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 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.
Sep 19, 2024 • 38min
The Vinyl Comeback: How Records Survived Streaming
Dive into the captivating world of vinyl's revival in the digital age! Discover how independent record shops are keeping the vinyl spirit alive and redefining music culture. Explore the nostalgic appeal of records and their unique auditory experience that streaming can't replicate. Hear insights on the historical evolution of the music industry and the impact of digital technology on artist development. With a touch of cultural significance, find out why vinyl is not just surviving but thriving!
18 snips
Sep 17, 2024 • 31min
An Apple A Day Keeps The Taxman Away
Dive into the intricacies of Apple's tax dealings with Ireland, revealing a €13 billion windfall and the implications for the economy. Explore how Ireland's low corporate tax strategy shaped its growth and attracted foreign investment. Discover the impact of historical emigration patterns and the soft power of the Irish diaspora. The discussion highlights urgent housing crises and the need for bold political decisions to address pressing public infrastructure challenges. A compelling blend of economic history and forward-looking insights awaits!
Sep 12, 2024 • 30min
Hitler’s Plan to Destroy Britain with Counterfeit Money – from Money: A Story of Humanity
Adolf Hitler, infamously known as the leader of Nazi Germany, discusses his bizarre plan to use counterfeit money as a weapon against Britain. Imagine money raining from the sky! Hitler aimed to flood the British economy with fake pounds to induce chaos and hyperinflation. The conversation delves into Operation Bernhard, the secretive Nazi scheme that almost unraveled Britain’s economy. It highlights the psychological and historical implications of money as both a stabilizing force and a tool of destruction.
Sep 10, 2024 • 40min
From Poetry to Punches: Ireland’s Journey from Michael D. to McGregor
Conor McGregor, the brash mixed martial artist and businessman, joins the discussion around his hypothetical presidential run in 2025. The conversation humorously contrasts his bold persona with that of the more traditional Michael D. Higgins. They tackle Ireland's pressing infrastructure issues, highlighting the country's untapped potential and the need for innovative solutions. The dialogue also examines modern Irish identity, linking historical poets to McGregor as a symbol of contemporary ambition, while exploring the challenges and opportunities facing the nation.
19 snips
Sep 5, 2024 • 30min
A Letter from America with Jim Chanos
Jim Chanos, a legendary short-seller known for his keen market insights, discusses the shifting dynamics of the U.S. economy and its global repercussions. He highlights the looming risks of another market bubble while shedding light on rising economic inequality. Chanos reveals why he believes we're in a "Golden Age of Fraud," illustrating how misinformation erodes trust in both markets and democracy. The conversation also draws parallels to the economic turmoil of the 1970s, emphasizing the role of social media in this new era of skepticism.
Sep 3, 2024 • 35min
What Taylor Swift & Oasis Tickets Tell Us About The Economy!
Taylor Swift, the renowned singer-songwriter, discusses the intersection of her concert ticket demand and Ireland’s housing crisis. The conversation examines how the high demand for Taylor’s tickets mirrors the country's broader economic challenges, highlighting a fundamental supply problem. They delve into the shift from demand-driven to supply-driven issues in Ireland, advocating for better infrastructure investment. The talk also critiques new land sale tax policies and suggests legal reforms to mitigate local opposition in housing development.
Aug 29, 2024 • 31min
Arab Disunity: From Ancient Rifts to the Gaza Conflict
The podcast delves into the historical rifts within the Arab world, exploring two visions of unity from the 19th century: one religiously conservative and another modern and secular. It connects these historical divides to modern conflicts like Gaza, questioning why Arab nations can't unite during crises. The discussion extends to the influence of external powers and the challenges of forging a cohesive Arab identity amidst ongoing cultural and political complexities. Historical alliances, colonialism, and nationalism play pivotal roles in this intricate narrative.
