Boxing faced a tough time, but Saudi Arabia's hefty investments have revived the sport. With events like the Riyadh Season, major matchups are cropping up, attracting top athletes. However, this financial influx raises ethical questions about human rights and the implications of sports washing. The transformation of the boxing landscape invites scrutiny over the motivations behind these investments and how they shape future events. Fans are left to weigh the excitement of new competitions against the backdrop of geopolitical issues.

The Vatican Jubilee is expected to attract over 30 million pilgrims, but Rome's tourism figures are surprisingly down by 15%. Business leaders are adjusting accommodation rates to entice visitors, yet some faith-based tour companies see booming bookings. Local construction for the event is stirring controversy among residents due to disruptions. Despite hopes for increased tourism, smaller accommodations are struggling. The Jubilee tradition is evolving, with the Vatican aiming to engage younger pilgrims through innovative outreach.

Discover how Helsinki is emerging as a hub for defense technology, attracting global attention amidst rising geopolitical tensions. Explore the increasing interest from European military forces in innovative training programs and the growing influx of venture capital into the sector. Dive into Finland’s strategic investments of €120 million aimed at bolstering R&D for startups, while navigating challenges like funding and military bureaucracy. This exploration reveals Finland's unique position in shaping the future of defense.

Kelly Rickabus, a former franchisee of Anytime Fitness in Michigan, shares her journey through the pandemic's upheaval. She discusses the emotional toll of lockdowns and financial strain many small business owners faced. Kelly reflects on how she had to adapt her business strategies and the lessons learned from navigating government assistance. The conversation touches on the shifting landscape of personal behaviors, community responsibilities, and the unforeseen benefits that emerged during these challenging times.

Benedetto Vigna, CEO of Ferrari, shares his journey from a childhood passion for cars to leading the iconic brand amidst a seismic shift toward electric vehicles. He discusses how his background in physics aids in balancing luxury and cutting-edge technology. Vigna dives into the emotional ties of Ferrari's motorsport heritage, reflecting on the challenges of maintaining this connection in a modern, electrified world. He also addresses the delicate balance between tradition and innovation as the brand evolves in an ever-changing automotive landscape.

Explore the historic election of Kirsty Coventry as the first female and African IOC president. Delve into the challenges she faces, including negotiating prize money for athletes and finding a host for the 2036 Summer Games. Discover the future of boxing as an Olympic sport and the looming climate challenges. Learn about the importance of renewing major sponsorship deals, especially with NBC, to secure the Olympics' financial future, while engaging younger audiences in a rapidly evolving media landscape.

Explore the fascinating world of Chile's salmon farming, the second largest in the world. Discover the tension between economic growth and environmental protection, as experts debate the industry's impact on marine life. Dive into the evolution of this thriving sector, facing both innovation and sustainability challenges. Learn how technology, like AI, is transforming salmon farming practices. Unpack the regulatory hurdles that complicate operational expansions while uncovering initiatives aiming to protect the stunning Patagonia region.

The podcast delves into the surge of Canadian nationalism driven by U.S. tariffs. It highlights local businesses reshoring operations, sharing personal stories of patriotism and economic revival. The discussion reveals the juxtapositions of boosting local manufacturing while navigating complex trade dynamics. Listeners learn about the resilience of Canada’s manufacturing sector amid crises, especially in health supply chains. Additionally, the challenges exporters face with tariff uncertainties create a vivid picture of the evolving business landscape.

The podcast explores the drastic impact of USAID funding cuts initiated by the Trump administration. Personal stories reveal the struggles faced by communities in Kenya, particularly in Kibera and Kisumu, where essential services have been halted. The discussion also delves into the criticism surrounding dependency on foreign aid and ongoing debates about USAID's effectiveness. Furthermore, it highlights the ripple effects on global health systems, emphasizing the urgent need for reforms to support resilience and sustainability in aid efforts.

Sim Tshabalala, CEO of Standard Bank and a former lawyer turned investment banker, shares his inspiring journey from apartheid-era Soweto to leading one of Africa's largest banks. He discusses the risks involved in lending, the evolving trade relationships across the continent, and the transformative power of mobile technology for financial access. Tshabalala also highlights the resilience of East African economies amid challenges like COVID-19 and inflation, painting a hopeful picture for Africa's future.