The Intelligence from The Economist
The Economist
Join Jason Palmer and Rosie Blau for noise-cancelling news and analysis from The Economist's global network of correspondents. Every weekday this award-winning podcast picks three stories shaping your world—the big shifts in politics, business and culture, plus things you never knew you needed to know. On Saturdays, download The Weekend Intelligence to dive deep into a single story, vividly told. 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
36 snips
Dec 26, 2025 • 41min
Battle of the texts: which books changed the world?
In this engaging discussion, Oliver Morton, Senior Editor at The Economist and author of "The Moon, A History for the Future," explores which books have truly changed the world. He delves into the impact of Mary Shelley's "Frankenstein" on science fiction and contrasts the revolutionary ideas of Galileo and Darwin. The conversation also highlights how Virginia Woolf's "A Room of One's Own" reshaped women's literature and how Jane Austen's "Pride and Prejudice" redefined marriage. Plus, the cultural influence of the Harry Potter series and contemporary worries about books' relevance are hot topics.
17 snips
Dec 24, 2025 • 28min
So this is quizmas: our inaugural holiday face-off
Get ready for a thrilling holiday quiz showdown! Teams dive into wild trivia, from the rise of AI-generated content to the global scam industry raking in $1.5 trillion. They discuss quirky topics like Trump’s outlandish video idea and Denmark’s end to traditional letter delivery. Expect laughter as guesses are made between politicians and Housewives quotes. With a range of unexpected questions, the competition heats up, leading to a surprising trophy presentation and plenty of festive spirit!
24 snips
Dec 23, 2025 • 21min
Growing pains: a recession in recessions
Callum Williams, a senior economics writer at The Economist, discusses the surprising risks of a prolonged absence of recessions and how constant growth can lead to 'zombie' firms. Andrew Palmer, a work world commentator, evaluates the trustworthiness of online reviews and shares insights on distinguishing reliable sources. Lastly, John Fasman, a culture correspondent, takes listeners on a tour of Baphoni Poultry Farm, revealing the challenges of turkey farming and the hard labor behind holiday meals.
16 snips
Dec 22, 2025 • 21min
Slop stars: why AI-generated content could help creators
Tom Wainwright, Media editor at The Economist, discusses how AI-generated content, or 'slop', is revolutionizing creative industries, enabling amateurs to produce professional-quality outputs while posing challenges for mainstream artists. Emma Irving, News editor in Hong Kong, explores the surprising resurgence of yellow gold engagement rings, attributing this trend to celebrity influence and rising gold prices. Their insights shine a light on the evolving dynamics between technology, culture, and consumer preferences.
33 snips
Dec 19, 2025 • 23min
Country of the year: The Economist’s pick for 2025
Chris Lockwood, Deputy Foreign Editor at The Economist, introduces the rigorous selection process for Country of the Year. Josie DeLapp makes a compelling case for Syria, highlighting political changes and humanitarian improvements following Assad's overthrow. Hal Hodson argues for Argentina, showcasing its economic reforms and declining poverty. The debate weighs the significance of humanitarian gains against economic progress, ultimately leading to Syria being named the winner for its substantial strides in safety and stability.
14 snips
Dec 18, 2025 • 21min
Weight boss? Competition for Novo Nordisk
Shalash Chitnis, a global business writer for The Economist, dives into the fierce competition between Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly in the weight-loss drug market. He highlights how Lilly's ZepBound is threatening Novo's dominance. Lane Green, a language writer, explores the origins of slang, arguing that crude words may have been among the first uttered by humans. Bella King, covering agriculture, discusses the surprising rise in wool prices tied to demand and the happiness of sheep, while highlighting the challenges facing Britain's wool industry.
12 snips
Dec 17, 2025 • 20min
Emissions possible: EU petrol ban quashed
Tom Lee Devlin, The Economist's business editor, shares insights on the EU's recent decision to dilute its 2035 petrol and diesel vehicle ban, highlighting concerns for automakers amid rising competition from Chinese EVs. He discusses the barriers hindering EV adoption, including costs and infrastructure. Meanwhile, Henry Kerr, the economics editor, explores potential nominees for the Federal Reserve chair, examining the political pressures that threaten the institution's independence. They also reveal the winning word of the year, 'slop,' and its cultural significance.
4 snips
Dec 16, 2025 • 20min
After Bondi: how to tackle extremism
Sue-Lin Wong, Asia correspondent for The Economist, shares insights from her on-the-ground reporting of the Bondi Beach attack, detailing the suspects' training and links to Islamic State. She discusses the national grief and public response, including acts of bravery during the attack. Rachel Lloyd contributes by recommending standout books of 2025, offering a delightful cultural escape. The conversation also touches on the rising popularity of unique advent calendars, analyzing the trend's connection to consumer behavior and year-round anticipation.
14 snips
Dec 15, 2025 • 21min
Judgment day: Jimmy Lai convicted
Alice Su, a senior international correspondent with deep insights into China and Hong Kong, discusses the conviction of media mogul Jimmy Lai under the national security law and its chilling effects on dissent. Joel Budd, social affairs editor, explains how UK policies are hurting London, from funding cuts to the exodus of wealthy residents. Meanwhile, Alex Hearn, known for his 'hungover correspondent' title, shares why hangovers happen and offers scarce solutions, debunking popular myths about relief that just prolong the pain.
21 snips
Dec 12, 2025 • 28min
Right, here, waiting: Europe’s populists on the rise
Guests include Tom Nuttall, a Berlin bureau chief analyzing Germany's populist rise, Sophie Petter, a Paris expert on France's National Rally, and Matthew Holhaus, covering the UK’s Reform UK under Farage. They delve into the shared themes of immigration and anti-elite sentiment across Europe. Sophie highlights the National Rally's transformation, while Tom discusses the AfD's radicalization. Matthew outlines strategies against Farage’s movement and anticipates key political tests in upcoming elections, framing it as a critical moment for Europe.
