Feb 2, 2023

Back to the office … kinda

Andrew Burton/Getty Images

Today, a closer look at the sluggish return to offices. Plus, the source of all those artisanal pantry goods at boutiques and coffee shops.

Segments From this episode

As workers slowly come back, big city office occupancy hits a new pandemic milestone

by Samantha Fields

Feb 2, 2023

For the rest of the country, remote work numbers are stable.

Though more workers have begun returning to offices in larger cities, that's less true for workers elsewhere in the country. Above, a view of office buildings in San Francisco.

Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

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How fast-food chains are buffeted and buoyed by inflation

by Matt Levin

Feb 2, 2023

Many have higher expenses and are raising prices, but more consumers now have a taste for their relatively inexpensive meals.

Sales at fast-food chain Subway surged last year. But it’s by no means boom times for the industry.

Brandon Bell/Getty Images)

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Why are boutiques and coffee shops selling the same olive oil and tinned fish?

by Kai Ryssdal and Andie Corban

Feb 2, 2023

Those pantry brands aren't as small as consumers think, says writer Emily Sundberg. Wholesaler Faire is "the Oz behind the curtain."

If you've noticed boutiques or coffee shops offering a selection of artisanal pantry basics, there's a chance they're all being purchased from the same wholesale marketplace.

Spencer Platt/Getty Images

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States consider a contract that would help teachers stay certified across state lines

by Stephanie Hughes

Feb 2, 2023

At least 10 states are considering an agreement that would make it easier for teachers licensed in one state to work in any of the others.

A newly proposed compact would allow teachers in states that join get certified more easily in other member states.

Jon Cherry/Getty Images

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Have homebuyers adapted to higher interest rates?

by Amy Scott

Feb 2, 2023

Some analysts say acceptance plays a role in the recent increase of home sales.

Following mortgage rates north of 7% late last year, a 6% mortgage rate doesn't sound too shabby to some homebuyers.

Mario Tama/Getty Images

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Adventures in Housing

"American Gothic" made this small-town Iowa house a destination

by Maria Hollenhorst

Feb 2, 2023

The painting's "third character" has deep meaning in Eldon, along with economic importance, says the vistor center's administrator.

The house that inspired "American Gothic" is "more than just that little house,” says Cari Nicely, administrator of the namesake visitors center in Eldon, Iowa.

Tristan Fewings/Getty Images for Royal Academy of Arts

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Music from the episode

Hi-Fidelity Lava La Rue, Biig Piig

Wishing Well Substantial, T. Lucas, Stephanie Gayle

Do It Chloe x Halle

Coco Mango (FloFilz Remix) MF DOOM, FloFilz

Ideal and the Real Shoji Meguro

Kamikaze MØ

The team

Nancy Farghalli Executive Producer

Daisy Palacios Senior Producer

Maria Hollenhorst Producer

Sean McHenry Associate Producer

Andie Corban Associate Producer

Richard Cunningham Associate Producer

Dylan Miettinen Associate Digital Producer

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