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
33 snips
Jun 9, 2025 • 20min
California screaming: National Guard in LA
Aaron Braun, the West Coast correspondent for The Economist, discusses the tensions following Trump's decision to deploy troops in Los Angeles, emphasizing the impact on immigrant communities. He also delves into the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Myanmar, where military actions continue despite a ceasefire. Additionally, Braun addresses the dangers of concussions in youth contact sports, highlighting the need for safety advancements and awareness. The conversation underscores pressing global issues from immigration to public health.
45 snips
Jun 6, 2025 • 28min
Billion dollar babies: Trump-Musk spat
Ed Carr, Deputy Editor at The Economist, delves into the escalating feud between Donald Trump and Elon Musk, analyzing its impact on politics and tech, including ramifications for Tesla's stock. Zannie Minton-Beddoes, Editor-in at The Economist, examines how Israel's hard-right influences the Gaza conflict and the political power struggles in the region. They also touch on the decline of poetry, contrasting modernist trends with traditional forms and exploring how accessibility affects cultural consumption. A compelling blend of politics and art!
30 snips
Jun 5, 2025 • 20min
Count their losses: Russia casualties hit 1m
In this engaging discussion, Jonathan Rosenthal, the International editor at The Economist, unpacks the staggering toll of one million Russian casualties in the Ukraine conflict. He explores how these losses might alter Vladimir Putin’s military strategies and affect public perception back home. The conversation also delves into the growing challenge of misinformation amid the chaos of war. Additionally, a lighter note emerges with a quirky take on cheese rolling and its potential future as a protected British tradition.
30 snips
Jun 4, 2025 • 24min
He’s got Seoul: South Korea’s new leader
Oret Ogunbi, Africa correspondent for The Economist, shares insights on how the African diaspora is reshaping Afrobeats and its worldwide influence. He highlights the genre's evolution and the challenges local artists face in achieving recognition. Luke Lithgow, a science writer, discusses groundbreaking genetic research on dingoes, questioning the effectiveness of traditional culling practices and their conservation implications. Together, they explore pressing issues in South Korea's political landscape and global cultural shifts.
35 snips
Jun 3, 2025 • 23min
Apocalypse soon? Britain ups its defence
Britain is grappling with escalating security threats and is looking to overhaul its defense strategy, despite funding concerns. There's a notable increase in U.S. government borrowing, prompting questions about the safety of bonds amid rising inflation. Meanwhile, an unexpected resurgence of Catholic baptisms in France reveals a quest for spiritual meaning among adults, notably influenced by the pandemic. The podcast delves into these pressing global issues and their implications for national and international dynamics.
22 snips
Jun 2, 2025 • 19min
Poles apart: hard right wins by a sliver
Maria Wilczek, News Editor at The Economist, and Anne Rowe, Obituaries Editor, delve into Poland's presidential election, highlighting the hard-right victory of Karol Nawrotzki and its implications for EU relations. They discuss the challenges facing Prime Minister Donald Tusk and the divided political climate. The conversation also touches on the notable decline of alcohol-related violence in Cardiff, linking changing social behaviors to improved policing. Additionally, they reflect on the intriguing life of mercenary Simon Mann and the complexities of his notorious past.
May 30, 2025 • 24min
No major food groups: aid chaos in Gaza
Greg Karlstrom, the Middle East correspondent for The Economist, and David Rennie, its Geopolitics editor, dive into the chaotic aid distribution in Gaza following the Israeli blockade. They analyze the controversial Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, exploring its operational struggles and transparency issues. The conversation also touches on a significant global pandemic treaty, emphasizing the need for collective health responsibilities, while highlighting the geopolitical tensions affecting cooperation. Plus, they discuss a novel exhibition aiming to maximize museum collections.
5 snips
May 29, 2025 • 23min
Duties bound: a Trump-tariff smackdown
Rachna Shanbhog, Business Affairs Editor at The Economist, joins Henry Tricks, U.S. Technology Editor, and Sue-Lin Wong, Asia Correspondent, for a lively discussion. They dissect a recent court ruling against Trump's tariffs, exploring its implications for trade negotiations and executive power. The conversation shifts to AI, revealing a backdrop of excitement mixed with disillusionment as companies grapple with operational challenges. They also delve into Xi Jinping's father's legacy, shedding light on the Chinese leader's character and motivations.
22 snips
May 28, 2025 • 26min
Ivy beleaguer: Harvard hung out to dry
Join John Prideaux, the United States editor at The Economist, and Piotr Zalewski, a writer covering Poland, as they dive into the challenges facing Harvard University under the Trump administration. They discuss the critical implications of Poland's upcoming presidential runoff, examining its ripple effects across Europe. The conversation also explores the burgeoning trend of water sommeliers and the gourmet appreciation of water as a luxury beverage.
17 snips
May 27, 2025 • 25min
Soldiers’ fortune: Ukraine’s prisoner swap
Oliver Carroll, Ukraine correspondent for The Economist, shares gripping insights on the emotional turmoil surrounding Ukraine’s recent prisoner swap. He discusses the chaotic exchanges and the poignant stories of families anxiously awaiting their loved ones, highlighting the joy and heartbreak intertwined in the process. The conversation extends to how these exchanges mirror the stagnation of peace talks and the growing backlash against American brands amid rising geopolitical tensions, shaping their fortunes in international markets.
