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.

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.

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.

Matt Steinglass, Europe correspondent, delves into Sweden's escalating gang violence, revealing alarming youth recruitment trends and the complexities of political responses. David Rennie, Beijing Bureau Chief, discusses China's strategic maneuvering in Middle East diplomacy, highlighting its role in the Gaza conflict and implications for global politics. The discussion also touches on maritime innovations, including advances in sailing technology that aim to shatter speed records. Join for insights into urgent social issues and evolving diplomatic landscapes.

Join Henry Kerr, Economics editor at The Economist, and David Rennie, Beijing bureau chief, as they delve into the looming threat of recessions in the U.S. and Europe, sparked by rising interest rates and energy prices. They discuss the reckless maneuvers of Chinese fighter pilots, reflecting a growing distrust of the West. A humorous haircut mishap leads to an intriguing conversation on global pricing dynamics, challenging traditional economic theories with unexpected insights.

In this discussion, David Rennie, the Beijing bureau chief for The Economist, shares insights into China's zero-COVID policy and the precarious situation in Beijing as officials grapple with rising cases without imposing lockdowns. Simon Rabinovich, the U.S. economics editor, examines the alarming baby formula shortage in America, attributing it to supply chain disruptions and factory shutdowns. Together, they also touch on the unexpected challenges shaping daily life globally, from health crises to market nuances.

Nicholas Pelham, Middle East correspondent, illuminates the evolving situation with Iran's morality police amidst ongoing protests. David Rennie discusses China's changing narrative on public dissent and the tension between state media and citizens' experiences. Meanwhile, Johnny Williams highlights the unexpected surge of women entering the funeral services industry in America, showcasing their impact in transforming a traditionally male-dominated field. Together, they explore themes of resistance, media representation, and shifting societal roles.