The David McWilliams Podcast
David McWilliams & John Davis
The aim of this weekly podcast is to make economics easy, uncomplicated and accessible. With the world at a political, technological and financial tipping point, economics has never been so important to all of us and yet, it’s made inaccessible and complicated by so many.I’ve always thought what is complicated is rarely important and what is important is rarely complicated.That will be our motto.Every week we are going to tease out some big economic or political issue facing us, not just here in Ireland but in Europe and further afield. Globalisation has brought us all together. We all face similar challenges whether you live in Dublin, London, Minnesota or Milan.If you would like to enjoy all of our content ad-free and have early access to episodes, subscribe to DMCW+ on Apple Podcast.If you would like to support the show, please consider becoming a patron at www.patreon.com/DavidMcWilliams. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Aug 7, 2025 • 41min
Japan: Lost in Translation Part Two
Russell Jones, an economist and author of 'A Modern Economic History of Japan', dives deep into Japan's economic saga, from its 40-year stagnation following the 1990s bubble burst to alarming population decline predictions. He explores the unique blend of festive cheer and economic despair during Christmas, critiques the slow response of financial institutions, and discusses the rise of right-wing populism amidst a complex geopolitical landscape. The conversation balances humor with insightful commentary, shedding light on Japan's cultural and economic complexities.
25 snips
Aug 5, 2025 • 43min
Japan: From Feudal Isolation to Economic Superpower
In this engaging discussion, economist Russell Jones, author of 'A Modern Economic History of Japan', shares insights on Japan's remarkable economic transformation. He delves into the Meiji Restoration and America's role in post-war recovery, spotlighting how Japan emerged as a manufacturing powerhouse. The conversation also touches on Trump’s manipulation of economic statistics, the 1980s property bubble, and Japan's adeptness in navigating oil shocks. Jones' analysis provides a rich context for understanding Japan's sustained resilience and its global economic impact.
8 snips
Jul 31, 2025 • 33min
Generation Rent: How Housing Costs Are Exporting Ireland's Future
Matthew Ruddy, a Dublin entrepreneur now residing in Brisbane, discusses the harsh realities faced by young Irish innovators amidst soaring housing costs. He reveals how high rents, averaging two grand a month, push educated risk-takers to emigrate. Matthew shares staggering statistics on declining home ownership among young adults and the consequent mental health crisis stemming from housing instability. The conversation highlights the brain drain from Ireland, as young talent is forced to abandon their entrepreneurial dreams, leaving the startup scene struggling for fresh ideas.
29 snips
Jul 29, 2025 • 33min
Did Europe Just Surrender to Trump?
The surprise trade deal between the EU and the US sparks debates about a possible sellout. Europe's strategic game plan reveals a $200 billion trade surplus with the US, raising questions about its motivations. Internal conflicts within Europe emerge, as nationalism clashes with the push for federalism, impacting industries from cars to pharmaceuticals. Trump's aggressive tactics challenge European diplomacy, but strangely, there may be silver linings for Irish investment amidst the chaos.
12 snips
Jul 24, 2025 • 47min
When the West Woke Up: How Yugoslavia Fell Apart
Delve into the chaotic end years of Yugoslavia and the ethnic conflicts that shook Europe. Discover how opportunistic leaders fueled rivalries, resulting in horrific violence and ethnic cleansing, with over 100,000 lives lost. Explore the international response, from U.S. air strikes to the Dayton Accords that aimed to restore peace. Contrast Slovenia’s rise as a modern state with Croatia's demographic challenges and Serbia's struggles against hyperinflation and nationalism. Reflect on the lingering effects of historical tensions and alliances in today's geopolitics.
32 snips
Jul 22, 2025 • 38min
Why Ireland Must Rethink Its Economic Future; Fast
In this discussion, Patrick Walsh, from Dogpatch Labs in Dublin, emphasizes the necessity for Ireland to innovate in response to shifting U.S. economic policies. He highlights how tariffs and decreasing multinational goodwill threaten the economy. Walsh advocates for a bold move towards a robust startup culture and reimagining leadership, warning against reliance on foreign companies. The conversation also touches on the race for AI dominance and Ireland's aging policies, urging immediate strategic actions to secure a prosperous future.
22 snips
Jul 17, 2025 • 42min
The Ghosts of Yugoslavia: Borders, Bankers & Balkan Ghosts
Dive into the haunting aftermath of Yugoslavia's collapse, where scars from war still linger in Croatia. Explore the chaos of hyperinflation and the tangled roots of nationalism that fueled conflicts. Discover how figures like Tito shaped identities and the region's socio-political landscape. Gain insights into Europe’s economic struggles compared to the US and reflect on how past tensions are echoed in today's political climate. Humor mixes with serious reflections as we examine the region's ongoing challenges and cultural complexities.
51 snips
Jul 15, 2025 • 33min
Can We Cope With This Level of Immigration?
The discussion kicks off with the looming threat of U.S. tariffs, underlining Ireland's precarious trade landscape. As 141,000 immigrants flooded in but only 30,000 homes were built, the housing crisis intensifies. Prices skyrocket, increasing by 7% in just three months. The conversation emphasizes the need for strategic governance to manage immigration effectively to avoid chaos, highlighting the challenges of bureaucratic obstacles and the pressing demand for comprehensive housing solutions. Ireland's reliance on immigration emerges as both a necessity and a challenge.
14 snips
Jul 10, 2025 • 30min
Who Wants to Live Forever? The Economics of Immortality, Tech Bros & Tír na nÓg
The discussion kicks off with Oasis and shifts to the surreal ambitions of tech billionaires investing heavily in immortality. Brian Johnson's extreme anti-aging regimen, including teenage blood transfusions, raises eyebrows. The podcast explores the booming $70 billion anti-aging industry, questioning if eternal youth will be a luxury for the wealthy. Cultural references to Irish mythology tie in with our obsession with avoiding death. Are we inching closer to a modern Tír na nÓg, accessible only to a few? The implications of such endeavors paint a thought-provoking picture of our future.
23 snips
Jul 8, 2025 • 38min
Trieste and the City of the Future
Despite rising incomes and government revenue, people feel financially squeezed. The discussion highlights the mismatch between growth in disposable income and soaring inflation, with younger generations struggling under high costs. As older homeowners benefit from rising asset values, younger folks face daunting rents and living expenses. The economic data suggests prosperity, yet the mood is pessimistic. Could it be that the real issue lies in our perceptions and feelings rather than the numbers?
