From GDP to Bourbon Prices: A Balanced Scorecard for the Nation

Duration: 54.32 | Recorded on January 19, 2025

S2E4 – In this episode, the brothers dive into a data-driven discussion about how to measure presidential success. Instead of relying on political spin or folklore, they explore a wide range of metrics, from traditional economic indicators like GDP, inflation (CPI and PPI), and unemployment rates, to less conventional measures like labor participation rates, manufacturing jobs, international conflict reduction, and health outcomes. (They even consider the impact of presidential policies on the price of bourbon and rum!) The brothers discuss how government spending affects inflation and the importance of understanding that many factors influence the economy. They analyze the complexity of measuring economic success and emphasize the need to consider a “balanced scorecard” of measures.

Show Notes:

Featured Bourbon: Elmer T. Lee Single Barrel Bourbon

Featured Rum: Dos Maderas Triple Aged Rum

Bureau of Labor Statistics (for unemployment rate, CPI, etc.)

ACLED (Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project)

UCDP (Uppsala Conflict Data Program)

Global Peace Index

Correlates of War Project

Heidelberg Institute for International Conflict Research

Conflict Barometer