When asked about the nation’s economy, most Americans would probably not have much good to say about it. They would have evidence to back up their opinions too – inflation hit a 30-year high in October. Prices for essentials like gas, energy and food have been climbing.

Meanwhile a new jobs report Friday found 210,000 jobs were added to the economy in November – far below what was expected and coming a month after 500,000 jobs were added.

The supply chain to stock store shelves or provide parts to manufacture products has been disrupted as well.

However, consumers have more cash on hand from government stimulus checks and child credits. Consumer demand is one of the driving forces of inflation.

Interest rates are low and wages are up.

Monday’s Smart Talk features nationally respected economist Gus Faucher, the senior vice president and chief economist of The PNC Financial Services Group to provide an overview of the economy.