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
Nov 9, 2022 • 26min
Red ripple: America’s midterm elections
Ana Lankes, the Argentina and Chile correspondent for The Economist and an expert on slum improvement policies, discusses the surprising outcomes of America's midterm elections, where Democrats exceeded expectations despite a Republican House majority. She highlights the revitalization of Buenos Aires’ Villa 31, showcasing its integration efforts while balancing rising rents. The conversation also dives into modern warfare, analyzing the evolving tactics of air power in the Ukraine conflict, particularly the implications for traditional aircraft in light of new technologies.
Nov 8, 2022 • 29min
Who counts wins: Election-administration fears
Avantika Chilkoti, an international correspondent for The Economist, sheds light on the devastating links between global food insecurity and conflicts, particularly the fallout from Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Faye Lomas, a culture writer, celebrates HBO's transformative 50-year journey, exploring its groundbreaking series that set new storytelling standards. The podcast also addresses the alarming pressures faced by election administrators in the U.S., as misinformation and political polarization threaten the integrity of democracy.
Nov 7, 2022 • 26min
Degrees of risk: COP27 and the 1.5C myth
Kathleen Bragg, Environment editor at The Economist, and Hamza Jelani, Foreign affairs writer, delve into pressing global issues. They discuss the waning feasibility of limiting global warming to 1.5C and the essential shift in focus from prevention to adaptation. The conversation also highlights the global decline of the rule of law, particularly in unstable regions, while contrasting with signs of improvement in Eastern Europe. Additionally, they tackle the quirky world of sports rivalries where success breeds disdain among fans, revealing our complex relationship with winning teams.
Nov 5, 2022 • 1h 30min
Red fights and blue: America’s midterm elections
In a compelling discussion, President Joe Biden reflects on his policies as they relate to the heated midterm elections. He and the hosts dive into the shifting political landscape, spotlighting how Republican outreach to Hispanic voters is challenging traditional Democratic strongholds. The conversation includes a look at the high-stakes Senate race in Georgia and Trump's influence on midterm dynamics. Economic concerns, particularly inflation, emerge as critical voter issues, along with vital topics like immigration and abortion that shape electoral sentiments.
Nov 4, 2022 • 25min
Peace meal: Ethiopia’s civil war
Tom Gardner, East Africa correspondent, delves into the precarious peace agreement in Ethiopia's Tigray, highlighting the humanitarian relief it promises while questioning long-term stability amidst skepticism. Georgia Banjo, Britain correspondent, discusses the alarming trend of older workers exiting the labor market, focusing on health issues plaguing the over-50s demographic. This poignant analysis sheds light on the need for better policies to support aging workers, making for a compelling listen.
Nov 3, 2022 • 30min
The elephant in the chamber? America’s midterms
Idris Kaloun, The Economist's Washington bureau chief, analyzes the imminent shifts in the U.S. midterm elections, noting the potential Republican takeover and legislative gridlock. Shashank Joshi, defense editor, discusses the alarming vulnerability of undersea infrastructure, particularly in light of recent sabotage incidents. Meanwhile, Moeka Iida explores the true essence of 'ikigai,' unraveling its cultural significance in Japan versus its commercialization in the West, challenging listeners to rethink their paths to fulfillment.
Nov 2, 2022 • 28min
The curious case of Binyamin’s butt-in: Israel’s election
Anshul Pfeffer, The Economist's Israel correspondent, delves into Benjamin Netanyahu's political comeback, spotlighting his contentious coalition-building and the challenges posed by far-right partners. Tom Wainwright, Tech and Media Editor, discusses Apple's strategic shift away from China for manufacturing, highlighting its implications for global supply chains. The discussion also touches on the paleo diet, debunking myths with insights from modern hunter-gatherer lifestyles, and emphasizes the absence of a one-size-fits-all approach to nutrition.
Nov 1, 2022 • 23min
Falling tsar? Russians eye life after Putin
In this discussion, guests Arkady Ostrovsky, The Economist’s Russia editor, and Sarah Burke, Bureau Chief for Mexico and the Caribbean, dive into the shifting political landscape in Russia as elites begin to contemplate a future without Putin. They explore the potential scenarios for leadership change and the challenges posed in a repressed society. Additionally, they discuss Haiti's dire situation and the complexities of seeking UN intervention amid rampant gang violence. The conversation also touches on the historical significance and colonial legacy of the Koh-i-Noor diamond.
Oct 31, 2022 • 26min
Once and future: Brazil’s Lula wins again
Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, a leftist former president, has won again. Even if President Jair Bolsonaro gracefully concedes, his followers and fellow party members will make Lula’s hard job harder. We ask why California’s green-tinged Democratic governor is against a progressive ballot initiative on electric vehicles. And our say on the bread of the day of the dead. For full access to print, digital and audio editions of The Economist, subscribe here www.economist.com/intelligenceoffer
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Oct 28, 2022 • 26min
Elon-gate: the Musk-Twitter story
Tom Lee Devlin, Global business correspondent, unpacks Elon Musk's tumultuous acquisition of Twitter and its implications for users and free speech. John McDermott, Chief Africa correspondent, delves into the rise of organized crime in South Africa, highlighting its detrimental effects on the economy and public safety. Meanwhile, Anne Rowe, Obituaries editor, recounts the daring 1950 theft of the Stone of Destiny, blending history with themes of pride and sacrifice in the pursuit of identity.
