Economist Podcasts

Join Arkady Ostrovsky, The Economist's expert on Russia, as he reveals the harrowing truth about life inside Russia's brutal prison system, where political prisoners face unimaginable conditions. Vijay Vaitheeswaran discusses the daunting challenge of transitioning from oil dependency, emphasizing the urgent need for sustainable energy solutions amidst rising global temperatures. Meanwhile, Anne Rowe honors Amnon Weinstein, a luthier on a mission to restore Holocaust violins, bringing their haunting histories back to life through music.

Alice Forward, a Wall Street correspondent and co-host of Money Talks, and Catherine Nixey, Britain correspondent, dive into the fallout from the dramatic FTX collapse. They discuss the legal fate of Sam Bankman-Fried and the staggering $8 billion misappropriation of customer funds. The conversation takes an intriguing turn as they explore the challenges and potentials of building new cities globally and even touch on how M&S underwear has historical significance in women’s lives. The episode connects finance, urban development, and social history in compelling ways.

The podcast dives into the critical aid situation in Gaza, highlighting the innovative use of aerial drops amid severe food insecurity. It also discusses the obstacles faced in these operations and the urgent need for improved delivery methods. Additionally, listeners learn about the cocoa industry's struggles with climate change, which is pushing chocolate prices up, and how this affects chocoholics worldwide. The conversation further explores the evolving landscape of bond investments and the complexities of risk in today’s financial markets.

Don Weinland, The Economist’s China business and finance editor in Shanghai, joins Alice Su and David Rennie to discuss TikTok's precarious position amid U.S. legislative scrutiny. They explore claims that Chinese ownership poses national security risks, delving into the stark contrast between TikTok and its Chinese counterpart, Douyin. The conversation highlights the company’s struggles with algorithmic transparency and government control, raising critical questions about data privacy and the political implications of foreign tech ownership.

In this discussion, Piotr Zalewski, The Economist's Turkey correspondent, unpacks the crucial issue of earthquake preparedness in Istanbul. He highlights how it is a central theme in recent mayoral campaigns, driven by concerns over the city's vulnerable infrastructure and poor building standards. The conversation also touches on the political landscape in Senegal, following the surprising rise of anti-establishment politician Bassirou Diomaye Faye, marking a significant shift in the country’s democracy.

Chris Lockwood, Europe editor for The Economist, provides deep insights into a recent tragic mass shooting in Moscow, exploring how the Kremlin may exploit the event for propaganda against Ukraine. Moega Iida discusses the societal pressures on Japanese men, highlighting a hotline created for emotional support amid evolving gender roles. They also touch on America's shifting automotive preferences, questioning the future of big trucks in the wake of new environmental regulations. A blend of global issues and cultural dynamics makes for a compelling conversation.

A personal journey into America's complex relationship with firearms unfolds, as a correspondent grapples with the emotional intensity of gun ownership. The discussion covers the transformation from fear to intrigue, emphasizing the unique experiences of Black gun owners. Listeners will explore controversial topics like guns in schools and essential principles of firearm safety. The conversation also dives into broader societal implications, covering perspectives on rights, responsibilities, and the historical context of gun culture in America.

Anne Rowe, The Economist's obituaries editor, dives into the life of Frans de Waal, a renowned primatologist known for his groundbreaking work on animal behavior. They explore how de Waal's research reveals the kinder instincts of animals, challenging conventional views on human uniqueness. The discussion touches on the implications of his findings for understanding empathy and cooperation in both the animal kingdom and humanity. Rowe highlights de Waal's impact on science and his quest to bridge the gap between human and animal emotions.

Josh Silverman, CEO of Etsy, joins the conversation to explore the looming competition between Amazon and rising e-commerce star Temu. He discusses how Temu's unique model of low-cost products from China, combined with strong advertising, poses a challenge to established giants. The dialogue dives into Etsy's role amidst this shifting landscape, highlighting its focus on handcrafted goods while navigating aggressive pricing strategies. Silverman also reflects on how emerging players could redefine consumer experiences and market dynamics.

Simon Rabinovich, the U.S. editor for the Economist, dives into the unexpected resilience of the American economy amid the Federal Reserve's tightening policies. He discusses how pandemic buffers and low interest rates have helped cushion the impact. The conversation also touches on Vodafone's decline and its strategic overhaul, highlighting lessons from its historical missteps. Finally, Rabinovich explores the challenges of preserving Britain’s historic buildings, advocating for a balance between protection and modernization.