Nathan Baschez: COVID Economics

The Better Show

This week we are bringing you a special bonus episode as a follow up to our recent discussion on understanding economics in the age of COVID-19. In this episode Ian interviews Nathan Baschez, author of the Divinations newsletter that focuses on business strategy. Ian and Nathan discuss Nathan’s latest article on the economics of COVID-19.

Show Notes

• 4:18 — Nathan shares why he felt compelled to write about the economics of the COVID-19 pandemic.
• 7:18 — The contrast between the parts of the economy that are wiped out versus the parts of the economy that are surging.
• 12:39 — Nathan’s experience with the recent changes ushered in by the response to COVID-19.
• 15:48 — Trends and changes in online behavior as people are staying at home now.
• 18:05 — What strategies Nathan suggests for businesses during this time.
• 20:15 — The response from event organizers like SXSW over canceling events prior to the spread.
• 22:15 — The difference between the 2008 mortgage crisis and the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic.
• 24:07 — The impact of supply chain disruptions.
• 28:25 — Nathan discusses what economic impact surprised him the most so far.
• 31:50 — Ian and Nathan discuss their predictions for what’s next for the economy.
• 36:06 — Ian closes the conversation on a positive note.

Mentions

• 📰 Newsletter: Divinations newsletter by Nathan Baschez
• 🎙️ Podcast: The Better Show Episode 128: Econ 101 in the age of COVID-19