
Optimist Economy is the anti-doomscroll economics podcast. Work rules, tax fairness, healthcare, housing costs, retirement security — the economic forces shaping American life have real problems. But also real solutions. Each week, economist Kathryn Anne Edwards and editor Robin Rauzi break down one problem and solution with data, history, humor, and a belief that tools to build a better economy e... more
| Publishes | Weekly | Episodes | 57 | Founded | a year ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Category | Government | |||

A certain kind of wealthy American has been griping out loud lately — about taxes, about progressive cities, about how unappreciated they are for the jobs they create, the stuff they buy, and the tips they hand out. A narrative is coalescing around t... more
It wasn’t just hourly factory jobs that were supposed to come with a 40-hour workweek. Even salaried jobs were supposed to get overtime pay, though very few do do anymore. Overtime protections are the only legal mechanism enforcing work-hour limits, ... more
Cash is dirty, inconvenient, and so last century. Some 70% of Americans under age 50 think its days are numbered. But we still need those greenbacks, if as an alternative to banks. More than 4% of households are “unbanked,” and three times as many ar... more
Consumer sentiment is in the basement. Jobs aren't being added. Prices keep climbing. GDP barely grew at the end of 2025, and a ‘meh’ 2% last quarter. Shouldn’t this be a recession? Not so far. Economist Kathryn Anne Edwards walks through the clear c... more
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Fits very neatly into my favorite niche of very wonky and nerdy but also unapologetically empathetic and progressive. Demonstrating that economics isn’t just a tool for the worst people in the world to justify their greed.
You two are so positive. It makes me smile.
Intelligent great discussions.
Add more history. Maybe add a historian common guest.
Katherine is brilliant and articulate. Robin asks great questions. The duo is complimentary and it works. There is also great humor, like retcons and “terms and conditions” that are truly entertaining. I love the personal stories too, which I often can connect with as an ex-Houstonian. Most importantly, the show presents well reasoned points of view that have challenged my thinking time and time again.
My only complaint, and what I feel could move the show from good to great, is if the team co... more
I'm always eager to listen (or re-listen) to Kathryn and Robin. I'm learning about economics, our country, and all kinds of small side quests. Y'all are smart and funny and so very thoughtful. Love Retcon and Executive orders!
I love your dynamic and approach, even where there are areas that I personally disagree with the framing or ultimate conclusion of an issue. I’ve been burning through the back catalogue to fend off existential dread. Frankly worried about what will happen when I run out.
Key themes from listener reviews, highlighting what works and what could be improved about the show.
How this podcast ranks in the Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube charts.
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Apple Podcasts | #86 | |
Apple Podcasts | #92 | |
Apple Podcasts | #107 | |
Apple Podcasts | #196 |
Recent interactions between the hosts and their guests.
Listeners, social reach, demographics and more for this podcast.
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A hopeful, data-driven look at economic policy and everyday life, with a focus on practical solutions to real-world problems like inflation, housing, retirement security, and wage growth. Episodes blend history, statistics, and accessible explanations to unpack how rules, taxes, and public programs shape households and work, while keeping a pragmatic, optimistic tone. Notable for its banter, clear storytelling, and willingness to challenge conventional wisdom with policy levers that could improve outcomes for a broad audience.
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Optimist Economy launched a year ago and published 57 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.
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Recent guests on Optimist Economy include:
1. Max Tejera
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