Tariffs, TGI Friday’s and Type 1 Diabetes - Roundtable Ft. Eric Mason

In this episode of The Band of Traders, Kyle, Bear Goes Long, and special guest Eric Mason (CFO) dive into the economics of tariffs, trade deficits, and the real impact of protectionist policies. Eric, an economist with a sharp wit, breaks down why tariffs rarely work as intended and how trade imbalances are often misunderstood. The trio also explores the unintended consequences of economic policies, from price distortions to supply chain shifts.Beyond the markets, the conversation takes some unexpected and hilarious detours—including lucid dreaming, getting diagnosed with type 1 Diabetes, and the surprising history of TGI Fridays. With a mix of deep economic insight and offbeat humor, this episode is both an informative and entertaining ride.Previous episode on tariffs:"Tariffs Never Make Something Better"Sponsors and FriendsOur podcast is sponsored by Sue Maki at Fairway Independent Mortgage (MLS# 206048). Licensed in 38 states, if you need anything mortgage-related, reach out to her at [email protected] or give her a call at (520) 977-7904. Tell her 2 Bulls sent you to get the best rates available!For anyone trading futures, check out Vantatrading.com. Founded by Mr. W Banks and Baba Yaga, they provide a ton of educational content with the focus of teaching aspiring traders how to build a repeatable, profitable process. You can find our exclusive affiliate link/discount code for Vanta ‘s subscription in our free discord server as well!If you are interested in signing up with TRADEPRO Academy, you can use our affiliate link here. We receive compensation for any purchases made when using this link, so it's a great way to support the show and learn at the same time! **Join our Discord for a link and code to save 10%**Visit Airsoftmaster.com to support one of our own!To contact us, you can email us directly at [email protected] Be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, or Discord to get updated when new content is posted! Check out our directory for other amazing interviews we've done in the past!If you like our show, please let us know by rating and subscribing on your platform of choice!If you like our show and hate social media, then please tell all your friends!If you have no friends and hate social media and you just want to give us money for advertising to help you find more friends, then you can donate to support the show here!Eric:Eric is a practicing labor economist, who currently works as a chief financial officer for the city of Quincy, Ma. His area of research focuses primarily on small business and macroeconomics trends. Eric has a special interest in historical economics, cliometrics and steers clear of ideological hardlines, preferring to use empirical analysis in his appearances.theinformaleconomist.comFollow Eric on LinkedInFollow Eric on TwitterBoston Blockchain WeekBear:Bear made the transition from investing to trading at the beginning of COVID. After initial success with options, he quickly learned that his luck was greater than his skill and shifted his focus to futures. Bear has fully embraced the role of emotions and mental capital with the mindset that trading futures is purely an internal struggle that rewards patience, calm, bravery, focus, passion, and commitment. Beyond markets Bear finds joy in his community as a volunteer firefighter and EMT.Follow Bear on TwitterAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy