In this episode of Rubber Meets the Road Economics, host Hunter Craig sits down with Professor Edwin Burton to discuss the reality behind unemployment data, inflation, and the impact of free trade. The conversation explores how government policies, interest rates, and debt accumulation affect the U.S. economy. With expert insights from Professor Burton, listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the economic forces shaping our world and how they might impact your financial decisions.

UPDATE: On Tuesday, Sept 17, Professor Burton is calling for a 50 BPS cut by the Federal Reserve tomorrow.

Key Discussion Points:

• Why unemployment data revisions are more common than you think
• How inflation is measured and why it's so hard to pin down
• The true cost of money printing and its impact on everyday Americans
• Free trade vs. tariffs: What's really best for the economy?
• Is the U.S. heading towards an economic crisis due to its debt?

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Disclaimer: The information provided on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as financial advice and should not be relied upon as such. All opinions expressed by the hosts, guests, or participants are solely their own and do not reflect the views of any companies or organizations they may be affiliated with. We recommend that you consult with a qualified financial professional before making any financial decisions. Remember, investing and financial decisions carry risks, and it is important to do your own research.

More about Professor Edwin Burton

Dr. Edwin T. Burton is a distinguished professor of economics at the University of Virginia, specializing in finance, with a particular focus on behavioral finance and the theory of financial markets. His academic career began in 1969, and he has held faculty positions at Cornell University and UVA since 1988. He has also been a key figure on Wall Street, holding senior roles at Smith Barney, Rothschild Financial Services, and Interstate Johnson Lane Corporation.

At UVA, Burton’s courses on finance are among the most popular in the Economics Department, where he has taught thousands of students over his career. In addition to his academic work, he has been deeply involved in public service, serving as the longest-standing trustee of the Virginia Retirement System and holding the position of chairman from 1997 to 2001.

Beyond his academic and professional contributions, Dr. Burton has authored multiple books on finance, with his latest being Behavioral Finance, published in 2014. His broad expertise makes him a sought-after speaker on economic issues, and he regularly presents at high-profile events, including business forums​(

UVA Arts & Sciences