Million Bazillion
Million Bazillion is a podcast from Marketplace that inspires families to talk about money. It tackles questions from kids about topics like cryptocurrency, saving money, and inflation. Hosts Ryan Perez and Bridget Bodnar take listeners on adventures to answer complex money questions. The podcast is funded by the Sy Syms Foundation and supported by Next Gen Personal Finance.
Episodes
How do claw machines work?
Today, we’re resharing an episode that’s perfect for a summer listen. 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
Why did the U.S. stop making pennies?
Bridget and Ryan are approached by a big film producer to write the next summer blockbuster — a movie all about the penny! The timing couldn’t be better because so many of you have been wanting to know: why did the U.S. stop making pennies? The answer comes down to dollars and cents. But … will this be “Million Bazillion”’s big break into Hollywood? Listen now to find out.
Introducing "The Midnight Rebellion": which climate path would you take?
Hey Million Bazillionaires, we're dropping into your feeds again this week to tackle a different kind of question: can we actually change course on climate change? That question is at the heart of a new podcast for kids and families from our friends at WBUR. “The Midnight Rebellion” is a pick-your-own-path podcast set 100 years in the future, where the stakes are nothing less than the pla
What’s the difference between capitalism, socialism, and communism?
Bridget and Ryan are having their lunch break at a Chinese restaurant when they run into “Million Bazillion” listener Daphne with a big question: What’s the difference between capitalism, socialism, and communism? Turns out, each system was born out of people’s attempts to build a better society, but they have very different ideas about the role the government should play in our money liv
How do athletes get paid?
Today, we’re resharing an episode from our archive that feels especially relevant as the World Cup men’s soccer tournament kicks off next week! “Million Bazillion” listener Alistair wants to know how professional athletes get paid. It’s perfect timing for the question as Bridget and Ryan prepare for the semi-annual Public Radio Foosball Tournament. They scramble to assemble their dream te
What if there was only one currency in the whole world?
We’ve talked a lot about how money works and why countries have their own currencies here on “Million Bazillion.” But listener Alessio wants to know: Why DOESN’T the whole world use the same money? And could the world’s nations all decide to just use one shared currency? In this bonus mini-episode, we’ll get some answers!
How does a company buy another company?
“Million Bazillion” listener Cora wants to know: How does a company buy another company? But before Bridget and Ryan can answer, Borpo, host of “Learning with Borpo” and CEO of a giant educational media empire, shows up with an offer to buy “Million Bazillion!” As the duo tries to figure out whether it’s a good deal or not, they’ll learn that buying (or selling) a company is more than jus
What is the gold standard?
In this episode, Bridget and Ryan travel through the history of money in front of a live audience of kids and families (for real!) to answer Sofia’s big question: What is the gold standard? Together, they explore this old money rule, how paper money became a thing, and why no countries in the world – not a single one – use gold to back their money anymore.This episode was performed as par
Why is there so much gold at Fort Knox?
Today, we’re resharing an important episode from our archive! We’re answering Sadie’s question about why there is so much gold at Fort Knox. (And, we’re releasing a special new episode next week all about gold too. We can’t wait for you to hear it!) Fort Knox is one of the most secure places in the world. In today’s episode, Bridget and Ryan are determined to get inside! But just as the p
What are checks?
The episode you’ve been waiting for is finally here. This is part 2 of the San Fran Fin Lit Pod Con cliffhanger episode from last season. Bridget and Ryan finally made it to the conference, only to find it’s entirely cashless. It’s the perfect opportunity to answer all your non-paper-money questions: What would happen if we lived in a cashless world and paid for everything with debit and
Where do game shows get their prize money?
“Million Bazillion” listeners and brothers John and Peter want to know where game shows get their prize money. It’s the perfect opportunity to answer this question as Ryan and Bridget find themselves competing on a chaotic game show with a chance to win $1 million on the line. While they take on one challenge after another, the duo uncover the surprising ways game shows get the cash for t
Why does the price of gas go up and down?
If you’re anything like “Million Bazillion” listener, Elijah, you may have noticed gas prices change from one day to the next, sometimes by a few pennies, sometimes by a lot more. Why does that happen? Ryan and Bridget’s search for answers turns into a much bigger adventure when a falling star and misplaced wish mean Ryan’s car suddenly comes to life and takes them on a wild road trip. To
What are tax returns?
The 10th season of “Million Bazillion” is here just in time to mark Bridget and Ryan’s favorite holiday – Tax Day! There’s just one problem: Ryan hasn’t finished filing his taxes yet. With the clock ticking, Bridget steps in to help him out before midnight. Along the way, they tackle a great question from Kade: What exactly are tax returns? Will they figure everything out before time runs
“Million Bazillion” Season 10 is almost here!
Hello, Million Bazillionaires, we’ve got a new season of “Million Bazillion” coming your way on April 14!To mark the 10th season, Bridget and Ryan are going all out to answer your money questions. If you’re wondering why gas prices keep going up? We’ve got answers. Curious what the fuss is about Tax Day? We’ve got that covered too. Plus, a special episode about the gold standard, recorded
What is inflation?
Today we're resharing an episode from our archive that might feel more relevant with gas prices up. We're going to dig more into those gas prices in the new season of “Million Bazillion: (coming soon). But this is a good time to learn about something called "inflation." After traveling back in time to stock up on snacks, Bridget and Ryan get a chance to try to control runaway inflation …
What are royalties, trademark and copyright?
It’s karaoke night for Bridget and Ryan, but something stops them from belting their favorite tunes on their podcast: the law. It’s the perfect setup to answer a question from Garrett, who wants to know about copyright, trademarks, and royalties. We all know people deserve to be paid for their creative ideas. But how does it actually work? Together, we’ll find out how creators protect the
Why do we have $2 bills if nobody uses them?
It’s Skimbleshanks’ birthday bash and Bridget and Ryan head to the two-dollar general store for party supplies. When they get back, they tackle Harper’s question about why $2 bills exist if nobody uses them. With a little help from two ghostly guests from history they discover why this rare bill still matters. If your family is interested in learning even more about today’s question, chec
What is the national debt?
It’s Halloween, and Bridget and Ryan are trying to answer a question about the national debt while preparing for their town’s giant Halloween extravaganza. The town has taken on debt to make things extra spooky this year and things are starting to get a little out of control! Can Bridget and Ryan help the town navigate their monster debt?(Grownups: This is episode does contain monsters bu
How do stocks make money? (Part 2)
In the previous episode of “Million Bazillion,” listener Aditya wanted to know all about the stock market, and how people make money from stocks. So what happens when a kid actually decides to try it out? Well, today we’re going to hear Joshua’s investing story, in his own words, and what happened when he decided to invest money in the stock market instead of keeping it in the bank. Don’t
How do stocks make money?
“Marketplace” host Kai Ryssdal needs a bit of help doing his classic “The Numbers” stock market segment so Ryan jumps in to save the day. The only problem is, he has no idea what any of it means. Ryan and Bridget head to Wall Street to learn about the stock market and answer Aditya’s question: how do stocks make money? Things get competitive as the duo try investing in stocks for themselv
What is insurance?
Today, we’re resharing an important episode from our archive! There’s a major storm brewing, and Ryan and Bridget are stuck inside. 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 Archer wants to know what his dad does all day. Turns out insurance is uh, complicated. From home insurance to he
What is a government shutdown?
When Esmé noticed her dad suddenly staying home from work, she had questions! Her dad is one of the hundreds of thousands of workers sent home because of the government shutdown. But what is a government shutdown anyway? In today’s special bonus episode, we explain what’s going.We’re working on future seasons and would love to hear your kid’s money questions! Record your Million Bazillion
Why is it called a bull market or a bear market?
Bridget and Ryan are at the Podcast Hosts for Youths Sleepaway Camp, but Ryan just can’t fall asleep. That’s when they meet Dougie Pickles, host of the Cozy Critters sleepy time podcast, with a surprising bedtime trick. Together, they unpack the world where animals and money collide, learn what bull and bear markets are, and introduce us to a fishy little entrepreneur, all while soothing
Why does everything cost more at airports?
You had lots of travel related money questions! So, Bridget and Ryan are on a money mission. While racing through the airport on their way to the San Fran Fin Lit Pod Con, they get to the bottom of why stuff costs more at airports than at regular stores, how currency exchange works and where our money actually comes from. How does it travel from the U.S. Mint to our wallets? Cue the spy m
What is a financial bubble?
Today, we’re talking about bubbles. Not the kind you play with. The kind that happen in the economy! Bridget and Ryan take a trip down memory lane to answer Jocelin’s question about what caused the 2008 housing bubble. With help from Bridget’s unforgettable treehouse bubble tale, we’ll learn what can happen when prices rise too high, too fast and the bubble finally pops! Plus, why it’s so
What is a chain restaurant?
It's the start of a whole new season and Bridget and Ryan have a great question from listener, Dena: What is a chain restaurant? Some chain restaurants work a little differently than other chains — they're "franchises" and individual people can open a location of their own! To answer Dena’s question, Bridget and Ryan try their hand at opening their own location of the incredibly popular a
“Million Bazillion” returns Sept. 16!
Hey Million Bazillionaires, are you ready for a new season of “Million Bazillion”?Bridget and Ryan are back to answer even more of your money questions. This season, we’ll learn all about the business behind your favorite chain restaurants, take a flight to find out why airport prices are sky-high and pop into the world of bubbles, not the ones you blow with soap, but the kind that burst
Who is fibbing about ... the stock market?
Hi Million Bazillionaires. While we’re working on a brand-new season, we’ve got a special treat for you. Today, we’re sharing an episode from our friends over at “The Big Fib.” In this gameshow, a kid contestant will try to spot which adult expert is lying about … the stock market. What do you call the person who buys and sells stocks for a fee? How many stocks get sold in a day? Which st
The ghost that launched a business
Hey, Million Bazillionaires! We just wrapped up the latest season of the show and are already working on the next one. In the meantime, we’re bringing you a special feature from our friends at Story Pirates. In this episode, you’ll hear two fun stories: “The Ghost That Launched a Business,” a terrifying tale about entrepreneurship, written by Jesse, a 9-year-old from the UK, and “Julius C
How does online scamming work?
Bridget and Ryan get swept up in a cyberpunk adventure as they try to answer Cooper’s question about how online data thefts can lead to real world consequences for your bank account. With the help of longtime friend of the program, Scam Slammer Host Brenda Hammer, the duo travel inside the internet to follow the trail of our digital bread crumbs, and see how advertisers and fraudsters get
How much debt is too much debt?
Bridget and Ryan get a question from listener Deji - who wants to know, how much debt is too much debt? Before they can answer, the pair run into Ghost Pirate Blackbeard, who has the same question! Together, they learn more about debt, and what everyone, even a ghost pirate, needs to know before borrowing money. If your family is interested in learning more about the questions we answere
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 su
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
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 question
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
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.
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 experie
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 sta
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 fam
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
"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
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 w
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 f
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
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 ponc
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
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 int
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
“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 shop
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 pl
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 wh
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
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
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 ge
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 m
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 l
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
“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 expert
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
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 a
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 NerdWalletHere are some free savings trackers you can printLook at these differen
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 o
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 suc
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 le
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 Slamme
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 differe
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 hidd
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 R
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 bu
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 a
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
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
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
“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
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 ti
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, dis
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
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