Wendelin von Bredoff

Wendelin von Bredoff, Senior Germany correspondent at The Economist, dives into a shocking coup plot in Germany by far-right extremists aiming to restore a monarchy. He details the government's decisive response to this threat to democracy. Daniel Knowles, Midwest correspondent, discusses the alarming rise of spontaneous violence in Chicago linked to street racing and the fragmentation of gang structures, highlighting the unintended consequences of organized crime crackdowns. They also touch on Indonesia's religious leaders taking action on climate issues.

Wendelin von Bredoff, Senior Germany correspondent at The Economist, discusses a shocking coup plot by far-right extremists in Germany, revealing their bizarre ambitions to dissolve the republic. Meanwhile, Daniel Knowles, Midwest correspondent, highlights rising violence in Chicago, stemming from a shift in gang dynamics towards smaller, more chaotic groups. Both guests delve into the societal implications of these issues, presenting an alarming portrait of extremism and crime in contemporary society.

Sarah Maslin, The Economist's Brazil correspondent, shares her insights on Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva's potential return to power, debating whether Brazil would see a fiscal conservative or a populist. Wendelin von Bredow, the senior Germany correspondent, discusses Germany's economic woes, like its heavy reliance on Russian gas and the looming threat of deindustrialization. The podcast also touches on the revival of Vietnam's loudspeakers and what this retro move signifies in today's digital world.

Sarah Maslin, Brazil correspondent for The Economist, interviews Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, a prominent politician eyeing a return to the presidency. They discuss the delicate balance Lula must strike between his populist agenda and the need for fiscal responsibility. Wendelin von Bredow delves into Germany's economic vulnerabilities, highlighting its dependence on Russian gas and challenges within its industrial sector. The conversation also touches on Vietnam's controversial revival of propaganda loudspeakers, stirring public debate.

Matthew Holhouse, a British political correspondent for The Economist, sheds light on the controversial Partygate report detailing lockdown gatherings under Boris Johnson, revealing a deepening public dissent and its implications for his leadership. Wendelin von Bredow, Senior Germany correspondent, discusses the remarkable success of Switzerland in the business arena despite its modest resources, while also addressing its future challenges. The duo also explores the influence of Russian propaganda on social media, analyzing its surprising success in shaping perceptions globally.