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
Mar 23, 2020 • 24min
Continental shift: covid-19 grips Europe
Christopher Lockwood, Europe editor for The Economist, sheds light on the severe COVID-19 situation gripping Europe, particularly in Italy and Spain, where high infection rates raise questions about healthcare responses. Meanwhile, Robert Guest, Foreign editor, discusses Colombia's dual crises, facing a surge of Venezuelan refugees and an ongoing drug war that strains resources. They also touch on the broader implications of COVID-19 disruptions on global sports and the emotional cost of cancellations on communities.
Mar 20, 2020 • 23min
Lessons unplanned: school shutdowns spread
Amy Hawkins, an international affairs writer for The Economist, discusses the profound impact of school closures during the pandemic, noting the educational and social costs faced by nearly a billion children. She highlights the challenges of remote learning, especially for vulnerable students. Meanwhile, Anne Rowe, obituaries editor, shares the remarkable life of Matvei Natanson, a backgammon champion who overcame homelessness. Their conversation draws fascinating parallels between the strategies of backgammon and life’s unpredictable journey.
Mar 19, 2020 • 22min
Pandemic, meet politics: the US-China spat
David Rennie, Beijing bureau chief for The Economist, and Max Rodenbeck, the South Asia bureau chief based in Delhi, discuss the fraught US-China dynamics intensified by the pandemic. They explore how political narratives exacerbate ideological tensions, complicating global public health efforts. The conversation shifts to India's unique challenges with its COVID-19 response, emphasizing healthcare system vulnerabilities and the specter of a wide-scale outbreak. The impact of social conditions on health is also critically examined, showcasing the intricate link between politics and pandemic management.
Mar 18, 2020 • 23min
Drawbridges up: lockdowns and covid-19
Simon Long, a senior editor at The Economist, and John Fassman, the Washington correspondent, discuss the global contrast in COVID-19 responses, particularly focusing on how the pandemic influenced the U.S. presidential election. The duo examines Joe Biden's lead in the Democratic race amid lockdowns and the challenges of campaigning during a health crisis. They also delve into Japan's efforts to protect its Wagyu beef from genetic smuggling, showcasing the intricate balance between global demand and local authenticity.
Mar 17, 2020 • 22min
Same old song, and Gantz: fresh coalition talks in Israel
Stephanie Studer, Senior China business correspondent, and Ryan Avent, Free Exchange columnist, delve into the political turmoil surrounding Israel's coalition talks as Benny Gantz faces significant challenges. They discuss how industries worldwide, especially in China, pivoted during the COVID-19 pandemic, with manufacturers adapting to urgent demands. The conversation also touches on the historical economic impacts of pandemics, highlighting their role in reshaping labor dynamics and productivity concerns.
Mar 16, 2020 • 21min
Flight risk: airlines and covid-19
Miranda Johnson, The Economist's Southeast Asia correspondent, dives into the surprising gap between the socially conservative laws of the Philippines and the more progressive views of its populace. The discussion highlights the tension surrounding issues like divorce and same-sex marriage and explores why legislation lags behind public sentiment. Johnson also touches on the existential threat that COVID-19 poses to airlines and innovative solutions like drone delivery systems emerging in response to the pandemic.
Mar 13, 2020 • 20min
Coming two terms with it: Putin’s power grab
Arkady Ostrovsky, Russia and Eastern Europe editor for The Economist, discusses the implications of recent constitutional amendments allowing Vladimir Putin to extend his presidency until 2036. He predicts a standoff as public faith in Putin wanes. The conversation covers the challenges faced by the opposition and the manipulative voting processes entrenched in the regime. Additionally, Ostrovsky highlights how inadequate sick pay in Russia forces employees to work while ill, further complicating public health during the pandemic.
Mar 12, 2020 • 21min
Stimulating discussion: policy responses to covid-19
Duncan Weldon, Britain’s economics correspondent, shares insights on government strategies to cushion economies against COVID-19, including a hefty £30bn stimulus. Shoshank Joshi, The Economist's defence editor, dives into the rise of laser weapons, discussing both their potential military advantages and historical challenges. They also take a moment to celebrate the anniversary of 'The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy,' exploring its comedic yet profound insights on life amid the ongoing pandemic.
Mar 11, 2020 • 21min
Hollywood moment: Harvey Weinstein’s sentencing
Sasha Nauta, The Economist's public policy editor, shares profound insights into the Harvey Weinstein trial, uncovering its implications for the #MeToo movement and the complexity of testimonies. Brooke Unger, the Americas editor, dissects Guyana's election and delves into how the nation plans to manage impending oil wealth amidst political tensions. They explore public perceptions of sexual violence, the aesthetic challenges of anti-terror architecture, and the balance between security and design in urban settings.
Mar 10, 2020 • 23min
When in Rome...stay put: Italy on lockdown
Tom Nuttall, Berlin bureau chief for The Economist, offers keen insights on Slovakia's political landscape amid the broader implications of Italy's lockdown. He examines the unexpected rise of an anti-corruption populist leader and the challenges of coalition governance in Slovakia. The conversation also explores the societal complexities of enforcing lockdown measures in Italy and highlights the cognitive advantages of bilingualism, such as delayed dementia onset and improved mental agility. An engaging dive into politics and language!
