Joel Budd, Social Affairs Editor at The Economist, dives into the plight of Kharkiv amid ongoing conflict. He shares harrowing stories from residents adapting to daily chaos while fostering community resilience. The conversation also touches on the evolution of children's play during the pandemic. Traditional games are making a comeback, blending nostalgia with modern adaptation. Additionally, Budd discusses the revival of impactful muralism in Mexico, highlighting its role in community safety and representation.

Susanna Savage, an insightful journalist covering Bangladesh for The Economist, joins Joel Budd, the publication's social affairs editor. They discuss Bangladesh's impressive economic growth and the vital role of women in the workforce amidst political turmoil. The conversation shifts to global happiness trends post-pandemic; surprising findings reveal that older generations feel more content than ever, while younger people express discontent. The duo also delves into the significant trade disruptions caused by the Suez Canal blockage, highlighting its global implications.

Roger McShane, Middle East editor for The Economist, highlights the political upheaval in Tunisia following President Essebsi's passing, discussing the nation's struggle with economic challenges and the rise of populism. Joel Budd, Social policy editor, dives into the global pet ownership trend, exploring its societal implications and changing attitudes towards pets. The conversation also touches on the removal of state subsidies for homeopathy in France, raising questions about consumer habits and health perceptions.

Joel Budd, Social policy editor for The Economist, dives into the diplomatic fallout over the UK's ambassador to the US and the implications of his resignation. He discusses the complexities faced in international development, especially when scaling projects like the Bangladesh rice farmers' initiative. The conversation also humorously tackles why most British politicians sound alike despite the country's rich variety of accents, revealing the impact of education on political representation.

Joel Budd, social policy editor at The Economist, dives into Pakistan's recent economic crisis and its 22nd bailout from the IMF. He discusses the socio-political implications of the bailout amid public discontent. The conversation shifts to global meat consumption trends, highlighting an increase in demand even as vegetarianism gains traction. Budd also explores cultural insights derived from French naming conventions, revealing social changes that numbers alone can’t illustrate. It’s a fascinating juxtaposition of economy, diet, and identity.