Wharton Economist Explains the Hidden Markets Affecting Our Daily Lives
Episode Description
EPISODE OVERVIEW Wharton professor and economist Judd Kessler shares insights from his new book, "Lucky by Design: The Hidden Economics You Need to Get More of What You Want," which helps readers strategize how to gain an advantage in the hidden markets affecting our daily lives. This episode is part of our Ripple Effect podcast's “Meet the Authors” series.
PODCAST OVERVIEW Every day, business scholars answer pressing questions in their research - but what do their insights mean for you? In this podcast, Wharton faculty dive into what inspired their studies and how their findings resonate with the world today. Learn how research insights translate into knowledge you can use, with host Dan Loney.
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Brief Summary
Judd Kessler discusses hidden markets and strategies to navigate them for better outcomes in life.
Key points
- Lucky By Design. Judd Kessler explores the connection between luck and design in hidden markets.
- Understanding Hidden Markets. Kessler reveals how hidden markets operate and their prevalence in daily life.
- Strategies for Market Participation. Kessler shares strategies to navigate hidden markets effectively.
- The Role of Scarcity. Kessler discusses how companies create artificial scarcity to drive demand.
- Managing Personal Markets. Kessler highlights the importance of managing our own time and attention.
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Episode highlights
- Lucky By DesignJudd Kessler explores the connection between luck and design in hidden markets.“You can actually make your own luck in these markets.”2:01Oct 21, 2025
- Understanding Hidden MarketsKessler reveals how hidden markets operate and their prevalence in daily life.“The world is not as random as we think.”2:20Oct 21, 2025
- Strategies for Market ParticipationKessler shares strategies to navigate hidden markets effectively.“Sometimes money comes back in, right?”6:46Oct 21, 2025
- The Role of ScarcityKessler discusses how companies create artificial scarcity to drive demand.“Companies create fake scarcity to generate excitement.”14:19Oct 21, 2025
- Managing Personal MarketsKessler highlights the importance of managing our own time and attention.“You have to decide what is going to get your valuable attention.”17:20Oct 21, 2025





