The podcast features Alice Su, David Rennie, and Don Weinland discussing the potential ban of TikTok in the US, exploring Chinese ownership concerns and national security threats. They analyze trust issues, content control complexities, state influence on private companies, and China's algorithm registration system, highlighting the challenges faced by Chinese tech companies.

Natasha Loda, Health Editor at The Economist, discusses the expanding uses of GLP-1 drugs beyond weight loss, emphasizing their potential in treating various health issues. Simon Rabinovich, US Economics Editor, analyzes the disconnect between strong economic data and public sentiment ahead of the election. Alice Su, Senior China Correspondent, shares harrowing stories of Chinese migrants risking everything for the American dream, illuminating their struggles and hopes along a treacherous journey. These conversations shed light on pressing health and societal issues.

Alice Su, The Economist’s senior China correspondent, discusses the trend of Chinese citizens relocating to Japan due to insecurity and broken promises in China. The podcast explores the reasons behind this migration, including seeking better opportunities and a more stable future. It also touches on the impact of the pandemic on societal values and the changing landscape in both countries.

Alice Su, senior China correspondent, and David Rennie, The Economist's Beijing bureau chief, explore the challenges faced by Chinese feminists in China and their use of stand-up comedy as a form of expression. They discuss self-censorship in comedy, the motivations behind going into exile, and the impact of comedy on feminist topics. The podcast also explores the cathartic and risky nature of the comedy club at Drum Tower, the consequences of losing access to social media in China, and the experiences of exiled individuals navigating high pressure and surveillance.

Alice Su, The Economist's senior China correspondent, explores the trend of Chinese people moving to Japan for better opportunities. The podcast discusses the reasons behind this migration, including disillusionment with China's economic and political landscape, as well as the emotional impact of the pandemic lockdown in Beijing.

China is closely watching Taiwan's presidential race, which will influence Xi Jinping's next steps. The hosts discuss the excitement surrounding the elections, highlighting lively campaign events and the significance of choosing a new president. They explore the pro-independence stance of the Democratic Progressive Party and the concerns of a pro-China candidate's supporters. The strained relations between China and Taiwan are analyzed, including China's warnings if the ruling party is reelected. The potential consequences of a pro-independence victory include economically coercive measures from China and the impact on the US-China relationship.

Alice Su, David Rennie, and Don Weinland discuss the implications of the US bill targeting TikTok's Chinese ownership, exploring national security concerns, data security, censorship fears, and the debate on Chinese influence. They also delve into the creative landscape of China's Doin video app, content control differences between Doin and TikTok, Chinese state influence on private companies, and the debate on algorithm regulations and TikTok's ownership.

Two of The Economist's China correspondents, Alice Su and David Rennie, analyse the stories at the heart of this vast country and examine its influence beyond its borders.They’ll be joined by our global network of correspondents and expert guests to examine how everything from party politics to business, technology and culture is reshaping China and the world.For almost seven centuries the beats of China’s most famous drum tower, or gulou, kept people in Beijing to time. The Economist’s latest podcast keeps you up to date every Monday.Sign up to our weekly newsletter here and for full access to print, digital and audio editions, as well as exclusive live events, subscribe to The Economist at economist.com/drumoffer.

Natasha Loda, Health editor for The Economist, discusses the promising GLP-1 drugs originally for diabetes that are now showing potential for obesity and various other diseases. Simon Rabinovich analyzes mixed economic indicators that may influence voter sentiment in the upcoming election. Meanwhile, Alice Su shares harrowing stories of Chinese migrants risking their lives to seek opportunities in America, highlighting the motivations and challenges of this perilous journey. Together, they unravel the intersecting narratives of health, economy, and migration.

Chinese feminists in exile find solace and empowerment through stand-up comedy in New York City. They use comedy as a means of resistance against censorship and to share personal stories of activism. The podcast explores the challenges faced by feminist activists in China and the unique atmosphere of a stand-up feminist comedy club.