Dec 21, 2022

Let’s talk about trade

Saul Loeb/Pool/AFP via Getty Images

Today, Trade Representative Katherine Tai reflects on America's trade interests and priorities. Plus, the real estate roller coaster of 2022.

Segments From this episode

Despite challenging economic year, U.S. Trade Ambassador sees "a lot of accomplishments"

by Kai Ryssdal and Sarah Leeson

Dec 21, 2022

From the launch of the IPEF, to defusing trade tension with the E.U., U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai has had a busy year.

"This is not a partisan position. This is about the totality of the United States economy," said U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai. Above, Tai in November.

Lillian Suwanrumpha/AFP via Getty Images

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The Bank of Japan hints at end of ultra-low interest rates

by Justin Ho

Dec 21, 2022

Despite global and domestic inflation, Japan's central bank held interest rates near zero. But it's just hinted that this policy will change.

By letting interest rates go up, the Bank of Japan could make government bonds more attractive to investors.

Philip Fong/AFP via Getty Images

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The housing market was a roller coaster ride this year

by Lily Jamali

Dec 21, 2022

Those looking to buy have spent much of 2022 adjusting and readjusting to higher mortgage rates.

This week's housing numbers weren't a good sign for the market, but there's hope a slowing of interest rate hikes could breathe life back into the sector.

Mario Tama/Getty Images

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Community colleges continue to see a drop in academic staffing

by Stephanie Hughes

Dec 21, 2022

It's often hard for community colleges to recruit instructors because of competition from other job opportunities that pay more.

Community colleges often compete for faculty with four-year universities, which usually can offer higher wages, lighter teaching workloads and more full-time jobs.

crisserbug/Getty Images

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To make the most of a new Ford electric truck plant, Tennessee neighbors need sewer help

by Blake Farmer

Dec 21, 2022

Ford needed a sewer line to build its $5.6 billion plant in Tennessee. But neighboring communities now have to build their own wastewater system to accommodate new residents who come for the new plant jobs.

The town of Mason has its own utility system including water and sewer. Utilities have been the most difficult hurdle to overcome in developing the West Tennessee megasite.

Blake Farmer/WPLN News

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The team

Nancy Farghalli Executive Producer

Maria Hollenhorst Producer II

Andie Corban Producer I

Sarah Leeson Producer I

Sean McHenry Director & Associate Producer II

Richard Cunningham Associate Producer I

Dylan Miettinen Associate Digital Producer

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