In this thought-provoking clip from MM, Troy Millings, Rashad Bilal, and Ian Dunlap sit down to discuss a topic that's on everyone's mind but rarely gets seriously questioned: What is the real price of the products we buy? As tariffs rise and markets shift, the trio unpacks how consumer goods—from luxury items like handbags and cars to everyday essentials—are being marked up far beyond their actual manufacturing costs. The conversation digs deep into the economics behind pricing, exposing how the lack of transparency and unchecked capitalism in America has led to unsustainable price hikes, even for necessities. Rashad highlights recent viral videos showing shockingly low production costs in China for furniture, clothing, and more, sparking a fresh debate on how capitalism and belief systems influence what we're willing to pay. Ian points out that while inflation and product costs soar, wages remain stagnant, putting increased pressure on families and driving record-high credit card debt. They question if some regulation is overdue, especially as essential items are being priced more like luxury goods, threatening to spark economic unrest. The clip also contrasts American and Chinese models of economic growth, noting how collective action and long-term planning in China have lifted millions out of poverty, while America’s short-term focus and influence of powerful oligarchs have contributed to growing inequality and market instability. From healthcare and education costs to the global implications of AI in medicine, this clip leaves listeners rethinking not just the price tags on goods—but the systems and beliefs that put them there. *Key topics covered:* Real cost vs. retail price of goods in America and ChinaThe role of capitalism, markups, and corporate greedHow market belief systems set value and priceTariffs, inflation, and stagnant wagesEssential vs. luxury items: where do we draw the line?Short-term vs. long-term economic planning in America and abroadThe rise of American oligarchs and their effect on democracyWhy regulation, transparency, and alternatives matter for the future Learn why questioning the true cost of what you buy is more important than ever, and how this conversation offers a blueprint for understanding—and possibly changing—the economic game. --- *Hashtags:* #Economy #Capitalism #ProductPricing #ChinaVsUSA #MMMedium #Tariffs #CostOfLiving #ConsumerTruth #MarketValue #EconomicReality #WealthGap #FinancialEducation --- For more insightful conversations, subscribe and hit the bell so you don’t miss a single clip from MM Medium. Share your thoughts below—what product pricing shocks you most? Our Sponsors: * Check out NerdWallet: https://www.nerdwallet.com Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/marketmondays/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this dynamic clip, thought leaders Morgan Debaun, Troy Millings, Rashad Bilal, and Ian Dunlap break down the monumental impact of AI on today's workforce and industries. Morgan Debaun doesn’t sugarcoat the reality — AI is rapidly replacing traditional roles, and it’s time to adapt or risk getting left behind. The conversation covers which jobs and industries are most at risk (think graphic design, video editing, project coordinators), and which ones offer new opportunities in the age of AI, including cybersecurity and roles for critical thinkers and solopreneurs. Morgan shares practical examples from her own company, Blavity, illustrating how AI tools have increased productivity and accountability. She highlights how their custom AI-powered writing tool has allowed writers to produce higher quality articles, faster, and why staying up to speed with AI tools is now essential for all professionals. If you want to future-proof your career or business, this clip is a must-watch. The panel dives into specific AI tools transforming workflows — including Google Gemini, ChatGPT Enterprise, Salesforce/Slack integrations, Asana, and the latest AI features in Canva. Get ahead of the curve: discover where AI is creating new industries and how you can leverage these tools to become a more strategic, in-demand professional. *Hashtags:* #AI #ArtificialIntelligence #FutureOfWork #CareerAdvice #MorganDebaun #TechTalk #Solopreneur #Productivity #AItools #CareerDevelopment #MediaInnovation Our Sponsors: * Check out NerdWallet: https://www.nerdwallet.com Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/marketmondays/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy