2014

Mar 5, 2014

Can higher wages reduce labor costs?

Host Mary Walden asks about the low level of wages paid by many companies. Some argue that such companies are hurting themselves. These folks say companies could actually pay their workers more and at the same time reduce their costs and increase their profits. Her husband, N.C. State University economist Mike Walden describes how this could happen? 

Mar 4, 2014

What is ‘My RA?’

Host Mary Walden asks about a savings account called My RA that President Obama proposed in his State of the Union Address. Her husband, N.C. State University economist Mike Walden answers the question: What is it and how is it different from existing savings accounts?” 

Mar 3, 2014

Old habits come back

Host Mary Walden asks about a boom in the vehicle buying, sales of all vehicles, including larger vehicles on the rise. She asks why gas prices of over $3 are discouraging consumers buying big cars and trucks. Her husband, N.C. State economist Mike Walden responds. 

Feb 28, 2014

You Decide: Is Inflation Measured Correctly?

Extension Economist Mike Walden discusses the process and pitfalls of trying to calculate the nation’s inflation rate. 

Feb 28, 2014

Improving the Panama Canal

Host Mary Walden asks about the Panama Canal – a major trade route – that is now over 100 years old. The canal is being widened, and the new version is set to open next year. She asks N.C. State economist Mike Walden, “What will this mean for our economy?” 

Feb 27, 2014

Horse Bowl trots into N.C. State University

North Carolina State University is hosting the 2014 State 4-H Horse Bowl and Hippology Contest on Sat., March 1, in SAS Hall on the university’s campus. Coordinated by the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service’s 4-H Horse Program, the annual event invites youth from across the state to test their knowledge of all things horse. 

Feb 27, 2014

Technology and jobs

Host Mary Walden asks if we are going through another workplace revolution related to the development and use of information technology. Economist Mike Walden responds to the question, “Do we know how this revolution will impact jobs?” 

Feb 26, 2014

Is cheap clothing going away?

Host Mary Walden asks, “Mike, for the last couple of decades, clothing prices have been dropping relative to other prices. Their decline has at least helped families deal with rising gas and healthcare prices. But now I understand low clothing prices may soon be a thing of the past. What’s happened?” 

Feb 25, 2014

Unemployment benefits and unemployment

Unemployment benefits were recently reduced for many people, both in North Carolina and the country. Some say this will motivate those without jobs to look harder for work and eventually get hired. N.C. State University economist Mike Walden explains the economic evidence that suggests this happens. 

Feb 24, 2014

Marriage and inequality

One of the most debated topics in the country today is income inequality and the perception that it is increasing. N.C. State University economist Mike Walden says one of the many reasons behind the trend may be marriage.