Explore the changing dynamics of families in East Asia, from premarital cohabitation to single parenthood. Discover the global influence and evolution of hip-hop, from its origins in the Bronx to its political power as a tool of expression.

The podcast discusses the recent expansion of the BRICS alliance and its implications. It explores the rise of child social media influencers and the challenges they face. It also reflects on inequality and sanitation in India, highlighting the work of Bindeshwar Pathak.

The podcast discusses the reported death of Yevgeny Prigozhin and its implications for Ukraine and Russia. It also explores Indonesia's moderate version of Islam and its plans for export. Lastly, it features an indigenous pioneer of Peruvian pop blending traditional culture with K-pop.

Zimbabwe's ruling party uses various tactics to manipulate elections, including intimidation and mismanagement. Residents of Lahaina express shock and anger over lack of warning during fire. British lawmakers discuss complaints and challenges of being MPs, highlighting both positive and negative aspects. Ministers in the UK hold significant power, but also face limitations. Patience is emphasized as an important quality in running a country.

This podcast covers China's housing-sector crisis and its impact on the economy, the introduction of autonomous taxis in San Francisco, and the unexpected decrease in Antarctic sea ice cover. It also discusses the consequences of disappearing sea ice and rising sea levels, including potential catastrophic consequences for low-lying areas.

Recent elections in Guatemala and Ecuador reveal contrasting outcomes despite similar concerns of violence and corruption. Leprosy is making a comeback in Florida. Singapore leads the way in alternative proteins like soline. The challenges and potential competition in the alternative protein industry are explored.

ECOWAS threatens military intervention in Niger coup, but support is waning. The crisis in Niger poses risks for potential military interventions. The coup's outcome may set a precedent in Africa. Tribute to Richard Simpson, an American consumer-product safety pioneer.

Latin America's abundance of lithium and its potential role in the commodities boom. Volkswagen's vulnerability in the changing car industry. The rise of women's football in Britain and its implications for the sport. Challenges faced by the German car industry and the fear of obsolescence. The importance of grassroots football in promoting women's football in England.

Recent devastating fires in West Maui, the decreasing profitability of cocaine production in Colombia, and the impact of English-language courses on Northern European languages.

The former president has been hit with a new set of charges, under a catch-all racketeering act that has been used to prosecute everyone from rappers to teachers. It’s Mr Trump’s fourth indictment, but perhaps the most unusual. Ukraine’s new, surprisingly effective innovation: the “candy bomb” (10:10). And, the most expensive American cities to live alone (17:30).For full access to print, digital and audio editions of The Economist, try a free 30-day digital subscription by going to www.economist.com/intelligenceoffer