Uploaded June 2024 | Updated September 2026, 1 hour ago

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In this episode, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg are joined by Kyla Scanlon, creator and author of “In this Economy?.” They discuss the vibecession, the housing crisis, leader fatigue, and the impact of the economy on political polarization and the age of austerity. The conversation also covers the impact of Trump's economic policies, the risk of hyperinflation, and the potential for war with China.

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Recommended Podcast: @TheRiffPodcast
Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/6rANlV54GCARLgMOtpkzKt
Apple: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-riff-with-byrne-hobart-and-erik-torenberg/id1716646486


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SPONSORS: BABBEL | BEEHIIV

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SEND US YOUR Q's FOR NOAH TO ANSWER ON AIR: Econ102@Turpentine.co
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LINKS:
Kyla Scanlon: kylascanlon.com
Noahpinion: https://www.noahpinion.blog/
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TIMESTAMPS:
(00:00) Intro
(00:27) Understanding economic misconceptions
(02:27) Vibecession
(03:36) Interest rates and inflation debate
(08:05) Generational wealth and housing
(15:06) Sponsor: Babbel and Beehiiv
(17:41) Monopolization of land and housing
(22:55) Speculation and financial nihilism
(28:40) Political influence on economic perception
(36:44) Economic polarization and bifurcation
(37:12) The Age of Austerity
(41:44) Trump's economic policies and potential impact
(50:34) Global elections and geopolitical fragmentation
(58:10) Comparing Trump to global leaders
(59:55) Identifying the biggest risks amidst inflation
(01:06:20) Wrap