Economist Podcasts

Join Natasha Loder, health editor at The Economist, Pranav Rajpurkar, assistant professor at Harvard, and Hugh Harvey, consultant at Hardian Health, as they dive into the transformative role of AI in healthcare. They discuss how AI tools are revolutionizing patient diagnostics and enhancing disease detection, with captivating case studies like breast cancer screening. The conversation also tackles the challenges of regulation and accuracy, while highlighting the need for responsible AI integration into medical practices for better patient outcomes.

Join Alice Hsu, Senior China correspondent; Mike Bird, Asia business and finance editor; and Catherine Nixie, Britain correspondent, as they dissect Taiwan's new president, William Lai. They discuss his struggle to unify a divided nation while navigating China's pressures. The conversation shifts to the shrinking stock market as firms favor private ownership over public listings. They also humorously explore the shift from lonely hearts ads to dating apps, reflecting on how technology shapes modern relationships amid persistent human loneliness.

In this discussion, Greg Karlstrom, Middle East correspondent for The Economist and expert on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, examines the ICC's controversial request for arrest warrants against Israeli and Hamas leaders for alleged war crimes. He highlights the implications of this move for accountability in ongoing conflicts. The conversation also touches on young Chinese investors turning to gold amid economic uncertainty, revealing how social media influences their newfound preference for small gold investments.

Henrietta McFarlane, an Assistant Producer for The Intelligence, delves into the political chaos in Iran following the unexpected death of President Ebrahim Raisi, sparking questions about future leadership. She highlights concerns regarding Chinese espionage affecting relationships with Britain. Additionally, the podcast explores how TikTok is reshaping job hunting, with creators offering career advice and influencing hiring practices, showcasing a shift in expectations between Gen Z professionals and traditional employers.

Leo Mirani, an Economist correspondent from Mumbai, shares his deep connection to the city and its rapid transformation. He reflects on how ongoing construction threatens Bombay's rich character and who reaps the benefits of this growth. The discussion dives into the chaotic yet hopeful urban landscape, the challenges of overcrowded commutes, and the socio-economic divide shaped by modern capitalism. Mirani also raises concerns about the city’s vulnerability to climate change, emphasizing the need for community connections to navigate these challenges.

Tom Wainwright, The Economist's tech and media editor, delves into the contentious Meta v Canada news dispute, revealing how regulations meant to aid publishers are backfiring. Catherine Nixie, Britain correspondent for The Economist, reflects on the legacy of Shirley Conran, whose influential works empowered women in diverse areas. They also discuss the stark contrasts between American and European workers, emphasizing differing attitudes toward work-life balance, vacation norms, and labor rights.

Matt Steinglass, Deputy Europe editor at The Economist, discusses the shocking assassination attempt on Slovakian PM Robert Fico, revealing the deep political polarization it reflects. Rebecca Jackson, Southern correspondent, shares a compelling tale of a worker fighting for union rights in the American South, amidst a changing labor landscape. Emily Steinmark, science writer, explores fascinating research on how visuals influence our perception of time, turning mundane moments into memorable experiences. Expect a mix of politics, labor struggles, and neuroscience!

Kenneth Werner, a journalist covering Donald Trump's trials, shares insights into the hush-money trial, dissecting Michael Cohen's pivotal testimony and its implications. Meanwhile, Greg Karlstrom, the Middle East correspondent, dives into the militia problem, highlighting how weak governments struggle with armed groups reshaping power dynamics. The discussion also touches on the evolving portrayal of sexuality in film, revealing trends towards less but more explicit content in contemporary cinema.

The surge in Chinese emigration shines a light on a new era of discontent, particularly among educated professionals seeking better prospects in Japan. Personal stories reveal motivations ranging from economic insecurity to a quest for personal safety. The emotional toll of strict lockdowns during the pandemic emerges as a key theme, illustrating the psychological struggles faced by many. This exploration of the 'run' phenomenon uncovers a deeper sense of hope and disillusionment among those navigating their new lives abroad.

Join Arkady Ostrovsky, The Economist's Russia and Eastern Europe editor with recent frontline insights, and Gavin Jackson, finance and economics correspondent, as they delve into gripping topics. They explore life amidst the war in Ukraine, revealing soldiers' resilience and the stark realities of conflict. Additionally, the discussion shifts to inflation's significant role in shaping American voters' attitudes ahead of elections, highlighting the emotional weight it carries versus economic reality. A century-old novella also inspires reflections on environmental exploitation.