reader.Brenda Hiatt, romance novelist.Diane Moggy, vice president of editorial at Harlequin. RESOURCES:"Even as Overall Book Sales Are Declining, Romance Novels Are on the Rise," by Elena Burnett, Sarah Handel, and Juana Summers (All Thing
57. Strippers
Performing at a strip club can be lucrative, but it requires financial and psychological savvy — and an eye for social trends. Zachary Crockett takes a look. SOURCES:Layla, stripper.Dave Manack, publisher and editor-in-chief of Exotic Dancer. RESOURCES:"A Look at Washington State’s ‘Strippers’ Bill of Rights’," by Aimee Ortiz (The New York Times, 2024)."These L.A. Strippers Won a Union. But the Dance Isn’t Over," by Suhauna Hussain (Los Angeles Times, 2023)."Dancers at Northwest Portland Strip C
56. Snake Venom
Why does treating a venomous snake bite cost as much as a house? Zachary Crockett slithers over to North Carolina to find out. SOURCES:Steve Anderson, emergency medicine business unit leader at BTG Pharmaceuticals.Nick Brandehoff, professor of emergency medicine at the University of Colorado and executive director of the Asclepius Snakebite Foundation.Sean Bush, emergency physician and president of the North American Society of Toxinology.Nitin Deshpande, business consultant with Premium Serums
55. Direct-to-Consumer Mattresses
Online companies promised to bring transparency to the mattress-buying experience. Did that work out? Zachary Crockett takes a look under the sheets. SOURCES:Derek Hales, founder and editor-in-chief of NapLab.com.Joe Megibow, C.E.O. of Casper Sleep. RESOURCES:"Drake Has a $400,000 Bed − We Asked Why and Where You Can Buy It," by Emilia Hitching (Homes & Gardens, 2024)."Casper Tests a New Store Design as It Rethinks Its Retail Strategy," by Anna Hensel (Modern Retail, 2024)."Is The Direct-To-Cons
54. Ghostwriters
Channeling the voices of celebrities can be a lucrative career — one that requires empathy and discretion as well as literary chops. Zachary Crockett checks the acknowledgements. SOURCES:Valerie Frankel, ghostwriter.Madeleine Morel, President and Lead Agent of 2M Communications.Daniel Paisner, ghostwriter. RESOURCES:"Ghostwriting History: Churchill, Kennedy and the Authenticity of Authorship," by Andrew Mumford (The International History Review, 2024)."Column: How many ways can a political memoi
53. Food Trucks
How did mobile kitchens become popular with hipster gourmands? And just how much money can a popular truck make from a lunch shift? Zachary Crocket drops some napkins. SOURCES:Mariel-Leona Edwards, senior operations manager for Señor Sisig.Matthew Geller, founding president of the National Food Truck Association and C.E.O. of the Southern California Mobile Food Vendors Association.Evan Kidera, C.E.O. and co-owner of Señor Sisig. RESOURCES:"Seed Planted in SF State MBA Program Grows Into Mini-Fil
52. Little League
Youth baseball — long a widely accessible American pastime — has become overrun by $10,000-per-year, for-profit travel leagues. Zachary Crockett peers inside the dugout. SOURCES:Linda Flanagan, author.Nick Mackenzie, future New York Yankees shortstop.R.J. Mackenzie, physical education teacher and baseball dad.John Miller, journalist and baseball coach. RESOURCES:"The Cost of Youth Baseball Is Getting Absurd," by Adam Minter (Bloomberg, 2024)."Perfect Game Sees Prosperity Thanks To New Investment
51. Wine Corks
Why do we use a specific kind of tree-bark tissue to seal up 70 percent of wine bottles? Zachary Crockett takes a sniff and gives the waiter a nod. SOURCES:Carlos De Jesus, director of communications at Amorim Cork. RESOURCES:"This Ancient Material Is Displacing Plastics and Creating a Billion-Dollar Industry," by Marta Vidal (The Washington Post, 2024)."Troubled Times For Wine In 2023: Global Production And Consumption Shrinking," by Per and Britt Karlsson (Forbes, 2024)."Three Studies Take A L
50. Self-Checkout
Grocery stores have turned shoppers into cashiers. Zachary Crockett runs two bags of chips and a Gatorade over the scanner. SOURCES:Sara Alloy, experience retail lead for North America at Publicis Sapient.Christopher Andrews, professor of sociology at Drew University.Phil Lempert, founder and C.E.O. of SupermarketGuru. RESOURCES:"Feeling Rewarded and Entitled to Be Served: Understanding the Influence of Self- Versus Regular Checkout on Customer Loyalty," by Farhana Nusrat and Yanliu Huang (Journ
Carnival Games (Replay)
Does anyone ever win the giant teddy bear? Zachary Crockett steps right up. SOURCES:Matthew Gryczan, retired journalist and engineer.Elliot Simmons, former carnival game worker.Olivia Turner, general manager of Redbone Products. RESOURCES:"AG Platkin Announces 10-Year Ban of Amusement Games Licenses and a Fine for Wildwood Games Operator," by the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General (2023)."N.H. Man Loses Life Savings on Carnival Game," (C.B.S. News Boston, 2013)."Carnival Games: Walking th
49. Weather Forecasts
With industries relying on them and profits to be made, weather forecasts are more precise and more popular than ever. But there are clouds on the horizon. Zachary Crockett grabs an umbrella. SOURCES:Steve Adelman, head of Adelman Law Group, PLLC and vice president of the Event Safety Alliance.Peter Neilley, director of weather forecasting sciences and technologies for The Weather Company. RESOURCES:"Traders Have Turned Betting on the Weather, a Technique Pioneered by Enron, Into a Booming $25 B
48. College Fraternities
A fraternity’s budget includes broken windows, liability insurance, chili dog breakfasts, and the occasional $40,000 DJ. Zachary Crockett crashes the party. SOURCES:Anthony Anderson, member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity.Danielle Logan, owner of Fraternity Management.Charlie O’Neill, member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity.Stephen J. Schmidt, professor of economics at Union College. RESOURCES:"If Student Deaths Won't Stop Fraternity Hazing, What Will?" by Ben Kesslen (NBC News, 2021)
47. Bail Bonds
How does bail work — and who's really paying? Zachary Crockett follows the money. SOURCES:Joshua Page, professor of sociology and law at the University of Minnesota.Steven Zalewski, criminal defense attorney and co-owner of Affordable Bails New York. RESOURCES:"Does Bail Reform Increase Crime in New York State: Evidence from Interrupted Time-Series Analyses and Synthetic Control Methods," by Sishi Wu and David McDowall (Justice Quarterly, 2023)."Profit Over People: The Commercial Bail Industry F
46. Car Colors
So many vehicles on the road today are white, black, or gray — but automotive designers find that consumer preferences may be changing lanes. Zachary Crockett surveys the lot. SOURCES:Tom Crockett, classic car enthusiast.Mark Gutjahr, global head of design at BASF.Nikkie Riedel, carline planning manager at Subaru of America. RESOURCES:BASF Color Report 2023 for Automotive OEM Coatings."Beige on an S.U.V. Will Cost You, but for Pickups It’s Golden," by Roy Furchgott (The New York Times, 2021)."A
45. Storage Units
Americans love to buy new stuff and hate to get rid of old stuff, which is why storing it all has become a $45 billion business. Zachary Crockett cleans out the garage. SOURCES:Zachary Dickens, executive vice president and chief investment officer of Extra Space Storage.Anne Mari DeCoster, self-storage consultant.Kara Kolodziej, self-storage unit tenant. RESOURCES:"A Fifth Of Americans Rent Self Storage, With Millennials Overtaking Gen Xers In Generational Storage Wars," by Francis Chantree (Sto
44. Movie Sound Effects
The background noises you hear in film and TV — from footsteps to zombie guts — are produced in specialized studios by professionals known as Foley artists. Zachary Crockett makes some noise. SOURCE:Gregg Barbanell, foley artist at Universal Studios. RESOURCES:"The Weird, Analog Delights of Foley Sound Effects," by Anna Wiener (The New Yorker, 2022)."The Strangest Foley Sounds in Cinema," by Amber Gibson (ACMI, 2021)."The Man Who Makes Hollywood’s Smallest Sounds," by Zachary Crockett (Priceonom
43. Top-Level Domains
Those letters at the end of web addresses can mean big bucks — and, for some small countries, a substantial part of the national budget. Zachary Crockett follows the links. SOURCES:Vince Cate, technical contact for the .ai domain in Anguilla.Kim Davies, Vice President of Internet Assigned Numbers Authority Services and President of Public Technical Identifiers at ICANN.Tianyu Fang, contributing editor at Reboot. RESOURCES:"The Two-Decade Fight for Two Letters on the Internet," by Jacob Judah (Th
42. Cemeteries
The verdant lawns promise everlasting rest — but what does it mean to sign a lease for all eternity? Zachary Crockett finds out where the bodies are buried. SOURCES:Terry Arellano, co-founder and president of Cemetery Property Resales, Inc.Jeff Lindeman, C.E.O. and General Manager of Mountain View Cemetery.Tanya Marsh, professor of law at Wake Forest University.Maureen Walton, founder and president of The Cemetery Exchange. RESOURCES:"Los Angeles Burial Crypt Near Marilyn Monroe, Hugh Hefner on
41. Pet Movers
Relocating halfway across the world is hard enough for humans. For pets it can require a specialist. Zachary Crockett waits at the airport, holding a sign saying "Fluffy." SOURCES:Amelia Barklow, owner of two pet ducks, Wobbles and Bean.Mike Gays, managing director of Global Pet Relocation.Gemma Tappin, pet relocation consultant team leader at Global Pet Relocation. RESOURCES:"Service Dogs Are Allowed on Planes, but There Are Some Requirements to Get Them There," by Zach Wichter (USA Today, 2023
40. Prosthetic Limbs
More and more Americans rely on prostheses. They’re custom-fitted, highly personal, and extremely expensive. Zachary Crockett investigates. SOURCES:Jordan Beckwith, YouTuber and advocate.Eric Neufeld, owner and medical director of Agile Orthopedics. RESOURCES:"Medicare Coverage of Durable Medical Equipment & Other Devices," by Medicare (2024)."Limb Loss in the U.S.," infographic by the Amputee Coalition (2022)."A Robot Hand Helps Amputees 'Feel' Again," by Jeffery Delviscio (Scientific American,
39. Houseplants
Interest in houseplants has exploded in recent years. But what causes floral trends, and prices, to grow? Zachary Crockett sows a few seeds. SOURCES:Justin Hancock, director of research and development at Costa Farms.Brian Williams, co-owner of Brian's Botanicals.Sarah Williams, co-owner Brian's Botanicals. RESOURCES:"Bidding Wars and $1,000 Succulents: The Wild World of Rare Houseplants," by Hannah Holland (The Washington Post, 2023)."Houseplants Boomed During the Pandemic. Gen Z and Millennial
Bowling Alleys (Replay)
Once America’s favorite recreational activity, bowling has been in the gutter for decades. But some surviving alleys are resetting the pins. Zachary Crockett laces up. SOURCES:Mike Leong, owner of Bel Mateo Bowl.Devon Stewart, head coach of Florida State University bowling team, C.E.O. of Bowl Connect, and consultant with the Hansell Group. RESOURCES:"Cornhole and Bowling Are the Sports Most Americans Played Last Year," by Mallory Newall, Johnny Sawyer, Charlie Rollason, and Tyler Ivey (Ipsos, 2
38. Junk Mail
Why does the mailman bring us so many catalogs, credit card offers, and pizza coupons? Because his job depends on it. Zachary Crockett checks the mailbox. SOURCES:Brett Chamberlin, program manager at Catalog Choice.Aaron Gordon, journalist.Mike Gunderson, president of Gunderson Direct. RESOURCES:"U.S. Postal Service Reports Fiscal Year 2023 Results," by the U.S. Postal Service (2023)."How We Ended Up With All This Junk Mail," by Aaron Gordon (Vice, 2020)."Here Are the Data Brokers Quietly Buying
37. Personal Injury Lawyers
If you can make it through three years of law school, you too might end up on a billboard. Zachary Crockett makes the case. SOURCES:Jason Abraham, managing partner of Hupy & Abraham.Nora Engstrom, professor at Stanford Law School.Kyle Hebenstreit, C.E.O. of Practice Made Perfect. RESOURCES:“Personal Injury Settlement Amounts Examples (2024 Guide),” by Jeffrey Johnson (Forbes Advisor, 2022).“Low Ball: An Insider’s Look at How Some Insurers Can Manipulate Computerized Systems to Broadly Underpay
36. ATMs
Why do you have to pay $4 to get $40 cash at a bar? And who does it go to? Zachary Crockett checks his balance. SOURCES:Bernardo Batiz-Lazo, professor in the Newcastle Business School at Northumbria University.Patricia Tuz, president of New York ATM.Jon Weilbaker, general manager of New York ATM.Sasha Weilbaker, freelance writer and daughter of Patricia and Jon. RESOURCES:"The Number of ATMs Has Declined as People Rely Less on Cash," by Jim Carlton (The Wall Street Journal, 2023)."Survey: ATM Fe
35. Dental Insurance
Why is it separate from medical insurance? And is it really insurance at all? Zachary Crockett goes in for a cleaning. SOURCES:Brad Bolman, postdoctoral member of the School of Historical Studies at the Institute for Advanced Study.Pamela Maragliano-Muniz, prosthodontist and chief editor for Dental Economics.Wendell Potter, president of the Center for Health and Democracy; former executive at Cigna. RESOURCES:"Dental Medical Loss Ratios: Understanding the Landscape in Massachusetts and Beyond,"
34. Store-Brand Products
Those low-priced staples on grocery-store shelves — where do they come from? Zachary Crockett finds out at a national convention for private-label manufacturers. SOURCES:Kusum Ailawadi, professor of marketing at the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth College.Eric Beringause, C.E.O. of Winland Foods.Ryan Boyle, vice president of sales at Kitchen Innovations.Samantha Burd, co-owner of Lady Burd Cosmetics.Dean Erstad, senior vice president of sales at Seneca.Harry Overly, president and C.E.O. of
33. Sex Scenes
Behind these steamy sequences, there are body doubles, pubic wigs, legal documents, and dedicated choreographers who make sure everyone is comfortable. Zachary Crockett fast-forwards straight to the good parts. SOURCES:Alicia Rodis, intimacy coordinator.Matthew Swanlund, founder and principal attorney at Aesthetic Legal. RESOURCES:"Romance or Nomance? Adolescents Prefer to See Less Sex, More Friendships, Platonic Relationships on Screen," by Elizabeth Kivowitz (UCLA Newsroom, 2023)."You're Not
32. Used Golf Balls
American golfers lose 300 million balls a year — and all those bad swings are someone else’s business opportunity. Zachary Crockett hits the links. SOURCES:Todd Hutchinson, president and owner of BallHawker.Lashan Wanigatunga, founder of Two Guys With Balls. RESOURCES:"BallHawker, Challenge Enterprises Turn Wayward Golf Shots Into Successful Endeavor," Natalie Gilstrap (Clay Today, 2023)."Temecula Golf Ball Diver Nets $100,000 a Year," by Jeff Zevely (CBS8, 2022)."Golf’s Recycled Ball Market is
31. Superhot Chili Peppers
The market for gustatory pain is surprisingly competitive. Zachary Crockett feels the burn. SOURCES:Ed Currie, founder and president of the PuckerButt Pepper Company.Stephanie Walker, associate professor and Extension Vegetable Specialist at New Mexico State University RESOURCES:"Pepper X Dethrones Carolina Reaper as World’s Hottest Chili Pepper," by Sanj Atwal (Guinness World Records, 2023)."The Shocking, Stupendous Rise of Superhot Chillies: ‘The Stomach Cramps Can Last for 14 Hours,’" by Tim
30. Card Counting
Casinos think they can stop skilled gamblers from eking out a tiny edge at blackjack. Is that a losing bet? Zachary Crockett doubles down. SOURCES:"Ben," former professional card counter.Bill Zender, co-founder of Bill Zender and Associates casino consulting firm. RESOURCES:"Blackjack Player Sues Ameristar Casino, City of Black Hawk Over Alleged Detainment for Card Counting," by Megan Ulu-Lani Boyanton (The Denver Post, 2023)."Why Does the House Always Win? A Look at Casino Profitability," by J.
10. Michelin Stars (Replay)
Only the finest restaurants have a chance to bask in their glow. Sometimes, it’s a bit too bright. Zachary Crockett squints at the menu. SOURCES:Nick Kokonas, founder and co-owner of The Alinea Group.Charlie Mitchell, executive chef and co-owner of Clover Hill restaurant. RESOURCES:"Michelin Announces 2022 Stars for New York City," by Ryan Sutton and Luke Fortney (Eater, 2022)."What’s Wrong With the Michelin Guide?" by Tim Hayward (Financial Times, 2021)."Eating A 6-Course Dinner From The Best R
29. Greeting Cards
The tradition of sending cards to loved ones was in decline — until it was rescued by a new generation. But millennials have their own ideas about what sentiments they want to convey. Zachary Crockett is thinking of you on your special day. SOURCES:Mia Mercado, writer and former editor at Hallmark.George White, president of Up With Paper and former president of the American Greeting Card Association. RESOURCES:34th Louie Awards - Finalists & Winners, (2022-2023)."Season’s (and Other...) Greeti
28. Horseshoe Crab Blood
How does the blood of a 450-million-year-old arthropod help prevent lethal infections in humans? And could we exhaust the supply? Zachary Crockett wades in. SOURCE:Dina Fine Maron, senior wildlife crime investigative reporter at National Geographic. RESOURCES:"When the Horseshoe Crabs Are Gone, We’ll Be in Trouble," by Deborah Cramer (The New York Times, 2023)."Horseshoe Crab Blood Is Vital to Modern Medicine. A New Lab-Made Alternative Could Save the Species," by Kristoffer Whitney, Jolie Crun
27. Romance Novels
How did love stories about vampires, cowboys, and wealthy dukes become the highest-grossing fiction genre in the world? Zachary Crockett gets swept away. SOURCES:Delaney Diamond, romance novelist.Danielle Flores, high school math teacher and avid romance novel reader.Brenda Hiatt, romance novelist.Diane Moggy, vice president of editorial at Harlequin.RESOURCES:"Even as Overall Book Sales Are Declining, Romance Novels Are on the Rise," by Elena Burnett, Sarah Handel, and Juana Summers (All Thing
3. My Sharona (Replay)
Can a hit single from four decades ago still pay the bills? Zachary Crockett f-f-f-finds out. RESOURCES:"The Knack Sue Run-DMC Over 'It’s Tricky' Riff," (Rolling Stone, 2006).Clip of "My Sharona" in the film Reality Bites (1994)."The Knack: Where Are They Now?" by David Fricke (Rolling Stone, 1986)."Top Singles of the Year," (Billboard, 1979)."My Bologna," by Weird Al Yankovic (1979)."My Sharona," by The Knack (1979). EXTRAS:"What’s Wrong with Being a One-Hit Wonder?" by Freakonomics Radio (2023
26. Graffiti
Is graffiti public art, or public nuisance? It depends who you ask. Zachary Crockett tags in where it all started. RESOURCES:"Philadelphia Graffiti Pier: A Love Letter to the City’s Underground Arts," by Honora Feinberg (Guide to Philly, 2023)."USA TODAY Names Philadelphia 'Best City for Street Art,'" (Visit Philadelphia, 2023)."Cornbread, the First Graffiti Artist, Shows New Work at Philadelphia Gallery," by Peter Crimmins (WHYY, 2019)."Porch Light Program: Final Evaluation Report," by Jacob K
25. Private Jets
Executives shell out millions of dollars for the privilege of flying private — but that convenience comes at a steep cost to the rest of us. Zachary Crockett prepares for takeoff. RESOURCES:"High Flyers 2023: How Ultra-Rich Private Jet Travel Costs the Rest of Us and Burns Up the Planet," by Chuck Collins, Omar Ocampo, and Kalena Thomhave (joint report by The Patriotic Millionaires and the Institute for Policy Studies, 2023)."French Green MPs Want to Ban Private Jet Flights, to 'Bring the Rich B
24. Pistachios
How did a little green nut become a billion-dollar product, lauded by celebrities in Super Bowl ads? Zachary Crockett cracks open the story. RESOURCES:"Almond Acreage Decline Prompts Industry Introspection," by Mitch Lies (West Coast Nut, 2023).American Pistachio Industry 2021 Annual Report, by American Pistachio Growers (2023)."California’s Agricultural Water Policies Are Nuts," by Douglas R. Noble (The Gainesville Sun, 2021)."Amid Drought, Billionaires Control a Critical California Water Bank,
23. Cadavers - Part 2
In the final part of our series, Zachary Crockett talks to a man with a storied — and controversial — career in the body parts business. RESOURCES"Inside the Largely Unregulated Market for Bodies Donated to Science: 'It's Harder to Sell Hot Dogs on a Cart,'" by Justin Sherman (CBS News, 2023)."Bilirakis, Fletcher, Murphy and Tillis Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Bill to Stop Brokering of Body Parts, Preserve Integrity of Organ Donation Process," press release by the office of Congressman Gus Bi
22. Cadavers - Part 1
In the first of two episodes, Zachary Crockett digs into the strange and discomfiting history of cadavers, and the industry that has emerged around them. RESOURCES:"From Grave Robbing to Giving Your Own Body to Science – A Short History of Where Medical Schools Get Cadavers," by Susan Lawrence and Susan E. Lederer (The Conversation, 2023)."Box of Human Heads Stolen From Truck in Denver," by Carly Moore (FOX4, 2022)."A Body Donated to Science - but Used to Test Bombs," by Rozina Sini (BBC News, 2
21. Car Washes
Why are these sudsy roadside stops one of the fastest growing industries in America? Zachary Crockett takes a look under the hood. RESOURCES:"Private Equity Wants to Wash Your Car," by Miriam Gottfried (The Wall Street Journal, 2022)."California Labor Commissioner Recovers $282,000 for Car Wash Wage Citations," State of California Department of Industrial Relations News Release (2022)."Sgt. Clean’s Future Shines Bright Thanks to Subscription Model, Strong Reputation," by Vince Guerrieri (Crain's
20. Tattoo Parlors
More people than ever before are getting tattoos — but social media has flipped the trade’s business model on its head. Zachary Crockett dips into the ink. RESOURCES:"32% of Americans Have a Tattoo, Including 22% Who Have More Than One," by Katherine Schaeffer and Shradha Dinesh (Pew Research Center, 2023)."Tattoo Removal Business Draws Up High-Growth Potential," by Tim Clark (Forbes, 2023)."The Secret, Chronic Pain of Tattoo Artists," by Devon Abelman (Allure, 2020).The Other End of the Needle:
19. Pizza Boxes
There’s more than meets the eye to the box that stores the pie. Zachary Crockett cracks the lid. RESOURCES"Who Is the Fastest Pizza Box Folder?! World Pizza Games 2021," video by The Laughing Lion (2021)."Pizza Box Contamination Doesn’t Impede Recyclability, Association Says," by Megan Smalley (Recycling Today, 2020)."Scott's Pizza Chronicles: A Brief History of the Pizza Box," by Scott Wiener (Serious Eats, 2018)."Apple Patented a Pizza Box, for Pizzas," by Jacob Kastrenakes (The Verge, 2017)."
4. Used Hotel Soaps (Replay)
Hotel guests adore those cute little soaps, but is it just a one-night stand? Zachary Crockett discovers what happens when we love ’em and leave ’em.
18. Mobile Home Parks
They’ve long been associated with crime and blight. Now, the investors are moving in. Zachary Crockett follows the trail.
17. Truffles
It takes fungi-sniffing dogs, back-room deals, and a guy named “The Kingpin” for the world’s most coveted morsel to end up on your plate. Zachary Crockett picks up the scent.
16. Prop Money
Who makes the stacks of fake cash used in movies — and how do they stay clear of counterfeit law? Zachary Crockett follows the money.
15. Home Staging
How do you turn an empty house into a buyer’s dream home? Zachary Crockett pulls back the curtain.
Girl Scout Cookies (Ep. 2 Replay)
How does America's cutest sales force get billions of Thin Mints, Samoas, and Tagalongs into our hands every year? Zachary Crockett digs in.
14. “Happy Birthday to You”
The most popular song of the 20th century — and a key part of a ubiquitous American ritual — was also the subject of a years-long legal battle. Zachary Crockett blows out the candles.
13. Carnival Games
Does anyone ever win the giant teddy bear? Zachary Crockett steps right up.
12. Women’s Sports Bars
Most sports bars rarely screen women's games. Zachary Crockett taps into the strategy of one woman who changed the channel.
11. Cashmere
Once a luxury good, the soft fiber is now everywhere — which has led to a goat boom in Mongolia. Zachary Crockett tugs at the thread.
10. Michelin Stars
Only the finest restaurants have a chance to bask in their glow. Sometimes, it’s a bit too bright. Zachary Crockett squints at the menu.
9. Bowling Alleys
Once America’s favorite recreational activity, bowling has been in the gutter for decades. But some surviving alleys are resetting the pins. Zachary Crockett laces up.
8. Delaware License Plates
Vanity plates might be 2KUL4U, but in the Blue Hen State, low-digit plates command high-digit prices. Zachary Crockett sums up a big market in a small state.
7. Animal Urine
One creature’s trash is another’s cash. Zachary Crockett flushes out the numbers with a man who found profit in pee.
6. T. rex Skeletons
How do they emerge from the Upper Cretaceous period to end up in natural-history museums and private collections? Zachary Crockett digs for answers.
5. Sports Mascots
We’re not sure what that creature cavorting on the sidelines is — but it doesn’t come cheap. Zachary Crockett gets the ballpark figures on everyone’s favorite ballpark figures.
Coming Soon …
A special announcement: The Economics of Everyday Things will be back with all-new weekly episodes starting in June.
4. Used Hotel Soaps
Hotel guests adore those cute little soaps, but is it just a one-night stand? Zachary Crockett discovers what happens when we love ’em and leave ’em.
3. My Sharona
Can a hit single from four decades ago still pay the bills? Zachary Crockett f-f-f-finds out.
2. Girl Scout Cookies
How does America's cutest sales force get billions of Thin Mints, Samoas, and Tagalongs into our hands every year? Zachary Crockett digs in.
1. Gas Stations
In our first episode, host Zachary Crockett sidles up to the pump to ask: Who owns your local gas station, and where do their profits really come from?
Coming Soon: The Economics of Everyday Things
A new show is coming to the Freakonomics Radio Network. Stay tuned for The Economics of Everyday Things, hosted by Zachary Crockett.