Christopher Lockwood, Europe editor for The Economist, discusses Belarus's unexpected role as a peace broker following the Wagner Group's mutiny. He explains how Aleksandr Lukashenko navigates Russian pressures while maintaining a semblance of independence. Meanwhile, Daniel Knowles, Midwest correspondent, dives into the financial strains facing American public transport systems, emphasizing the urgent need for state bailouts. They also touch on the intriguing cultural symbolism of wearing red during diplomatic visits to China.

Jeremy Page and Daniel Knowles share insights on Xi Jinping's strategic visit to Moscow, emphasizing China's nuanced balancing act between supporting Russia and its own interests amidst global tensions. They discuss the declining interest in car ownership among youth, with only a quarter of teens getting licenses, hinting at shifting societal attitudes toward transportation. The conversation also dives into the intriguing concept of lunar colonization, exploring how ancient lava tubes could provide safe habitats for future missions.

Andrew Knox, The Economist's Korea correspondent, dissects Kim Jong-un's unprecedented meeting with Vladimir Putin, analyzing the potential arms deal and its implications for global security. Meanwhile, Daniel Knowles sheds light on the troubling rise of Kia and Hyundai car thefts in America, driven by social media trends that expose vulnerabilities in vehicle security. Their insights reveal concerning geopolitical dynamics and a pressing issue affecting communities, blending international relations and domestic crime.

Daniel Knowles, The Economist's American Midwest correspondent, sheds light on alarming mortality rates in America, attributing them to factors beyond drugs and guns. He highlights the opioid crisis in places like Hazard, Kentucky, emphasizing the need for policy changes. Oliver Morton, Briefings Editor, discusses the potential collapse of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation, warning of dire consequences. They also share amusing tips on business travel etiquette, showing that even serious discussions can have a lighter side.

Edward Carr, Deputy Editor of The Economist, shares insights on Ukraine's military shake-up with General Zaluzhny's dismissal and the implications for President Zelensky's strategy. Daniel Knowles, Midwest correspondent, discusses the alarming rise in U.S. car insurance rates and what that means for consumers in a tricky economic climate. The conversation also touches on wild conspiracy theories linking Taylor Swift to the Super Bowl, showcasing how celebrity culture often intersects with politics in unexpected ways.

Tom Nuttall, a Senior Editor at The Economist, discusses the intense debate surrounding freedom of speech on American campuses amidst rising antisemitism following recent conflicts. Daniel Knowles, Midwest America correspondent and author, shares insights on the future of urban transportation, emphasizing a shift from cars to cycling as a sustainable alternative. The conversation touches on UK asylum policy challenges and the complexities of ensuring open dialogue in academic settings while preventing hate speech.

Wendelin von Bredoff, Senior Germany correspondent at The Economist, dives into a shocking coup plot in Germany by far-right extremists aiming to restore a monarchy. He details the government's decisive response to this threat to democracy. Daniel Knowles, Midwest correspondent, discusses the alarming rise of spontaneous violence in Chicago linked to street racing and the fragmentation of gang structures, highlighting the unintended consequences of organized crime crackdowns. They also touch on Indonesia's religious leaders taking action on climate issues.

Oliver Carroll, a correspondent in Kyiv for The Economist, shares firsthand accounts of the chaos and fear as Russia launches its invasion of Ukraine. He discusses the mood among civilians and the surge in resistance efforts. Meanwhile, Daniel Knowles delves into the disturbing rise of carjackings in American cities during the pandemic, attributing this trend to youth involvement and changing gang dynamics. He considers the challenges law enforcement faces and highlights the need for community-focused strategies to combat this issue.

Duncan Robinson, Political editor for The Economist, discusses the growing pressure on Boris Johnson amid scandalous allegations of lockdown violations. Avantika Chilkoti, International correspondent, highlights how religious institutions are adapting to the pandemic through online services and property sales, while Daniel Knowles, Midwest correspondent, shares insights into a tragic road rage shooting in Florida. They also delve into the alarming rise of gun violence driven by road rage across America, offering a sobering view of contemporary social issues.

Anton LaGuardia, Diplomatic Editor for the Economist, and Daniel Knowles, Midwest Correspondent, dive into America's geopolitical shifts 80 years after Pearl Harbor. They discuss how the attack catalyzed U.S. military power and reflect on current foreign policy challenges, including tensions with China. The conversation highlights the evolving political landscape of car ownership versus urban mobility, and how the pandemic is reshaping workplace dynamics. A lively discussion unfolds about the future of transportation and the changing office culture in a post-COVID world.