Shelf Life

Author Robert Kuttner says lawmakers on both sides of the aisle need to answer for the latest hiccup in our economy. His new book, "The Squandering of America" looks at how the failure of our politics undermines our prosperity. He talks with Kai Ryssdal.

Does it take luck or skill to make money in the markets? Lisa Napoli explores financial chance versus ability with engineer Stan Mazor, co-inventor of the first silicon chip and author of the book "Stock Market Gambling."

Retailers know consumers can't negotiate with their nose when it finds something it likes. Lisa Napoli talks to Rachel Herz, author of "The Scent of Desire," about how some stores are using smell to seal the deal.

Can you imagine Thanksgiving without the hint of nutmeg or cloves? Spices make the meal. But they weren't always so plentiful. Bob Moon talks with author Michael Krondl about his book on the history of the spice business.

Before Thanksgiving dinner is on the table, it usually travels many thousands of miles to be with you. Scott Jagow talks to Sarah Murray, author of "Moveable Feasts," about the economic impact of food.

Italian best-seller "The Caste" has sold over a million copies in the country. Megan Williams explains why the true tale of money and politics is more compelling to Italians than a work of fiction.

From Hollywood to high school, steroids are more popular outside of the realm of sports than you'd think. Scott Jagow talks to Shaun Assael, author of the book "Steroid Nation."

Since early 1996, Dan Lyons has been maintaining a blog with the name Fake Steve Jobs. He was unmasked as the author this past summer, wrapping up a tech-world whodunit. Now he's got a book out as Fake Steve called "Options." He talks with Kai Ryssdal.

WARNING: Listening to audio books and not Kai Ryssdal while driving could result in you crashing your car.... A public service announcement from the Marketplace Players.

The spicy red sauce created by the McIlhenny family isn't as hot a market leader as it once was. Jeffrey Rothfeder, who has written a book about the product and the family, explains to Kai Ryssdal.