Economist Podcasts

Noah Snyder, East Asia Bureau Chief at The Economist, provides insight into South Korea's political landscape after E.J. Meng's electoral victory, focusing on his vision of democracy and economic recovery. Luke Lithgow, a science writer, discusses the complex challenges of culling dingoes in Australia, advocating for a balanced approach to wildlife management. The guest also highlights the global rise of Afrobeats and its cultural impact, showcasing how Africa’s diaspora is transforming the music industry.

Josh Roberts, Capital Markets correspondent at The Economist, and Sophie Petter, the Paris bureau chief, delve into Britain’s bold but underfunded new defense strategy amid rising security threats. They discuss waning investor confidence in government bonds as a safe haven. Additionally, there's a surprising surge in adult baptisms in France, influenced by the quest for community following the pandemic. This conversation touches on national security challenges and societal shifts in faith.

In a captivating discussion, Anne Rowe, The Economist's obituaries editor, delves into Poland's recent presidential election, highlighting the hard-right victory and its implications for the nation and Europe. She explores the challenges ahead for the governing coalition, touching on pivotal issues like rule of law and abortion rights. The conversation also shifts to the surprising decline of bar brawls in Britain, and reflects on Simon Mann, a mercenary whose life journey raises complex themes of morality and risk in pursuit of glory.

In this discussion, Greg Karlstrom, Middle East correspondent, and David Rennie, Geopolitics editor, delve into the chaos of aid distribution in Gaza post-blockade. They explore the controversial role of a new foundation responsible for managing relief efforts, raising questions about its effectiveness amidst violence. Additionally, the conversation touches on the recent global health treaty and the implications of the U.S. withdrawal from the WHO, highlighting challenges in pandemic preparedness and international cooperation. The pair also share insights on the innovative exhibition at London's V&A.

This discussion features Roshna Shanbog, Business Affairs Editor at The Economist; Henry Tricks, U.S. Technology Editor; and Sue-Lin Wong, Asia Correspondent. They dive into the implications of recent court rulings on Trump's tariffs and explore the challenges small businesses face in the aftermath. Artificial intelligence’s journey through its hype cycle sparks debate about its reliability. Meanwhile, insights into Xi Jinping’s formative years reveal how his father's influence shapes his leadership style and commitment to the Communist Party.

John Brito, a United States editor focusing on politics, joins Piotr Zalewski, a writer covering Poland, to unpack significant political currents. They discuss the Trump administration's attempts to influence higher education, particularly at Harvard, exploring funding threats and their broader implications. The conversation shifts to Poland's political landscape as it gears up for crucial elections, emphasizing the impact of young voters and international dynamics, especially in the context of the war in Ukraine. Expect a lively dialogue on these pressing global issues!

Oliver Carroll, a Ukraine correspondent for The Economist, shares poignant stories from the emotional landscape of a prisoner swap in Chernihiv, where families anxiously await news. Ana Lankas, the Brazil bureau chief, offers insights into Brazil's vibrant bull market, showcasing unique events like Expo Zebu and the prized Viatina, the world's most expensive cow. The discussion also highlights the challenges American brands face in a shifting global sentiment, reflecting on the intertwining of politics and commerce.

Oret Ogunbiyi, Africa correspondent for The Economist, dives into Mexico's precarious judicial landscape. He critiques the recent elections where voters will choose judges directly, jeopardizing judicial independence. The discussion highlights the moral implications for democracy and foreign investment, as the ruling Morena party’s influence grows. Ogunbiyi also touches on Nigeria's sprawling energy crisis, revealing the paradox of an oil-rich nation grappling with widespread power shortages and the innovative responses of its citizens.

Ethan Wu, Asia business and finance editor, and Shoshank Joshi, Defense editor, dive into Vietnam's ambitious economic transformation. They discuss the challenges and aspirations as the country aims to become an upper-middle-income powerhouse. The conversation shifts to the U.S. Army, highlighting pivotal reforms for modern warfare. They also share a fascinating look back at the Apollo 13 mission, showcasing how ingenuity and teamwork can triumph in crises. Tune in for a mix of economic insights and historical heroism!

David Rennie is the Geopolitics editor at The Economist, while John Fasman serves as its Senior culture correspondent. They discuss the tense defense strategies in the Baltics as Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia brace against potential Russian aggression. The conversation also dives into the striking decline in crime in Baltimore, attributing this change to transformative community efforts. Lastly, they reflect on a new biography of Mark Twain, highlighting his influential views on race and his unique contributions to American literature.