Economist Podcasts

Eleanor Whitehead, the Australia and New Zealand correspondent for The Economist, dives into the contentious debate surrounding Australia Day. She highlights how January 26th is seen as a day of mourning for many Indigenous Australians, sparking political tensions ahead of the federal election. The discussion also draws parallels to cultural conflicts in the U.S. and examines the implications of nationalism versus inclusivity in acknowledging history, making for a thought-provoking exploration of current events.

Tom Nuttall, Berlin bureau chief for The Economist, shares insights on the rising influence of Germany's far-right AfD party in the wake of a shaky political landscape. The discussion dives into the AfD's strategy shifts linked to immigration and economic issues. Dua Mohammed, a Syrian refugee, recounts her emotional journey back to a transformed Syria after fleeing conflict, shedding light on the challenges of reintegration and the hope for rebuilding amidst uncertainty.

Corbyn Duncan, a Global correspondent for The Economist, shares insights on how Houthi rebels in Yemen fund their operations through extortion, impacting global trade dynamics. Ore Ogunbiyi, covering the rise of a Ghanaian rum distillery, showcases the revival of local spirits and culture. Meanwhile, Alex Hearn discusses China's rapid advancements in artificial intelligence, highlighting the competitive landscape against America's dominance. This session delves into the intertwining of geopolitics, innovation, and cultural heritage.

Join John Prideaux, United States editor for The Economist, and Edward Carr, Deputy editor, as they unpack the atmosphere of Trump's second inauguration compared to his first. They explore the bold themes in his inaugural address, touching on American exceptionalism and rejecting international norms through his first executive orders. The conversation then takes a whimsical turn, delving into the unexpected craze of plush toys among Millennials and Gen Z, revealing how nostalgia and comfort shape this surprising trend.

Anshul Pfeffer, Israel correspondent for The Economist, shares insights on the recent Gaza ceasefire and the emotional reunions it inspired. He discusses the political hurdles facing Israel's leadership and the internal strife among Palestinian factions. The potential for lasting peace is examined amidst ongoing challenges. Additionally, Pfeffer explores Britain's minimum wage rise, its implications for wage dynamics, and the growing recognition of hypnosis in medicine, highlighting its therapeutic benefits and barriers to acceptance.

Join Oliver Morton, Planetary Affairs Editor at The Economist, as he dives into the explosive world of private space travel, discussing billionaires' ambitions and the groundbreaking launch by Blue Origin. Alongside Anne Rowe, Obituaries editor, they celebrate the life of Peter Fenwick, a neurologist who explored near-death experiences. Together, they weave through the competitive landscape of space tech and reflect on Fenwick's profound insights, blending science with the human experience.

In this discussion, Greg Karlstrom, the Middle East correspondent for The Economist, sheds light on the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, detailing its phased approach and humanitarian elements. Steve Cole, Senior editor for The Economist, investigates Tulsi Gabbard's controversial ties to Assad and the implications for U.S. intelligence leadership. The conversation also touches on the intriguing rise of iced matcha lattes, exploring their health benefits and social media allure.

Noah Snyder, East Asia bureau chief for The Economist, provides crucial insights into the political turmoil in South Korea following President Yoon Suk Yeol's dramatic arrest on insurrection charges. He discusses the unrest and its implications for governance. Ana Lankas, Brazil correspondent, explores the burgeoning global obsession with cosmetic procedures, revealing surprising areas of interest and the societal pressures driving this trend. They also touch on Japan's disciplined education system, blending academics with moral integrity.

In this discussion, Josh Roberts, Capital Markets Correspondent for The Economist, dives into the unexpected surge in government bond yields amid interest rate cuts, exploring how it affects borrowers and the broader economy. Meanwhile, Henry Kerr, the Economics Editor, provocatively weighs in on the U.S. buying Greenland, considering its geopolitical implications and historical contexts. They also touch on the cultural significance of Singapore's hawker centres facing modern challenges, highlighting the intersection of tradition and economic pressures.

Shishan Joshi, Defense Editor for The Economist, discusses the complexities surrounding women in combat roles, addressing misconceptions and emphasizing their contributions. Catherine Nixie, Culture Correspondent, dives into the dark origins of children's literature, questioning the appropriateness of sanitizing classic tales like Cinderella. They also explore how California's fires expose insurers' pricing challenges amidst climate change, reflecting on broader urban planning and regulatory issues.