The supply chain is still clogged and inflation is at a 30-year high, while the U.S. has been importing more overseas goods than before the COVID pandemic. The main issue is an intense spike in demand, driven by affluent people who already have what they need. That’s all according to Amanda Mull, author of The Atlantic’s “Material World” column.

She suggests people should look at whether compulsive shopping is the best use of time, energy, and resources. She says psychological research shows that if people can refocus energy away from buying/giving gifts, and toward spending time with family and creating experiences, they’ll end up happier. 

Meanwhile, California health officials have cleared COVID-19 booster shots for all adults, but that doesn’t match the CDC’s national guidance. It’s caused confusion among residents looking to book appointments. 

KCRW also looks at whether big corporations have fulfilled their promises of more diversity, equity, and inclusion. Plus, when was the last time you logged onto the Neopets website?