The Intelligence from The Economist
The Economist
Get a daily burst of illumination from The Economist’s worldwide network of correspondents. Our reporters dig past the headlines to get to the stories beneath—and to stories that aren’t making headlines, but should be. A unique perspective on the issues and events shaping your world.Sign up for Economist Podcasts+ at http://www.economist.com/podcastsplus-intelligence.If you’re already a subscriber to The Economist, you’ll have full access to all our shows as part of your subscription.For more information about Economist Podcasts+, including how to get access, please visit our FAQs page at https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts
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Episodes
Mentioned books
Sep 11, 2024 • 23min
Don wan: Harris keeps Trump tame
The vice-president turned in a confident if imperfect performance, leaving Donald Trump flustered. But will it change anything? A global shortfall of blood plasma is hampering the development of new medicines; we argue for some simple market forces that could plug the gap (11:40). And how Nigerians are slimming their legendarily lavish weddings amid a cost-of-living crisis (18.10).Get a world of insights by subscribing to Economist Podcasts+. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account.
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Sep 10, 2024 • 24min
Mario druthers: Draghi’s plan for Europe
The EU’s unofficial chief technocrat issued a doorstop of a report outlining how the bloc can boost growth and keep up in a changing world. Is it all too ambitious? Mexico’s lame-duck president has one last project in mind: undermining the judiciary (10:44). And as the film “Fight Club” turns 25 our correspondent finds many of its disturbing messages still resonate (17:49).Get a world of insights by subscribing to Economist Podcasts+. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account.
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Sep 9, 2024 • 24min
Plainly reigns but on a plane to Spain: Venezuela’s leader
Nicolás Maduro, the controversial leader of Venezuela, discusses the fallout from the recent election which saw his opponent, Edmundo Gonzalez, flee to Spain amid allegations of electoral fraud. The discussion covers the regime's oppressive tactics and rising tensions, painting a bleak picture of Venezuela's political landscape. Maduro also delves into leadership dynamics and the challenges facing his government. Additionally, there are insights on the decline of youth clubs in Britain and the critical role of youth workers amid funding cuts.
Sep 6, 2024 • 25min
Grand Barnier: France’s new prime minister
Two months ago, French politics was thrown into crisis after a snap election left no party with a clear majority. Michel Barnier, the new prime minister, has a huge task ahead. Donald Trump’s campaign took time to adjust to the nomination of Kamala Harris. Now he’s on the attack again (9:40). And celebrating the life of stonemason, Simon Verity (17:37).Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—Subscribe to Economist Podcasts+For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account.
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Sep 5, 2024 • 24min
Current affairs: how batteries will green the grid
The podcast kicks off with a dive into how innovative battery storage solutions will stabilize electricity grids powered by renewable energy. It highlights the improvements in efficiency and cost-effectiveness of these technologies. The discussion then shifts to the surprising surge in Asian tourism during monsoon season, showcasing vibrant destinations like Udaipur. Finally, the conversation touches on navigating the complexities of AI for children, emphasizing the importance of parental guidance and open dialogue about the technology's impact.
Sep 4, 2024 • 28min
Beyond the bullets: we go to Ukraine
Andriy Khlyvnyuk, a musician pivotal to Ukraine's cultural revival, discusses the intense realities on the frontlines and the surprising resilience of Ukrainian culture amid conflict. He highlights a cultural resurgence in music and fashion, reflecting national pride. The transformation of Ukrainian cuisine is explored too, showcasing innovative dishes made from local ingredients. Through captivating anecdotes, he portrays how creativity and tradition flourish even in dire circumstances, embodying the spirit of a nation fighting for its identity.
Sep 3, 2024 • 26min
The sound of fury: pressure builds within Israel
Mass protests erupt in Israel as the government stands firm against calls for a ceasefire amidst the ongoing Gaza conflict. The emotional weight of hostages unites the public’s sentiment. The podcast also explores why women are less likely to adopt AI tools compared to men and discusses intriguing concepts like making Mars habitable through geoengineering and bacteria. The conversation takes us from the complexities of international relations to the future of human exploration on the Red Planet.
Sep 2, 2024 • 23min
Extremes come true: Germany’s far-right triumph
Germany's political landscape is shifting dramatically as the far-right party gains traction, raising concerns about a potential division reminiscent of the East-West split. Meanwhile, Africa's urban transformation is underway, powered by the rise of motorcycle taxis that are reshaping city dynamics. In Spain, a dedicated truffle farmer navigates the challenges of cultivating prized black truffles, highlighting the emotional bond between growers and their unique harvest. Plus, efforts to secure recognition for Spanish truffles echo the fight for historical culinary prestige.
Aug 30, 2024 • 24min
For whom the well tolls: Why we must price water
Helen Fisher, a renowned biological anthropologist known for her work on the science of love, dives into fascinating topics. She discusses the acute water crisis in Chile and its global implications, advocating for pricing water to combat waste. The conversation also explores the connection between water scarcity and migration, examining how access issues can trigger social unrest. Fisher brings her expertise to unravel the neurological intricacies of romantic love, contrasting the brain responses of those in love with those experiencing heartbreak.
Aug 29, 2024 • 26min
Nvincible? What could curb Nvidia’s supremacy
Nvidia's dominance in the AI chip market faces scrutiny as emerging competitors and operational tensions with its supplier TSMC threaten its reign. The cheerful exploration of California's iconic Highway 1 highlights both its breathtaking beauty and the environmental challenges that endanger it. Meanwhile, a surprising decline in public nudity in Europe sparks a discussion on cultural shifts and the impact of technology, shedding light on society's evolving relationship with body image.
