Economist Podcasts

Shashank Joshi, The Economist's defence editor, discusses how AI is transforming the prediction of political violence, offering insights into innovations like Raven's Sentry in Afghanistan. Sarah Burke, the bureau chief for Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean, highlights Cuba's looming economic collapse amidst rising discontent. Meanwhile, Oliver Carroll brings life from Odessa, Ukraine, where beach culture is thriving despite the ongoing conflict, showcasing resilience in the face of adversity.

Mpox is rapidly spreading across Africa, raising fears of a new pandemic amid insufficient public health responses and vaccine shortages. The looming threat of nuclear warfare in space is examined, especially concerning its potential impact on satellite infrastructure. Innovative AI strategies are discussed to combat these threats while also tackling the immense energy demands of artificial intelligence and its implications for clean energy goals, highlighting the intersection of technology and global security.

Shashank Joshi, The Economist's Defence Editor, and Simon Wright, the industry's editor, discuss the escalating cyberwar between Iran and Israel. Joshi reveals how Iranian hackers are stepping up their game following recent conflicts, posing new threats to Israeli security. Wright sheds light on the struggles faced by Boeing and Airbus amid rising competition from China's COMAC, redefining the aerospace landscape. The conversation also touches on the broader implications of cyber conflicts and the mounting challenges in the aviation sector.

Daniel Franklin, Senior editor at The Economist, shares intriguing insights on Kamala Harris's slim lead in the presidential race as Democrats gather in Chicago. Ainsley Johnston, a data journalist, discusses stunning research revealing that patients often fare better when treated by female doctors. The conversation takes a delightful turn with a look at the sophisticated communication of elephants, who may use low-frequency sounds similar to names to identify each other, challenging our understanding of animal intelligence.

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.