Art, Economy, and Endangered Cuisine: Conrad Benner’s Insights

This holiday season, with the uncertain economic outlook, consumers are facing big decisions about their spending habits. Are they planning to splurge or save? To shed light on this topic, we spoke with Wharton marketing professor Cait Lamberton for some insight into holiday spending and consumer confidence.

Meanwhile, culinary historian Sarah Lohman has been traveling across the United States to uncover rare foods that are at risk of extinction. From New Jersey cider apples to Hawaiian heritage sugar cane, Lohman met with farmers, ranchers, scientists, and activists who are working to preserve these foods. She discusses her new book, Endangered Eating, and the importance of bringing heirloom foods back to our tables.

In addition to all of this holiday shopping talk, WHYY is set to debut a new podcast called Art Outside on Tuesday. Hosted by Street Dept. blogger Conrad Benner, the series will showcase five street artists and explore their impact and motivation for creating outdoor art. The inaugural episode will feature an artist known as “the Philadelphia Bansky,” who is taking on the Philadelphia Parking Authority with his art. Benner will discuss the series and give us all a sneak peek into what’s sure to be an exciting new podcast!