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
Feb 3, 2023 • 28min
Bold eagle: America's industrial evolution
Charlotte Howard, Executive Editor at The Economist, leads a fascinating discussion with Arkady Ostrovsky, who shares insights on the rise of offshore journalism in Russia amidst media suppression. Fiametta Rocco reflects on the vibrant life of Italian actress Gina Lollobrigida, highlighting her tenacity in Hollywood. The trio also tackles the Biden administration's bold industrial policies, shifting focus to clean energy and domestic manufacturing, and the implications for the workforce in this evolving economic landscape.
Feb 2, 2023 • 27min
Poll fishing: Peru’s persistent protests
Michael Reid, a writer at large for The Economist, discusses the ongoing political unrest in Peru following the ousting of President Pedro Castillo. Ore Ogunbi dives into the spending habits of Gen Z and younger millennials, revealing their love for luxury items despite economic challenges. David Benin sheds light on Tom Lehrer's influence on modern satire, showcasing how his parodic songs addressed societal issues with humor. Together, they explore the intersections of politics, consumer behavior, and cultural commentary.
Feb 1, 2023 • 25min
Troubled shares, troubles shared: Adani and India Inc
Tom Easton, The Economist's Asia business correspondent, sheds light on the turmoil surrounding the Adani Group amid serious allegations of fraud by an American research firm. He discusses the unexpected support from Indian business leaders during this crisis and examines broader implications for corporate accountability in India. Additionally, Easton highlights Mexico's strategic advantages in the electric vehicle market and delves into the intriguing rise of MAGA rap, exploring its impact on political discourse and culture.
Jan 31, 2023 • 21min
Not shy about retiring: strikes in France
Sophie Petter, Paris bureau chief for The Economist, offers sharp insights into the ongoing strikes in France over pension reforms. She explains how President Macron's push to raise the retirement age from 62 to 64 clashes with core French values, igniting widespread protests. Additionally, Petter highlights the gloomy economic outlook as large tech firms grapple with layoffs amidst sluggish growth. The conversation also touches on fascinating shifts in American views on polyamory, exploring the dynamics of throuple relationships and emerging social recognition.
Jan 30, 2023 • 28min
Didn’t protect or serve: Tyre Nichols’s killing
Tyre Nichols's tragic death sparks intense conversation around police violence and accountability in America, challenging standard narratives, especially since the involved officers were Black. The discussion then shifts to the perilous situation for women in Afghanistan under Taliban rule, emphasizing urgent humanitarian issues. In a scientific turn, the podcast dives into how sounds influence emotions and how animal brains adapt learning paradigms, paving the way for insights into AI development that may reshape our understanding of intelligence.
Jan 27, 2023 • 23min
Tunnel, no lights: South Africa’s crumbling infrastructure
John McDermott, The Economist's chief Africa correspondent, discusses South Africa’s failing infrastructure, shedding light on the energy crisis and rampant blackouts affecting daily life and productivity. He reveals how corruption and mismanagement in state-owned enterprises like Eskom and Transnet have led to economic stagnation. Additionally, Anne Rowe reflects on the legacy of Ronald Blythe, a celebrated British rural writer, offering a glimpse into the changing facades of rural life, intertwined with themes of tradition and resilience.
Jan 26, 2023 • 26min
Bibi’s gambit: Israel’s government v its judiciary
Anshul Pfeffer, who brings his insights on Israel's political landscape, discusses the troubling attempts by the right-wing coalition government to diminish the Supreme Court's authority, raising alarms about democracy. Don Wineland shares personal experiences from Shanghai post-lockdown, revealing resilience amidst lingering challenges. They also touch on the cultural significance of China's Lunar New Year migration. The podcast wraps up with a lively debate on the controversial status of gas stoves amidst safety concerns and legislative responses in America.
Jan 25, 2023 • 25min
Tanks, a lot: arming Ukraine
Christopher Lockwood, Europe editor for The Economist, shares insights on Germany's bold decision to send tanks to Ukraine, which could change the dynamics of the conflict. Tom Gardner, Horn of Africa correspondent, discusses the turmoil in Sudan, detailing the stalling of its democratic transition and the economic decline exacerbating humanitarian crises. The conversation also offers a delightful tangent into the cultural evolution of British chips, exploring their historical significance and the journey to culinary perfection.
Jan 24, 2023 • 26min
Marshalling resources: rebuilding Ukraine
Matt Steinglass, The Economist's Europe correspondent, discusses the staggering economic toll of the war in Ukraine and the critical steps needed for recovery, comparing it to the Marshall Plan. Rachel Dobbs sheds light on the Montreal Protocol's success in healing the ozone layer and its implications for future environmental policies. Callum Williams debunks fears about job displacement during the pandemic, revealing that automation didn’t lead to widespread job losses, countering initial predictions and sparking a broader conversation about job security.
Jan 23, 2023 • 26min
Feeling un-Wellington
James Astell, Asia editor for The Economist, reflects on Jacinda Ardern's impactful leadership and the challenges facing her successor, Chris Hipkins. Sarah Burke, Economist and Mexico City Bureau Chief, discusses the growing role of grandparents in modern families and its implications. Erin Braun, West Coast correspondent, analyzes the alarming trends of America's far-right movements targeting the LGBTQ+ community, highlighting shifts in their activism since January 6, 2021. Together, they tackle pressing global issues with insightful commentary.
