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
Feb 11, 2021 • 23min
The coup is on the other foot: Myanmar
Charlie McCann, Southeast Asia correspondent for the Economist, reveals the rising tide of protests in Myanmar against the military coup, showcasing the creativity and bravery of the demonstrators. Mian Ridge, U.S. news editor for the Economist, discusses the complexities of transgender rights in the criminal justice system, particularly the challenges of safety and privacy for all involved. They also humorously explore the extravagant bathrooms of authoritarian leaders, highlighting how these symbols of power reflect their hubris and contradictions.
Feb 10, 2021 • 21min
Like hell out of a bat: SARS-CoV-2’s origin
Georgia Banjo, a foreign affairs writer for The Economist, and Eric Connect, the North Africa correspondent, tackle pressing global issues. They discuss the WHO's findings on the origins of SARS-CoV-2, emphasizing the intermediary animal theory while dismissing lab leak claims. The conversation shifts to the disturbing rise of transnational repression, where authoritarian regimes silence dissent abroad. Finally, they explore Algeria’s car shortage, caused by past import bans and economic mismanagement, shedding light on the country’s struggles to build a sustainable automotive industry.
Feb 9, 2021 • 21min
Very long covid: the lasting risks to Africa
Kinley Salmon, an Africa correspondent based in Dakar, discusses the lingering and often unseen impacts of COVID-19 on the continent. He paints a stark picture of public health challenges and vaccine distribution inequalities. The episode also delves into the frenzied stock market dynamics and the rise of predatory trading practices. Additionally, Salmon reveals surprising insights about plastic pollution in oceans, exploring its surprisingly complex relationship with marine ecosystems. A mix of caution and hope emerges as Africa navigates these hurdles.
Feb 8, 2021 • 23min
The art of the done deal: Trump on trial, again
John Fassman, U.S. digital editor for The Economist, discusses the historic impeachment trial of Donald Trump, revealing the likely acquittal and its implications for the Republican Party. Stephanie Studer, The Economist's China correspondent, sheds light on the complexities of China’s youth, who are increasingly patriotic yet aware of global issues amid government constraints. They also touch upon the silent crisis of workplace loneliness, exploring its emotional toll on workers and the paradox of modern collaborative office environments.
Feb 5, 2021 • 21min
Ballot bonanza: Latin America’s year of elections
Brooke Unger, America's editor for The Economist, delves into the pivotal elections kicking off in Ecuador, highlighting the challenges democracy faces in Central and South America amid economic turmoil. Meanwhile, Anne Rowe pays tribute to General Nikolai Antoshkin, reflecting on his courageous efforts during the Chernobyl disaster and the sacrifices made by first responders. The discussion also touches on the evolution of television technology, showcasing how innovations continue to enhance our viewing experiences.
Feb 4, 2021 • 22min
Cheques notes: getting America’s stimulus right
Henry Kerr, Economics editor at The Economist, discusses the implications of President Biden’s $1.9 trillion stimulus plan, examining partisan divides and concerns over inflation. Benjamin Sutherland, a science and technology writer, highlights the urgent issue of space debris, showcasing innovative cleanup ideas, including a magnetic retrieval system. They also touch on the struggles of India's private schools post-pandemic, advocating for reforms and the need for in-person education.
Feb 3, 2021 • 20min
Rise above the cloud: Amazon’s new chief executive
Joan Hoey, Director of the Democracy Index at the Economist Intelligence Unit, shares insights on significant shifts in democratic norms worldwide. She discusses the challenges faced by Amazon's new CEO, Andy Jassy, as he inherits a complex legacy from Jeff Bezos during pivotal times for the tech giant. Hoey highlights alarming trends in global democracy, particularly in Myanmar and Uganda, where electoral turbulence threatens stability. The conversation also touches on a high-profile capture of a notorious fugitive, blending crime and international intrigue.
Feb 2, 2021 • 21min
As a general rules: Myanmar’s coup
Charlie McCann, Southeast Asia correspondent for The Economist, shares insights into Myanmar's tumultuous political landscape, detailing the recent military coup that disrupted five years of democracy and sparked citizen protests. He delves into the motivations behind the army's power grab and discusses the role of social media in activism. Meanwhile, Sarah Maslin, South America correspondent, examines the wind power boom's impact on Ecuador's balsa wood industry, shedding light on the environmental and social consequences affecting indigenous communities.
Feb 1, 2021 • 22min
More needles in the haystack: vaccine candidates proliferate
LaVeya Chankova, a healthcare correspondent for The Economist, discusses the rapid development of new COVID-19 vaccines and their effectiveness against variants. She highlights the logistical challenges of distribution. Greg Karlstrom, the Middle East correspondent, shares insights into the potential upcoming Palestinian elections, exploring Mahmoud Abbas's leadership, his track record, and the political landscape. The conversation also touches on the complexities in U.S.-Palestinian relations and the future of elections after a long hiatus.
Jan 29, 2021 • 22min
Tug of warheads: the nuclear order
Shishang Joshi, Defense editor at The Economist, and Avantika Chulkati, International correspondent, dive into pressing global issues. They discuss the growing nuclear ambitions of various states, the complexities of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, and the rising tensions in East Asia and the Middle East. Chulkati shines a light on Sub-Saharan Africa's dual malnutrition challenge, where obesity spikes alongside undernourishment, and explores community efforts in Zambia to promote healthier eating. They also touch on the geopolitical implications of rare-earth mining in Greenland.
