Economist Podcasts

Anshul Pfeffer, The Economist's Israel correspondent, delves into the aftermath of Yahya Sinwar's death, exploring how this might reshape Hamas and regional stability. Idris Kahloon analyzes the political evolution in swing states like Wisconsin and Michigan, uncovering why they’ve shifted from reliable Democratic votes. Anne Rowe shares the uplifting story of Sammy Basso, a brilliant young man living with progeria, who inspires through his adventures and dreams of contributing to medical research.

Aaron Connolly, The Economist's Asia diplomatic editor, shares insights on the escalating tensions surrounding the South China Sea, highlighting aggressive encounters between Chinese coast guards and Filipino vessels. He discusses the implications for U.S.-Philippines relations and international support. Meanwhile, Stanley Pignall dives into the cultural clash sparked by the resurgence of wolves in Europe, addressing environmentalist concerns versus the realities faced by rural communities dealing with livestock losses.

Adam O'Neill, Washington correspondent, dives into the evolving dynamics of campaign finance, revealing how a candidate's war chest is less decisive than before. The conversation then shifts to Matt Steinglass, who shares compelling stories from asylum-seekers aboard the MS Galaxy in the Netherlands, highlighting the clash between luxury accommodations and harsh realities under a new hard-right policy. Lastly, Dolly Seton discusses the global skyscraper boom, exploring urban density and the engineering challenges behind these towering structures.

Keir Starmer shares his strategies for attracting foreign investment as the UK navigates a crucial summit. Researchers have made strides by mapping the intricate connections in a fruit fly's brain, opening doors for understanding human neuroscience. On a lighter note, AI chatbots prove effective in countering conspiracy theories, helping reduce misinformation. The podcast also delves into the broader implications of these topics, emphasizing the balance between investment growth and societal challenges.

Join Oliver Morton, the Planetary Affairs editor for The Economist, as he provides expert insights on SpaceX's monumental Starship launch, signaling a revolutionary era in affordable space missions. Meanwhile, Anna Lankes, the Brazil correspondent, dives into the lingering influence of Jair Bolsonaro on right-wing politics in Brazil, exploring the country's evolving political landscape post-elections. The conversation also touches on the intriguing evolution of self-help books, highlighting societal anxieties reflected through time.

Matthew Holhouse, Britain’s political correspondent, gives insight into the Labour Party's turbulent start under Keir Starmer. The conversation reveals how internal conflicts and leadership challenges threaten the party's credibility. Sasha Nauter analyzes the critical role of reproductive rights in Nevada's election landscape, highlighting its potential to sway independent voters. Finally, Anne Rowe shares a poignant reflection on Yoshioko Masamitsu, a Pearl Harbor veteran, capturing the impact of personal stories on our understanding of history.

Oliver Morton, the Planetary Affairs Editor for The Economist, discusses the devastating effects of Hurricane Milton, linking the storm's intensity to climate change. Nick Pelham, Middle East correspondent, offers poignant insights into the Palestinian experience post-October 7th, shedding light on their resilience amidst adversity. Emily Steinmark, the Science correspondent, explains the revolutionary potential of nuclear clocks, exploring how they can help us understand the complexities of time and the universe. Each segment weaves together urgent global issues.

Alice Fullwood discusses the implications of a recent ruling against Google's market dominance, shedding light on the complexities of antitrust laws. Kate Parker explores innovative robotics for fixing leaking water pipes, highlighting crucial technological advancements amidst climate challenges. Vishnu Padmanabhan recommends captivating football literature, showcasing the game's resilience in tough times, particularly in places like Ciudad Juarez. The conversation intertwines global economic issues and cultural insights, making for a thought-provoking dialogue.

In a picturesque town called Necoclí, Chinese migrants prepare for a treacherous journey to America. Disillusioned with their dreams back home, they embark on a perilous trek through the Darién Gap. Personal accounts reveal the stark contrast between the town's beauty and the harrowing realities faced by travelers. With the support of local businesses, these individuals chase a risky adventure while grappling with betrayal and danger. The complex emotions and resilience of these migrants paint a poignant picture of their quest for freedom.

Anne Rowe, The Economist's obituaries editor, shares insights on the evolution of the U.S. Army's strategy as it shifts from counterinsurgency to preparing for state-on-state conflicts. She discusses the challenges of adopting innovation and advanced technologies in military operations. Additionally, the conversation touches on the surging trend of private tutoring in Asia, highlighting issues in public education and the pressure it puts on families. Rowe also celebrates the influential Lebanese novelist Elias Khoury, shining light on his literary contributions.