New breakdown every Thursday
The real business behind the brands you buy.
Why is the Costco hot dog still $1.50? How does a free app pay its bills? Short, sourced breakdowns of how everyday companies actually make their money.
Latest episodes
Fresh breakdowns
Every episode follows the money: who pays, who profits, and why the price is what it is.
How every episode works
Follow the money, show the receipts
1
A real question
Something you've actually wondered at the checkout, the drive-thru or the app store.
2
The actual numbers
Annual reports, filings and reputable reporting. Every figure is sourced on the episode page.
3
What it means for you
How the business model shows up in the price you pay, and how to use that to your advantage.
Got a why?
Tell us what to break down next
Wondering how a company you buy from makes its money? Send it in. The best questions become episodes.