Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

Screenwise Verdict

This is one of those rare educational podcasts that doesn't feel like homework. Million Bazillion takes questions kids actually ask—'Why can't we just print more money?' or 'What even is cryptocurrency?'—and answers them without being patronizing or boring.

The Marketplace team knows how to make economics interesting for adults, and they've successfully translated that skill for kids. It's not flashy or gimmicky; it's just solid, accessible financial education wrapped in a format kids can digest. The fact that it's backed by actual financial literacy organizations (not trying to sell you a budgeting app) adds credibility.

The catch: your kid needs to be genuinely curious about money stuff. This won't convert a child who has zero interest in economics into a finance nerd. But for kids who pepper you with questions about prices, jobs, and why things cost what they do? This is gold. It's the podcast equivalent of finally having good answers to 'Why?' without making everyone's eyes glaze over.

Age Fit

Best for ages 6-12, particularly kids already curious about money, prices, or how the economy works. Younger kids (6-7) might need help with some concepts; older kids (10-12) will appreciate the non-condescending approach. Teens might find it too elementary unless they're genuinely behind on financial literacy.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

92

Marketplace's kid-focused money podcast models healthy financial conversations between parents and children. Hosts Ryan Perez and Bridget Bodnar create a warm, collaborative tone that treats kids' questions with respect. The show encourages family discussion about potentially awkward topics (money) in an age-appropriate way, avoiding consumerism pressure while building financial literacy.

Imaginative

78

Takes abstract financial concepts (cryptocurrency, inflation, saving) and transforms them into 'awesome adventures' that make economics accessible to young minds. The premise itself—that kids' real money questions deserve thoughtful, creative answers—invites curiosity about how the world works. Less about fantasy or creative expression, more about sparking intellectual curiosity and systems thinking.

Safe

95

Podcast format with educational content from a trusted public radio source (Marketplace). No concerning themes, mature content, or surprise elements that would be inappropriate for kids to overhear in the car or at home. The financial focus is practical and age-appropriate, avoiding fear-mongering about money. Family-friendly by design and backed by educational organizations.

Enriching

88

Directly builds financial literacy—a critical life skill rarely taught systematically to kids. Answers real questions from actual children about complex economic topics, helping develop analytical thinking about money systems. Supported by Next Gen Personal Finance and The Ranzetta Family Charitable Fund, signaling genuine educational value. The New York Times called it 'a godsend' for a reason—it fills a real gap in kid-friendly financial education while remaining entertaining enough to hold attention.

Parent Info

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Why It Might Be Great

Fills the financial literacy gap schools ignore—teaches kids about money in ways that actually stick
Answers real questions from real kids, so topics match what children genuinely wonder about
The New York Times called it 'a godsend,' and they're not wrong—this makes awkward money talks way easier
Marketplace pedigree means solid journalism and fact-checking, not gimmicky financial advice
Turns abstract concepts (inflation, cryptocurrency) into digestible adventures without dumbing them down

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What to Watch For

Works best for kids already asking money questions—if your child hasn't shown interest, it might not grab them
Audio-only format requires actual listening skills; won't work as background noise for distractible kids
Some economic concepts might still need parent follow-up depending on your child's age and comprehension level

Conversation Starters

"So what did you think about how they explained [topic from episode]? Does that make sense to you?"
"If you could ask the hosts one money question, what would it be?"
"Do you think kids should get allowance for chores, or just for being part of the family? Why?"
"What's something you're saving money for right now? How long do you think it'll take?"

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