

Ones and Tooze
Foreign Policy
Foreign Policy economics columnist Adam Tooze, a history professor and a popular author, is encyclopedic about basically everything: from the COVID shutdown, to climate change, to pasta sauce. On our new podcast, Tooze and FP deputy editor Cameron Abadi will look at two data points each week that explain the world: one drawn from the week’s headlines and the other from just about anywhere else Tooze takes us. Check out Adam Tooze’s column at https://foreignpolicy.com/author/adam-tooze/.
Episodes
Mentioned books

57 snips
Sep 26, 2025 • 58min
Trump and Latin America
The discussion delves into how Donald Trump's policies are reshaping U.S. interactions with Latin America, specifically the economic turmoil in Argentina and Venezuela. The hosts analyze Argentina's crisis under President Milei and the implications of U.S. intervention. They also explore the complex U.S.-Mexico relationship regarding drug wars and military action, contrasting it with Brazil's independence. Additionally, a fascinating segment on AI investment highlights potential bubbles, profitability paths, and the lasting impact of tech hype.

60 snips
Sep 24, 2025 • 49min
Bonus: Adam Tooze on Foreign Policy Live
In a lively discussion, Adam Tooze, an economic historian and professor at Columbia University, explores the implications of his article, 'The End of Development.' He critiques the U.S. rejection of Sustainable Development Goals and highlights China's role in reshaping global development narratives. Tooze dives into population trends in Africa and South Asia, the shortcomings of financing models, and the stark differences between climate and development funding. He also discusses China's ambitious clean energy initiatives and advises young professionals to adapt to these shifting geopolitical landscapes.

130 snips
Sep 19, 2025 • 48min
What AI Means for the Economy and for Politics
Join Adam Tooze, economics columnist and professor at Columbia University, as he explores the transformative power of Artificial Intelligence. He discusses AI as a general-purpose technology, weighing its unprecedented potential against industry skepticism. Delve into the unseen labor behind AI's outputs and the cultural ramifications of this technology. Tooze also highlights how AI is reshaping markets and white-collar work, likening it to the bureaucratic shifts of the past. Prepare for a thought-provoking look at AI's profound impact on both our economy and political landscape.

73 snips
Sep 12, 2025 • 57min
The State of Europe
The podcast dives into Europe's shifting political landscape, highlighting France's spiraling public debt and the fallout from a governmental collapse. It examines Germany's economic struggles amid reform debates and an aging population. Meanwhile, Britain's Labour Party grapples with declining approval and identity crises post-Brexit. The discussion reveals how demographic changes are reshaping social democracy across the continent, underscoring challenges that resonate well beyond national borders.

50 snips
Sep 5, 2025 • 1h 1min
India and Tennis
The podcast dives into the recent 50% tariffs on Indian imports imposed by the Trump administration, revealing the complexities of U.S.-India relations and the surprising economic implications. It also explores the evolution of tennis economics, highlighting the soaring prize money at the US Open and its impact on players' financial realities. The discussion touches on the sport's aristocratic roots and the call for reform as tennis adapts to modern challenges, showcasing its intricate connections to broader diplomatic dynamics.

64 snips
Aug 29, 2025 • 53min
The Future of the Federal Reserve
The podcast delves into the controversial firing of Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook, raising questions about the independence of the Fed and its political entanglements. The discussion highlights the need for diversity in economic policymaking. It then takes a fun turn, exploring the journey of hamburgers from their Mongolian roots to American icon status, including challenges in beef production. A unique highlight is the Big Mac Index, comparing global currencies and purchasing power, while also lifting the veil on how McDonald's produces its burgers.

78 snips
Aug 22, 2025 • 56min
The Scale of China
Dive into the vastness of China through intriguing personal insights and regional contrasts gathered from a transformative 30-day journey. Discover how China's immense size shapes its economy and politics, while the historical complexities of its culture unfold. The discussion turns to the impact of the iconic movie 'Jaws,' celebrating its 50th anniversary by reflecting on its economic themes and cultural significance. Tying these conversations together are philosophical reflections on economic choices and public safety, revealing deeper societal anxieties.

32 snips
Aug 19, 2025 • 39min
Introducing Radio Davos
Adam Tooze, a historian at Columbia University and foreign policy economics columnist, shares his insights on the pivotal changes shaping our world. He discusses the U.S.-China trade war and the complexities of global perceptions in a time of geopolitical upheaval. The impact of artificial intelligence as a transformative force in international relations is also explored. Tooze highlights the historical lessons of the Trump administration's policies and the challenges faced by the Biden administration amid escalating tensions and evolving education landscapes.

24 snips
Aug 15, 2025 • 52min
The Doomsday Seed Vault
Discover the Svalbard Global Seed Vault, a crucial safeguard against potential global food crises, housing 1.3 million seeds. Explore the role of seed banks in preserving genetic diversity and protecting food security. Transitioning to Alaska, delve into its economic landscape shaped by oil and resource extraction, and examine the complexities of wealth distribution through the state's sovereign wealth fund. The conversation also touches on the legacy of indigenous influences in resource ownership and the societal challenges faced by its diverse populations.

38 snips
Aug 8, 2025 • 50min
Tariffs and Gaza
The discussion navigates the economic fallout from Trump's tariffs, highlighting inflation and import impacts. It also dives deep into the hunger crisis in Gaza, addressing alarming food shortages and their humanitarian implications. The conversation critically examines the intertwining complexities of tariffs and global trade relations. Lastly, it confronts more serious allegations of genocide linked to starvation in Gaza, drawing parallels to historical events and stressing the urgent need for effective humanitarian aid.