

Business Daily
BBC World Service
The daily drama of money and work from the BBC.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Feb 26, 2025 • 17min
How do you save a brand in crisis?
Discover the secrets to rescuing struggling brands, from Stockport's inspiring transformation to Skoda's bold image overhaul. Explore how honest messaging and community engagement can shift public perception. Dive into the lessons learned from BP's crisis and the lasting impact of provocative advertising, including Benetton's thought-provoking campaigns. The conversation also pays tribute to a visionary in advertising and activism, celebrating creativity as a powerful tool for identity and change.

Feb 25, 2025 • 17min
Philippines: Back-office powerhouse
The Philippines has emerged as a leading outsourcing powerhouse, especially in the call center sector. As AI technologies evolve, traditional jobs face disruption, prompting a shift in the job landscape. The government is responding by investing in infrastructure and encouraging foreign investment. Personal stories reveal the challenges faced by workers in the BPO industry, including salary disparities. Despite these hurdles, the youth and government support create a promising environment for growth and innovation, making the Philippines an attractive hub for businesses.

Feb 24, 2025 • 18min
Philippines: The remittance lifeline
Over 2.3 million Filipino workers abroad are the backbone of their economy, sending vital remittances that sustain households and boost GDP. Their sacrifices often come with emotional tolls, yet they enable significant improvements in education and healthcare back home. Personal stories highlight the ripple effects of these contributions, showcasing resilience as some return to start businesses, like a chef who opened a takeaway during the pandemic. This dynamic reflects the intertwining of Filipino families' welfare with overseas employment.

Feb 21, 2025 • 18min
Where does the Mittelstand stand?
Germany's small and medium-sized enterprises face a crucial crossroads amid upcoming elections. Business owners call for reduced bureaucracy and significant reforms, inspired by global examples. In Berlin, innovative startups at a science park are battling political uncertainty while grappling with operational crises. Hamburg's firms are modernizing, yet rising insolvencies threaten the economic backbone. The struggles emphasize the need for stability, better infrastructure, and support tailored for the Mittelstand to thrive in a challenging landscape.

8 snips
Feb 20, 2025 • 19min
Can Germany's auto industry be revived?
Germany's car industry is facing tough times, battling high costs and fierce competition from Chinese manufacturers. With elections looming, the conversation shifts to what politicians can do to revive this crucial sector. The emotional impact on workers amid wage cuts and potential factory closures is also highlighted. Historical ties between towns like Wolfsburg and major manufacturers play a significant role, while the urgency to adapt to electric mobility and bureaucratic hurdles is emphasized for a successful future.

Feb 19, 2025 • 18min
How 'cosplay' became big business
Explore the vibrant world of cosplay, where fans transform into their favorite characters with incredible craftsmanship. Discover how this once niche hobby has blossomed into a lucrative industry, driven by conventions and the rise of pop culture. Meet passionate cosplayers who share their journeys and the inclusive community that thrives around this art form. Delve into the evolution of cosplay, examining its impact on identity and self-expression, all while navigating challenges like copyright in the digital age.

Feb 18, 2025 • 18min
India's $30bn festival
The Kumbh Mela draws 400 million attendees, becoming a $30 billion economic powerhouse. This 45-day festival transforms Uttar Pradesh into a vibrant hub of spirituality and commerce. Both big businesses and local vendors scramble to profit from the surge of visitors. Safety concerns loom due to past tragedies, but the state's investments promise infrastructural growth and marketing innovation. Exploring the economic benefits reveals not just immediate revenue but also potential long-term tourism opportunities for local entrepreneurs.

14 snips
Feb 17, 2025 • 17min
Are electric planes the future?
Discover the fascinating world of electric aviation and how it's poised to revolutionize the industry. Researchers are tackling the challenge of creating long-range battery-powered planes amid rising global demand. Hear about innovative projects in the Netherlands aimed at making flights more sustainable. The podcast delves into the financial and regulatory hurdles of funding electric aircraft development. Learn about the energy management challenges airports face as they adapt to this new era. Could electric planes be our greener flying future?

9 snips
Feb 14, 2025 • 17min
Business Daily meets: Applied Nutrition's Tom Ryder
In this engaging discussion, Tom Ryder, co-founder and CEO of Applied Nutrition, shares his incredible journey from scaffolding to running a £350 million sports supplements empire. He candidly reflects on overcoming childhood struggles and transforming a struggling brand through resilience. Tom discusses the complexities of outsourcing and manufacturing, revealing the strategic shift from Canada to Belgium. He also opens up about the emotional toll of rapid growth, including battling imposter syndrome, and the pivotal decision-making around pursuing an IPO in the booming fitness market.

22 snips
Feb 13, 2025 • 17min
What it takes to become a digital nomad
Kristen Wilson, author of "Digital Nomads for Dummies" and a digital nomad for over 20 years, shares her wealth of experience. She discusses the rise of digital nomadism, revealing the ups and downs of working while traveling. Kristen dives into the legal landscape, emphasizing important visa and tax considerations. She also highlights the socio-economic impacts on local communities, debunking myths about digital nomads' negativity while advocating for responsible engagement. Join her as she captures the essence of this adventurous lifestyle!


