

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

Nov 5, 2024 • 27min
Vote! Our election-day special
Donald Trump, former president of the United States and now running for re-election, dives into the intense climate of the upcoming election. He discusses the critical role swing states like Pennsylvania play in determining outcomes. The conversation also touches on the importance of voter turnout, especially in a divided electorate. Additionally, Trump addresses global perceptions of the election, and the integrity of the electoral process amidst rising tensions and concerns. This insightful dialogue captures the stakes that loom over American democracy.

6 snips
Nov 4, 2024 • 24min
Last-ditch pitch: America’s campaigns conclude
Daniel Franklin, Senior U.S. editor at The Economist, discusses the heated final days of America's election campaign, focusing on swing state strategies and real-time result analysis. Pyotr Zalewski, Turkey correspondent, highlights the growing unity among Turkic states, showcasing cultural celebrations like the Nomad Games and the shift away from Russian dependence. The conversation also touches on the rise of canal boat living in Britain, illustrating its appeal amid the political tumult, marrying lifestyle trends with current events.

14 snips
Nov 1, 2024 • 24min
Turn up the PA: the last in our swing-state series
Pennsylvania's role as a critical swing state is dissected, revealing its electoral history and the strategies of Trump and Harris. The dynamics of the influencer economy are explored, showcasing its rapid growth and the varied audience engagement. Additionally, the revival of goth culture, from its roots to the current vibrant scene, highlights its resilience and influence on today’s generation. Listen in for insights on how these topics intertwine with the future of politics and culture.

Oct 31, 2024 • 22min
Tax driver: Labour’s budget
Archie Hall, Britain economics correspondent, dives into the Labour government's historic budget with the largest tax hikes in decades. Stevie Hertz discusses the aftermath of Hurricane Helene and its effects on North Carolina's election landscape. Meanwhile, Rachel Lloyd, Deputy culture editor, examines the pickle revival, exploring its rise in popularity, especially among the youth, and even the quirkiest ways to incorporate pickles into cocktails. From critical economic policies to culinary trends, this discussion serves up a mix of politics and pop culture.

Oct 30, 2024 • 24min
Hot shot: the wider promise of weight-loss jabs
Natasha Loda, Health editor for The Economist, discusses the promising GLP-1 drugs originally for diabetes that are now showing potential for obesity and various other diseases. Simon Rabinovich analyzes mixed economic indicators that may influence voter sentiment in the upcoming election. Meanwhile, Alice Su shares harrowing stories of Chinese migrants risking their lives to seek opportunities in America, highlighting the motivations and challenges of this perilous journey. Together, they unravel the intersecting narratives of health, economy, and migration.

7 snips
Oct 29, 2024 • 25min
Ukraine reaction: Russia deploys North Koreans
Shashank Joshi, Defense editor, discusses Russia's precarious military reliance on North Korean troops amid rising casualties in Ukraine. Tom Easton, Mumbai bureau chief, highlights the complexities of U.S. voting for overseas citizens, emphasizing the tension between access and integrity. Catherine Nixie, Britain correspondent, offers a humorous look at the UK's quirky citizenship test, revealing its odd focus on culture over governance. Together, they explore the urgent issues shaping global politics today.

4 snips
Oct 28, 2024 • 24min
Timed bombs: Israel’s pre-election attack on Iran
Greg Karlstrom, The Economist's Middle East correspondent, discusses Israel's recent military action against Iran and its surprising limited scope amidst election considerations. Henry Tricks, the U.S. technology editor, shares insights on how AI can revolutionize customer service, balancing innovation with skepticism. Mike Jakeman analyzes the merger prospects between LIV Golf and the PGA Tour, exploring the financial upheaval in traditional golf and the implications for players and fans alike.

Oct 27, 2024 • 50min
The Weekend Intelligence: The Apology
Charlie McCann, an Economist reporter, and Charles Gladstone, a descendant of slave-owner Sir John Gladstone, explore the deep waters of inherited guilt and reconciliation. They discuss the Gladstone family's apology in Guyana for their ancestor's role in slavery. The conversation sheds light on the broader reparations debate emerging among Commonwealth nations. With personal anecdotes, they address the emotional weight of acknowledging such a legacy while highlighting the complexities and societal implications of their family's historical ties to exploitation.

Oct 25, 2024 • 25min
Follow the leader: who will run Hamas?
Gareth Brown, a Middle East correspondent based in Beirut, discusses the power vacuum in Hamas after the killing of its commander and introduces potential successors amid ideological divides. Rebecca Jackson analyzes the pivotal role of Black voters in Georgia's upcoming election, noting shifts in young voters' priorities towards economic issues. Meanwhile, Anne Rowe reflects on the life of Fethullah Gulen, exploring his political influence and the impact of events like the 2016 coup on Turkish politics.

Oct 24, 2024 • 23min
Coming up Trump: our election model puts Harris behind
Simon Wright, Industry editor at The Economist, shares insights on Elon Musk's ambitious robotaxi promises, highlighting the technological and regulatory challenges that may delay their arrival. Meanwhile, Shardash Chitnas, a global business writer, reflects on 40 years of Microsoft Excel, celebrating its enduring popularity and user-friendly design. They discuss how Excel remains a staple in corporate environments while exploring the potential of AI to revolutionize this classic software. Politics and technology collide in this engaging conversation!