David Rennie, Geopolitics editor for the Economist and author of The Telegram, discusses the explosive protests in Georgia sparked by the government's halt to EU-accession talks. He highlights how allegations of election fraud and a controversial law aimed at foreign-funded organizations fueled public outrage. The conversation also places Georgia's turmoil within a larger narrative of fragile democracies facing authoritarianism, especially in light of increasing Russian influence. Rennie underscores the protesters' demands for new elections and a renewed commitment to Europe.

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.

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.

Nicholas Pelham, Middle East correspondent, and David Rennie, Beijing bureau chief, dive into the evolving social landscape of Iran and China. They discuss the disbandment of Iran's morality police amid ongoing protests for women's rights and freedoms. Pelham highlights public defiance and the struggle for reform, while Rennie contrasts state-controlled media narratives in China with the reality of widespread unrest. They also explore the surprising influx of women into the funeral services industry and how it reflects broader societal changes.

David Rennie, Beijing bureau chief for The Economist, and Shashank Joshi, Defense editor, share insights on Xi Jinping's recent visit to Russia. They discuss the complexities of China-Russia relations, especially amid the Ukraine conflict, and potential strains on their alliance. The duo also delves into the resurgence of jihadist networks in Africa, exploring the evolving threats posed by al-Qaeda and ISIS. Additionally, a fascinating trend emerges as young South Koreans abandon urban life for farming, seeking new economic opportunities in the countryside.

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.

Matt Steinglass, Europe correspondent for The Economist, dives into Sweden's alarming rise in gang violence, spotlighting the notorious Foxtrot gang and the social challenges youth face amid recruitment efforts. David Rennie, Beijing Bureau Chief for The Economist, discusses China's strategic role as a peace broker in the Israel-Hamas conflict, contrasting its non-judgmental diplomacy with Western approaches. They also touch upon innovative sailing technologies that could redefine speed records, blending historical insights with modern advancements.

David Rennie, the Beijing bureau chief for The Economist, shares expert insights on Xi Jinping's recent performance at the Communist Party Congress. He deciphers the dense rhetoric around Xi's decade of leadership and his assertive stance on Taiwan and Hong Kong. The conversation also touches on the looming economic struggles faced by major U.S. companies and explores fascinating findings about fatherhood, revealing the surprising neurological effects that come with parenting. It's a deep dive into the intricate interplay of politics and economics.

Edward Carr, Deputy Editor of The Economist, dives into the fallout from Russia's withdrawal from the Black Sea grain deal and its implications for global food security. David Rennie, Beijing Bureau Chief, unravels the mystery behind China's ex-foreign minister and the political secrecy surrounding his abrupt disappearance. Catherine Nixie, a Britain Correspondent, critiques the newly softened approach to literary criticism, revealing how gentle reviews may be failing readers who crave honest critique. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion!

David Rennie, the Beijing bureau chief for The Economist, and defense editor Shashank Joshi delve into the intricate relationship between China and Russia amidst the Ukraine crisis. They discuss the implications of Putin's military setbacks for Xi and explore the nuances of their 'no-limits friendship'. Additionally, they shed light on the growing jihadist threats in Africa post-U.S. operations against terror leaders. The conversation also touches on South Korea's cultural shift, as many young urbanites embrace farming, seeking a reprieve from city life.