Economist Podcasts

In this insightful discussion, Charlie McCann—an Economist reporter—and the Gladstone family, including Charles and Xanthi Gladstone, confront a painful legacy linked to their ancestor's slave ownership. They explore what it means to inherit guilt while traveling to Guyana for a public apology. The emotional weight of acknowledging history is palpable as they discuss privilege, personal responsibility, and the societal push for reparations. This journey reflects broader themes of atonement and the complexities of reconciliation in the face of colonial pasts.

Gareth Brown, a Middle East correspondent based in Beirut, delves into the leadership vacuum in Hamas after Yahya Sinwar's death, discussing potential successors and the ideological divides shaping the group's future. Rebecca Jackson, an American South correspondent, explores the critical role of Black voters in Georgia's elections, highlighting demographic shifts and the need for candidates to align with Black economic priorities. The podcast also touches on the intriguing life of Turkish activist Fethullah Gulen and his influence in political discourse.

Dan Rosenheck, Data editor at The Economist, shares insights from the election forecast model, revealing a surprising shift toward Donald Trump in the presidential race. Simon Wright, Industry editor, discusses the reality of Elon Musk's ambitious robotaxi plans, highlighting the challenges Tesla faces amid skepticism and competition. They also dive into the fascinating legacy of Excel, exploring its evolution and the impact of AI tools on productivity. Tune in for a blend of politics, technology, and data-driven discussions!

Tom Nuttel, Chief Germany correspondent for The Economist, shares deep insights on the rise of Sahra Wagenknecht in German politics. Zan Smiley discusses Moldova's struggle for EU integration amid Russian interference. Caitlin Talbot highlights how TikTok is reshaping language, with Gen Z redefining terms and creating new slang. The conversation uncovers the complexities of German political shifts and global repercussions, along with the cultural impact of social media on communication.

Anshul Pfeffer, The Economist's Israel correspondent, reports from the tense Lebanese border, detailing Israel's looming strikes on Iran and the escalating conflict with Hezbollah. Ana Likas, Brazil correspondent, shares insights on innovative carbon-trading schemes aimed at reforesting the Amazon. The discussion also touches on Brazil's potential for leadership in environmental efforts and highlights Switzerland's top rank in global innovation, revealing the shifting landscape of technological advancements amidst economic challenges.

Shoshank Joshi, Defense editor for The Economist, reveals how Russia is expertly orchestrating chaos globally, including election interference and disinformation tactics. Callum Williams, Senior economics writer, tackles inefficiencies in government spending, suggesting that raising taxes might be a pragmatic approach. Meanwhile, Maria Vilcek, News editor, reflects on the cultural significance of baked beans in Britain, discussing their evolution and the rise of trendy alternatives. Together, they offer a compelling exploration of power, politics, and culinary shifts.

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.