

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
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Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 23, 2024 • 27min
KamaChameleon: What does Harris stand for?
Kamala Harris faces the challenge of resonating with American voters after a vibrant convention. Engaging young voters at the Hotties for Harris event sparks enthusiasm for key issues like reproductive rights. The evolution of dating apps across cultures showcases unique adaptations in Brazil, China, and Pakistan, highlighting contrasts between traditional and modern dating dynamics. Celebrating Wally Amos, the podcast reflects on his legacy from cookies to literacy advocacy, merging personal stories with entrepreneurial journeys.

6 snips
Aug 22, 2024 • 26min
Electric eye: AI is helping fight terrorists
Shashank Joshi, defence editor at The Economist, discusses how AI is revolutionizing intelligence analysis to predict terrorist activities. Sarah Burke, bureau chief for Mexico, highlights the dire economic crisis in Cuba, marked by government inefficiencies and a heavy reliance on foreign aid. Meanwhile, Oliver Carroll, our Ukraine correspondent, shares insights into Odessa's surprising cultural revival at the beach amid war. Together, they explore resilience and hope in crisis situations, showcasing human spirit in the face of adversity.

Aug 21, 2024 • 25min
The human strain: can mpox be contained?
Mpox is rising rapidly in Africa, with a need for better vaccination efforts and public health strategies to combat its spread. Concerns are also growing about Russia's potential use of nuclear weapons in space, posing threats to satellites and global communications. Additionally, discussions highlight the energy demands of artificial intelligence and their implications for climate initiatives. The podcast dives into the complex interplay of health crises, geopolitical tensions, and technological challenges.

Aug 20, 2024 • 22min
Byte by byte: Iran and Israel’s escalating cyberwar
Join Shashank Joshi, The Economist's defence editor, and Simon Wright, the industry editor, as they dive into the escalating cyberwar between Iran and Israel. They discuss Iran's strategic shift towards psychological operations amidst geopolitical tensions. The conversation also explores the fierce rivalry in aviation, highlighting the challenges Boeing and Airbus face from emerging competitor COMAC. Alongside these topics, they touch on rental affordability in America, revealing surprising insights into solo living costs.

Aug 19, 2024 • 23min
Hail Harris: the Democratic convention begins
Kamala Harris, the current Vice President and Democratic presidential nominee, discusses her rise in the polls ahead of the convention. She examines the race's dynamics and the importance of substance in political discourse. The conversation also highlights compelling research showing that patients benefit from female doctors and explores the intriguing communication methods of elephants, suggesting they use low-frequency rumbles akin to names. Harris's insights underscore not just political strategy but also the human and animal connections that shape our world.

4 snips
Aug 16, 2024 • 27min
Landing padded: the global-recession risk
Ora Ogunbeyi, Africa correspondent and part-time dating expert, discusses the intriguing trend of singles moving away from dating apps to engage in in-person events, like run clubs. Meanwhile, Anne Rowe, the Obituaries editor, pays homage to Joss Naylor, a celebrated fell runner, sharing stories of his incredible achievements and the community's heartfelt tribute plans. The conversation highlights a shift toward authentic connections and celebrates the spirit of resilience in both dating and athletics.

Aug 15, 2024 • 24min
One peace at a time: Gaza, Israel and Iran
Greg Karlstrom, Middle East correspondent, provides a gripping analysis of the ongoing Gaza conflict and the complexities of Iran's potential retaliations. He sheds light on peace talks in Doha and their implications for regional stability. Meanwhile, Oliver Morton, planetary affairs editor and author, reveals groundbreaking research suggesting Mars may hide an ocean’s worth of water beneath its surface, sparking excitement for future exploration. The discussion also touches on the challenges and opportunities facing vanilla farmers in Colombia amid rising global demand.

15 snips
Aug 14, 2024 • 25min
Bait the hook! Fishing in the global talent pool
Robert Guest, Deputy Editor at The Economist, discusses the challenges faced by immigrants navigating complex immigration systems. He emphasizes that skilled workers can significantly boost innovation if welcomed. Simon Rabinovich, U.S. Economics Editor, dives into tipping culture, exploring rising expectations and the phenomenon dubbed 'tipflation.' The conversation touches on the broader impact of these practices on service quality and consumer behavior, alongside a brief overview of AI's transformative role in industry competitiveness.

Aug 13, 2024 • 24min
AIOU: what if the AI boom busts?
Guy Scriven, a global business writer at The Economist, delves into the AI investment surge, revealing its potential pitfalls. He discusses the colossal $1.4 trillion corporate spending and the overextension risks that may lead to an AI bubble. Scriven also touches on the historical tensions around a Japanese gold mine and its UNESCO designation, alongside the rising cultural appeal of nicotine pouches, highlighting public health concerns and their unexpected popularity among American conservatives.

9 snips
Aug 12, 2024 • 25min
The boot is on the other foot: Ukraine’s surprise incursion
Join Oliver Carroll, a seasoned Ukraine correspondent, and Sophie Pedder, Paris bureau chief, as they dive into Ukraine's bold military incursion into Russia, marking a historic shift in the ongoing conflict. They discuss the chaos this surprise offensive has caused within Russian forces and its implications for civilians. On a lighter note, the duo reflects on the success of the Paris Olympics, highlighting the city's transformation, logistical triumphs, and future Olympic sustainability goals. Plus, they introduce exciting advances in automotive tech, including innovative holographic displays.