In the coming weeks, Marketplace will air a series of reports on our consumer culture — why we keep buying as much stuff as we do, and whether or not it's sustainable. Tess Vigeland hauled around her own trash for two weeks for an education on waste.

According to Wall Street lore and superstitious brokers, September is the worst month for investors. Tess talks about the legend with David Wyss, chief economist for Standard and Poor's.

Many older Americans are choosing not to seek medical care in nursing homes or other facilities, but have someone assist them in their home. Tess Vigeland talks about the trend with Elinor Ginzler of the AARP.

Last year, banks made a fortune through fees from customers' overdraft charges. Exactly how much? Tess Vigeland talks with Leslie Parrish of the Center for Responsible Lending, who co-authored a study that puts the figure in the billions.

Economics editor Chris Farrell wants to talk about passion. No no, hear him out — he says that emotions aren't the enemy of reason when it comes to investing.