Million Bazillion

Why does organic food cost more than non-organic food?

Listener Cecilia wrote in to ask: “Why does organic food cost more than non organic food?” And she's right! Certified organic foods do usually cost more than other options. Bridget and Ryan dive into the question with the help of Stephanie Hughes, Marketplace's reporter on the organic farming beat. Ryan's inspired to try his own hand at organic farming ... but will his crops be able to survive an attack of horn worms, a stampede of chickens and a dustbowl to turn a profit at the farmer’s market? After you listen to this episode, be sure to check out our website . We’ve got conversation starters and tips!

BONUS: Listen to Million Bazillion listener Shreen interview a real CEO!

In the latest episode of Million Bazillion, listener Shreen wanted to know, “How do you become a CEO?” No spoilers, but after Ryan and Bridget’s adventure in attempting to become CEOs themselves, Shreen still had some questions about how a successful CEO gets their job, and what they do all day. In this special bonus episode, Shreen interviews Christina Stembel, CEO of Farmgirl Flowers to find out more about what it’s really like to be a CEO, how to start and run a company, and what Christina did as a kid that helped set her on the path to becoming a CEO as a grownup.

How do you become a CEO?

Being a CEO is a big job and 9-year-old Shreen is wondering how to become one! On today’s episode, Bridget and Ryan learn about the different paths people take to be the boss and what it really means to lead a company. (Hint: its not just about meetings and fancy suits). And, guess what? Even CEOs have a boss sometimes, too! If your family is interested in learning more about the questions we answered in this episode, check out our website . We’ve got discussion questions and tips!

Replay: What is a credit card, and how does it work?

Today, we’re taking it way back to Bridget and Ryan’s first episode together. They’ll work on answering a question that quite a few listeners were wondering about: What are credit cards, besides little pieces of plastic with chips in them? We’ll learn how grownups use credit cards in the first place, and some potential pitfalls of swiping. Then things really get out of hand when the ghost pirates show up. Check out the tipsheet for this episode for some ways you can keep the conversation about credit cards going at home.

How do ATMs work? (And other money questions from you!)

Bridget and Ryan hit rewind and break out an old-school cassette tape to answer your money questions. You wanted to know: how ATMs work, why the penny’s called the penny and how airlines set ticket prices? So we’re on the case to bring you the answers with an analog twist! If your family is interested in learning more about the questions we answered in this episode, check out our website . We’ve got discussion questions and tips!

BONUS: How do Olympic athletes make money?

This week, Ryan and Bridget are answering a question about why athletes get paid what they do. In this bonus mini-episode of “Million Bazillion,” Bridget and Ryan hear from Colin Hufman, who competed in the 2022 Beijing Olympics with the U.S. curling team. Curling is a sport that’s played on ice, in which players slide granite stones toward a target area. We’ll learn about Colin’s experience earning income as an Olympic athlete, including payments for medals, monthly stipends and promotional endorsements. The hosts realize that making a living as an Olympian involves a lot more than just training and competing in sports.

How do athletes get paid?

“Million Bazillion” listener Alistair wants to know how professional athletes get paid. Bridget and Ryan prepare for the semi-annual Public Radio Foosball Tournament, but their star player is drafted to the opposing team. The hosts have to scramble to assemble players for their dream team in time for the big tournament. In this episode, they learn about labor unions, player trades and statistical analysis strategies used in the movie “Moneyball.” If your family is interested in learning more about the questions we answered in this episode, check out our website. We’ve got discussion questions and tips!

What are tariffs?

Bridget convinces Ryan to launch a new side business, solving money problems. Today’s problem - a local fifth-grader is facing competition with her slime business from a rival school. Could a tariff help solve her problem? With the help of a not-so-spooky-ghost, they’ll learn what tariffs are, and why they make the price of things go up, and how tariffs can lead to…a trade war. If your family is interested in learning more about the questions we answered in this episode, check out our website . We’ve got discussion questions and tips!

What is the lottery, and how does it work?

It’s a new season of “Million Bazillion!” In this episode, Ryan and Bridget dive into the world of lotteries after listener Oskar asked how they work. With the help of a talking stat(istics) cat, they learn just how tricky it is to win big. But like many lottery hopefuls, the pair still buys a ticket with a plan they think will help them beat the odds. Will their idea work? Listen to find out! If your family is interested in learning more about the questions we answered in this episode, check out our website . We’ve got discussion questions and tips!

"Million Bazillion" returns June 3!

Hello, Million Bazillionaires! In the new season of Million Bazillion, Ryan and Bridget head out on even bigger adventures to answer some of the best money questions we’ve ever received: From the mystery behind the lottery, to explaining tariffs, and how athletes get paid, the ins and outs of ATMs and how to keep your money info safe online, and why organic food costs more than non-organic food. But the fun doesn’t end there. When you’re done listening to each episode, check out our newsletter for bonus content and cool questions to spark conversations between kids and grownups. New episodes drop every Tuesday starting June 3! Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. In the meantime, check out our trailer above and catch up on any episodes you might’ve missed.

From "Financially Inclined": How to negotiate

Hey Million Bazillionaires! Ryan and Bridget are working hard on brand-new episodes for our next season. In the meantime, we're doing something special today. We're sharing an episode from our friends at Marketplace’s podcast for young people, “Financially Inclined.” It's all about negotiation. That means learning how to speak up for yourself, make fair deals and solve problems in smart ways. It's a skill grown-ups use all the time. But negotiation isn't just for adults. Kids do it every day at home, school and even the playground. We’ve talked before about why negotiation is such an important skill. But if you still have questions, this episode is for you! Want more “Financially Inclined”? Check out the rest of the season wherever you get your podcasts . Have a question you want Million Bazillion to answer? Send it to us!

What is Black Friday?

For our final episode of the season, Bridget and Ryan team up with the hosts of “Forever Ago” to tell you about one of the biggest shopping days of the year: Black Friday. While they search for the best gifts for Podcast Host Appreciation Day, they learn how Black Friday started and how stores come up with deals, and they share tips on how to shop smart during the holiday season. If your family is interested in learning more about the questions we answered in this episode, check out our website . We’ve got discussion questions and tips!

How do people pay for things when they retire?

The hosts visit Bridget’s grandma to answer questions from Josephina and Anna about how retirement works. Along with dancing and eating a lot of casserole, they learn about the many ways people save for retirement and how the government helps people pay for things when they stop working. Plus, they help Bridget’s niece understand why it’s important to start saving for retirement early. If your family is interested in learning more about the questions we answered in this episode, check out our website . We’ve got discussion questions and tips!

Sing along with “Million Bazillion”

This week, Ryan and Bridget take the stage to perform some greatest hits from the “Million Bazillion” songbook. They’ll revisit some of their favorite songs about why it can be awkward to talk about money, why the United States has its own currency, how to spot a scam and more. Plus, a never-before-heard song from “Million Bazillion: The Musical.” So put on your top hats and sequined ponchos, and get ready to sing along with us! To follow along with song lyrics, check out this episode on our website and visit our YouTube playlist to sing and dance to all your favorite “Million Bazillion” hits. We’ve also have discussion questions and tips!

Why do we have pennies? (and more money questions)

Ryan and Bridget are back in the studio to host another live call-in show to answer the quick but not always easy questions listeners have about money. Together, they break down the difference between credit and debit cards, explain why pennies exist and show you how to spot fake money. But things take a turn when their soundboard develops a mind of its own. If your family is interested in learning more about any of the questions we answered in this episode, check out our website . We’ve got discussion questions and tips!

What’s the difference between brand-name items and generics?

Million Bazillion listener Kade wants to know why brand-name products cost more than store-brand and generic products. Bridget and Ryan head to a grocery store where they meet a talking can of soup in need of a brand makeover. In this episode, they learn the differences between brand-name products and generics, why we care about brands, and why they’re more expensive. If your family is interested in learning more about the difference between brand names and generics, check out the page for this episode at our website. We’ve got discussion questions and tips!

Let’s talk about savings accounts

Bridget and Ryan are back for a whole new season of “Million Bazillion”! With the help of their new All Questioning Questioni machine, they’re ready to answer more money questions than ever before — starting with savings accounts and how they work. Bridget and Ryan visit a circus-themed bank searching for answers and learn the step-by-step process of opening a bank account. If your family is interested in learning more about savings accounts, check out the page for this episode at our website. We’ve got discussion questions and tips!

“Million Bazillion” is back Oct. 15!

Hey Million Bazillionaires, are you ready? We’ve got another season of “Million Bazillion” coming out October 8! This season, Bridget and Ryan will be answering your questions about savings accounts, retirement plans, the difference between brand name and store brand products, why we use pennies and so much more. They’ll even visit a circus bank and hit the mall for some Black Friday shopping! Don’t forget to sign up for the “Million Bazillion” newsletter so you never miss an episode and get access to episode extras, including conversation starters for grownups and kids. We’ll be making dollars make more sense every Tuesday starting Oct. 15. Listen to a sneak peek above, get caught up on any episodes you may have missed and subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts!

Why is there so much gold at Fort Knox?

It’s our final episode of the season, Million Bazillionaires! Today, we’re answering Sadie’s question about why there is so much gold at Fort Knox. It’s one of the most secure places in the world, and Bridget and Ryan are determined to get inside! But just as the pair lands a special tour to the top-secret gold vault, a couple of mysterious Fort Knox enthusiasts throw a wrench in their plans. If your family is interested in learning more, check out the page for this episode at our website . We’ve got discussion questions and tips for learning more.

What does money have to do with climate change?

Listener Frieda wrote in with a big question: What does money have to do with climate change? Luckily, Bridget and Ryan get help from a time traveler who takes them back to a time when some decisions about how we make things, how we run our economy and how we buy stuff were made. Turns out we’re feeling the ripple effects of those choices today. We’ll also hear from some real-life kids who have been looking for ways to slow and stop climate change in their communities. If your family is interested in learning more, check out the page for this episode at our website . We’ve got discussion questions and tips for learning more.

How does the economy work? (and other important money questions)

It’s a big day for Ryan and Bridget. They’re hosting their first ever live call-in radio show to answer listeners’ questions. After some awkward stumbles in the studio, they’ll explain how the economy works, why we use money, why some stores give out coupons and why the symbol for dollars ($) is an S with a line through it. All good questions! It’s going to be a jam-packed episode! If your family is interested in learning more, check out the page for this episode at our website . We’ve got discussion questions and tips for learning more!

What is bankruptcy?

Bridget and Ryan are studying at the library, hoping to answer Maebinn’s question about bankruptcy. The duo discovers an epic fantasy storybook about a bankrupt prince and his dangerous and frustrating journey to declaring bankruptcy. There are a lot of tricky rules! They learn about the different types of bankruptcies for people and businesses, and why bankruptcy can sometimes give folks a financial fresh start but is still an option of last resort for those who can’t pay their debts. Along the way, they’ll also meet knights, princesses, wizards, and even some lawyer elves. If your family is interested in learning more, check out the page for this episode at our website . We’ve got discussion questions and tips for learning more!

Why does it feel so good to spend money?

Ryan feels a little down about not winning a podcasting award. When they get Malin’s question about why it feels so good to spend money, Bridget suggests they go on a shopping spree to cheer him up! And it works — thanks to some brain chemicals and Ryan’s Emotions Elf. But when the shopping trip gets a bit out of hand, those happy emotions turn into regret and fear, and the duo need to get help from experts to understand what shopping does to our brains and how to have a healthier relationship with spending. If your family is interested in learning more, check out the page for this episode at our website . We’ve got discussion questions and tips for learning more!

How do people pay for college?

In this episode, Bridget and Ryan answer Aela’s question about college saving accounts and how they work with a special guest: an aspiring tooth fairy hoping to embark on her own college adventure! Together, they’ll learn all about the ways people save or pay for college: savings accounts, 529 plans, scholarships, and student loans during orientation day at Magic University. And they’ll meet some magical (and spooky) creatures along the way. If your family is interested in learning more about ways to save for college, check out the page for this episode at our website . We’ve got discussion questions and tips for learning more!

What are unions?

This week, Bridget and Ryan are working hard to answer a question many listeners sent in, including Benicio, about labor unions and how they work. They get some help from a group of middle school babysitters called The Caregiver Crew who want to form a union. We’ll learn the ins and outs of negotiations, collective bargaining, strikes, and even … scabbing. If your family is interested in learning more about labor unions, check out the page for this episode at our website . We’ve got discussion questions and tips for learning more!

How are cars made?

Bridget and Ryan are back for a whole new season of “Million Bazillion”! Since we’ve been away, Ryan’s developed an interest in soapbox car racing — just in time for a question from Abigail about how cars are made. Bridget and Ryan head to a car factory to find out the answer. By the end of the episode, they’ll need to put their newfound knowledge (and Ryan’s skills as a soapbox racer) to the test! If your family is interested in learning more about cars, check out the page for this episode at our website . We’ve got discussion questions and tips for learning more!

“Million Bazillion” is back April 9!

Hey Million Bazillionaires! Get ready for another season of “Million Bazillion” coming to your feeds April 9. This season, Bridget and Ryan will be answering your questions about labor unions, the different ways to pay for college, bankruptcy, the gold at Fort Knox and so much more. They’ll be getting up to hijinks in factories, consorting with magical beings, and even … consulting experts! Don’t forget to sign up for the “Million Bazillion” newsletter so you never miss an episode and get access to episode extras, including conversation starters for grownups and kids. We’ll be making dollars make more sense every Tuesday starting April 9. Listen to a sneak peek above, get caught up on any episodes you may have missed and subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts!

A new edition of Million Bazillion Academy!

Hey, Million Bazillionaires! We’re working on a brand new season of “Million Bazillion” (more on that very soon). But if you need more “Million Bazillion” in your life, we have something just for you. It’s the latest round of the Million Bazillion Academy, a free email newsletter course that teaches kids about business, the economy and lots of other good money stuff we haven’t covered on the show before. New lessons arrive weekly, and you can complete them at your own pace. To enroll, visit Marketplace.org/Academy.

From “Financially Inclined”: How to make the workforce work for you

Hey Million Bazillionaires! Bridget and Ryan are working on new episodes for our upcoming brand new season. In the meantime, we’re getting a lot of notes from our listeners asking about different types of jobs and how to get them. We’ve talked before about why kids under a certain age generally don’t have jobs. But for our listeners who still have questions, we’re turning to our friends at Marketplace’s podcast about money for young people, Financially Inclined. Here’s how host Yanely Espinal answered that question, plus extra tips on how to do well in the workplace. Have a question you want Million Bazillion to answer? Send it to us!

From our friends at “Financially Inclined”: How to save money

Saving money might sound like a chore, but Yanely Espinal and Berna Anat are here to remind you that saving money can help you afford more of what you want, and you can have fun along the way! Think you’re financially inclined? Check out the savings tips below: A comparison of high-yield savings accounts from NerdWallet Here are some free savings trackers you can print Look at these different savings apps reviewed by Bankrate You can find more financial tips from Berna on her Instagram Are you in an educational setting? Here’s a handy listening guide. This podcast is presented in partnership with Greenlight: the money app for teens — with investing. For a limited time, our listeners can earn $10 when they sign up for a Greenlight account . Join today.

What’s up with those claw machines?

It’s our last episode of the season, Million Bazillionaires! And we’re answering Maddox’s question about what happens to your quarter when you put it inside a claw machine. It just zips away! Ryan and Bridget talk to an expert who lets them peek inside a claw machine to find out where that quarter goes. After getting some tips on how to win at the claw, Bridget gets a little too hung up on trying to win a stuffie, leaving it up to Ryan to bring her back to reality (shocking, we know). If your family is interested in learning more about claw machines, check out the page for this episode at our website. We’ve got discussion questions and tips for learning more!

Who sets the price of rent?

It’s board game night and Ryan and Bridget are also planning to answer Amala’s question about the price of rent. She wants to know who sets it. Luckily for everyone, Bridget happens to have handy her version of “Real Estate-Opoloy.” It’s the classic board game about renting and buying that’s inspired family fights and feuds for generations. But before they can get started, the duo are sucked into the game. While they try to figure out a way out, they’ll learn the answer to Amala’s question and a whole lot more about renting and owning a home. If your family is interested in learning more about rent and housing, check out the page for this episode at our website. We’ve got discussion questions and tips for learning more!

Presenting “The Ten News: Operation Climate Conservation” ♻️

“Ten News” Road Trip Remix: 👟 Grab your AirPods, favorite pair of tennis shoes, and hop outside, Ten’ers. Today’s episode is meant for a long walk or bike ride as we learn about ways to be more climate friendly. Let’s start with “Nature Nerds'” Laine Farber’s take on reducing your carbon footprint. Oh, we can’t forget Laine’s rundown of potty training cows.🌱 And last, but certainly not least, we’re talking futuristic farming and revisiting Garrison Harward at his aquaponics farm in Brooklyn!

Ponzi schemes, tricks and scams!

Listener Kaitlyn was talking to her dad about investments and things strayed into the world of Ponzi schemes. Kaitlyn’s wondering what they are and how they work — good question! Bridget and Ryan want to answer Katilyn’s question but the topic conjures up some bad memories for Ryan. Luckily they get some help from Brenda Hammer, lead investigator from Bridget’s favorite show, “Scam Slammers!” Brenda uses her expertise and investigative skills to help Ryan pick out where he went wrong in the past and give some good tips for avoiding scams our listeners (even young ones!) might encounter in their everyday lives. If your family is interested in learning more about ponzi schemes, check out the page for this episode at our website. We’ve got discussion questions and tips for learning more!

Introducing: PBS Kids’ “Jamming on the Job”

“Jamming on the Job ” is a multigenerational, music-inspired podcast for kids ages 4 to 8 and their parents and caregivers. It stars Christina Sanabria and Andrés Salguero, the Latin Grammy Award-winning kids’ music duo known as 123 Andrés. Join Christina and Andrés as they tour the country and perform songs about the world of work. At each place they go, they meet a grownup with a different kind of job who helps them along their way. As Christina and Andrés learn about the new and inspiring career of the day and the skills needed to succeed in that job, they compose an original song about it with help from their Magic Beatmaster Boombox, voiced by Grammy Award-nominated musician Pierce Freelon. In addition to exposing kids to a wide variety of career paths, each episode will highlight foundational skills relevant to each job, such as empathy, social problem-solving and responsibility as well as flexible thinking, impulse control and persistence.

Why do some jobs get tips but not others?

In our previous episode, Bridget promised Ryan she’d take him to Happy Land Theme Park and Resort. And Bridget keeps her promises! It’s the perfect place to answer Henry’s question. He wants to know why some jobs get tips and others don’t. This proves to be a tricky one to answer, as Ryan and Bridget soon find out. They enlist the help of Happy Land Founder, Mort Bisby. Inside Mort’s hidden lair, they’ll learn some tips on well… tipping. If your family is interested in learning more about tipping, check out the page for this episode at our website. We’ve got discussion questions and tips for learning more!

What’s a recession? Let’s talk about it.

When listener Lulu asks a question about economic recessions and depressions, Ryan and Bridget know they have to go to where some of the best scholars of recessions and depressions are working: the Federal Reserve! While learning about how the Federal Reserve keeps an eye on the health of our economy, the pair accidentally unleash an economic disaster. They’ll need the help of the Fed’s Recession Crushers to get things back in line. Who ya gonna call? The Recession Crushers! If your family is interested in learning more about recessions, check out the page for this episode at our website. We’ve got discussion questions and tips for learning more!

What is an auction and how does it work?

It’s a new season of Million Bazillion and in this episode, Ryan and Bridget are answering Hezekiah’s questions about auctions. He wants to know everything about them — what are they, how do they work, and what’s up with those paddles and the fast talkin’? Ryan and Bridget head to their very first auction to find out. But the pair get caught up in the excitement and end up accidentally buying the very first Million Bazillion mascot. They’ll use the help and experience of their new friend, a real-life 16-year-old auctioneer, to navigate the auction and steer out of trouble. If your family is interested in learning more about auctions, check out the page for this episode at our website. We’ve got discussion questions and tips for learning more!

New episodes of “Million Bazillion” coming Sept. 5!

Hey Million Bazillionaires, are you ready? We’ve got another season of “Million Bazillion” coming out Sept. 5! This season, Bridget and Ryan will be answering your questions about recessions, auctions and something called a Ponzi scheme. It’s gonna be an adventurous season, so buckle in! Don’t forget to sign up for the “Million Bazillion” newsletter, so you never miss an episode and get access to episode extras, including conversation starters for grownups and kids. We’ll be making dollars make more sense every Tuesday starting Sept. 5. Listen to a sneak peek above, get caught up on any episodes you may have missed and subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts!

Why are there so many of the same stores?

In our final episode of the season, Bridget and Ryan get a question from Will in Ohio and are taking a cross-country road trip to answer it. Will wants to know why there are so many of the same stores. From Starbucks to Home Depot and all the McDonald’s in between, we’ll break down the reason why. For a special cartoon, discussion questions and tips for parents, check out our website!

Why do some people get paid more than others?

For this week’s question, both Henry and Nathanial wanted to know why workers don’t get paid the same. Ryan and Bridget help break down what’s known as the “wage gap” with the help of the Vindicators superhero squad who are on a mission to make pay more fair. Plus, we brainstorm ways to fix the problem. Check out our website for a special cartoon, discussion questions and tips for parents.

“Million Bazillion” Presents: “Money Mania” game show

It’s the inaugural (maybe the only one ever?) “Money Mania,” a game show from “Million Bazillion” in which five lucky listeners compete in an elaborate obstacle course to get their questions answered. This week, we’ll tackle questions like: What is profit? Why do receipts have so many words? And, what do stores do with all their leftover holiday stuff?

Why do countries have different currencies?

On a trip to Washington, D.C., Bridget and Ryan take this question from Oliver in Illinois: Why do different countries use different currencies? There’s the U.S. dollar, the Mexican peso and Japanese yen, just to name a few. This week, we’ll explain why so many countries decided to make their own type of money. And we meet the ghost of Alexander Hamilton, who has an important money lesson to share … through song. For a special cartoon, discussion questions and tips for parents, check out our website!

What is insurance?

Bridget and Ryan are stuck inside during a major rainstorm, which means it’s the perfect opportunity to answer a question they got from Archer in Los Angeles: What is insurance? Archer’s dad is an insurance agent, and he wants to get to the bottom of how his parent makes a living. We’ll learn the ins and outs of insurance and how it became a thing. Plus, we have a catchy song to help you remember the difference between some confusing insurance terms: “premium” versus “deductible.” For a special cartoon, discussion questions and tips for parents, check out our website!

What is the black market?

Bridget and Ryan go back to school to talk with students for career day about their jobs as podcasters. But when hunger strikes, they get caught up in an underground black market snack operation that gets them into a bit of trouble. Today, we’ll learn all about the black market, what it is, why it exists and why it’s even necessary sometimes. For a special cartoon, discussion questions and tips for parents, check out our website!

“Million Bazillion” returns Feb 7

Bazillionaires, get ready! A new season of “Million Bazillion” is dropping earlier than usual this year. Bridget and Ryan are back February 7 answering more of the big questions kids send us about money. In Season 4, we’re digging into everything from the black market to the wage gap and why different countries use different currencies. Plus, our first ever “Million Bazillion” money mania game show. Don’t forget to sign up for our “Million Bazillion” newsletter, where you’ll find episode extras including a tipsheet, trivia, and cool comics to keep your student learning about how money works in the real world. We’ll be making dollars make more sense every Tuesday starting next month. Check us out on your favorite podcast app and be sure to subscribe! And, if you’d like to binge our last season, you can do that here .

Why can’t kids have jobs?

After hearing Ryan and Bridget talk about money all season, one of our young listeners wants to know when she can start earning some money. This week we’ll look back to the time when lots of kids had jobs and learn about what’s changed and why. Along the way, we’ll learn that kids actually do have jobs, just not in the way you might think. For a special cartoon, discussion questions and tips for parents, check out our website! Take a second to let us know what you think of the show at marketplace.org/survey

What is cryptocurrency?

One of our GOAT listeners called in with a question about cryptocurrency, and Ryan is psyched. Crypto is everywhere right now, but it can be kinda hard for kids (and grown-ups!) to know how it all works. We’ll head to the far reaches of the internet to learn about the promise and peril of crypto, and why any form of money only works if you believe it will … whoa. For a special cartoon, discussion questions and tips for parents, check out our website ! Take a second to let us know what you think of the show at marketplace.org/survey

What do grown-ups do with all their money?

If you add up all the money a grown-up makes in their lifetime, it might sound like a lot! Surely they must have more to show for it. Where are the castles, the ponies, the fancy cars? In this episode, with the help of a magic necklace, we’ll do the numbers on the stuff grown-ups have to pay for every day. It’s not all pizza parties and ice cream sundaes! For a special cartoon, discussion questions and tips for parents, check out our website! Take a second to let us know what you think of the show at marketplace.org/survey

How do big video platforms make money?

A listener wants to know how the creators behind his favorite online videos get paid. It’s a surprisingly complicated question, and Ryan and Bridget have to go viral themselves to find out the answer. Accompanied by their new dog and a bunch of influencers, we’ll learn all about the wild economics of online videos. Put on your tap-dancing shoes, we’re making content! For a special cartoon, discussion questions and tips for parents, check out our website ! Take a second to let us know what you think of the show at marketplace.org/survey

Why are so many toys made in China?

It’s a rainy day, the perfect time to answer a question from one listener who started looking at the bottom of his toys. A lot of them say “Made in China,” but why? Ryan Perez and Bridget Bodnar get some help from some familiar (but legally distinct!) toy friends to find the answer. Turns out there are some pretty interesting reasons why the stuff we buy — not just toys, but clothes and food too — sometimes come from far away places. For a special cartoon, discussion questions and tips for parents, check out our website ! Take a second to let us know what you think of the show at marketplace.org/survey

What’s the deal with inflation?

This week, Ryan and Bridget hear from a kid who can see the future! Or, at least, a kid who knows our dollars will be able to buy less stuff as time goes on. It’s all because of inflation, something that seems to have the grown-ups concerned. After traveling back in time to stock up on snacks, the pair get a chance to try to control runaway inflation … but their ideas don’t quite go as planned. For a special cartoon, discussion questions and tips for parents, check out our website ! Take a second to let us know what you think of the show at marketplace.org/survey

Why is it so awkward to talk about money?

Ryan and Bridget tackle one of their most challenging questions to date: Why is it so awkward to talk about money? Using a board game that comes to life and a catchy song, they’ll find an answer that’s better than “Because I said so” and give kids (and their parents) the tools they need to have helpful and positive conversations about money. For a special cartoon, discussion questions and tips for parents, check out our website! Take a second to let us know what you think of the show at marketplace.org/survey

What is a credit card, and how does it work?

Bridget gets to know her new co-host, Ryan, who has a lot of fun ideas but doesn’t know much about money. They’ll work together on a question that quite a few listeners were wondering about: What are credit cards, besides little pieces of plastic with chips in them? Together, we’ll learn how grown-ups use credit cards and some potential pitfalls of swiping. Then things really get out of hand when the ghost pirates show up. For a special cartoon, discussion questions and tips for parents, check out our website! Take a second to let us know what you think of the show at marketplace.org/survey

“Million Bazillion” is back June 21!

Calling all Bazillionaires! “Million Bazillion” is back with a brand-new season starting June 21! Bridget has a new co-host named Ryan, and together they’re taking on the toughest money questions your kids can think of. Questions like: How do credit cards work? What do grown-ups do with all of their money? How do social media influencers make money? And what the heck is a cryptocurrency anyway? We’re back helping dollars make more sense every Tuesday starting June 21. Here’s a sneak peek!

We’re looking for your money jokes, poems and tips!

Hey Million Bazillionaires! We’re coming back soon for an all-new season of “Million Bazillion,” answering the questions you have about money! This season, Bridget’s joined by a new co-host, Ryan, and they need your help! With the permission of your grown-ups, we’d love to hear your money jokes, money poems and best money tips so we can feature them on the podcast! Send them to us using this online form . We can’t wait to hear from you!

Why do prices end in $0.99?

Ever notice how lots of prices at the store end in $0.99? So did Eli from Philadelphia, and he asked us to find out why. Turns out, it’s a method retailers use to get us to buy something — and it’s not their only one. This week, we’ll learn about how our brains work when we’re shopping, why it’s hard to resist a sale and some of the ways physical stores encourage us to spend a little more money. Let us know what you thought about this season and what you want Jed and Bridget to do next! You can reach us at Marketplace.org/million .

Why are jobs so important?

Having a job is how we earn money to pay for the things we need. Money is important but it’s not the only reason people work. This week we’re going out to the pizzeria, where we’ll learn how every job is connected to lots of other jobs — and how those connections keep our economy running. Plus we’ll hear from a bunch of people with cool jobs that you probably didn’t even know existed, and we’ll ask a group of kids to tell us about the jobs of their dreams. Got a money problem you need help solving? Tell us about it at Marketplace.org/million .

What is the stock market?

Companies need money to grow, and there’s a way for them to get it: the stock market. They can sell a little piece of their company, called a share or stock, to regular people. If the company grows, those people get to keep some of the money it makes. Of course, there’s no guarantee that a company will grow — that’s what makes putting your money in the stock market risky. On this week’s episode, we’ll explain how it all works with the help of some Dutch spice traders, comfy sneakers, a bull … and a bear! Got a money problem? Tell us about it at Marketplace.org/million .

Why is our money green?

This week we’re tracking down answers to a bunch of your questions about why money looks the way it does. A lot of you were curious about stuff like why American money is green, why other countries have more colorful currency, and who decides whose picture goes on each bill. We’ll get you all those answers — and more! Plus, we’ll meet a museum’s money curator, learn about the way money art protects us from fakes and think about how we’d design our own money … if anyone asked us. P.S. We want to hear your jokes about money. Click here to send us a voicemail!

Why can girls’ things cost more than boys’ things?

One of our inquisitive listeners, Isabella, noticed when she was shopping online that women’s clothing was more expensive than men’s clothing — and she thought that was unfair. Turns out, it happens a lot. The same or really similar items, from school supplies to sports equipment, often cost more when they’re designed to look like they were made for girls. People have taken to calling this phenomenon the “pink tax.” This week, we’ll learn more about why it happens and what’s being done about it. We’ll also ask some random kids a not-so-random money question, and Bridget will introduce us to her new smart speaker — which has oddly great taste in music. Don’t forget: We want to hear from you about your money problems! Go to Marketplace.org/million for instructions on how to send us a voicemail.

The history of banks

When banks first started thousands of years ago, they were known as places to borrow money, not to keep your own money safe. Through loans, they’d provide funding to farmers or traders to help them with a project — like building a fence or traveling to another country. Borrowers often had to leave something valuable with the bank until they paid off the loan. To keep all that valuable stuff safe, banks became supersecure. That made them great places for everyday folks to deposit their money. This week, we’ll learn about the history of banks and how they work today and why they don’t work for all of us. Our old friend Bill Maurer will help us sort it all out, while Jed and Bridget see if they have what it takes to run their own bank. Don’t forget to send us your questions about money at Marketplace.org/million !

Taxes pay for the things we care about

Back in Robin Hood’s day, tax-collecting sheriffs forced people to pay money to a king, who decided how those taxes were spent. These days our tax system works a bit differently. We get to vote for people who’ll spend that money on things we care about — like schools and libraries, health care for elderly people, police, parks, sewers and so on. With the help of a rambling troubadour and a tax policy expert, Jed and Bridget teach Robin Hood that the way tax dollars are spent today reflects what we prioritize as a society. Plus, we’ll ask random kids some not-so-random questions. Sign up for our bonus newsletter to get a tip sheet, episode extras and cool comics about each week’s episode! It’s all at marketplace.org/bonus! Keep sending us your questions about money at marketplace.org/million!

How is money made? Let’s head to the U.S. Mint!

We’re back for our second season! Thanks for sending in so many great questions about money. One that a whole bunch of you wanted to know more about is how money is made. To help us find out, Jed called his old economics teacher, Ms. Grizzle, who took us on a very hands-on field trip to the factory that stamps out U.S. coins. Plus, we talked to an expert about all the ways that money moves through our economy. You may never look at coins the same way again! Sign up for our bonus newsletter to get a tipsheet, episode extras and cool comics about each week’s episode! It’s all at marketplace.org/bonus! Keep sending us your questions about money at marketplace.org/million!

“Million Bazillion” is back for season 2!

Calling all Bazillionaires! Jed, Bridget and the gang are back for brand-new episodes of “Million Bazillion”! This season, we’re answering one tough money question each week from real kids! Questions like “How is money made?” “Why are women’s clothes sometimes more expensive than men’s?” “How do banks work, anyway?” And for season two, we’re putting out a bonus email newsletter for kids and their grownups. Each week you’ll get a tip sheet, episode extras, and cool comics all about that episode’s big question. Sign up at Marketplace.org/bonus . The fun starts June 22. Here’s a sneak peek.

Jed and Bridget need your help!

Hey, Million Bazillionaires! Jed and Bridget are hard at work on season two of our show. But to get it over the finish line, we need a favor (or two)! Kids, we need your money questions! You can send them to us, with a grown-up’s help, here . Grown-ups, we need your help closing a funding gap for our new season! Your donation will be matched dollar-for-dollar at marketplace.org/givemillion ! Please help us reach our $50,000 goal!

Secrets for starting a business

There are lots of great reasons to want to start a business: solving a problem, pursuing a passion, even making some money. It takes a lot of dedication and hard work, and even if you do everything right, it may not work out. But that doesn’t necessarily mean you failed — thinking through a business idea can build some really great skills! This week, we talk with a bunch of expert kids and grown-ups about turning an idea into a full-blown business. Plus, Jed bakes us some cookies! And just because the season is over doesn’t mean we don’t still want to hear from you! Keep sending us your questions about money at Marketplace.org/million !

Saving money is really hard to do

Jed’s treehouse needs repairs, but it’s gonna cost more than he has right now. Saving money can be tough — and even tougher to talk about! So this week on the show we’re gonna get the conversation started and learn a few ways to think about spending and saving our money. We’ll sit down with some experts, do some mythbusting around saving and hear from a young Dollar Scholar who’s got a unique way of keeping track of her savings. Plus, singer Natasha Bedingfield’s got a cheeky idea for a twist on the piggy bank. Don’t forget to send us your questions about money at Marketplace.org/million!

Ads are there for a reason — to sell you stuff

Advertisers have lots of ways of persuading us to buy their stuff. Sometimes you might not even realize it’s happening … until you find yourself riding around town on an ice-cream-making scooter. (Don’t worry, we’ll explain.) This week on the show, we’ll learn how to spot an ad and identify the tricks they use to win you over. And we’ll learn how to defend against them — from our special guest, Captain Kimberly. Plus, this week’s Dollar Scholar shares great ways you can help out in your community. Don’t forget to send us your questions about money at Marketplace.org/million!

The price of pizza

There’s a reason things cost what they do — sneakers, pizza, you name it. Businesses put a lot of thought into how much they charge, because they have to consider their behind-the-scenes costs. But you might put just as much thought into what you’re willing to pay — so in a way, you get the final word on whether the prices are right. This week on the show, we’ll talk about how we value the things we buy. Plus, two Dollar Scholars talk to each other about their saving and spending habits, and we’ll hear pastry chef Duff Goldman’s idea for a pizza rover. Don’t forget to send us your questions about money and your ideas for what businesses you wish existed at Marketplace.org/million !

Negotiation is a super important skill

This week, we’re learning how to get what you want through negotiation. It’s about empowering kids — and hopefully avoiding big, nasty arguments — by employing new skills like active listening and compromise. We’ll use those skills to help our friend Ruby, who wants her parents to get her a new smartphone. Plus, we’ve got some great knock-knock jokes, and LeVar Burton tells us whom he wants to see on U.S. currency. Send us your questions about money along with your money designs to marketplace.org/million !

Where did money come from?

For our very first episode, we’re traveling back thousands of years to learn about all the ways people got what they needed from each other before money was invented: bartering with whatever they had, making pacts with close friends and eventually inventing coins and other forms of money! Plus we’ll ask some random kids not-so-random questions, and Kristen Bell designs her own money. By the way, we want to keep answering your questions about money! Send your questions and your money designs to Marketplace.org/million.

Introducing Million Bazillion!

Marketplace’s first-ever kids podcast is out next week! In collaboration with “Brains On!,” “Million Bazillion” helps dollars make more sense. We’re tackling the big questions, like: Who invented money? How do you get your parents to agree to buy something you want? How do advertisers make you want what they’re selling — and how do you take your brain back? And why do things like pizza cost what they do? Host Jed Kim will help answer all these questions, with help from super-smart experts, kids and some famous friends. The first episode drops July 21! Here’s a trailer.