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
Apr 6, 2020 • 24min
An app for that: covid surveillance
Hal Hodson, Asia technology correspondent for The Economist, delves into the role of digital surveillance and contact tracing apps during the COVID-19 pandemic, weighing public health benefits against privacy risks. Meanwhile, Matthew Holhouse, British political correspondent, analyzes Keir Starmer's emergence as the Labour Party leader and the challenges he faces in steering the opposition. They also discuss the unusual warmth of the northern hemisphere's winter, linking it to broader climate change issues.
Apr 3, 2020 • 22min
Trough to peak: how high will American unemployment go?
Join Callum Williams, a Senior economics writer, and Greg Karlstrom, a Middle East correspondent, as they dive into the tumultuous shifts in the American job market amid the pandemic. They analyze soaring unemployment rates and compare the U.S. response with that of Europe. Meanwhile, they explore the struggles of Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, facing economic woes and international scrutiny. The conversation also touches on the discovery of ancient cave art and the impact of modern threats on cultural heritage.
Apr 2, 2020 • 22min
No port of call: coronavirus may sink the cruise industry
In this conversation, travel writer Charles Reid unpacks the pandemic's devastating effects on the cruise industry, highlighting financial woes and a drastic shift in consumer perceptions. He discusses the once-thriving sector's denial of port entries and lack of government bailouts. The dialogue also explores Sweden's unconventional approach to COVID-19 with its relatively relaxed measures, raising questions about long-term strategies for health and societal response. Reid's insights reveal the intricacies of travel, public health, and evolving language patterns.
Apr 1, 2020 • 23min
Wishful thinking: America’s offer to Venezuela
Charlotte Howard, Energy and Commodities Editor at The Economist, dives into America's controversial offer to Venezuela's Nicolás Maduro, which hinges on power-sharing and elections. The podcast covers the crushing impact of the pandemic on oil prices and the unique challenges faced by U.S. diplomacy in Venezuela’s political landscape. Additionally, Howard shares tips for navigating the new norm of video conferencing, ensuring you present yourself effectively while working from home, highlighting the interplay of personal and professional spaces.
Mar 31, 2020 • 24min
In need of Comfort: New York's covid-19 crisis
Rosemary Ward, the New York correspondent for The Economist, shares her firsthand insights into NYC's harrowing experience during the COVID-19 crisis. She discusses the city's struggles with overwhelmed hospitals and the conflicting responses from local officials. The podcast also delves into the unexpected rise of African contemporary art amidst the pandemic, exploring how these cultural shifts symbolize resilience and change. Additionally, it examines the harsh measures taken by Middle Eastern governments, raising questions about authoritarianism's future.
Mar 30, 2020 • 22min
Containment or complacency? Covid-19 in Japan
Dominic Ziegler, senior Asia correspondent for The Economist, and Liam Taylor, who writes about Africa, discuss Japan's COVID-19 rise and its impact on the postponed Olympics. They analyze the government's responses and the economic implications of a health crisis, reflecting on public morale. Switching gears, they explore the role of Ugandan pop star Bobby Wine in political activism, using music to challenge authority and engage youth amid the pandemic. In a separate segment, they highlight the dire impact of plastic pollution on turtle populations.
Mar 27, 2020 • 23min
Life sentences? Prisons and covid-19
Adam Roberts, the Midwest correspondent for The Economist, uncovers how COVID-19 has turned American prisons into hotspots, pushing for essential reforms to protect inmates. Stanley Pignall, the European business correspondent, discusses the varied definitions of key industries during lockdowns, revealing the challenges faced by essential workers. Both guests highlight the urgent need for change in the prison system and share personal anecdotes on navigating lockdown life, from cooking to dog training.
Mar 26, 2020 • 22min
Going to townships: covid-19 threatens Africa
John McDermott, Chief Africa correspondent for The Economist, shares his insights on the dire impact of COVID-19 in Africa from Johannesburg. He discusses the continent's healthcare struggles, highlighting the critical shortage of ventilators and the need for international aid. McDermott emphasizes the socioeconomic challenges faced by sub-Saharan nations and the necessity for $150 billion in support. He also addresses the global supply chain disruptions affecting medical equipment availability, showcasing the complex landscape of pandemic response in Africa.
Mar 25, 2020 • 23min
Fiscal firepower: governments’ covid-19 aid
Duncan Weldon, Britain economics correspondent for The Economist, and Ted Plafker, the China correspondent, discuss the financial landscapes shaped by COVID-19. They delve into the US's massive relief package and the strategies China deployed to ensure food security during lockdowns. The conversation highlights the balance of health and economic strategies, and also touches on the risks faced by crocodile hunters in the Congo Basin, revealing the intertwining of crisis responses and individual livelihoods.
Mar 24, 2020 • 23min
Trial, trial again: the race for covid-19 treatments
Natasha Loder, Health policy editor at The Economist, and Tom Gardner, Addis Ababa correspondent, discuss pivotal issues surrounding COVID-19 treatments and Ethiopia’s ongoing conflict. They explore the rapid development of potential COVID-19 therapies and vaccines while emphasizing the complexities of distribution. Gardner sheds light on the violent turmoil in Oromia, revealing personal stories amidst government crackdowns. The duo also connects how social media is being leveraged to track the virus, raising important questions about privacy and public health.
