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BBC World Service
The daily drama of money and work from the BBC.
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Sep 8, 2024 • 18min
US Election: Spending on TV advertising
Larry Magid, a CBS journalist, reveals the staggering $10 billion ad spend expected in the U.S. presidential race. Professor Natasha Lindstaedt analyzes the relentless rise in campaign costs and its implications. Marketing expert Allyson Stewart Allen draws intriguing parallels between political ads and consumer branding, highlighting lessons learned from product marketing. They delve into the strategic use of AI for voter targeting, particularly in swing states, emphasizing that increased spending doesn't always translate to electoral success.

Sep 5, 2024 • 17min
Business Daily meets: Whoop founder Will Ahmed
Will Ahmed, the founder of Whoop, shares his journey from a college athlete noticing the pitfalls of overtraining to creating a $3.4 billion fitness tracker brand. He discusses the pivotal challenges he faced and the importance of sleep and recovery for athletes. Ahmed reveals how he expertly engaged high-profile athletes like Michael Phelps and Cristiano Ronaldo, emphasizing his innovative strategies amidst fierce competition. He also highlights the significance of ethical data practices and the future potential of minimalist wearable technology in health monitoring.

Sep 4, 2024 • 18min
What's next for Bangladesh's economy?
The newly appointed central bank governor of Bangladesh shares insights on the country’s economic challenges following political upheaval. He discusses pressures on the garment industry and the urgent need for job creation amidst inflation. The conversation highlights the disconnect between education and employment for the youth, as well as the importance of government reforms to stabilize the banking system and foster opportunities in the IT sector. The future of Bangladesh’s economy hinges on addressing these critical issues.

Sep 3, 2024 • 17min
How manifesting became big business
Dua Lipa, a chart-topping pop star, and Ariana Grande, renowned for her powerful voice, join former President Donald Trump and researcher Megan Lawton to discuss the booming trend of manifesting. They delve into how celebrities embrace this philosophy, questioning if it unlocks true success or is merely a fad. Lawton traces the origins and commercialization of manifesting, examining its psychological impacts and the fine line between optimism and risk. The conversation also touches on the role of social media and technology in shaping this new-age practice.

Sep 2, 2024 • 17min
Europe's fastest-growing tourist destination
Albania is rapidly emerging as a top tourist destination, ranking fourth globally for tourism growth. With 14 million visitors expected next year, the country is balancing infrastructure investment with environmental concerns. The show explores the impact of luxury resorts funded by prominent investors, and a new airport aimed at enhancing access to stunning locations. Discussions also highlight the pressure on local ecosystems and the challenges of maintaining natural beauty amidst a booming tourism economy driven by social media buzz.

Sep 1, 2024 • 18min
US Election: The view from the fields
Farmers from Montana, Iowa, and Georgia share their insights on the upcoming presidential election. They express their concerns over anti-immigrant policies impacting labor shortages and the need for bipartisan support. The discussion touches on how agricultural policies under different administrations affect their livelihoods, especially regarding rising costs. They also address the challenges posed by corporate control in the meatpacking industry and the reliance on immigrant workers. Lastly, they highlight the importance of soil health and water conservation amidst a divided political landscape.

Aug 29, 2024 • 17min
Business Daily meets: Football agent Kees Vos
Kees Vos is a prominent football agent known for representing key figures in the sports industry, including Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag. He reveals the inner workings of football's transfer market on deadline day, sharing stories behind major transfer sagas. Vos reflects on the changing landscape over the past two decades, discussing the balance between player welfare and commercial pressures while emphasizing the human side of player management. He also explores his journey from fan to influential agent and the emotional complexity of meeting sporting heroes.

Aug 28, 2024 • 17min
Is it getting too hot to work?
Rising temperatures are not just a summer nuisance; they are significantly affecting productivity across major cities. Workers, from market stall owners to office employees, are struggling to cope with extreme heat, prompting discussions on innovative solutions like heatwave insurance. Insights from Kuwait reveal how abnormal temperatures have redefined daily life and work challenges. The plight of informal workers in India highlights the urgent need for safety measures and collaboration to support the most vulnerable populations in our changing climate.

Aug 27, 2024 • 18min
The short-term rental clamp down
Cities around the world are cracking down on short-term rentals, aiming to preserve housing for locals. Barcelona plans to reclaim 10,000 apartments, sparking debates on tourism's impact. Meanwhile, Halifax's restrictions reveal unintended consequences, adding to the black market woes. A Scottish accommodation owner shares struggles with new regulations, highlighting the ongoing uncertainties faced by hosts. Dive into the complexities of Airbnb's influence on local markets and the broader implications for urban living.

Aug 26, 2024 • 18min
Have Swiss scientists made a chocolate breakthrough?
Explore Switzerland's chocolate industry, where scientists are innovating sustainable practices to secure the future of this beloved treat. Discover the potential of using the entire cocoa fruit to reduce sugar and enhance farmer income. Delve into the ethical dilemmas faced by Swiss chocolate producers amidst a colonial past. The discussion also hints at chocolate evolving into a luxury item, balancing taste and environmental responsibility while tackling the challenges of cocoa sourcing and climate impact.