Shelf Life

The Internet has transformed the way that we buy music, much to the discontent of record labels. Kai Ryssdal speaks with Dan Kennedy, former Atlantic Records employee and author of the new book "Rock On," about why the culture of big record labels isn't friendly toward new technology.

Your blue jeans may be a good indicator of just how global the economy is. Rachel Louise Snyder follows tells the story of a pair of pants in the global marketplace in her book "Fugitive Denim." She talks with Kai Ryssdal.

How do you learn to lead in the world of high-stakes corporate affairs? Author Warren Bennis says it all comes down to one thing: Good judgment. He talks with Kai Ryssdal about his new book.

More of us are finding out we either can't afford to stop working for retirement or don't really want to. So what happens next? Tess Vigeland talks to Marc Freedman, who wrote a book about working through the "second half" of life.

A community of Cistercian monks in Wisconsin has developed a Web business reselling ink and toner cartridges for printers at a discount. Sarah Caniglia wrote a book about her experiences helping the "laser monks" run their website. She talks with host Amy Scott.

Author Robert Kuttner says lawmakers on both sides of the aisle need to answer for the latest hiccup in our economy. His new book, "The Squandering of America" looks at how the failure of our politics undermines our prosperity. He talks with Kai Ryssdal.

Does it take luck or skill to make money in the markets? Lisa Napoli explores financial chance versus ability with engineer Stan Mazor, co-inventor of the first silicon chip and author of the book "Stock Market Gambling."

Retailers know consumers can't negotiate with their nose when it finds something it likes. Lisa Napoli talks to Rachel Herz, author of "The Scent of Desire," about how some stores are using smell to seal the deal.

Can you imagine Thanksgiving without the hint of nutmeg or cloves? Spices make the meal. But they weren't always so plentiful. Bob Moon talks with author Michael Krondl about his book on the history of the spice business.