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BBC World Service
The daily drama of money and work from the BBC.
Episodes
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6 snips
Feb 5, 2025 • 17min
What now for Canada?
Justin Trudeau, former Prime Minister of Canada, reflects on his resignation and the challenges ahead for his successor. He discusses the looming trade tensions with the U.S., particularly the significant tariffs on Canadian exports. The conversation dives deep into Canada’s internal issues, such as the housing crisis fueled by immigration and rising property costs. Trudeau emphasizes the need for effective leadership to navigate these complexities and to forge a clear national identity in a time of uncertainty.

Feb 4, 2025 • 17min
Why do Germans take so much time off sick?
Germany's sick leave policy is among the world's most generous, providing full pay for the first six weeks and substantial support for up to 18 months. This fosters a culture where employees average 26 sick days annually. The podcast explores how these practices are evolving, especially post-pandemic, as companies adapt to remote work and changing employee attitudes. It highlights the importance of balancing employee wellness with economic impact, along with the darker aspects of the wellness industry that challenge these values.

Feb 3, 2025 • 19min
California’s insurance crisis
The podcast dives into California's escalating insurance crisis fueled by devastating wildfires. Many victims are left uninsured due to skyrocketing premiums and sudden policy cancellations. Personal stories showcase the emotional toll, highlighting the struggles of families and homeowners. The episode explores proactive measures taken by vineyard owners to combat fire risks and emphasizes the need for sustainable solutions to stabilize the insurance market. Hope and resilience shine through as some families aim to rebuild despite the odds.

6 snips
Jan 31, 2025 • 17min
Business Daily meets: GoFundMe's Tim Cadogan
Tim Cadogan, CEO of GoFundMe, discusses his journey from tech entrepreneur to leading one of the largest crowdfunding platforms, having previously founded OpenX and worked at Yahoo. He shares insights on balancing profit and charity in fundraising, and the innovative business model that supports personal campaigns. The conversation highlights the importance of storytelling and community engagement in successful fundraisers, as well as the emotional aspects that connect donors to causes. Cadogan also addresses challenges like campaign legitimacy amid rising living costs.

10 snips
Jan 30, 2025 • 18min
The gamification of fitness
Explore the fascinating journey of the fitness industry from ancient Greece to a $100 billion powerhouse. Discover how gamification is revolutionizing workouts with technology-driven features like leaderboards and interactive apps. Hear personal stories of how competitive elements foster community and motivation. Delve into the evolution of fitness technology, particularly during the pandemic, and ponder the future of fitness amid a rise in virtual training. Could this be the new norm for motivating workouts?

5 snips
Jan 29, 2025 • 18min
Cashing in on Ghana's cashews
Explore the vibrant cashew industry in northern Ghana, where local farmers navigate economic disparities and foreign competition. Discover how the nation's potential in cashew processing is stymied by challenges faced by small businesses. Hear the inspiring stories of local entrepreneurs who are trying to beat the odds, roasting and packaging delicious cashews. Delve into the vital connection between cashew production and Ghana's overall economic growth, and how addressing these issues could reshape the future of agriculture and entrepreneurship in the country.

7 snips
Jan 28, 2025 • 17min
Is X still good for brands?
The conversation kicks off with FC St Pauli leading the charge by quitting X due to concerns over racism. Brands are reevaluating their presence and advertising spend on the platform amidst rising competitors like Blue Sky. Despite controversies, some argue X still offers crucial customer service engagement. The decline of X raises questions about brand trust and the need for significant changes to attract marketers. This shift highlights the evolving landscape of social media and its impact on brand communication.

9 snips
Jan 27, 2025 • 17min
Spain's squatting problem
Explore Spain's squatting crisis, where high homelessness rates clash with homeowners' rights. Hear personal stories from those affected, revealing the emotional toll of eviction processes. Innovative insurance products are introduced to protect against squatters, while eviction companies share their non-violent strategies. The political implications of housing laws are examined, alongside grassroots movements advocating for affordable housing post-financial crisis. This multifaceted issue reflects deep societal challenges in contemporary Spain.

9 snips
Jan 24, 2025 • 17min
Business Daily meets: Peter Moore
Peter Moore, a British-American video game and sports executive and former CEO of Liverpool FC, reveals his fascinating career journey from physical education teacher to sportswear executive. He shares humorous anecdotes about transitioning from the UK to corporate leadership in the US. Peter discusses his bold move into the video game sector at 44 and the unconventional marketing strategies he employed, including tattooing game release dates on his arms. He reflects on the nostalgia of his Liverpool roots and the significance of legacy in his remarkable journey.

Jan 23, 2025 • 18min
Are social scientists good for boardrooms?
Michael Macy, a Distinguished Professor at Cornell University, explores the vital role of social scientists in business. He discusses how sociologists and economists enhance productivity and address ethical challenges in corporate decision-making. Dr. Melissa Cefkin shares her experience blending anthropology with corporate strategy, revealing potential conflicts between commercial realities and social issues. The conversation raises questions about the integration of social science and technology, and whether this trend is unique to the West.