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
May 1, 2020 • 22min
Nature, or nurtured? A politicised virus-origin hunt
Natasha Loder, Health Policy Editor at The Economist, dives into the complexities of the coronavirus origins debate, exploring theories from zoonotic spillovers to lab leaks. She discusses how political influences are muddling perceptions and impacting global health policies. The conversation shifts to the differing approaches in supporting small businesses between America and Europe amid economic hardships. Finally, Loder highlights the rise of community radio stations, showcasing their role in spreading vital public health information and fostering connections during lockdowns.
Apr 30, 2020 • 21min
Submerging markets: developing economies and covid-19
Simon Cox, The Economist's Emerging Markets Editor, shares insights on the severe economic impacts of the pandemic on developing economies like Lebanon and Zambia. He discusses how COVID-19 has widened the gap between rich and poor nations, with increasing debt and investor uncertainty complicating recovery efforts. The emotional toll on caregivers and dementia patients during this crisis is also highlighted, alongside a fascinating look at how lockdowns have transformed language learning, blending technology with personal interaction.
Apr 29, 2020 • 21min
Those who can, teach! The case for reopening schools
Sasha Nelta, The Economist's public policy editor, explores the significant educational impacts of school closures, emphasizing how disparities are widening among students. Idris Kalun, the U.S. policy correspondent, discusses the rollback of environmental protections under the Trump administration and its unclear beneficiaries. They also delve into the complexities of safely reopening schools amidst parental concerns and examine the pressures urban Kenyans face when sharing their incomes with families back home.
Apr 28, 2020 • 23min
First, pass the post: Ohio’s vote-by-mail experiment
John Pridot, the United States editor for The Economist, dives into Ohio's groundbreaking all-mail primary election, exploring how it may shape future voting methods. He highlights concerns about voter turnout and security amid this trial run. Tom Wainwright, the media editor, discusses the BBC’s successful adaptations during the pandemic, addressing criticisms and navigating funding challenges. Their discussion also touches on the global rise of Bolivian wine, emphasizing the region's unique high-altitude vineyards and the hurdles facing local winemakers.
Apr 27, 2020 • 21min
End transmission: covid-19 in New Zealand
Kinley Salmon, a staff writer at The Economist, shares insights on New Zealand's rigorous COVID-19 elimination strategy, discussing border control challenges and the emotional toll on residents. Matt Steinglass, Europe correspondent, highlights the labor shortage crisis in agriculture caused by the pandemic, emphasizing the urgent need for migrant workers to prevent crop waste. They also touch upon the intriguing role of cologne as a hand sanitizer in Turkey, reflecting both hygiene practices and cultural identity.
Apr 24, 2020 • 23min
Unsteady states: America’s piecemeal reopening
Join John Fasman, The Economist’s Washington correspondent, and Catherine Hamlin, a revered obstetric surgeon in Ethiopia, as they delve into America’s chaotic reopening during the pandemic. Fasman discusses the patchwork strategies of different states and the critical need for widespread testing. Hamlin shares her inspiring legacy of treating obstetric fistula and establishing a midwifery school in Ethiopia, highlighting the vital healthcare challenges facing women. The dynamic conversation intertwines pressing news with poignant human stories.
Apr 23, 2020 • 23min
Rakhine and ruin: insurgency in Myanmar
Charlie McCann, Southeast Asia correspondent for The Economist, shares insights on the powerful Arakan army's insurgency in Myanmar, driven by deep-rooted ethnic tensions and government oppression. Ludwig Siegela, U.S. technology editor, discusses America’s faltering efforts in the 5G race, spotlighting Huawei's resilience amid geopolitical challenges. The conversation delves into the stark realities faced by civilians caught in conflict and the innovative responses of Sri Lankans to alcohol restrictions during lockdowns, highlighting creativity in adversity.
Apr 22, 2020 • 21min
Held in cheque: corporate payouts and covid-19
Stanley Pignol, The Economist's European business and finance correspondent, delves into the contentious issue of corporate payouts during the COVID-19 pandemic. He discusses the conflict between shareholder dividends and the need for companies to seek government aid. With a looming recession, he raises questions about corporate accountability. The conversation also touches on the alarming state of the Great Barrier Reef, highlighting the impact of rising sea temperatures and the unexpected wildlife resurgence during lockdowns.
Apr 21, 2020 • 21min
Symbols’ status: arrests in Hong Kong
Caroline Carter, the Deputy Asian news editor for The Economist, brings her insights into the recent wave of arrests of pro-democracy leaders in Hong Kong. She discusses the heightened tensions between the government and advocates for liberty, examining the public's resilient response. The conversation also touches on the significant global shortage of personal protective equipment during the pandemic, addressing the challenges faced by healthcare workers and innovative grassroots solutions emerging worldwide.
Apr 20, 2020 • 22min
Restarting Europe’s engine: Germany’s lockdown lightens
In this discussion, Tom Nuttall, Berlin bureau chief for The Economist, shares insights on Germany’s effective COVID-19 response. Non-essential businesses and schools are reopening thanks to extensive testing and transparent leadership. He also touches on the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Yemen, raising questions about Saudi Arabia's ceasefire motives. Additionally, they explore the rising trend of female vigilantes in modern narratives, highlighting how these stories confront issues like sexual abuse and call for societal accountability.
