Economist Podcasts

Irina Long, an expert on Myanmar, and Rebecca Jackson, the Southern correspondent, delve into Aung San Suu Kyi's complex legacy as she sits in jail after a fall from grace. They discuss the international response to her confinement and the larger humanitarian crisis in Myanmar, revealing her ongoing support among the populace. Additionally, they touch on the rising trend of religious education in America, examining its implications for public schools and how the color butter yellow is capturing attention in fashion.

Emmett Livingston, a Congo correspondent for The Economist, and Henry Tricks, the US Technology Editor, dive into Rwanda and Congo’s fragile peace deal. They discuss the complexities of the newly brokered truce following decades of conflict. The conversation highlights the ongoing threat of the M23 militia and the challenges of sustainable reconciliation. They also explore Mark Zuckerberg’s $14 billion pivot towards AI at Meta and dissect the troubling dynamics of the manosphere, questioning whether it poses real danger or merely reflects societal concerns.

Mike Bird, Wall Street correspondent and host of Money Talks, joins to discuss Ecuador's President Daniel Noboa's battle against transnational gangs. Noboa's recent success in arresting a notorious gang leader signals his commitment to tackling crime while respecting democracy. The discussion also explores market reactions to geopolitical events, revealing surprising investor indifference despite global turmoil. Additionally, Bird reflects on the UN's founding and its lessons in maintaining peace, making for a thought-provoking conversation.

Delve into the intriguing journey of Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, whose reluctance to make decisions has shaped his lengthy reign. Explore the complex dynamics of inheritance management, where trillions are passed down and mismanagement can lead to hefty losses. Discover why India's lengthy address systems complicate logistics and personal dealings, while innovative solutions are emerging to tackle these challenges. From diplomatic shifts in Iran to the financial implications of wealth transfer, this discussion offers a fascinating blend of politics and economics.

Don Wineland, the China business and finance editor at The Economist, and Tom Gardner, the Africa correspondent, delve into the seismic shift in China's consumer landscape. They discuss how homegrown brands like La Bubu are capturing local markets while challenging established foreign luxury names. Additionally, they explore the rise of Christian conservatism in Africa, noting how American influences are reshaping traditional values. The conversation also touches on the significance of Motorsport Valley in the UK and its role in fostering engineering innovations.

Josie Delapp, Middle East editor at The Economist, joins Shashank Joshi, Defense editor, to dissect the fragile ceasefire between Iran and the U.S. They explore Iran's provocative military actions and its implications for regional stability and nuclear ambitions. The discussion also touches on the NATO summit, as leaders grapple with rising defense budgets and varied national responses. Lastly, they address Germany's consideration to cancel public holidays, highlighting the tension between economic needs and cultural traditions in light of the ongoing conflict.

Wendell Weeks, the seasoned CEO of Corning, and Jamin Amin, the innovative Chief Technology Officer, dive into the transformative world of glass technology. They share insights on the evolution of communications through fiber optics and the groundbreaking development of Gorilla Glass for the iPhone, which reshaped the smartphone industry. Weeks reveals how blunt advice from Steve Jobs sparked innovation at Corning. The discussion highlights the balance between risk and opportunity, and the ongoing commitment to enhancing product durability in an ever-changing tech landscape.

In this discussion, Greg Carlstrom, Middle East correspondent for The Economist, dives into the aftermath of U.S. strikes on Iran’s nuclear program and the dire options facing Iran in response. He explores the delicate geopolitical landscape and the implications for international relations. The conversation also touches on a notable shift in religious beliefs, particularly among younger generations seeking faith amid mental health struggles. Additionally, Carlstrom comments on the intriguing decline of quotation marks in modern literature.

David Rennie, the Geopolitics editor at The Economist, dives into the political tug-of-war surrounding Donald Trump's delayed decision on military action against Iran, exploring the internal conflict within Trump's base and the implications for U.S. foreign policy. He also examines India's tech manufacturing ambitions, highlighting challenges in innovation and R&D funding. Finally, Rennie reflects on the cultural legacy of 'Jaws', celebrating its 50th anniversary while discussing shifting perceptions of its iconic shark in today's environmental context.

Oliver Carroll, the Ukraine correspondent for The Economist, dives into the mounting challenges faced by recent graduates, questioning the value of a university degree in today's economy. He discusses the impact of AI on job prospects and a possible rise in political unrest due to economic struggles. Switching gears, Carroll provides insights on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, particularly in Sumy and Donetsk, highlighting the complex strategies at play. The conversation wraps up with intriguing recommendations for 2025 holiday reading to spark curiosity and debate.