Few economists have shed as much light on the long-run impact of institutions as Melissa Dell.

Her efforts, which earned her this year's John Bates Clark Medal, have helped pinpoint some of the root causes of poverty and insecurity around the world. Her research stands out for the novel datasets she's collected and the innovative ways she's put them to use.

Notably, the Harvard professor has shown how Peru's history of colonialism shaped the economy it has today. Her work ranges from state-building in Vietnam to the unintended consequences of crackdowns on drug-trafficking in Mexico.

Dell is deeply interested in untangling the complicated role that coercive state actions have had on societies.

Co-hosts Tyler Smith and Chris Fleisher spoke with Dell about the through line to her research, the insights she's gained from first-hand experience, and what advice she has for young economists.