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Profit, Power, and Policy

Profit, Power, and Policy

Written by: BKNL Productions LLC
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Professors Bill Keep and Nancy Lasher defend the benefits of competitive markets while exposing business behaviors that undercut the type of competition originally described by the 18th century philosopher Adam Smith. Smith warned that businesses would be naturally inclined toward collusion and anti-competitive behaviors. He had no way of knowing the role money would eventually play in shaping politics and policies.

© 2026 Profit, Power, and Policy Economics Political Science Politics & Government Social Sciences
Episodes
  • Social Mobility Down; Tribalism Up

    Social Mobility Down; Tribalism Up
    Feb 12 2026

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    Increased tribalism and lower social mobility are not independent of each other. In the episode Nancy and Bill explore the connection between the two and the unfortunate implications if both continue in their current trajectories.

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    28 mins
  • Unions: More Relevant Than Ever

    Unions: More Relevant Than Ever
    Feb 3 2026

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    In this episode Nancy and Bill interview Donna Steslow, a professor, Grievance Co-Chair, and member of the union Executive Committee. Recent economic events have exposed both the positive role unions played in building the middle class and the current need for labor to be represented. Increased income inequality, a K-style economy that benefits a small percentage of households, and historic-levels of extreme wealth combine to put most households at an economic disadvantage.
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    26 mins
  • Corruption Everywhere: Can We Trust Again?

    Corruption Everywhere: Can We Trust Again?
    Jan 22 2026

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    In this episode Nancy and Bill explore the loss of trust across a number of industries and the integrity of the political process, often facilitated by changing business practices. Trust matters and has economic value. What will it take to get trust back?
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    26 mins
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