Economist Podcasts

Ore Ogunbiyi, Africa correspondent and part-time dating expert, shares insights into the evolving world of dating, highlighting a shift from apps to in-person events and social clubs. Anne Rowe, Obituaries editor, pays tribute to the legendary fell runner Joss Naylor, celebrating his remarkable journey and connection to nature. The conversation also touches on the easing fears of a global recession, with discussions about market recovery and the complexities of the job market, providing a blend of heartfelt tributes and economic insights.

Greg Karlstrom, a Middle East correspondent for The Economist, shares insights on the delicate peace negotiations in the region, emphasizing the impact of Hamas's absence and the potential for Iranian retaliation. Meanwhile, Claire McHugh, covering Latin America, discusses Colombia's burgeoning vanilla industry, the challenges faced by local growers, and the quest for sustainability amidst rising global demand. Together, they weave a captivating narrative that connects geopolitical tensions with agricultural opportunities.

Robert Guest, Deputy Editor at The Economist and immigration policy expert, joins Simon Rabinovich, U.S. economics editor, and Tom Standage, AI specialist, to dive into the complex landscape of global talent and labor. They discuss the barriers skilled immigrants face in the U.S. and the missed opportunities for innovation due to restrictive policies. Simon unpacks the rising trend of tipping culture, while Tom sheds light on the ethics of facial recognition technology used by law enforcement, addressing biases and implications for society.

Guy Scriven, a global business writer, dives into the staggering $1.4 trillion AI investment and the potential threats that could burst this bubble. Moeka Iida discusses the UNESCO listing of the Sado Island gold mine, shedding light on historical tensions with South Korea. Max Norman examines the rise of Zyn nicotine pouches, particularly their appeal among American conservatives and the impact of 'Zinfluencers' in shaping cultural discussions. Together, they explore technology, history, and evolving consumer behavior.

In this discussion, Oliver Carroll, a Ukraine correspondent for The Economist, shares insights from the frontlines of Ukraine’s surprising military incursions into Russia, marking a significant shift in the conflict. His analysis touches on the improved morale of troops and the implications for Russia's political landscape. Meanwhile, Sophie Pedder, the Paris bureau chief, reflects on the successful Paris Olympics, highlighting sustainability and lessons for future games, as well as innovations like 3D holographic displays that are set to revolutionize automotive experiences.

In this engaging discussion, Callan Williams, a Senior economics writer at The Economist, dives into the complexities of immigration policy and its heavy economic toll. He highlights the stark public sentiment shift towards harder immigration controls. Meanwhile, Max Norman, a Culture correspondent, sheds light on the fascinating journey of breakdancing from the streets to its Olympic debut in 2024, exploring both its cultural roots and the concerns surrounding its commercialization. Together, they reveal the intricate interplay of culture and policy in today's world.

Corbin Duncan, a finance and economics writer at The Economist, sheds light on the rising anti-tourism sentiment in cities like Barcelona. He discusses how harsh policies can backfire, harming both tourists and locals. The conversation also touches on innovative strategies cities are employing to balance these tensions. Additionally, listeners are intrigued by Russia’s unique military recruitment tactics amid the ongoing conflict and the unexpected revival of feature phones as a simpler alternative to smartphones.

John Priddo, United States editor for The Economist, shares thoughts on Tim Walz's strategic vice presidential pick and its potential impact on the Democratic campaign. Gareth Brown, the Middle East correspondent, paints a vivid picture of the tense atmosphere in Lebanon, hinting at a looming conflict. Andrew Palmer delves into the difficulty executives face when deciding to leave high-profile positions, offering insights into the psychological challenges involved. The conversation weaves together political strategy, regional turmoil, and the complexities of leadership transitions.

Lena Shipper, The Economist's South Asia bureau chief, shares her insights on Bangladesh’s political crisis, detailing Sheikh Hasina's turbulent resignation amid rising protests. Don Wineland, editor of China business and finance, explores the fascinating yet complex world of robo-taxis in Wuhan, highlighting their implications for the ride-hailing industry. Finally, Anne Rowe reflects on the remarkable life of Thomas Neff, a pivotal figure in global nuclear disarmament, showcasing how diplomacy can reshape international peace.

Andrew Palmer, Britain editor for The Economist, and Moeka Iida, a correspondent covering Japanese politics, delve into the chaos unfolding in Britain due to misinformation surrounding a tragic knife attack. They explore how right-wing narratives fuel unrest and the challenges faced by authorities in countering these falsehoods. Moeka highlights the rise of social media populism in Japan, showcasing its impact on youth engagement in politics. They also draw fascinating parallels between 'House of the Dragon' and the complexities of modern governance.