What a ride along Route 66 can teach us about the U.S. economy

It's the 100th anniversary of Route 66, a roadway that has both shaped and reflected the twists and turns of the U.S. economy and its development.

So what does a journey along Route 66 teach us about where the American economy might be headed next, amid the advent of artificial intelligence? “Marketplace Morning Report” David Brancaccio set out from Southern California to find out.

From thriving technology hubs to remote relics of decades past, you can find it all along this famous roadway. Route 66 winds through college campuses trying to embrace AI responsibly and ghost towns alike. How are people along the way making ends meet?

For an immersive experience of the American economy, you can click the media player above to hear the entire four-part reporting series. Below, you can find each story from David’s time on the road.

• Part 1: A view of the U.S. economy from Route 66 — 100 years on

• Part 2: Along Route 66, a campus prepares students for the future of AI

• Part 3: The K-shaped economy in and around New Mexico, right off Route 66

• Part 4: How chickens built the American pickup