Podcast Summary: The Economics of Everyday Things
Host: Zachary Crockett (Freakonomics Network)
Episode: 120. An update on the show
Date: December 29, 2025
Overview:
This special update episode marks a significant moment for "The Economics of Everyday Things." Host Zachary Crockett reflects on the show’s purpose—uncovering the extraordinary stories behind seemingly ordinary objects and services—and shares bittersweet news about the future of the podcast. He celebrates the community built over three years and offers guidance for connecting beyond the podcast.
Key Discussion Points & Insights
1. Purpose and Philosophy of the Show
- Zach revisits the show's core idea:
"Everything in daily life is interesting if you look beneath the surface." (00:07)
- Examples given:
- Toothpaste tubes, billboards, laundromats—everyday items with hidden complexity.
- Emphasizes the universal appeal and hidden stories behind common things:
2. Achievements & Milestones
- Podcast reach and longevity:
"Over the past three years, we've reached millions of listeners on seven continents."
- 120 episodes produced
- Nearly 500,000 words of scripts written
- 300+ interviewees including tow truck drivers, pizza box manufacturers, cemetery executives, pistachio farmers, elevator mechanics, and Michelin star chefs.
- Personal significance for Zach:
"Working on this show has been one of the greatest joys of my life, and I really hope our work has taught you some new things about the world." (00:46)
3. Announcement: Indefinite Hiatus
- Zach shares the main update:
"If you missed our announcement in last week's episode, I've got some sad news ... Starting the New Year, we're going on an indefinite hiatus." (01:03)
- Back catalogue will remain available, and episodes will re-run in the podcast feed.
- Possibility of return:
"It's possible there may be new episodes at some point, but in the meantime, the best place to keep up with what I'm doing is my newsletter." (01:22)
4. Staying Connected
- Encourages listeners to subscribe to his newsletter for updates:
"You can find it at zcrocket.com ... I put the link in the show notes below. If you'd like to head over there and subscribe, I'd really appreciate your support." (01:31)
5. Closing and Parting Wisdom
- Zach thanks listeners for their support:
"Alright, thanks for all the love and I hope to be back at some point with more."
- Leaves with a signature message:
"Until then, don't stop looking for the extraordinary in the ordinary. It's all around you." (01:47)
Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments
- On the show’s premise:
"Everything in daily life is interesting if you look beneath the surface. It could be a tube of toothpaste, a billboard, or a laundromat." (00:07–00:16)
- On community and gratitude:
"Working on this show has been one of the greatest joys of my life, and I really hope our work has taught you some new things about the world." (00:46)
- On the hiatus announcement:
"Starting the New year, we're going on an indefinite hiatus. You'll still be able to listen to all of our old episodes and we'll be replaying the show here in the feed starting very soon." (01:03–01:17)
- Signature sign-off:
"Don't stop looking for the extraordinary in the ordinary. It's all around you." (01:47)
Timestamps for Important Segments
- 00:07 — Introduction & show’s founding principle
- 00:35 — Recap of show’s milestones and interviewee diversity
- 01:03 — Announcement of indefinite hiatus
- 01:22 — How to stay updated via Zach’s newsletter
- 01:47 — Memorable closing message
Tone & Style
The episode stays true to the show’s warm, curious, and earnest tone. Zach’s gratitude and genuine enthusiasm for the show’s subject matter and audience come through clearly. The atmosphere is a blend of nostalgia and encouragement, urging listeners to maintain a sense of wonder in everyday life despite the hiatus.
Summary
This brief but heartfelt update delivers both a look back and a hopeful forward glance for fans of "The Economics of Everyday Things." While official episodes are pausing indefinitely, listeners are reminded of the enduring value in examining the ordinary and invited to stay connected via Zachary Crockett's newsletter.