Economist Podcasts

Nicholas Pelham, the Middle East correspondent for The Economist, dives deep into Iran's intricate geopolitical strategies. He discusses the recent American airstrikes on Iranian-linked Syrian bases, emphasizing Iran's proxy conflicts in the region. Pelham unpacks Iran's delicate balancing act as it maneuvers between tensions with the US and Israel. The conversations offer insights into the extensive implications these dynamics hold for international relations and the risk of a wider conflict.

Changpeng Zhao, known as CZ, is the CEO of Binance, a leading cryptocurrency exchange. In this engaging conversation, he delves into his complex relationship with Sam Bankman-Fried and the FTX collapse, shedding light on how it shifted trust within the crypto landscape. CZ discusses the evolving regulatory environment, emphasizing the need for compliance and transparency to restore faith in the industry. He also explores the future potential of cryptocurrency amidst ongoing scrutiny, urging for operational integrity to navigate forthcoming challenges.

Adam O'Neill, Washington correspondent for The Economist, shares insights on the recent election of House Speaker Mike Johnson and the implications for U.S. legislation amid political turbulence. Don Wineland, the publication's China business and finance editor, discusses concerns over hidden bad loans in China's banking sector, particularly at Jinjo Bank, which faces a staggering 50% non-performing loans. The conversation also touches on the trend of increasingly long films and how they reflect changing audience engagement.

Join the hosts as they delve into the art of storytelling and the weight of legacy. They bring captivating narratives that transcend the ordinary news cycle. Through insightful discussions, they explore themes like inherited guilt and how history shapes our present. This podcast is designed to broaden perspectives and inspire listeners to take a deeper look at the stories that define us.

Join Paul Markillie, Innovation editor at The Economist; Matthieu Favas, finance correspondent; and Anjani Trivedi, global business correspondent, as they tackle the pressing challenge of battery shortages for the green transition. They discuss the urgent need for improved battery technology, the importance of sourcing green metals, and potential alternatives like sodium-ion batteries. The conversation also covers recycling innovations, global supply chain dynamics, and the economic implications of sustainable practices, all crucial for powering a future that relies on renewable energy.

Anshul Pfeffer, Israel correspondent for The Economist based in Jerusalem, dives into the emotional landscape surrounding the hostage crisis, highlighting the frustrations of families and governmental challenges. He discusses how these families have formed a network to advocate for their loved ones, potentially reshaping Israeli politics. The conversation also touches on wildlife conservation, revealing the bear market for rhinos and the innovative yet controversial solutions being proposed. Additionally, a surprising study on the biases in coin tossing captivates listeners with its implications for decision-making.

Tensions rise as Taiwan faces a daunting choice: unify with China or risk war. The discussion delves into the complexities of Taiwanese identity amid geopolitical challenges, showcasing personal stories like that of a doctor turned novelist whose views on being Taiwanese have evolved. Historical narratives reveal the island's divided past and the struggle for democracy. Themes of nationalism, political movements, and Taiwan's crucial role in global supply chains highlight the urgency and significance of the island's future.

In this discussion, Arkady Ostrovsky, the Russia and Eastern Europe editor for The Economist, dives into the increasing plight of Alexei Navalny, shedding light on his dire conditions in prison and the chilling implications for political dissent in Russia. Kerry Richmond Jones, an international economics correspondent, highlights the long-standing economic disparities between Israelis and Palestinians, linking it to the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Both guests bring essential insights into the intertwining issues of politics and economics.

Explore the challenges and benefits of remote work and hybrid working arrangements. Discuss the importance of flexibility and connection in the workplace. Learn about the renovation and retrofitting of office space and the concept of 'return on commute'. Delve into the future of working from home and the challenges of hybrid work.

Andrew Palmer learns leadership lessons from CEO of GSK, Emma Walmsley; Nobel prize-winning psychologist, Daniel Kahneman; and one-time COO of Stripe, Claire Hughes-Johnson. Topics discussed include leadership experiments, defining company purpose, effective decision-making, being explicit as a manager, improving team performance, and reflections on leadership challenges.