Economist Podcasts

Sophie Petter, Paris bureau chief at The Economist, unpacks Jordan Bardella's ascent as leader of the National Rally, revealing his plans that could set France on a collision course with Europe. Bardella's policies focus on immigration limits, tech-friendly growth, and a tough stance on EU relations. John-Joe Devlin discusses innovative conservation finance efforts in the Democratic Republic of Congo, highlighting community-driven projects that show promise in protecting forests while addressing local needs.

In this engaging discussion, Stephen Mazze, a Supreme Court correspondent, delves into the legal battles surrounding Trump’s tariffs and the implications of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. Alice Fulwood highlights a troubling widening gender gap in US labor-force participation, scrutinizing factors that drive women out of the workforce, especially new mothers. Andrew Palmer uncovers the unsettling world of 'dark patterns' in online design, revealing how they manipulate consumer behavior and the growing push for regulatory changes.

Join John Prideaux, The Economist's US editor, as he breaks down the implications of recent electoral victories for Democrats in New York and Virginia. He explores the significance of new mayor Zoran Mamdani's policies and the potential pushback from Trump. Meanwhile, Piotr Zalewski discusses Erdogan's crackdown on the opposition in Turkey, highlighting the political risks involved. Ainsley Johnston shares insights from the Gallup World Poll, revealing shifts in global emotions and the vibrant contrasts between different countries.

Shashank Joshi, Defence editor at The Economist, dives into America's significant military buildup in the Caribbean, examining its strategic implications and motivations. He unpacks the Trump administration's approach to Venezuela, including the rhetoric around Maduro and the complexities of potential military action. The discussion raises questions about the administration's pivot to foreign entanglements, contrasting with earlier promises of non-involvement, revealing deeper strategic incoherence in US foreign policy.

John McDermott, Chief Africa correspondent for The Economist, shares chilling updates from Darfur, detailing the capture of El Fasher by paramilitary forces and the rise in reported atrocities. Colm Williams, Senior economics writer, discusses how generative AI can empower consumers by closing the information gap in various industries, potentially ending the 'rip-off economy'. Catherine Nixey, Culture correspondent, reflects on the historical significance of questionnaires and their decline in modern society, exploring implications for understanding human experience.

Jeremy Page, Chief China correspondent for The Economist, and Shashank Joshi, Defence editor, share insights into the recent trade truce between Trump and Xi. They discuss the deal's superficial agreement and the unresolved tensions such as TikTok and Taiwan. Shashank explores the booming private military contractor industry, citing examples from global conflicts and the motivations behind their rise. The conversation wraps up with a nod to the golden age of horror films, analyzing their popularity and the psychological appeal prompting audiences to embrace the genre.

Mike Bird, Wall Street editor at The Economist, dives into the exodus of finance pros from New York, highlighting plummeting employment due to high taxes and costs. Avantika Chilkoti, global business correspondent, reveals the shifting trends in the drinks industry, noting a rise in non-alcoholic options and premium products. Corbyn Duncan introduces Sky is Your God, a Chinese rapper capturing global attention with his unique blend of Memphis rap and Cantonese opera, powered by viral TikTok fame.

Join Callum Williams, a Senior economics writer, and Michelle Hennessy, Graphic detail editor at The Economist, as they delve into pressing global issues. They analyze the potential use of seized Russian assets to support Ukraine's financial needs amid winter challenges. Callum reveals alarming trends on AI's effect on junior hiring, indicating no impending jobs apocalypse yet. Michelle shares insights from Henley & Partners’ passport rankings, showcasing how Asian passports are gaining power while the US passport declines.

Alice Su, a Senior international correspondent for The Economist, dives into NATO's challenges with shadow fleets in the Baltic, revealing tactics used to evade detection. Don Wineland, the China business and finance editor, discusses the rise of 200 million gig workers reshaping China's economy, highlighting their precarious conditions yet promising flexibility. Meanwhile, John Fasman, a culture correspondent, explores the intricacies of antisemitism through Mark Mazower's book, tracing its evolution and the modern political landscape it inhabits.

Hal Hodson, America editor at The Economist, discusses the surprising electoral victory of Javier Milei and its implications for Argentina's economy. Tom Nuttall, the Berlin bureau chief, highlights Germany's stagnant reforms under Chancellor Friedrich Merz and the political ramifications. Meanwhile, William Warren explores the resurgence of challenging video games, examining how player expectations for difficulty have shifted over the decades and the balance between challenge and accessibility in modern game design.