Feb 17, 2022

In a tight job market, maybe it’s time to rethink degree requirements

The cap of a former student of Jefferson County Public Schools can be seen as they clap within their row during a makeup graduation ceremony at Central High School on May 28, 2021 in Louisville, Kentucky. Jon Cherry/Getty Images

Plus: COVID's waning impacts on the economy, a shortage of breast milk supplies and the quest to make the next big toy.

Segments From this episode

COVID & Unemployment

Is the virus still in control of the economy?

by Mitchell Hartman

Feb 17, 2022

Recent numbers suggest this economy is increasingly shrugging its shoulders at the pandemic.

Consumers are reverting back to pre-pandemic habits, in terms of savings and spending. This could be a sign that the economy is learning to deal with COVID.

Spencer Platt/Getty Images

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Although housing starts slid in January, more building is coming

by Amy Scott

Feb 17, 2022

As that omicron wanes and weather warms, analysts expect building to pick up. That doesn't mean it'll make a dent in the housing shortage.

Getty Images

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Hiring based on skills instead of college degrees opens up opportunities for millions

by Meghan McCarty Carino

Feb 17, 2022

As the labor market heats up, an increasing number of companies are pledging to change their approach to recruitment.

Degree inflation has made a college education almost mandatory. A hiring process based on skill could be more inclusive, and productive.

Rick Diamond/Getty Images

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Sustainable fuel for planes is closer than you may think

by Andy Uhler

Feb 17, 2022

Still, it will take greater regulation to popularize its use. "Voluntary goals don't work," one expert told us.

Carl Court/AFP Getty Images

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"There will always be a need for donor milk,” says leader of a milk bank

by Kai Ryssdal and Anais Amin

Feb 17, 2022

Donated breast milk helps nonlactating mothers provide nutrition to their babies. But the supply is down, and the need is urgent.

The distribution of breast milk, which is perishable, has been disrupted by supply chain problems. Milk banks have called for more women to donate, especially to help vulnerable infants.

Natalie Behring/AFP via Getty Images

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What does it take to launch a successful toy?

by Stephanie Hughes

Feb 17, 2022

Americans are buying lots of toys right now. But launching a new one is still very difficult — a good idea is no guarantee of success

Clixo, a toy that launched during the pandemic, uses magnets to connect pieces. A Duplo Lego set is in the background.

Stephanie Hughes/Marketplace

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Music from the episode

Raw Karmawin

93 'Til Infinity Souls Of Mischief

School Four Tet

Lowrider Yussef Kamaal

Wide Eyes Local Natives

Brick Ben Folds Five

Colors - Audien Remix Halsey, Audien

The team

Nancy Farghalli Executive Producer

Maria Hollenhorst Producer II

Andie Corban Producer I

Sean McHenry Director & Associate Producer II

Richard Cunningham Associate Producer I

Dylan Miettinen Associate Digital Producer

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