Jun 22, 2022

Is the pandemic over? Plenty of companies seem to think so.

Valerie Macon/AFP via Getty Images

Businesses are increasingly taking stances on issues, including public health. Plus, the minivan isn't just for soccer moms anymore.

Segments From this episode

COVID-19

Corporations' decisions seem to signal the end of the pandemic

by Kristin Schwab

Jun 22, 2022

“Some companies are large enough that they can be the trendsetters,” one health economist tells us.

Broadway, which has been stringent on COVID-19 restrictions, is lifting its mask mandate on July 1.

Spencer Platt/Getty Images

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Commission-free stock trading has spurred retail investors. But its days might be numbered.

by Justin Ho

Jun 22, 2022

The head of the Securities and Exchange Commission has taken aim at the commission-free business model.

A large part of the boom in retail stock trading has been fueled by the advent of no-commission stock trading.

Spencer Platt/Getty Images

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The minivan is kind of making a comeback this summer

by Kai Ryssdal and Sean McHenry

Jun 22, 2022

As travel picks up, the minivan is seeing a surge in popularity — and not just with families.

Looking to buy a minivan? Buckle up because prices have increased dramatically.

Saul Loeb/AFP via Getty Images

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A Warmer World

The climate crisis comes for outdoor tourism

by Savannah Peters

Jun 23, 2022

A historic drought and massive wildfire have hurt the outdoor tourism industry in the Southwest United States.

Longer, more intense wildfire seasons are hurting towns in the southwest U.S. that rely heavily on tourism. Above, trees scorched by the Canyon Fire near Mora, New Mexico, on June 2.

Mario Tama/Getty Images

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American is ending service at 4 airports as airlines scramble to hire staff

by Samantha Fields

Jun 22, 2022

The carrier is canceling regional routes in Ohio, New York and Iowa. Losing an airline can be tough on a city and its economy.

Early in the pandemic, airlines offered pilots early retirement, "and now they're finding themselves short-staffed," said David Slotnick of The Points Guy website.

Daniel Slim/AFP via Getty Images

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Incarcerated California youths, trained to fight wildfires, may now be able to find similar jobs once released

by Lesley McClurg

Jun 22, 2022

A recently passed law allows some young people trained in firefighting to have their records expunged, opening doors to employment.

Young men from Pine Grove Youth Conservation Camp in the Sacramento-area foothills during spring training in May.

Lesley McClurg/KQED

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Music from the episode

Montara Pandrezz, j’san, Epektase

Santeria Sublime

Juicy Notorious B.I.G.

Tidal Waves The Shacks

When the Night is Over Lord Huron

Empire State of Mind Jay-Z, Alicia Keys

Mariella Khruangbin, Leon Bridges

The team

Nancy Farghalli Executive Producer

Maria Hollenhorst Producer II

Andie Corban Producer I

Sean McHenry Director & Associate Producer II

Richard Cunningham Associate Producer I

Dylan Miettinen Associate Digital Producer

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