Support the trusted economic news you rely on with a tax-deductible year-end gift to Marketplace! Give Now 🎁

Richard Cunningham

Associate Producer

SHORT BIO

Richard Cunningham is a former associate producer for Marketplace in Los Angeles. He is originally from Hyattsville, Maryland, and is a graduate of the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, and the University of Missouri. Before joining Marketplace, he worked as an associate producer at public radio station WAMU, producing a local talk show.

When not researching stories and cutting tape, Richard can be found on the basketball court practicing jump shots or spending his hard-earned money in music stores updating his CD collection.

Latest Stories (99)

"People are feeling the pinch," Montana mall manager says

We check in with Alana Ferko, manager of the Butte Plaza Mall, who tells us about vacancy rates and a few special guests.
"People are very good at patronizing, and I appreciate that. But it's not enough," says Alana Ferko of the Butte Plaza Mall's vacancies. "I mean, they're gonna put out the energy to come to the mall, we want it to be worth it." Above, a mall in Florida.
Joe Raedle/Getty Images

St. Louis leatherworker is giving the soccer ball a new look and feel

Sep 4, 2023
Jon-Paul Wheatley is combining his lifelong love of soccer with his pandemic hobby of crafting leather. He's documenting it all online.
Jon-Paul Wheatley with one of his custom soccer balls.
Courtesy Wheatley

Classic car entrepreneur brings British sports cars into the 21st century

Aug 24, 2023
An unpopular British sports car from the mid-20th century finds new life with American classic car enthusiasts.
An Austin-Healey "Bugeye" Sprite sporting its smiley face front, formed by the grille and headlights. The Bugeyeguys dealership caters to fans of the vintage car's style.
Leafar via Wikimedia Commons

There's more evidence that subsidized jobs boost racial equity, report finds

Aug 17, 2023
"There are just a lot of positive ripple effects for communities," says Kali Grant of Georgetown, who co-wrote the updated report.
At the 1963 March on Washington, Martin Luther King Jr. called for a massive federal jobs program for all Americans.
AFP via Getty Images

Independent musician says the touring industry is a “rollercoaster”

Aug 8, 2023
Sarah King, an independent musician, is currently on tour. But the steps getting to this moment have been challenging.
Independent musician Sarah King is touring on her own, a more financially viable option than touring with a group.
Courtesy Arielle Thomas Photography

Regaining Black farmers’ trust is “challenging," says advisor to the Secretary of Agriculture

After the loan repayment assistance program was scrapped, the USDA is having trouble regaining the trust of Black farmers.
"I've heard it said that when other farmers get a cold, Black farmers get pneumonia," said Dewayne Goldmon, senior advisor for racial equity to the Secretary of Agriculture.
Scott Olson/Getty Images

Persistence pays off again for L.A. gelato maker

Aug 3, 2023
Closing the two brick-and-mortar locations of Uli's Gelato was not an easy call, but networking helped Uli Nasibova create her next chapter.
"When the pandemic first started, your survival instincts kick in," says Uli Nasibova, owner of Uli’s Gelato. "Failure was not an option."
Nina Uemurasachi

Summer foot traffic has been “kinda funky" Michigan retailer says

Jul 19, 2023
Annie Lang Hartman, owner of stationery and gift store Wild Lettie, is hoping for a steadier flow of shoppers through the busy season.
Wild Lettie via Facebook

Consumer spending is “all over the place,” chocolate shop owner says

Jul 7, 2023
Even with erratic demand, this Maine chocolatier is optimistic about a strong year for her business.
Dean's Sweets in Portland, Maine, is looking forward to a busy summer.
Melissa Mullen Photography

Advocates fight to save North America's Chinatowns

Leaders from many of these struggling communities came together at the Chinatown Solidarity Conference to share ideas and support.
Chinatown in San Francisco. Many Chinatowns are suffering from anti-Asian hate, crime and other burdens on their small businesses.
iStock / Getty Images Plus