Economist Podcasts

Gareth Brown, the Middle East correspondent, reveals Baghdad's booming construction scene and shares insights from his discussion with Prime Minister Muhammad al-Sudani about the city’s future. Archie Hall, US economics editor, dives into the YIMBY movement in Washington, D.C., where locals embrace population growth. Emma Irving, Asian news editor, explores the intriguing role of superstition in Hong Kong, examining how beliefs shape economic behaviors and even tourism during festivals. Tune in for a whirlwind tour of these dynamic topics!

Anjani Trevedi, a Global Business Correspondent, offers insights on a recent international summit in China, underlining its significance as world leaders including Narendra Modi gather. The discussion reveals how Xi Jinping is leveraging global chaos, especially during Trump’s term. They dive into artificial intelligence’s dual role, enhancing both productivity and cybercrime capabilities. Additionally, Trevedi uncovers the complexities surrounding Britain's crackdown on strip clubs, touching on societal shifts and the realities of these venues.

Natasha Loder, Health editor at The Economist, and Sarah Burke, Mexico bureau chief at The Economist, dive into pressing health issues arising from political turmoil in the U.S. They discuss the fallout from conflicts over mRNA vaccine policies and the severe implications of funding cuts on global health. The conversation shifts to Britain's groundbreaking supercomputer, Isambard AI, and its potential in advancing research. Lastly, they explore the surge of Japanese and Korean culture in Mexico, revealing a fascinating cultural exchange reshaping interests.

Sulin Wong, Asia correspondent and host of Scam Inc., joins Oliver Morton, Planetary Affairs Editor, and Don Wineland, China business and finance editor. They discuss the violent protests in Indonesia ignited by economic inequality, revealing rising public discontent and government disconnect. The conversation shifts to climate change, particularly worrying declines in ocean currents, which could threaten Europe’s climate. They also explore a quirky trend in China, where fashionable 'facekinis' are becoming popular among young women, reflecting changing cultural attitudes.

Anshul Pfeffer, Israel correspondent for The Economist, discusses the intense political strife in Israel, particularly Bibi Netanyahu's precarious grip on power during the Gaza conflict. Daniela Raz, a data journalist and U.S. correspondent, explores the transformative world of college sports as athletes gain financial compensation, shaking up traditional structures. Anne Rowe reflects on the life of Sen Genshitsu, a celebrated tea master advocating peace through the tea ceremony, providing a profound cultural insight against the backdrop of contemporary struggles.

Kira Huyu, the Asia correspondent, dives deep into the rising tensions between India and the U.S. after Trump's hefty tariff on Indian imports. She discusses Modi's potential responses and the intricate dynamics of their diplomatic relationship, influenced by India's strategic autonomy and its ties to Russia. The conversation also explores Palantir's eye-popping valuations and the unexpected resurgence of analog media, highlighting a cultural shift towards more intentional consumption in a digital age.

Rachna Shambhog, a business affairs editor at The Economist, joins Kinley Salmon, a Latin America correspondent, and Tom Nuttall, the chief Germany correspondent, to discuss pressing global issues. They analyze Trump's controversial bid to dismiss a Federal Reserve governor and its potential threat to the Fed's independence. The conversation also delves into Uruguay's groundbreaking move towards legalizing assisted dying and the thriving culture of shooting clubs in Germany, touching on community engagement and historical significance.

Tom Sass, the Britain Public Policy Editor at The Economist, reveals how car and phone theft has evolved into a significant international criminal enterprise, exploiting technological vulnerabilities. Gavin Jackson, an Economics and finance correspondent, advocates for using economic insight to navigate life’s big decisions, likening economists to dentists for financial health assessments. They also touch on the rising trend of private chefs, fueled by social media, and the cultural shift in how we perceive luxury dining.

In this engaging discussion, Robert Guest, Deputy Editor at The Economist, Don Wineland, China Business and Finance Editor, and Southern Correspondent Rebecca Jackson tackle pressing global issues. They examine how climate change is intensifying malaria transmission in Africa, projecting dire outcomes by 2050. They also delve into China’s cut-throat food delivery wars and the challenges it poses for service quality. Lastly, the innovative Python Challenge in Florida highlights unique ways to manage invasive species, blending competition with conservation.

In this engaging discussion, Gareth Brown, the insightful Middle East correspondent, shares the rising tensions in post-regime-change Syria, highlighting a precarious political climate and the economic struggles of ordinary citizens. Anne Rowe, The Economist's obituaries editor, brings a unique perspective on the unusual rise of radical pensioners engaging in protests, revealing their impactful role in modern activism. The conversation also touches on sectarian violence and the emergence of organized opposition amidst these challenging times.