Economist Podcasts

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.

Oliver Carroll, The Economist's correspondent in Ukraine, offers a gripping look at the historic prisoner exchange between Russia and the West, shedding light on its emotional and political ramifications. He discusses key figures like Paul Whelan and Alexei Navalny, as well as the diplomatic complexities behind the swap. Additionally, the conversation touches on the U.S. military's strategic updates in the Asia-Pacific and the peculiar tradition of swan upping, bringing a unique blend of serious geopolitics and charming royal heritage.

In this engaging discussion, Tom Lee Devlin, Business editor of The Economist, shares insights on how Chinese firms are navigating economic challenges by expanding into less affluent markets. Meanwhile, correspondent Wendell Stevenson sheds light on Ukraine's energy crisis, detailing the catastrophic effects of missile strikes on infrastructure. The conversation also delights listeners with a humorous exploration of the cultural significance of the doner kebab, tracing its journey and influence in various cuisines.

Join Greg Karlstrom, The Economist's Middle East correspondent, who sheds light on the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh and its impact on regional politics. Kinley Salmon, the Latin America correspondent, provides a gripping analysis of the alleged electoral fraud in Venezuela and the resulting protests against Nicolás Maduro. The discussion dives into the geopolitical ramifications of Haniyeh's death and the complexities of Venezuela's democratic landscape, revealing the intricate challenges facing both regions.

Sophie Pedder, Paris Bureau Chief for The Economist, shares her insights on Africa's digital divide and how a lack of infrastructure hampers progress. She discusses the potential of mobile technology and AI to drive change but highlights the governmental barriers that hinder connectivity. Additionally, Pedder dives into the Seine River's pollution issues affecting events like the triathlon while exploring innovative solutions for Paris's urban sustainability. Lastly, she connects these topics to the cultural impact of 'The Blair Witch Project' in horror filmmaking.

Anshul Pfeffer, The Economist's Israel correspondent, shares insights into the deadly conflict in the Golan Heights, highlighting the devastating effects on the Druze community and the potential for escalation with Hezbollah. Tom Sass, a public policy correspondent, delves into the alarming state of British prisons, revealing shocking conditions and the urgent need for reform. The conversation balances grim realities of global politics with the transformative impact of the Kronos Quartet on classical music, addressing cultural resilience amidst adversity.

In this discussion, Tom Wainwright, The Economist's media editor, and Oliver Carroll, the publication's Ukraine and Russia correspondent, delve into the evolving landscape of sports viewership, emphasizing the shift towards streaming for events like the Olympics. They also tackle the alarming case of journalist Evan Gershkovich, shedding light on Russia's justice system and international diplomatic tensions. Lastly, they engage with the viral phenomenon of Kamala Harris as a 'brat,' exploring how social media shapes political narratives today.