John Hooper

Join John Hooper, The Economist's Vatican correspondent, Shailesh Chitnis, a global business writer, and Anne Rowe, the obituaries editor, as they dive into the election of Robert Prevost as Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope. They discuss his unique position to bridge church divides while addressing pressing issues like financial challenges and the clerical sex abuse crisis. The conversation also touches on the U.S.-China AI chip dynamics and a moving tribute to Martin Graham, the founder of a thriving opera house from humble beginnings.

John Hooper, Italy and Vatican correspondent for The Economist, and Sarah Birke, Mexico City Bureau Chief, engage in a revealing conversation about the impending papal conclave. They dive into the pressing challenges the next pope will face, including clerical abuse scandals and global influences on the church. The discussion also touches on the alarming rise of disappearances in Mexico due to gang violence and ineffective government responses. Additionally, they explore the unexpected chaos around the Minecraft movie's success in theaters.

Shailesh Chitnis, a global business writer for The Economist, joins John Hooper, the church's Italy and Vatican correspondent, and Anne Rowe, obituaries editor, to discuss the historic appointment of Robert Prevost as the first American pope, Leo XIV. They explore how his leadership might steer the Church amidst pressing issues like the clerical sex abuse crisis. The conversation also highlights the escalating AI arms race between the U.S. and China, drawing parallels to the Cold War. Plus, a heartfelt tribute to opera pioneer Martin Graham adds a cultural touch.

John Hooper, The Economist's Italy correspondent, and Georgia Banjo, a foreign correspondent specializing in Latin America, delve into Italy's recent far-right government shift under Giorgia Meloni. They discuss the implications for Italy, Europe, and the ongoing Ukraine conflict, exploring the social challenges driving voter sentiment. Additionally, they examine the dire state of Latin American prisons, highlighting overcrowding and policies in countries like El Salvador, while also touching upon a film from China that unveils unresolved societal tensions.

Anshul Pfeffer, Jerusalem correspondent for The Economist, reveals the political turmoil in Israel, highlighting Netanyahu's leadership challenges amid rising dissent. John Hooper, Italy correspondent, discusses the fallout from a mismanaged green home improvement subsidy, leading to a financial mess. Meanwhile, Rachel Lloyd, deputy culture editor, explores how the series Bridgerton has revitalized interest in string quartets, blending modern music with classical flair, and captivating a younger audience. Tune in for insights on politics, economics, and cultural trends!

John Hooper, the seasoned Italy and Vatican correspondent, shares insights on the complex legacy of Silvio Berlusconi, Italy’s longest-serving prime minister, whose scandals and media influence left a mixed public perception. He discusses how Berlusconi’s economic mismanagement during the euro crisis affected Italian society. Meanwhile, Matthew Simmons sheds light on Iran's nuclear ambitions, revealing concerns about newly discovered facilities and the geopolitical tensions that continue to unfold in the shadow of past agreements.

John Hooper, Italy and Vatican correspondent for The Economist, discusses the controversial legacy of Silvio Berlusconi, a polarizing figure in Italian politics. He reflects on Berlusconi's journey from media mogul to prime minister and the lasting impact of his governance. Matthew Simmons, defense and security writer, examines Iran's expanding nuclear capabilities and the fallout from the U.S. withdrawal from the nuclear deal. Together, they explore these significant geopolitical dynamics and the intersection of politics and culture.

Join John Hooper, The Economist's Italy and Vatican correspondent, and Sarah Burke, the Bureau Chief in Mexico City, as they delve into weighty issues. They discuss the upcoming conclave to choose the next pope, exploring the ideological divides among cardinals and the challenges the new leader will face. The conversation shifts to Mexico's crisis of disappearances, revealing a grim reality exacerbated by criminal gangs. Lastly, they touch on the surprising success of the Minecraft movie, which incited rowdy audience behavior and raised questions about future video game films.

Robert Guest, Deputy Editor at The Economist, shares insights on the growing political divide between young men leaning right while women are shifting left. John Hooper, the publication's Italy and Vatican correspondent, discusses the evolution of the Neapolitan mafia amidst a facade of declining crime rates. The conversation also touches on the intriguing history and cultural significance of the flat white coffee, highlighting its rise and popularity in Australia's coffee scene.

John Hooper, The Economist's Italy correspondent, analyzes Italy's shift to a far-right government led by Giorgia Meloni, highlighting the uncertainty for both Italy and Europe amidst this political change. Georgia Banjo discusses the alarming rise in prison populations in Latin America, revealing dire conditions and societal impacts driven by strict policies. They also touch on a surprising hit film from China that has raised concerns among authorities due to its candid depiction of rural struggles and social issues.