Tom Lee-Devlin

In this engaging discussion, Tom Lee Devlin, Business editor of The Economist, shares insights on how Chinese firms are navigating economic challenges by expanding into less affluent markets. Meanwhile, correspondent Wendell Stevenson sheds light on Ukraine's energy crisis, detailing the catastrophic effects of missile strikes on infrastructure. The conversation also delights listeners with a humorous exploration of the cultural significance of the doner kebab, tracing its journey and influence in various cuisines.

Tom Lee Devlin, The Economist's global business correspondent; Fiametta Rocco, senior editor and culture correspondent; and Tom Wainwright, tech and media editor, tackle the shifting landscape of American consumer behavior. They discuss how inflation pushes middle-class shoppers toward budget brands while luxury markets remain resilient. The trio also dives into the transformative role of AI in journalism, weighing its potential benefits against job displacement concerns, and reflects on the importance of marginalized narratives through historical lens.

Rafael Mariano Grossi, the Director of the IAEA, is at the forefront of nuclear oversight, navigating tensions surrounding Iran's nuclear program and global stability. He discusses the challenges of promoting peaceful atomic energy amid rising risks. Alongside Tom Lee-Devlin, global business correspondent, they dive into De Beers' struggles with diamond sales and the shift toward lab-grown gems. The conversation also explores Russia's innovative tank defenses, highlighting the complex interplay of military technology and modern combat challenges.

Tom Lee Devlin, Business editor at The Economist, and Wendell Stevenson, correspondent covering Ukraine, dive into the shifting landscape of Chinese businesses as they expand into the global south to combat slowing domestic demand. They discuss the repercussions of the ongoing war in Ukraine, particularly its devastating impact on energy infrastructure. The conversation also lightens up with an entertaining examination of kebabs as a symbol of cultural diversity, showcasing how food reflects broader societal changes.

Matt Steinglass, Europe correspondent for The Economist, and Tom Lee-Devlin, Global business correspondent, dive deep into Finland's historic NATO accession and what it means for Russia and European security. They explore the challenges faced by Western multinationals in a volatile geopolitical landscape. Additionally, they discuss an unexpected trend: TikTok's influence on the popularity of romance novels in Britain, revealing how social media reshapes cultural consumption.