Economist Podcasts

Matthew Hullhouse, a British political correspondent for The Economist, and Arkady Ostrovsky, the Russia editor for The Economist, engage in a spirited discussion about the turmoil within the Conservative Party amidst Liz Truss’s rocky start. They dissect how economic instability and a contentious budget have shaken public support for the Tories. Meanwhile, Ostrovsky analyzes Putin’s recent partial mobilization and the unexpected backlash it has generated in Russia. The conversation also touches on the ethical dilemmas in naming species after controversial figures.

Sarah Maslin, Brazil correspondent for The Economist, provides a gripping analysis of Brazil’s unpredictable presidential election, where Bolsonaro’s unexpected strong showing sets the stage for a fierce runoff. Jonathan Rosenthal, Africa editor, sheds light on Malawi's democratic journey—its inspiring yet challenging transition from autocracy to democracy amidst economic hardships. The discussion also touches on the complexities of voter trust and the ongoing struggles for reform and stability in Malawi, showcasing the region's diverse political landscapes.

Christopher Lockwood, Europe editor for The Economist, provides keen insights on Russia's planned annexation of Ukrainian regions and its geopolitical risks. Su Lin Wong, the China correspondent, delves into Xi Jinping’s unprecedented consolidation of power ahead of the Communist Party's National Congress. They introduce a new podcast series, 'The Prince', exploring Xi's political maneuvers and personal history. Additionally, they discuss the rising prestige of video game music, showcasing its evolution from simple melodies to complex orchestral compositions.

Sarah Maslin, The Economist's Brazil correspondent, shares her insights on Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva's potential return to power, debating whether Brazil would see a fiscal conservative or a populist. Wendelin von Bredow, the senior Germany correspondent, discusses Germany's economic woes, like its heavy reliance on Russian gas and the looming threat of deindustrialization. The podcast also touches on the revival of Vietnam's loudspeakers and what this retro move signifies in today's digital world.

Nicholas Pelham, Middle East correspondent for The Economist, shares his expert insights on the dramatic protests in Iran, sparked by Masa Amini's death. He emphasizes the bold actions of women fighting against oppressive laws. Noah Snyder, Tokyo bureau chief, discusses the implications of Abe Shinzo's assassination, revealing its connection to a cult-like sect and potential political upheaval in Japan. The conversation also touches on fascinating innovations in 3D printing influenced by nature, highlighting how insect-inspired robotics may pave the way for future construction.

Sumaya Keynes, Britain’s economics editor for The Economist, and Alice Su, the Senior China correspondent, engage in a captivating discussion on the UK’s economic turmoil. They analyze the dismal market response to the new government's ambitious tax cuts and the declining pound. Additionally, they delve into China's controversial DNA collection in Tibet, examining its implications for social control. The evolving trend of retirees rejoining the workforce post-pandemic adds another layer to their insight on labor market dynamics.

John Hooper, The Economist's Italy correspondent, and Georgia Banjo, a foreign correspondent specializing in Latin America, delve into Italy's recent far-right government shift under Giorgia Meloni. They discuss the implications for Italy, Europe, and the ongoing Ukraine conflict, exploring the social challenges driving voter sentiment. Additionally, they examine the dire state of Latin American prisons, highlighting overcrowding and policies in countries like El Salvador, while also touching upon a film from China that unveils unresolved societal tensions.

Idris Kaloun, The Economist's Washington Bureau Chief, analyzes the sweeping legal challenges facing Donald Trump, including fraud accusations and election interference. Charlotte McCann offers insights on 'The Joy of Sex,' highlighting its cultural impact on sexual attitudes in the 1970s. Guy Scriven discusses the booming cloud computing industry, focusing on major tech partnerships transforming finance. The episode reveals how legal turmoil can unexpectedly bolster political support while tracing significant changes in societal norms around sexuality.

Simon Rabinovich, U.S. economics editor for The Economist, analyzes the Fed's recent interest rate hikes, weighing their impact on inflation and job markets. He discusses the delicate balance the Fed must strike between controlling inflation and maintaining employment levels. Meanwhile, Anne Rowe shares insights into Frank Drake, a visionary in the search for extraterrestrial intelligence, reflecting on his pioneering work and what it means for humanity's quest to discover life beyond Earth.

Shashank Joshi, defense editor at The Economist, delves into Vladimir Putin's recent announcement of troop mobilization in Ukraine, focusing on the implications of his threats and accusations against the West. The conversation highlights the desperation within Russia's military recruitment strategy and the challenges of deploying effective personnel. Additionally, the podcast touches on the shifting political landscape in rural America and an intriguing archaeological find in Borneo that sheds light on ancient surgical practices.