The FCC says it will regulate the volume of TV ads. A for-profit book recycling company collects books for charity, but then also sells them. The smog in China could cause economic delays. California’s Napa Valley has a booming economy, but no middle class — although education may soon play a role in changing that. Freakonomics Radio’s Stephen Dubner talks about the hidden side of American food (and its bad reputation). And we look into what happened to the $1.2 million missing from MF Global’s coffers.
Segments From this episode
Final Note
Flight attendants want Baldwin apology
by Kai Ryssdal
Dec 13, 2011
The Association of Professional Flight Attendants says it wants Alec Baldwin's show, "30 Rock," banned from in-flight entertainment unless he issues an apology.
Not all "Books for Charity" go to charity
by Claudine LoMonaco
Dec 13, 2011
For-profit book recycler behind popular donation program sells many of the books received.
In Napa, civic leaders try to grow a Hispanic middle class
by Jeff Tyler
Dec 13, 2011
California community takes an innovative approach to move Hispanic immigrants up the economic ladder
The FCC quiets TV down
by Gregory Warner
Dec 13, 2011
A new law forbids advertisers from pumping up the volume on TV commercials. Now we know the details.
Freakonomics Radio
How political history influences what's on your plate
by Stephen Dubner
Dec 13, 2011
What do Prohibition, World War II and immigration policy have to do with your food? Freakonomics Radio's Stephen Dubner discusses reasons why American food is what it is today.
What happened to MF Global's $1.2 billion?
by Kai Ryssdal
Dec 13, 2011
Jon Corzine testified before Congress today on his company's missing finances. Is $1.2 billion so difficult to track down?