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
May 21, 2024 • 31min
Can the Premier League Teach Us About the Future of the UK Economy?
The podcast delves into the impressive financial success of the Premier League, highlighting how most revenue goes to player wages. It discusses how the UK excels at exporting culture, like they do with entertainment. The conversation touches on embracing globalization, attracting global talent, and focusing on innovation and cultural export for economic success.
May 16, 2024 • 32min
2024:40 The Opium Wars
In this episode, we dive into the harrowing impact of the opioid epidemic in North America, recounting firsthand observations of addiction's toll in cities like Ottawa, Quebec, and Vancouver. How did a nation like Canada, with its extensive welfare and health systems, become engulfed in such a crisis? We explore the roots of the crisis, attributing it to the aggressive marketing and misinformation by pharmaceutical companies like Purdue Pharma, driven by unchecked greed and profit motives. Poverty and homelessness exacerbate addiction, creating a sobering reflection on the complex interplay of corporate malfeasance, regulatory failures, and social vulnerabilities that fuel this devastating epidemic. Is Ireland next in line for an opioid epidemic? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
20 snips
May 14, 2024 • 39min
2024:39 Letter from America with Evan Solomon
Evan Soloman, an expert on American politics, discusses the diverse narratives shaping America, the rise of Christian Nationalism imported from Russia, and the implications of cultural shifts on the global stage. The podcast explores language barriers, immigration struggles, Quebec's cultural transformations, and the changing dynamics in a multipolar world.
May 9, 2024 • 30min
2024:38 Rich in Poor Houses
Why do wealthy people live in houses originally built for the less affluent? Despite vast improvements in living standards over the years — lower infant mortality rates, faster access to life-saving drugs, and increased life expectancy — today, even modest homes are un-affordable for many. Consequently, wealthy individuals find themselves competing for properties originally intended for lower-income families. This trend not only highlights the scarcity of suitable housing but also deepens social stratification, as the affluent outbid others, driving up prices and displacing those with fewer resources. Is there an easy fix? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
May 7, 2024 • 32min
2024:37 The Rwanda-isation of Ireland
The podcast discusses how the Tories are using Ireland as a bargaining chip in immigration negotiations, potentially shaping the next Irish election. It explores post-Brexit political dynamics, the weaponization of asylum seekers, and challenges faced by Irish politicians. The impact of the Tories on the election discourse, tensions in Sinn Fein, and voter support for independent parties are also highlighted.
May 2, 2024 • 39min
2024:36 Cod & Chips: The Story of Irish/Italians
Explore the intertwined cultural ties between Ireland and Italy, from historical integration to the influence of Italian immigrants. Learn about the impact on chipper culture, soccer matches, and the resilient journey of Italian families settling in Ireland. Discover the unique blend of traditions and connections shaping the Irish Italian community, highlighting the transformative nature of migration and integration.
16 snips
Apr 30, 2024 • 31min
2024:35 The Political Fallout of Housing
Exploring how housing impacts politics globally, from Ireland to Eastern Europe. Discussing the shift in happiness trends due to affordable housing. Delving into the political strategy of promoting home ownership and the failure to address housing issues. Examining housing policies in Ireland and the challenges faced by the political class in understanding public discontent.
11 snips
Apr 25, 2024 • 35min
2024:34 Istanbul: The Centre of our World
Delve into the electrifying history of Turkish empires, from Byzantine to Ottoman, shaping world history. Ottomans redirected trade routes, influenced the Renaissance and sparked Irish Nationalism. Explore Ataturk's transformation of modern Turkey, clash with Erdogan ideologies, and the nation's struggle with secularism.
23 snips
Apr 23, 2024 • 33min
2024:33 The Future is Turkish!
Delving into Turkey's economic crisis with 69% inflation and Lira devaluation, the podcast explores its potential as a regional powerbroker amidst Middle East tensions. Discussing Turkey's strategic location bridging Europe and Asia, it examines its role in conflict resolution. Highlighting Gouliness in Turkey's power structure post-Erdogan, it sheds light on the country's geopolitical significance and challenges under his leadership.
Apr 18, 2024 • 32min
2024:32 Humanomics
Economists are getting it wrong, blinded by math. Ben Bernanke's report exposes Bank of England's failures. Humanomics calls for messy economics. Podcast announces book tour for 'Money, A Story of Humanity'. Comedy, economic policy, and flawed models explored.
