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
37 snips
Dec 26, 2024 • 36min
Tomes will tell: books that predict the future
Oliver Morton, Planetary Affairs Editor, and Shashank Joshi, Defence Editor, explore how literature can forecast the future. They discuss impactful titles like 'Rainbows End' and 'Nuclear War,' tackling themes of technology, longevity, and the geopolitical risks of nuclear conflict. The conversation also reflects on how fiction mirrors societal issues, especially in the face of climate change and technological advancements. Literature emerges as a vital lens, prompting optimism and engagement for a sustainable future, even amid challenges.
9 snips
Dec 24, 2024 • 24min
Good moos: cows could help the climate
Cows in rich countries produce significantly more milk than in poorer ones. Enhancing dairy productivity in developing regions could alleviate hunger and combat climate change. Spain's economic growth in 2024 is showcased, highlighting the revival of its service sector. The podcast also reflects on Harold Palmer, a hermit from Northumberland, whose story emphasizes solitude and community support. Additionally, it discusses the challenges of climate change on cattle farming in Kenya, stressing the need for sustainable practices.
18 snips
Dec 23, 2024 • 24min
The club rules? India’s RSS
Avantika Chilkoti, a global business correspondent for The Economist, shares her firsthand experience at the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh's annual celebration in Nagpur. She delves into the organization's dual nature as a community hub and a supporter of Hindu nationalism. Chilkoti reveals how RSS influences Narendra Modi's policies and the complex dynamics of power at play. The discussion also highlights how Gulf countries are shifting focus towards innovation, and introduces the 2024 word of the year, 'cacostocracy,' reflecting current political sentiments.
Dec 20, 2024 • 28min
Country of the year: The Economist picks
Lena Shipper, the Africa editor for The Economist and a former South Asia bureau chief, discusses the significant political changes in recent months. She highlights the heated debate over the Country of the Year nominees, comparing Bangladesh's revolutionary spirit with Syria's ongoing turmoil. The optimism in Bangladesh emerges through its recent student uprisings, signaling hope for a return to democracy. Additionally, she shares a heartfelt rescue initiative where abandoned pets are transported to new homes, emphasizing the challenges of animal welfare.
Dec 19, 2024 • 24min
Between Estonia and a hard place: NATO meets
In this engaging discussion, Adam Roberts, Digital Editor at The Economist, reports from the tense Estonia-Russia border as NATO strategizes against aggression. Ava Renee, a spiritual influencer, shares her journey navigating digital spirituality, while Dr. Alex Christensen explores the rise of spiritual influencers on platforms like TikTok. The conversation touches on the urgent need for increased defense spending amidst shifting global dynamics and examines how young people's spirituality is evolving within a capitalist framework.
12 snips
Dec 18, 2024 • 29min
Mass graves: revealing Syria’s horror
Gareth Brown, a correspondent who bravely reported from Syria, shares his harrowing experience visiting a suspected mass grave near Damascus. He details the chilling aftermath of the regime's brutal rule and the emotional toll on families seeking their loved ones. The discussion also shifts to France's political turmoil as they navigate leadership challenges under President Macron. Additionally, they touch on notable films for 2024, including engaging narratives on relationships and societal issues, showcasing the interplay of grief and imagination.
6 snips
Dec 17, 2024 • 22min
Scholz fired: Germany calls snap election
Tom Nuttall, the Berlin bureau chief for The Economist, provides expert insights into the political turmoil in Germany following Olaf Scholz's confidence vote loss, paving the way for a snap election. Meanwhile, Leo Marani, Asia correspondent based in Mumbai, discusses innovative waste management strategies in India, shining a light on Goa’s transformation into one of the cleanest cities. They delve into how these shifts in governance and sustainability reflect broader global patterns, intertwining local and international implications.
5 snips
Dec 16, 2024 • 27min
Off-side: Georgians reject new president
Sarah Larniuk, a senior producer for The Economist and expert in Georgian affairs, reports from Tbilisi where protests erupt over a one-candidate presidential election. The discussion highlights the growing unrest and the people's defiance against government suppression. Meanwhile, Tim Cross, a senior science writer, dives into the implications of impending NASA budget cuts, discussing the tension between private space ventures and government oversight. The podcast also celebrates the cultural significance of the martini, showcasing its evolution and enduring charm.
17 snips
Dec 13, 2024 • 22min
Minds blown: are we getting dumber?
Join Anne Rowe, Obituaries editor, and Duncan Weldon, Economics correspondent, as they tackle a striking revelation: adults are performing worse in literacy and numeracy tests than average ten-year-olds! They discuss the implications of this alarming trend and how it reflects on educational systems. The conversation takes a detour into the precarious state of Russia's economy, balancing challenges like high interest rates and reliance on China. Plus, a light-hearted quiz tests adult knowledge against child-level questions, leaving listeners both puzzled and amused!
16 snips
Dec 12, 2024 • 26min
Intel in slide: a chipmaker on the ropes
Shailesh Chitnis, a global business writer for The Economist, shares insights into Intel's struggles with layoffs and a plunging share price, raising questions about its future in a competitive chip market. Alongside this, Sarah Larniuk, a senior producer, discusses a groundbreaking International Criminal Court case against Belarus, shedding light on the legal complexities involved. They also explore the influence of viral food trends on cooking habits, emphasizing how social media reshapes our culinary experiences.
