Dec 5, 2024

Cyclical, secular, seasonal

Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images

It's a labor-filled day. Plus, bitcoin miners are having a great run right now — at the expense of lots, and lots, of energy.

Segments From this episode

Job gains solid in evergreen industries this year, sluggish in cyclical

by Justin Ho

Dec 5, 2024

"Secular" sectors like health care and education, which are less economically sensitive, have been responsible for a lot of hiring.

The Department of Labor will report on the job market Friday, revealing which sectors created the most jobs in November.

J. David Ake/Getty Images

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Modest but steady wage gains may continue into the new year

by Mitchell Hartman

Dec 5, 2024

Hourly earnings have hovered at 4% annually. That's not an inflation threat, but some workers say their income can't keep up with their costs.

Wages are in a sweet spot that outpaces inflation but doesn't stoke it, says economist Dean Baker.

Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

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Bitcoin's latest surge is great for miners — not so much for the environment

by Matt Levin

Dec 5, 2024

The companies whose transactions create bitcoin do well when the currency is up, but need more energy to keep going.

A bitcoin mining plant in Niagara Falls, New York.

Geoff Robins/AFP via Getty Images

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After 40 years at Montana mall, manager prepares to say goodbye

by Kai Ryssdal and Andie Corban

Dec 5, 2024

The Butte Plaza Mall is in its last holiday shopping season before new owners take over. "It's time to change," says manager Alana Ferko.

On Black Friday, "everybody hit their numbers," said Butte Plaza Mall manager Alana Ferko. New owners plan to make substantial changes at the property.

Kena Betancur/Getty Images

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How seasonal workers get one Vermont retailer through the holiday season

by Henry Epp

Dec 5, 2024

Some of the temps have been coming back every year for decades.

Dakin Farm in Ferrisburgh, Vermont, hires about 120 seasonal workers each holiday season to pack gift boxes that are shipped all around the country.

Henry Epp/Marketplace

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Heat pumps cut home-based carbon emissions. But the market is a bit cold.

by Caleigh Wells

Dec 5, 2024

They're more efficient than gas and oil heat and better for the climate. But they're not cost-effective where electricity is expensive.

Nathan Willcox switched to heat pumps after getting a home heating oil bill for $1,320.

Courtesy Willcox

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Music from the episode

I GOT YOU Twice

Magnetism Vacationer

Perfect Circle Nujabes

Kiss Me More Doja Cat

400 Lux Lorde

The team

Nancy Farghalli Executive Producer

Maria Hollenhorst Producer II

Andie Corban Producer I

Sarah Leeson Producer I

Sean McHenry Director & Associate Producer II

Sofia Terenzio Associate Producer I

Jordan Mangi Assistant Digital Producer

Nicholas Guiang Assistant Producer

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