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
25 snips
May 29, 2025 • 44min
Spain’s Miracle Economy: What They Got Right (That We Didn’t) with Joe Haslam
Joe Haslam, a professor at IE Business School and expert on the Spanish economy, shares insights into Spain’s remarkable post-COVID recovery. He explores how immigration and tourism are fueling growth, with nearly a million Latin Americans boosting GDP. Haslam also discusses the challenges of Spain’s energy infrastructure, highlighting a recent blackout and its implications. The conversation reveals contrasts in governance, comparing the successes of Spanish infrastructure to struggles in the UK, emphasizing the impact of legal systems on economic development.
May 27, 2025 • 32min
The Bilbao Blueprint
Discover how a Basque football club thrives without signing non-local players while Dublin lags. Dive into Bilbao's rich industrial history and transformation, from shipbuilding to modern culture, anchored by the Guggenheim Museum. Explore the vibrant Basque identity, their unique language, and maritime legacy, alongside the political dynamics shaping global perceptions. Join a discussion that connects heritage with contemporary economic resilience and challenges traditional narratives of success.
9 snips
May 22, 2025 • 33min
The Moody Blues: No More Finance Bros in LA
Moody’s recent downgrade of the U.S. credit rating raises eyebrows about America’s debt issues and unsustainable growth. In Ireland, collapsing cottages owned by those lobbying for housing reform highlight a troubling disconnect. The episode delves into how property has transformed from a social good into a parasitic entity. Discussions link Donald Trump's inflationary tariffs with the Irish government's failures in urban accountability. Listeners also hear about proposed financial strategies and a new Podcast Book Club initiative.
May 20, 2025 • 43min
The Battle for Africa with Pumi Mashigo
Join Pumi Mashigo, a South African commentator and host of the Leveling Up podcast, as she dives into the intriguing dynamics of South Africa's political landscape. They discuss President Ramaphosa’s upcoming meeting with Trump and the meaning behind his nickname 'Cupcake.' The conversation also explores South Africa's shifting alliances with BRICS and the implications of reduced U.S. aid. With a rich history intertwining with global powers, Mashigo sheds light on why the Global South is demanding a new narrative.
18 snips
May 15, 2025 • 31min
Trump’s New Enemies: Billionaires, Big Pharma & Bibi?
In a surprising twist, Trump is adopting progressive policies like taxing the rich and lowering drug costs. This brings him into conflict with his billionaire backers and raises questions about Israel's role in his plans. The podcast also explores recent trade deals, highlighting Ireland's surprising exports to the US and the geopolitical complexity with China. Amid rising inflation and global economic shifts, the implications of these strategies on US relations with countries like Saudi Arabia and the potential recognition of a Palestinian state are discussed.
36 snips
May 13, 2025 • 51min
A Letter from Africa with Simon Kuper
In this engaging conversation, Simon Kuper, an FT journalist with deep insights into South Africa’s sociopolitical landscape, shares his thoughts on the nation’s historical contradictions. He discusses the legacy of Nelson Mandela and how South Africa's past of apartheid influences its present. Kuper also explores Donald Trump’s unusual interest in white Afrikaners and the economic paradox facing the country, where abundant resources clash with inequality. This vibrant dialogue unpacks a complex and evolving identity amidst global narratives.
47 snips
May 8, 2025 • 42min
Inflation for Losers with Mark Blyth
Mark Blyth, a Professor of Political Economy at Brown University and author of 'Inflation: A Guide for Users and Losers,' delves into the pressing issue of inflation and its social repercussions. He explains how inflation penetrates daily life and fuels political division, linking it to rising discontent in the UK and the U.S. Blyth examines the socio-economic fallout from job losses and the paradox of tariffs, highlighting their effects on inequality. The conversation also reflects on how inflation could be a catalyst for disturbing political shifts worldwide.
11 snips
May 6, 2025 • 43min
How Canada Became the Anti-Trump Blueprint
Evan Solomon, MP for Toronto Centre and a political commentator, sheds light on Canada’s remarkable pivot into a progressive blueprint amidst the influence of Trump. He discusses Mark Carney’s election strategy, framing it as a critique of Trump’s policies. The conversation dives into the evolution of Canadian identity, nationalism, and the economic consequences of U.S. trade practices. Solomon also emphasizes how a common adversary can galvanize a nation, revealing what Canadians truly desire for their future.
23 snips
May 1, 2025 • 34min
Slowing Down in an Age of Acceleration with Elif Shafak
Elif Shafak, a Turkish-British novelist and essayist, joins to explore the power of storytelling amid a chaotic world. The conversation shifts from the frenzy of global crises to the quiet joys found in imagination. Shafak discusses how fiction helps decode chaos and unites personal and political narratives. The importance of water as both a cultural touchstone and a catalyst for conflict is examined, emphasizing our need for deeper understanding in a fast-paced society. Join the dive into how literary engagement can transform our perception of reality.
5 snips
Apr 29, 2025 • 35min
The Art of Taxation: How a Crisis Could Save Your City
Trump’s global chaos might just offer an opportunity. if we’re bold enough to take it. In this episode, we dive into how a crisis can give countries the political permission to reshape their economies, starting with how we tax, who we tax, and why we desperately need to rethink urban financing. From Roman emperors funding the Colosseum with "toilet taxes," to why Dublin (and most Irish cities) are economic engines shackled by a broken funding system, we explore how cities around the world are grabbing the purse strings and financing their own futures. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
