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
5 snips
Oct 23, 2024 • 22min
Left field: a new force in German politics
Sahra Wagenknecht, a prominent leftist politician and founder of the Sarah Wagenknecht Alliance, discusses her party's rise and its influence on German politics. She highlights the balance between traditional leftist policies and addressing right-wing views, particularly on immigration and NATO. Alongside Tom Nathal, The Economist's chief correspondent, they delve into how Russia's maneuvers impact Moldova's European aspirations. The conversation also intriguingly touches on TikTok's transformation of language, showcasing how modern slang evolves in the digital age.
Oct 22, 2024 • 24min
Marching borders: what was Hizbullah’s plan?
Anna Likas, the Brazil correspondent for The Economist focusing on reforestation in the Amazon, shares insightful perspectives on pressing geopolitical tensions. She discusses the escalating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, offering a ground-level view of recent airstrikes. The conversation also highlights Brazil's ambitious reforestation projects, which aim to combat climate change through innovative carbon-trading schemes. Additionally, Likas reveals Switzerland's surprising rise as the world's most innovative nation, showcasing the evolving landscape of global innovation.
5 snips
Oct 21, 2024 • 25min
Spies isn’t everything: Putin’s global-chaos machine
Shoshan Joshi, a Defense editor with expertise in Russia's global influence, joins Callum Williams, a senior economics writer focused on government efficiency, and Maria Vilcek, a news editor discussing cultural trends. They delve into Putin's chaotic international tactics, the ineffectiveness of wealthy governments versus rising entitlement costs, and the rise of beans in British culture. Join them for insights on global strategies, fiscal challenges, and how baked beans are becoming more than just a beloved dish!
Oct 18, 2024 • 26min
Leaderless: the death of Yahya Sinwar
Anshul Pfeffer, Israel correspondent for The Economist, discusses the profound implications of Yahya Sinwar's death for Hamas and regional stability. Idris Kalun analyzes the political shifts in swing states like Wisconsin and Michigan, revealing why they are no longer reliable for Democrats. Anne Rowe shares the inspiring life of Sammy Basso, a young man with progeria, highlighting his resilience and dreams amidst the challenges of premature aging.
4 snips
Oct 17, 2024 • 25min
Shoal searching: the South China sea simmers
Aaron Connolly, the Asia diplomatic editor for The Economist, provides keen insights into the rising tensions in the South China Sea, detailing clashes between Chinese and Philippine vessels and their geopolitical implications. Meanwhile, Stanley Pignall, who writes the Charlemagne column, discusses Europe's wolf resurgence and the resulting culture clash between conservationists and farmers. They explore how wildlife management policies are straining rural communities and igniting political debates.
5 snips
Oct 16, 2024 • 24min
Your money for a run? Campaign finance in America
Adam O'Neill, a sharp Washington correspondent, dives into the shifting tides of campaign finance in the U.S., revealing that a candidate's fundraising prowess doesn't guarantee victory anymore. Meanwhile, Matt Steinglass shares poignant stories from asylum seekers on a Dutch ship, shedding light on the new hard-right government's strict immigration policies. Dolly Seton highlights the global skyscraper boom, blending ambition and engineering challenges in a quest for taller structures, making for a fascinating exploration of our modern landscape.
Oct 15, 2024 • 24min
Keir eye for the FDI: an interview with Britain’s PM
Keir Starmer, Prime Minister of Britain, shares his vision for revitalizing the UK economy through attracting global investments while addressing public trust. Matthew Holhouse provides insights into the Labour Party's balancing act between growth and regulatory challenges. Rebecca Jackson discusses AI chatbots that effectively counter conspiracy theories, highlighting their role in promoting informed dialogue. Meanwhile, Jeff Carr reveals groundbreaking research on the mapping of a fruit fly's brain, offering fresh perspectives on human brain functionality and psychiatric conditions.
17 snips
Oct 14, 2024 • 25min
One giant, cheap for mankind: SpaceX’s Starship
Join Oliver Morton, Planetary Affairs editor, and Anna Lankes, Brazil correspondent, as they dive into the monumental launch of SpaceX's Starship, a game-changer for affordable space travel. They discuss its groundbreaking design and future missions, including lunar and Martian explorations. Shifting gears, Lankes sheds light on Bolsonaro's enduring influence in Brazilian politics, reshaping conservative strategies even after his presidency. Lastly, they explore the evolving landscape of self-help literature and its paradoxical messages.
Oct 11, 2024 • 25min
Labour’s love lost: Keir Starmer’s first 100 days
Matthew Holhouse, a political correspondent for The Economist, discusses Labour's rocky start under Keir Starmer, highlighting internal tensions and criticisms about leadership charisma. Sasha Nauter explores the critical role of women's reproductive rights in Nevada's upcoming elections and strategies to mobilize female voters. Anne Rowe reflects on the remarkable life of Pearl Harbor veteran Yoshioko Masamitsu, intertwining his legacy with themes of honor and internal conflict.
Oct 10, 2024 • 21min
Paradise lost: Hurricane Milton bashes Florida
Oliver Morton, the Planetary Affairs Editor for The Economist, discusses how Hurricane Milton exemplifies the rising intensity of storms due to climate change. Nick Pelham shares insights into the Palestinian experience following the October 7th attacks, depicting the resilience amidst chaos. Emily Steinmark explores the groundbreaking potential of nuclear clocks for advancing science. Together, they highlight the intertwining of environmental changes, socio-political strife, and technological innovation.
