Ever feel like the economy has turned into one giant tug-of-war? In our latest Volala: Volatility is the Life of Our Party, we explore how everything from federal budget cuts to high-speed news cycles is changing the very meaning of “economic power”—both globally and right in our own communities.

Here’s a quick look at what’s on the menu:

• The Economy as the New Battleground

While conflicts on real battlefields remain a harsh reality, economic power has taken a leading role in today’s struggles—from trade negotiations and AI ownership battles to “debt firepower.” We discuss how these shifts influence everything from military spending to control over the technology that shapes our daily lives.

• The Fast-Spinning News Cycle

From inflation to tech layoffs, each day brings a new “urgent” headline. With polls showing that the economy, healthcare, and immigration all vie for top concern, many of us feel pressured to micromanage every issue. We talk about why that’s overwhelming, the real scope of voter responsibility, and how Volya aims to make digestible analysis that helps people stay engaged—without drowning in updates.

• DC’s Difficult Times

Federal layoffs, buyouts, and a cloudy job market have created a real sense of unease in the Capitol. But neighbors and small businesses are stepping in to help, showcasing how people can rally when big systems feel shaky. We tackle why “breaking things down” (like agencies or budgets) is easier than rebuilding—and how that reality ripples out to everyone else.

• Knowledge Workers, Gather Your Lego Sets

What if planning your career felt more like collecting and rearranging Legos? We share our “Lego Theory” to help you identify the skills you already have (and the ones you’d like to build), so you can craft a path that’s flexible and future-friendly—whether you’re in government, tech, or somewhere in between.

• Federal Agency Cuts

Agencies like NOAA and NIH aren’t just bureaucratic acronyms; they shape critical weather forecasts, medical research, and beyond. We break down why these proposed cuts might look like a quick way to save money, but can carry deeper, long-term costs for innovation, education, and even everyday community life.

If you’re looking for a friendlier, more accessible take on today’s headline frenzy, this episode is for you. Send your feedback and ideas for future episodes to [email protected]. We’d love to hear what keeps you awake at night—so we can turn it into something a little more hopeful.