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
Oct 24, 2024 • 37min
Is Your City Dying?
The podcast takes a deep dive into the decline of Dublin's inner city, reflecting a wider issue of urban decay. It discusses the transformative power of citizen engagement and mixed-use spaces in reviving communities. Examples like Berlin’s Kreuzberg showcase how neglected areas can flourish. The balance between gentrification and maintaining local character is explored, along with innovative strategies like 'meanwhile use' to breathe life back into dead zones. Can infrastructure changes motivate property owners to join the revival?
6 snips
Oct 22, 2024 • 32min
America at a Crossroads: Trump, Power, and the Future of U.S. Democracy
Tom Frank, a keen observer of American politics and culture, joins to discuss the looming U.S. election and its far-reaching implications. He examines Donald Trump's resurgence in key states and the possible consequences of his potential victory—such as authoritarianism and economic turmoil. Frank analyzes the disconnect between positive economic indicators and public sentiment, along with the shifting political loyalties of billionaires. This conversation highlights the complexities of inequality, voter disillusionment, and the fate of democracy in the U.S.
Oct 17, 2024 • 38min
Are Strong Institutions Enough? Unpacking the Nobel Prize in Economics
Marla Dukaran, a development economist with a Caribbean perspective, joins the discussion on the recent Nobel Prize in Economics. They delve into the winning economists' emphasis on strong institutions as keys to prosperity, questioning if this oversimplifies the complex reality. Highlights include South Korea's rise versus Jamaica's hurdles, stressing the importance of geography, culture, and history. The conversation challenges existing theories and suggests that stable institutions alone may not resolve the growing wealth disparity globally.
8 snips
Oct 15, 2024 • 35min
Could Sanctions Against Israel become a Reality?
The podcast tackles the possibility of the EU imposing sanctions on Israel amid escalating conflicts. It draws historical parallels with sanctions on South Africa and Russia, questioning if Israel could face similar economic isolation. Public sentiment in Europe is evolving, with younger generations reconsidering support for Israel. The dialogue also explores the dynamics of trust in financial systems and highlights the significant trade ties Israel has with Europe, setting the stage for potential economic repercussions.
7 snips
Oct 10, 2024 • 33min
Culture vs. Economics: The Battle for America's Political Soul with Thomas Frank
Thomas Frank, author of "What's the Matter with Kansas," dives into the cultural divides in U.S. politics as the election approaches. He discusses how cultural identity has increasingly influenced voter decisions, overshadowing economic factors despite strong job growth. Frank highlights the shift of the working class towards Republicans while Democrats court the educated elite. The conversation also touches on the impact of culture wars in swing states, challenging the notion that economics alone drives political loyalty in contemporary America.
Oct 8, 2024 • 38min
Fuelling the Fire: Middle East Tensions and Ireland's High Cost-Energy Crisis
As tensions rise between Israel and Iran, the global energy market feels the heat, pushing oil prices higher. Ireland grapples with soaring energy costs, relying heavily on imports. Small businesses in Dublin face cultural and financial pressures amid these crises. The podcast highlights the urgent need for sustainable energy solutions while comparing Ireland's lag in renewables to Denmark's success. With data centers ramping up demand, the balance between attracting investment and ensuring energy security becomes pivotal for Ireland's future.
4 snips
Oct 3, 2024 • 38min
Middle East on the Brink: Where are the Adults?
Tensions between Israel and Iran escalate as missiles fly and regional powers shift. Hezbollah's role complicates the already volatile landscape. The discussion dives into Israel's aggressive strategies and the potential for a larger conflict. Surprisingly, falling oil prices are shaping these dynamics, prompting reflections on the responses from the U.S. and Europe. The absence of effective leadership and the impact of extremism on diplomatic relations highlight the complexity of Middle Eastern politics. What does all this mean for the region's future?
Oct 1, 2024 • 45min
The Tragedy of the Middle East: A Letter from Lebanon
Carole Nakhle, a Lebanese economist, brings her expertise on Lebanon's dire political and economic situation. She shares personal stories from her upbringing in Beirut amid hyperinflation and corruption. Discussion unfolds around Hezbollah's dual role in society and how foreign influences, particularly from Iran and the U.S., exacerbate regional tensions. Carole highlights the diaspora's impact on Lebanon’s identity, addressing the challenges of brain drain and emigration while showcasing the resilience of her country through its struggles.
30 snips
Sep 26, 2024 • 33min
Can Draghi's €800 Billion Plan Save Europe from Decline?
Europe faces significant economic challenges as Mario Draghi proposes an €800 billion investment plan to revitalize the continent. Discussions reveal concerns about stagnation, rising unemployment, and overregulation hindering growth. The influence of age on spending habits and cultural attitudes towards risk and failure are also explored. There's a pressing need for cohesive policies to foster innovation and mitigate competition from global powers. Will Draghi’s vision revive Europe’s prosperity, or is the dream of a unified continent slipping away?
31 snips
Sep 24, 2024 • 40min
Germany on the Brink: Economic Fragility, Immigration Tensions, and the Rise of the Right
Germany stands at a critical juncture, grappling with political instability and economic fragility. The rise of the far-right AFD party and recent Volkswagen factory closures spotlight the nation’s growing unrest. Cultural tensions between East and West Germany and the legacy of Angela Merkel's policies are scrutinized. As concerns about immigration and energy dependence mount, experts explore how these factors threaten Europe's stability. The conversation deepens with historical context and the implications for Germany's future.
