Worried you’re being overcharged when shopping online? Listen to this
Summary
In this Life Kit episode, host Mariel Sagarra speaks with Lindsay Owens, author of *Gouged*, about how big tech has reinvented pricing through surveillance and algorithmic experiments. They discuss the controversy surrounding JetBlue’s personalized airfare and Instacart’s hidden price testing, which can charge shoppers up to 23% more for identical items. Owens explains that companies now use browsing data and demographics to set individual prices, moving away from traditional cost-plus models. The episode offers practical tips to combat this, including comparison shopping across devices, us…
Topics discussed
Intro: The shift in pricing and guest introduction
The JetBlue tweet and the rise of surveillance pricing
Sponsor segments and episode overview
Cost-plus pricing vs. dynamic and auction pricing
How personalized pricing and A/B testing work
Sponsor segment and transition to tips
Tip 1: Avoid shopping through apps and loyalty programs
Tip 2: Advanced comparison shopping strategies
Tip 3: Using VPNs to mask location and test prices
Tip 4: Clearing browsing data and cookies
Tip 5: Reducing predictability in shopping habits
Tip 6: Limiting app permissions and data sharing
Tip 7: Shopping in person and the rise of electronic shelf labels
Tip 8: Using traditional methods for services
Personal experiences and the need for fair pricing
Recap of the five key takeaways
Closing remarks and production credits
Promotional segments for other NPR podcasts
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