Callum Williams, a senior economics writer, dives into the historical context of inflation, particularly the tumultuous 16th century under Henry VIII, highlighting societal unrest and its modern echoes. Charlie McCann, covering Southeast Asia, shares insights on the Baduy people who struggle to maintain their traditional lifestyle amid encroaching modernity. The conversation also touches on how media shapes dog breed popularity, revealing surprising cultural trends linked to canine adoptions across different countries.

Charlie McCann, Southeast Asia correspondent for the Economist, shares insights into the ongoing struggles of the Rohingya people, five years after their expulsion from Myanmar. He highlights the dire living conditions and systemic discrimination faced by refugees. Jeremy Page, Asia diplomatic editor, discusses new railway routes in Central Asia, emphasizing their potential to shift trade dynamics away from Russia and boost economies in Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan. The conversation underscores urgent calls for international attention on both crises.

Henry Kerr, Economics editor at The Economist, analyzes the serious implications of Russia cutting gas supplies to Poland and Bulgaria, probing the potential for European sanctions and the geopolitical consequences. Charlie McCann, Southeast Asia correspondent, discusses the political landscape in Singapore, highlighting the selection of Lawrence Wong as the likely next prime minister and the ruling party's shift toward a more relatable leadership. The episode also touches on the significance of the delayed Art Biennale in Venice amidst these tensions.

Oliver Carroll, a correspondent for The Economist in Ukraine, shares harrowing insights into the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Mariupol, revealing that up to 90% of the city has been decimated under siege, leaving remaining residents without basic necessities. Meanwhile, Charlie McCann discusses Najib Razak's controversial political comeback despite his recent scandals, highlighting the complex landscape of Malaysian politics. The podcast also touches on Oman’s efforts to preserve its cultural identity through regulations on traditional dress.

Matthew Holhouse, British politics correspondent for The Economist, shares insights into the growing fallout from Boris Johnson's lockdown parties and the potential political repercussions, including public trust and calls for a no-confidence vote. Charlie McCann, Southeast Asia correspondent, discusses Myanmar's ongoing unrest post-coup and the resilience of protestors against a violent regime. The podcast also touches on the emotional journey of immigrants battling language loss while navigating their identities in new cultures.

Henry Kerb, Economics editor for The Economist, alongside Charlie McCann, Southeast Asia correspondent, dives into the global inflation crisis plaguing developed nations. They examine the complex factors driving rising prices and debate various government strategies. Transitioning to Myanmar, they share the harrowing experiences of military defectors and the support networks that aid them. The conversation also touches on the evolving nature of cover songs, blending issues of authorship and authenticity in music.

Charlie McCann, the Southeast Asia correspondent for The Economist, dives into the turmoil in Myanmar following Aung San Suu Kyi's recent four-year prison sentence. He discusses the implications of her verdict on public dissent and the military's tightening grip on power. The conversation also highlights concerns about Interpol's leadership amid rising authoritarianism globally, alongside innovative ideas like seasteading as a potential solution to climate challenges. McCann's insights reveal the complex interplay between governance, resistance, and the future of democracy in Myanmar.

Sophie Petters, Paris bureau chief, provides insights into Nicolas Sarkozy's shocking legal troubles, including convictions for influence-peddling and campaign financing. She discusses how these developments signify a new wave of accountability in French politics, reshaping public trust. Meanwhile, Charlie McCann interviews Tin Lin, a Burmese freedom fighter whose journey from believing in the military's protective role to activism sheds light on the complexities of resistance after a military coup. Together, their stories reflect the evolving landscapes of justice and activism.

Edward McBride, The Economist's deputy foreign editor, and Charlie McCann, Southeast Asia correspondent, dive deep into the Taliban's alarming resurgence in Afghanistan as American forces pull out. They explore the perilous situation of Afghan cities, the impact on civilians, and the risk of oppressive rule returning. Meanwhile, Charlie discusses recent racial tensions in Singapore that starkly contrast the city's long-standing image of harmony, revealing how societal inequalities persist beneath the surface, along with the fading popularity of chewing gum in today's culture.

Join Charlie McCann, The Economist's Southeast Asia correspondent, as he dissects the escalating violence and protests in Myanmar following a military coup. He highlights the resilience of the population and the dire economic consequences they face. Roseanne Lake, The Economist's Cuba correspondent, then sheds light on Cuba's leadership transition post-Castro, tackling economic challenges and the country's ambitious vaccine development efforts amidst a crumbling economy. The conversation also touches on surprising trends in road fatalities in America.