Jul 20, 2021

The pandemic recession … is over?

Joe Raedle via Getty Images

Also, used car inventories, equitable infrastructure investment and Illinois bakers get a sweet treat from the state government.

Segments From this episode

The pandemic recession only lasted two months. Wait, what?

by Sabri Ben-Achour

Jul 20, 2021

For a lot of people, the downturn doesn't feel over and may not for years. So what does "over" mean in this case?

The pandemic recession may be over, but many businesses are still closed or nearly empty at Union Station in Washington, D.C., more than a year after the COVID-19 shutdown.

Saul Loeb/AFP via Getty Images

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How companies disguise rising food prices

by Kristin Schwab

Jul 20, 2021

Manufacturers and retailers change packaging and use displays and discounts to distract from higher costs.

The cost of food has gone up, but grocers and manufacturers sometimes use tactics that make price jumps less noticeable.

Mario Tama via Getty Images

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After a wild year, the used-car market may be returning to normal

by Samantha Fields

Jul 20, 2021

Inventory is rising as people sell extra vehicles to take advantage of high prices and dealerships make enticing trade-in offers, experts say.

The number of available used cars for sale is creeping back up after low inventory. Prices for the vehicles may peak this month.

Jim Watson/AFP via Getty Images

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What does equitable infrastructure look like in communities of color?

by Kai Ryssdal and Richard Cunningham

Jul 20, 2021

"Marketplace" host Kai Ryssdal speaks with Christopher Tyson about the history behind urban renewal projects and the role of the public sector in rebuilding America’s infrastructure.

An aerial view overlooking the financial district of downtown Baton Rouge is shown. Christopher Tyson, president and CEO of Build Baton Rouge, is advocating for public investment in infrastructure to promote equity.

graphiknation

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A Warmer World

Plug-in vehicles might cost more upfront, but should save money in the long run

by Andy Uhler

Jul 20, 2021

Electric cars can save drivers thousands of dollars on maintenance over the life of the vehicle.

Some consumers may be put off by the purchase prices of electric vehicles, but lower maintenance may outweigh those costs.

John MacDougall/AFP via Getty Images

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Illinois allows home cooks to sell shelf-stable foods beyond farmers markets

by Natalie Moore

Jul 20, 2021

A new law will enable entrepreneurs to make direct sales and deliveries of bread, cake and other homemade products across the state.

Starting in January, cottage food operators can make direct sales and deliveries of products like cookies, breads and jams.

Hector Retamal/AFP via Getty Images

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The team

Nancy Farghalli Executive Producer

Daisy Palacios Senior Producer

Maria Hollenhorst Producer

Sean McHenry Associate Producer

Richard Cunningham Associate Producer

Dylan Miettinen Associate Digital Producer

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