Kai Ryssdal

Host and Senior Editor

SHORT BIO

Kai is the host and senior editor of “Marketplace,” the most widely heard program on business and the economy — radio or television, commercial or public broadcasting — in the country. Kai speaks regularly with CEOs of Fortune 500 companies, startup entrepreneurs, small-business owners and everyday participants in the American and global economies. Before his career in broadcasting, Kai served in the United States Navy and United States Foreign Service. He’s a graduate of Emory University and Georgetown University. Kai lives in Los Angeles with his wife and four children.

Latest Stories (5,777)

So much 'Freedom,' not a lot of happiness

Sep 10, 2010
Kai Ryssdal talks to author Jonathan Franzen about his new book "Freedom: A Novel."

The Donald and the Cordoba House

Sep 9, 2010
This final note today, more evidence -- if you need it -- that Donald Trump will do just about anything for publicity. Trump waded into the flap...

OnStar: Roadside assistance... and Facebook updater?

Sep 8, 2010
This final note today, in which a little bit of technology might just be too much. Y'know the OnStar system from GM?...

What do the balls mean?!

Sep 7, 2010
This final note, in which I try crowdsourcing to help figure out something that's been bugging me all day. What's up with Google today? Y'know ho...

Money can't buy me love, but it can buy happiness

Sep 6, 2010
And this final note, if you don't care too much for money, 'cause money can't buy you love -- well then, what if it could buy you happiness? A...

The best and worst of fast food

Sep 3, 2010
This final note today, we're going to do burgers in honor of the news about Burger King this week that it's been sold for $4 billion. Consumer...

Final Note: Akerson takes the helm at GM

Sep 1, 2010
This final note today, a warm welcome to Daniel Akerson. If you've never heard of Mr. Akerson, you will. He's the new CEO of the car company Amer...

Final Note: Immortalize your ashes on an LP

Aug 31, 2010
This final note today, brought to you by a company over in the UK called -- and listen carefully now And Vinyly. As in records made from vinyl. ...

Zappos CEO on corporate culture and 'Happiness'

Aug 19, 2010
Tony Hsieh, CEO of mega online shoe retailer Zappos.com, talks with Kai Ryssdal about happiness, corporate culture and his new book on these subjects: "Delivering Happiness."

Zappos CEO Tony Hsieh: full interview transcript

Aug 19, 2010
Tony Hsieh, CEO of mega online shoe retailer Zappos.com, talks about happiness, corporate culture and his new book on these subjects called "Delivering Happiness." Read and listen to the extended interview.