For this special end of the year edition of Macro Musings, Heather Long, Ryan Avent, and Cardiff Garcia rejoin the podcast to reflect on the biggest economic surprises and stories of the past few years, while giving their outlook and predictions for the future. Heather Long is an editorial writer and columnist for the Washington Post, Ryan Avent is the trade and international economic editor for the Economist Magazine, and Cardiff Garcia is a veteran journalist for the Financial Times and NPR as well as the host of the New Bazaar podcast and the co-founder of Bazaar Audio. Specifically, this returning panel of guests discuss the major economic themes throughout the pandemic, the most overrated and underreported stories that have dominated the headlines over the past few years, what issues are primed for prominence within the next decade, and a lot more.     Transcript for the episode can be found here.   Support the podcast by making a donation during this holiday season!   Heather’s Washington Post profile Heather’s Twitter: @byHeatherLong   Ryan’s Economist profile Ryan’s Twitter: @ryanavent   Cardiff’s Twitter: @CardiffGarcia Bazaar Audio’s website   David’s Twitter: @DavidBeckworth Follow us on Twitter: @Macro_Musings Click here for the latest Macro Musings episodes sent straight to your inbox! Check out our new Macro Musings merch here!   Related Links:   *Measuring Monetary Policy: the NGDP Gap* by David Beckworth   *Danger Zone: The Coming Conflict with China* by Hal Brands and Michael Beckley   *David Beckworth on the Facts, Fears, and Functionality of NGDP Level Targeting* by the Macro Musings Podcast   *Ryan Avent, Cardiff Garcia, and Heather Long on Lessons from the Great Recession* by the Macro Musings Podcast

Joel Budd, Social Policy Editor at The Economist, and Ryan Avent, Senior Editor, delve into Britain’s controversial asylum plan to send seekers to Rwanda. They discuss the implications of this approach amid critiques surrounding its effectiveness and morality. The duo also addresses how the pandemic reshaped global supply chains, advocating for diversification over domestic production. Additionally, they reflect on the legacy of jazz icon Charles Mingus, highlighting the intersection of music, identity, and social impact.

In this intriguing discussion, Shoshan Joshi, The Economist's defense editor, and Ryan Avent, the trade and international economics editor, tackle the escalating U.S.-Russia tensions over Ukraine and the challenges of negotiating with a demanding Russia. They also explore the impact of the pandemic on work dynamics, including the rise of remote work and economic recovery hurdles. Additionally, the curious underground garlic market in Cuba offers a glimpse into how traditional cuisine adapts amidst food shortages and restrictive economic policies.

Ryan Avent, The Economist's trade and economics editor, discusses the need for central bankers to relax their approach to inflation, emphasizing clear communication on monetary policies. Tim Judah, The Economist's Balkans correspondent, shares insights into the environmental challenges facing Albania's Vjosa River as local advocates fight against harmful hydroelectric projects. The conversation also explores fascinating dinosaur footprints in Bolivia, highlighting the region's prehistoric significance and the challenges facing paleontological exploration.

Dom Ziegler, Asia columnist for The Economist, sheds light on Hong Kong's political landscape under a stringent national security law as pro-democracy arrests escalate. Anne Rowe shares the inspiring journey of Agitou Gudetta, a goat-herding refugee whose life story highlights resilience and community. Ryan Avent calls for a shift in economic thinking, urging a reevaluation of policies considering social norms and collective values, which could enhance welfare programs in a post-pandemic world.

Ludwig Sigle, U.S. technology editor for The Economist, navigates Google's monumental growth and the challenges it faces, from market scrutiny to data privacy concerns. Ryan Avent, author of the Free Exchange column, links economic success with hygiene through history, analyzing how pandemics have shaped wealth. The discussion also sheds light on Dubai's innovative tourism strategies amidst extreme summer heat and ongoing pandemic recovery, showcasing both historical lessons and modern adaptations.

Joining the discussion are Stephanie Studer, a Senior China business correspondent at The Economist, and Ryan Avent, who analyzes economic trends in his Free Exchange column. They delve into Benny Gantz's struggle to form a government in Israel amidst a political deadlock. The conversation shifts to how Western factories can draw lessons from China’s rapid adaptation during the coronavirus crisis. Lastly, they explore the historical economic impacts of pandemics, suggesting that past events can inform our understanding of current economic shifts.

Ryan Avent, an economics writer for The Economist, discusses Mexico’s President Andrés Manuel López Obrador and his ambitious anti-corruption campaign. While the president enjoys high popularity, Avent critiques the systemic issues that remain. They also delve into randomized controlled trials in economics, exploring their effectiveness in tackling poverty despite ethical concerns. Additionally, the conversation highlights the potential of caterpillars and grasshoppers as sustainable protein sources in Congo's vibrant market, showcasing innovative approaches to global food challenges.

John Peet, Brexit editor for the Economist, and Ryan Avent, an economics columnist, dive into Boris Johnson's recent defeat over Parliament suspension. They discuss the Supreme Court's ruling and its implications for Brexit and Johnson's democratic credibility. The conversation shifts to the rising influence of economists in policy-making and the historical context of the neoliberal revolution. Finally, they explore the fascinating Kimbanguist faith in the Democratic Republic of Congo, highlighting its unique beliefs and community spirit.

Join John Pridot, U.S. editor for the Economist with a keen insight into political headlines, and Ryan Avent, author of Free Exchange examining economic theory. They dissect the implications of Robert Mueller's congressional testimony, revealing its impact on public perception and political strategy. The conversation shifts to evolving economic theories, emphasizing culture's critical role in shaping growth. Finally, they dive into the exhilarating world of speedcubing, showcasing the intense competition and rapid advancements in solving techniques.