Globalization, one day at a time

May 7, 2007
In his latest book, economist Daniel Altman looks at a day in the lives of workers and businesses in the globalized economy. He talks with Kai Ryssdal about what works . . . and doesn't.

Where did your flowers grow?

Apr 16, 2007
Nearly 80% of cut flowers are grown outside the U.S., and a lot can affect the blooms you buy. Host Tess Vigeland looks at the $40 billion cut flower industry with Amy Stewart, author of "Flower Confidential."
Cover of "Flower Confidential" by Amy Stewart

Save Social Security with killer incentives?

Mar 30, 2007
In his recent novel, author Christopher Buckley offers a modest proposal of sorts toward dealing with America's impending Social Security problem — government incentives for suicide. He discusses the idea with Kai Ryssdal.

Consumed with consumption

Mar 22, 2007
Author Benjamin Barber says the American economy has taken a wrong turn toward encouraging consumption — and that's not what capitalism was supposed to be about. He talks with Kai Ryssdal.

Office rule: No assholes

Mar 6, 2007
You know those people in your office who love making your life miserable? Your boss? A co-worker? Author Bob Sutton says we should have a rule against them. They're bad for morale and business. He talks with Kai Ryssdal.

Airbus takes another hit, but it's still competing

Feb 21, 2007
British Airways announced it's buying four new jets from Boeing — not Airbus — with the option to buy four more. John Newhouse, author of a new book on the Boeing-Airbus rivalry talks with Kai Ryssdal.

A hippie's guide to backpacks and success

Feb 7, 2007
Cash Peters digs around inside JanSport to bring us a behind-the-scenes look at how the popular backpack maker made it happen.

For public good, not for profit.

Low pay amid the height of luxury

Feb 6, 2007
Yale sociologist Rachel Sherman did some hands-on research into what it's like to work in a low-wage job at a five-star hotel. She talks with Kai Ryssdal about her experience.

Women changing the rules of business

Feb 6, 2007
Author Margaret Heffernan has researched women-owned businesses and come to the conclusion that they're doing a lot of things right - and, in some ways, better than their male counterparts.

Dreaming in Code

Jan 29, 2007
Software projects like Microsoft's Windows Vista are notoriously late getting to market. Salon.com co-founder Scott Rosenberg has a new book on the perils of software programming. He talks with Kai Ryssdal.