Economist Podcasts

Oliver Carroll, The Economist's Ukraine correspondent, discusses the mounting struggles of Ukraine's military, including recruitment challenges and weapon shortages in the face of intensified conflict. Meanwhile, Don Wineland, the China Business and Finance Editor, highlights the political hurdles stifling research on COVID-19's origins as experts face scrutiny from the Chinese government. The conversation also brushes upon the surprising persistence of CD sales in Japan's music market, revealing cultural dynamics amidst digital transformation.

Discover the fascinating world of baseball at the border, where the Tecolotes de los Dos Laredos unite communities from both sides. The podcast unveils the deep cultural ties that baseball fosters, transcending political tensions and celebrating shared histories. Hear personal anecdotes that showcase the unique identity of Laredo and Nuevo Laredo amidst evolving social dynamics. Experience lively game atmospheres filled with tradition and community spirit, highlighting the vital role of sports in bridging divides.

In this discussion, Lizzie Peet, an Economist researcher, dives into the fierce showdown between developers and preservationists surrounding New York City's Seaport Tower. She highlights how this clash reflects broader urban development concerns, wrestling between the need for affordable housing and the preservation of historic character. The chat also touches upon America's tech rivalry with China, revealing the stakes around chipmaking and green technology. Plus, there's a heartfelt tribute to a pioneering zoologist’s obsession with giraffes.

Lawrence Wong is set to lead Singapore into a new era, focusing on balancing international relations with America and China. The podcast dives into the impact of rising global tensions on economic stability and citizen engagement in governance. It also explores the urgent threats of climate change to archaeological sites and innovative preservation technologies. Additionally, the legacy of Ravel's 'Bolero' is examined, shedding light on its cultural significance and the complexities of the composer's life.

Join Arjun Ramani, a Global business and economics correspondent for The Economist, as he dives into India's economic future. He discusses Prime Minister Modi's bid for a third term, fueled by a backdrop of economic growth but tempered by the need for reforms. Ramani analyzes the booming Indian IT sector while highlighting labor market challenges. Plus, he sheds light on Russia's resilient arms industry amid sanctions and China's strategic support. For a light-hearted twist, he shares humorous insights on the quirks of air travel!

Greg Karlstrom, Middle East correspondent for The Economist, dives into the tense dynamics of the Gaza ceasefire negotiations, highlighting Netanyahu's dissatisfaction and continued conflict. Meanwhile, Catherine Nixie, Britain correspondent, explores the rise of 'romanticy' in fantasy literature, revealing how societal changes influence modern romantic narratives. Additionally, they discuss the thriving trend of video game adaptations in Hollywood, noting successes like 'The Last of Us' and how the genre's evolution captivates audiences.

John McDermott, Chief Africa correspondent for The Economist, discusses the mixed legacy of Mandela's vision in South Africa, focusing on rising discontent among youth regarding corruption and inequality as elections loom. Annie Crabel highlights how small Texas towns like Waco and Marshall are emerging as patent litigation hubs, reshaping the legal landscape and the tech industry. Meanwhile, Anne Rowe pays tribute to Eleanor Coppola, revealing the behind-the-scenes challenges of creating the iconic film 'Apocalypse Now' while reflecting on artistic resilience.

Emmanuel Macron, the President of France, is known for his ambitious visions and deep insights into global issues. In a candid discussion with Sophie Pedder, The Economist's Paris bureau chief, Macron expresses grave concerns about Europe's future, highlighting geopolitical threats from Russia and the rise of nationalism. He stresses the urgent need for collective action and Europe’s independence in defense matters. Macron also reflects on his evolving stance regarding the Ukraine conflict, urging a stronger, unified approach as the continent faces daunting challenges ahead.

Callum Williams, a Senior economics writer at The Economist, discusses the surprising financial resilience of Generation Z, revealing them to be the wealthiest generation yet despite common stereotypes. Shashank Joshi, the defence editor, delves into India's advancements in MIRV missile technology, highlighting its implications for regional security and the global arms race. Together, they explore shifting job prospects, economic challenges for younger generations, and the broader geopolitical landscape shaped by nuclear advancements.

In this enlightening discussion, Tom Wainwright, technology and media editor at The Economist, teams up with Pete Etchells, a Bath Spa University psychology professor and author of "Unlocked: The Real Science of Screen Time." They explore the complex effects of smartphones on teenagers' mental health, addressing rising anxiety and depression rates. The duo emphasizes the importance of understanding individual experiences over blanket blame. They advocate for promoting digital literacy and the quality of content rather than merely limiting screen time.