Greg Karlstrom

Greg Karlstrom, Middle East correspondent for The Economist, discusses the intense and escalating conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon. He highlights the humanitarian crisis and the internal struggles within Israel, particularly as Prime Minister Netanyahu faces increasing political challenges. The conversation also touches on the changing dynamics of U.S.-Mexico relations, emphasizing Claudia Sheinbaum’s strategic responses to U.S. policies. In a lighter moment, the podcast includes a tribute to Richard Fortey, a passionate paleontologist celebrated for his work on trilobites.

Greg Karlstrom, the Middle East correspondent for The Economist, and Josh Spencer, Asian news editor, delve into significant geopolitical shifts as Trump lifts the Syria embargo. They analyze the implications for regional stability and U.S. foreign policy. The conversation shifts to the intense rivalry in the Philippine midterm elections, exploring the power dynamics between the Marcos and Duterte families. Finally, they uncover the fascinating rise of VTubers, digital avatars that blend gaming and live performance, capturing hearts and online audiences around the world.

In this engaging discussion, Middle East correspondent Greg Karlstrom sheds light on the alarming resurgence of Houthi rebel attacks in the Red Sea, revealing the complexities of their newfound boldness and its implications for global shipping. Meanwhile, Anne Rowe reflects on the existential challenges facing Tuvalu due to rising sea levels, as Australia introduces innovative climate visas for relocation. The conversation also honors the legacy of Simon Groot, whose revolutionary work in seed development has significantly improved agricultural productivity in Asia and Africa.

Join Greg Karlstrom, the Middle East correspondent, as he navigates the complexities of the Gaza ceasefire and the challenges looming ahead for durable peace. Rachel Dobbs examines the detrimental effects of Trump-era budget cuts on American scientific institutions and their broader implications. Meanwhile, Ana Lankes discusses the powerful documentary "I'm Still Here," shedding light on Brazil's historical accountability issues stemming from its military dictatorship. The conversation intertwines politics, science, and cultural reckoning.

Greg Karlstrom, a Middle East correspondent, and Corbyn Duncan, a global correspondent, delve into the escalating tensions between the U.S. and Iran following military strikes on Iran's nuclear facilities. They explore the uncertain responses from Iranian officials and the potential ramifications for both nations. The discussion also touches on a curious uptick in religious adherence in the West, particularly among younger generations, amidst societal changes, and humorously examines the fading use of quotation marks in modern communication.

Join Greg Karlstrom, Middle East correspondent for The Economist, and Moeka Iida, a writer covering Japan, as they dissect the UAE's foreign interventions and their ideological implications. They delve into Japan's rice crisis, exploring the farmers' protests and the urgent need for agricultural reforms. The conversation also usurps traditional linguistics, examining the cultural triggers of personal pronouns in the context of inclusivity. A thought-provoking dialogue that connects geopolitical currents and local strife with the evolution of language.

Greg Karlstrom, the Middle East correspondent for The Economist, discusses the dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where tactical pauses in aid efforts seem more beneficial for international optics than for starving civilians. He highlights the challenges of delivering aid amidst ongoing conflict and the complexity of the situation. The conversation also touches on Japan's controversial law requiring couples to share surnames, its potential links to declining birth rates, and the cultural implications of these marital traditions.

Greg Karlstrom, The Economist's Middle East correspondent, discusses the recent ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, questioning its potential for lasting peace amidst ongoing conflict in Gaza. Anjani Trevedi, the global business correspondent, analyzes Northvolt's bankruptcy and its consequences for Europe's electric vehicle ambitions, emphasizing the challenges posed by global competitors. Their insights provide a critical look at both geopolitical and economic landscapes shaping the region and industry.

In this discussion, Greg Karlstrom, a Middle East correspondent for The Economist, delves into the surprisingly resilient dynamics of Syria's civil war, revealing recent rebel advances and the complex interplay of local and international forces. Avantika Chilkoti, a global business correspondent, shares her struggles with online privacy while addressing the challenges of erasing oneself from the internet. They also analyze how political shifts impact the stock market, particularly post-Trump's election, shedding light on the financial landscape amid geopolitical changes.

In this discussion, Greg Karlstrom, The Economist's Middle East correspondent reporting from Tel Aviv, unpacks the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza. He highlights the urgent need for aid amid rising health crises, including hunger and disease. The conversation also delves into the socio-political implications of the ongoing conflict and the international community's role in addressing it. Additionally, the podcast explores how areas devastated by the opioid epidemic are experiencing a shift toward Republican voting, and it questions the future of Britain's census amidst changing data practices.