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
Episodes
Mentioned books
23 snips
Feb 14, 2025 • 25min
Love match: Modi-Trump’s tariffs tussle
Kira Khuyu, India correspondent for The Economist, discusses the complex dynamics of India-US relations amid tariff disputes. Leo Marani, Asia correspondent, sheds light on how geopolitical tensions are affecting air travel safety and routes. John Fassman, Senior culture correspondent, celebrates the 50th anniversary of Saturday Night Live, highlighting its cultural impact and evolution in political satire. Together, they explore how these elements intertwine in today's global landscape.
34 snips
Feb 13, 2025 • 23min
With this ring: Trump and Putin omit Ukraine
Shashank Joshi, Defense editor for The Economist, dives into the implications of the recent phone conversation between Trump and Putin regarding Ukraine, highlighting the sidelining of Ukraine in negotiations and its potential consequences for European security. Emmett Livingstone, Africa correspondent, sheds light on the M23 rebel group's dramatic takeover of Goma in Congo, discussing regional dynamics and the chaos that ensued. The podcast blends politics with a dash of cultural commentary, capturing both global tensions and local conflicts.
Feb 12, 2025 • 23min
War hoarse: is Zelensky being heard?
In a compelling discussion, Volodymyr Zelensky, President of Ukraine, shares his insights on the ongoing war with Russia and the challenges of international support. He expresses skepticism about peace negotiations and highlights the complexities of U.S.-Ukraine relations. The conversation also touches on innovative solutions like fish farming in Ghana, which may bolster food security, and the impact of social media platforms like TikTok in shaping modern religious discourse. Zelensky's reflections reveal the intricate dynamics of leadership during a crisis.
17 snips
Feb 11, 2025 • 30min
Eye to the chancellor: interviewing Friedrich Merz
Alice Su, The Economist's Senior China correspondent, discusses the alarming infiltration of Taiwan's armed forces by China, emphasizing espionage tactics that target both veterans and younger recruits. Johnny Williams explores the surprising rise of stylish backpacks from practical to fashionable, highlighting how societal shifts and designer collaborations are redefining this everyday item. Meanwhile, Friedrich Merz, Germany's chancellor front-runner, outlines his cautious approach to navigating Germany's economic and political challenges ahead of the upcoming elections.
31 snips
Feb 10, 2025 • 22min
I’ll be jammed: electronic warfare in Ukraine
Join Shishang Joshi, the Defense editor for The Economist with expertise in electronic warfare, as he delves into the intense battle for control in Ukraine’s electromagnetic spectrum. Tim Cross, a senior science writer, discusses the surprising use of carbon monoxide in cycling as a doping tool, raising eyebrows in a sport plagued by scandals. Cultural correspondent Catherine Nixie analyzes the declining substance of British parliamentary speeches, revealing how political discourse has shifted in modern times. Tune in for a captivating exploration of war, sport, and politics!
4 snips
Feb 8, 2025 • 38min
Scam Inc 3: The bottom line
Jackie Burns-Coven is a cyber threat researcher at Chainalysis, specializing in cryptocurrency and global cybercrime, while Sammy Chen is a Taiwanese businessman with insights into scam operations in Myanmar. They discuss the surreal lifestyles within scam compounds, juxtaposing opulence and the grim fate of victims. The conversation also dives into the sophisticated structures of scam networks, the rise of global cybercrime, and the urgent need for awareness to combat these deceitful practices. Listeners gain a chilling glimpse into the mechanics behind modern scams.
19 snips
Feb 8, 2025 • 36min
Scam Inc 2: Opportunity of a lifetime
Jalil Mouyeke, a Ugandan who sought work in Thailand, shares his harrowing experience of being caught in a pig butchering scam. He discusses the deceptive allure of job opportunities that mask perilous realities. The podcast reveals how online scams manipulate vulnerable individuals through fake identities and emotional exploitation. Jalil also highlights the grim conditions for those trapped in labor in scam operations, illustrating a world where dreams of a better life turn into a nightmare of coercion and deception.
14 snips
Feb 8, 2025 • 42min
Scam Inc 1: Pigs in a barrel
Shane Haynes, former CEO of Heartland Tri-State Bank, shares his harrowing experience as a victim of a pig butchering scam, which led to the bank's collapse. Jim Tucker, a board member and local farmer, reflects on the community's shock and disbelief as over $47 million vanished. They explore the psychological manipulation behind such scams and the emotional toll on victims, illustrating how trust can be exploited in both finance and personal relationships. Their stories underscore the broader implications of trust in isolated communities.
9 snips
Feb 7, 2025 • 24min
It could happen to you: introducing “Scam Inc”
Su Lin Wong, The Economist correspondent and creator of "Scam Inc," dives deep into the world of transnational organized crime, revealing it to be as vast as the illegal drug trade. She discusses the shocking collapse of a rural Kansas bank due to scams and explores why people fall prey to such schemes. The conversation also touches on the dangers of AI voice cloning and how it threatens personal security. Wong emphasizes the urgent need for global awareness of these sophisticated scams and their emotional impacts.
Feb 6, 2025 • 25min
Leeward: we meet South Korea’s probable president
Lee Jae-myung, leader of South Korea's Democratic Party and likely the next president, discusses his journey from poverty to power amidst a political turmoil following an alleged coup. Claire McHugh reveals the escalating violence and humanitarian crisis in Colombia's Catatumbo, emphasizing its impact on communities grappling with drug-related conflict. Anne Rowe pays tribute to the legendary singer Marianne Faithfull, exploring her tumultuous life, resilience through addiction, and her cultural legacy in music.
