The Intelligence from The Economist

The Economist
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Aug 5, 2022 • 36min

Our summer special: a despot, a magic trick and a star

Join Nick Pelham, Middle East correspondent, as he reveals the dual nature of Mohammed bin Salman—a liberal reformer with an iron fist. Ashley Mears dives into the world of viral video creators, explaining how magic tricks capture our attention and shape content. Anne Rowe reflects on humanity's complicated relationship with the sun, sharing tales of its reverence and risks. This lively conversation blends politics, entertainment, and philosophical insights, perfect for a summer listen.
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Aug 4, 2022 • 21min

Real rate of return: Ukraine’s Kherson bid

Piotr Zalipsky, the Turkey correspondent for The Economist, reports from Ukraine, detailing the strategic efforts underway to reclaim Kherson amidst a shifting conflict landscape. Meanwhile, Avantika Chulkadi, covering India's road safety issues, uncovers alarming traffic death statistics and the dire need for improved infrastructure and legislation. They also explore surprising factors influencing climate change concerns, revealing a gender disparity that shifts with economic conditions. It's a captivating blend of war updates and public health crises.
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Aug 3, 2022 • 22min

Nancy meeting you here: a tetchy Taiwan trip

Jeremy Page, Asia diplomatic editor for The Economist, dives into the implications of Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan, revealing its impact on U.S.-China relations. He discusses China's aggressive military backlash and the complex dynamics at play in this geopolitical chess match. The conversation also touches on crowdfunding's unique role in the Ukraine conflict, showcasing how both sides adapt their support strategies. Lastly, a stunning performance of Rachmaninoff's concerto highlights the emotional depth of music amidst international tensions.
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Aug 2, 2022 • 24min

Not-so-safe house: America kills al-Qaeda leader

The discussion dives into the implications of Ayman al-Zawahiri's death for global jihadism and U.S. counter-terrorism strategies. It also tackles a critical abortion rights vote in Kansas, revealing deep community divides. Additionally, listeners are introduced to Diana Kennedy, an iconic figure in Mexican cuisine, celebrating her dedication to traditional cooking. The podcast touches on voting trends and emerging AI technologies, showcasing their potential impact on business and politics.
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Aug 1, 2022 • 24min

Blistering pace: monkeypox spreads

Slavea Csankova, The Economist's healthcare correspondent, delves into the monkeypox outbreak, drawing alarming parallels with the HIV crisis. She examines the urgent need for vaccinations and discusses the implications for the gay community. Vishnu Padmanaban, a data journalist, shifts the focus to global education, revealing systemic failures exposed by the pandemic, despite encouraging enrollment numbers. The discourse highlights the critical need for improved teaching and policies as schools reopen globally.
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Jul 29, 2022 • 23min

Deus ex Manchina: American climate legislation’s revival

Idris Kaloun, Washington bureau chief, discusses the surprising revival of Biden’s climate bill thanks to Senator Joe Manchin's newfound support, risking a pivotal shift in U.S. climate policy. Tim Cross highlights the booming popularity of women's sports post-COVID-19, shining a light on the evolving funding and sponsorship landscape. Anne Rowe reflects on the legacy of Ko Jimmy, an influential figure in Myanmar's democracy movement, celebrating his resilience in the face of turmoil.
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Jul 28, 2022 • 25min

Getting more interesting: the Fed raises rates

Simon Rabinovich, U.S. economics editor for The Economist, discusses the Federal Reserve's interest rate hikes and their delicate balancing act to avoid recession. Gilad Amit, science correspondent, reveals troubling allegations of data fabrication in pivotal Alzheimer's research, questioning the integrity of scientific breakthroughs. Elise Burr explores significant gender disparities in obesity rates in the Middle East, uncovering societal barriers that disproportionately affect women's health. These topics intertwine economics, science, and social issues, providing a rich dialogue.
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Jul 27, 2022 • 19min

Kicking the canister down the road: EU energy policy

Ludwig Siegler, an economist and European business editor, discusses the looming energy crisis as Russia cuts gas supplies to the EU amid winter concerns. He highlights the EU's struggle to reduce dependency on Russian gas and its differing strategies among member states. Slavea Chankova, healthcare correspondent, challenges the long-held belief linking serotonin levels to depression through a review of recent research. She suggests that a more nuanced understanding of depression could lead to better treatment approaches, moving beyond outdated assumptions.
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Jul 26, 2022 • 23min

Two to make a quarrel: the battle to be Britain’s PM

Rishi Sunak, former chief finance minister of Britain, discusses the intense rivalry with Liz Truss as they battle for Conservative Party leadership. He highlights the personal attacks and political strategies overshadowing crucial public concerns. The conversation shifts to the Catholic Church’s ongoing child abuse issues, suggesting potential reforms. Sunak also touches on the dramatic price surges in luxury hotels, exploring the impact of post-pandemic inflation on affluent travelers.
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Jul 25, 2022 • 25min

With the grain, assault: Ukraine’s iffy deal

Anton LaGuardia, the Diplomatic editor for The Economist, sheds light on the missile strikes impacting Ukraine’s grain export deal, raising concerns about food insecurity. Greg Karlstrom, the Middle East correspondent, discusses Tunisia's shift from democratic hope to potential autocracy as President Qais Syed pushes for a new, centralized constitution. Together, they explore the implications of these political crises and how global dynamics are influencing both conflict and governance.

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