CHICAGO (December 1, 2020) – The U.S. economy is in the midst of a downturn, and the way ahead is uncertain. Families and businesses around the country have been impacted by the pandemic; inequality has widened, particularly among low-wage and less skilled workers, and mothers of young children still struggle to balance childcare and work. For many Americans curious to understand the forces at play, facts are at a premium. 

To provide new insights, the Becker Friedman Institute for Economics at the University of Chicago, in partnership with WBEZ Chicago, have produced a unique podcast, The Pie, focusing on pressing economic issues of the day.

Economists are always talking about The Pie - how it grows and shrinks, how it’s sliced, and who gets the biggest shares. In this new podcast, hosts Tess Vigeland and Eduardo Porter draw from their experiences as veteran journalists to engage University of Chicago economists and other experts discussing cutting–edge research and reveal important new ways to make sense of this moment. They will explore how the economic pie is at the heart of issues like COVID-19 vaccine distribution, gender dynamics in the workplace, energy policy, jobs, and more.

“The United States and many other countries around the world are grappling with the painful COVID recession and longer run challenges like slow growth, the rise of inequality, and climate change,” said Michael Greenstone, Milton Friedman Distinguished Professor of Economics at U Chicago and director of BFI. “Economics has both an opportunity and obligation to share what we understand about these problems and to do so accessibly. We are absolutely delighted to partner with WBEZ Chicago to help share a deeper understanding of the economy with their broad and impressive audience.”

The Pie will feature economists with expertise across a broad spectrum of issues, drawing from the more than 250 economic scholars conducting research at the University of Chicago. Ellen Horne, former executive producer of Radiolab, and the Editorial Director and founder of Story Mechanics, is the podcast’s Executive Producer.

“We’re thrilled to be affiliated with an esteemed institution like the University of Chicago and to support this important podcast. It has been a tough year for many, and understanding the impact of economics can help us all make sense of the world around us,” said Kevin Dawson, managing director of content development for WBEZ Chicago.

The first episode of The Pie will launch on Dec. 3, 2020 focusing on the future of health insurance in the United States. New episodes will post every other week.

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