Shelf Life

Author Winifred Gallagher talks to Kai Ryssdal about how focusing your attention can improve your quality of life.

How much have you spent on your pet? Kai Ryssdal speaks with Michael Schaffer, author of "One Nation Under Dog," about why Americans spend so much on their pets.

Thirty years ago the Three Mile Island Nuclear Station experienced the worst nuclear power accident in U.S. history. Tom Zoellner, author of "Uranium," talks with Kai Ryssdal about the issues surrounding that nuclear fuel.

How does human psychology drive the economy? Marketplace's Bob Moon explores the question with Dr. George Akerlof and Dr. Robert Shiller, who seek to answer this question in their new book, Animal Spirits.

In a downturn, it can sometimes be easy to forget about the poor. Kai Ryssdal speaks with bioethicist Peter Singer about why he believes we should give even more during a recession.

Luke Bergmann, author of a book about Detroit, says the Motor City has reason for optimism: After years of feeling alienated from the rest of the country, it now shares in many of the nation's economic concerns. He talks with Kai Ryssdal.

After Hurricane Katrina ripped through New Orleans, many residents were quick to rush back. Dan Baum covered New Orleans in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina and talks to Kai Ryssdal about why the Crescent City is so appealing.

To understand the economic crisis, you may want to grab a book. There are lots of business books available on the market right now. Kai Ryssdal speaks with Jack Covert and Todd Sattersten, authors of "The 100 Best Business Books of All Time," about which ones you should pick up.

Robotics and other technologies have had a big impact on how war is waged. Kai Ryssdal speaks with warfare expert P.W. Singer about how technology is revolutionizing war on and off the battlefield.

The Ultimate Fighting Championship, or mixed martial arts, has emerged from the shadows to become a huge moneymaker. Kai Ryssdal speaks with Sports Illustrated writer L. Jon Wertheim about the combat sport's fast-growing audience.