Alex Mayyasi

Alex Mayyasi is a longtime contributor and occasional cohost to NPR's acclaimed "Planet Money" podcast, where he examines the economic forces shaping everyday life through storytelling. His work has appeared in outlets such as The Atlantic, Smithsonian, and Priceonomics, demonstrating his ability to explain complex economic concepts to broad audiences. As editor of Gastro Obscura, Mayyasi explored a range of topics, further developing his expertise in public discourse on economics and culture.

Mayyasi is the co-author of "Planet Money: A Guide to the Economic Forces That Shape Your Life," created with the podcast's hosts. The book compiles more than a decade of reporting into an illustrated volume with insights and stories about economics. He also co-authored "You Are Under Arrest for Thinking" and wrote "Everything Is Bullshit: The Greatest Scams on Earth Revealed," books that examine hidden truths and deceptions in the economic world, reinforcing his role as a voice on economic literacy and critical thinking.

Mayyasi is a public speaker who appears at events such as live tapings and book launches with Planet Money colleagues at venues including the Chicago Humanities Festival, Pittsburgh Arts & Lectures, and Literary Arts in Beaverton. These engagements reflect his ability to present economic stories in a relatable and engaging manner for diverse audiences. Mayyasi's ongoing work in podcasting, publishing, and public speaking positions him as a communicator on economics, attracting audiences interested in real-world economic perspectives.