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
7 snips
Jun 11, 2024 • 37min
Neoliberalism, my arse!
The podcast challenges the idea that Ireland is a neoliberal state, highlighting its progressive tax system and social welfare network. The hosts analyze the outcomes of European elections, discuss healthcare system inefficiencies, and delve into property and land tax implications on small businesses in Ireland.
Jun 6, 2024 • 35min
Tomorrows World: Living With AI
Professor Eli Noam from Columbia Business School discusses the impact of AI on jobs, economy, and society. They explore how AI can enhance productivity, the importance of regulation, and the potential for AI in creative fields. The conversation highlights the need for smart policies to turn AI into a force for good.
6 snips
Jun 4, 2024 • 34min
Enemies to Lovers: The Conversation We Really Should Be Having Ahead of The European Elections
Delving into the historical rivalry turned alliance between France and Germany, this podcast explores how their relationship shaped the European Union and the euro. From past conflicts to current challenges, the podcast discusses the pivotal moments that defined this partnership and its impact on European stability.
May 30, 2024 • 31min
Independence Day for the UK, again?
Financial Times columnist Robert Shrimsley discusses the potential snap UK election, the country's productivity issues, and the absence of Brexit in the upcoming political landscape. Will this election offer solutions or deepen existing fractures? Dive into the political drama and economic challenges facing the UK in this insightful podcast episode.
May 28, 2024 • 36min
Recognise Palestine, Now What?
Exploring Ireland's recognition of Palestine and its implications on foreign policy and trade relations with Israel. Delving into the complex historical and political connections between Ireland, Israel, and Palestine. Navigating the economic and political consequences of policy shifts towards Palestine recognition. Discussing Ireland's foreign policy dilemma and exploring scenarios of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
25 snips
May 23, 2024 • 41min
The Price is Wrong with Brett Christophers
Acclaimed author Brett Christophers discusses the economics of climate change, questioning the profitability of renewables for big companies. The podcast challenges conventional wisdom on effective climate action, advocating for alternative strategies and state financing for critical infrastructural projects.
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.
