Economist Podcasts

Shashank Joshi, Defense editor for The Economist, discusses Ukraine’s impressive counter-offensive, highlighting how it reclaimed territory faster than Russia could manage. He emphasizes the critical support of Western weaponry and the implications for diplomatic relations. Meanwhile, Tamara Gilkes Borr, U.S. policy correspondent for The Economist, sheds light on the water crisis in Jackson, Mississippi, revealing systemic failures and calling for urgent federal action. The conversation connects global conflicts to local struggles, weaving a tapestry of pressing issues.

Miranda Mitra, Senior Editor at The Economist, shares insights on Queen Elizabeth II’s passing and its profound implications for Britain. They explore her remarkable reign, reflecting on her unwavering duty and ability to unite the nation in times of crisis. The discussion shifts to the challenges facing King Charles III as he inherits a monarchy in a complex and uncertain landscape. Mitra emphasizes the emotional public response and the legacy Elizabeth leaves behind, setting the stage for a new era in the British monarchy.

Sarah Maslin, the São Paulo bureau chief for The Economist, tackles Brazil's political landscape as fears grow around Jair Bolsonaro potentially challenging election outcomes. Mark Johnson, the publication's Education correspondent, discusses the pressing need for free school meals and the transformative impact they have on communities. Amidst rising tensions in Brazil's elections, the podcast also reflects on the changing gender imbalance in India, highlighting the global implications of cultural and social inequalities.

Shoshan Joshi, Defense editor for The Economist with expertise in Asian geopolitics, and Catherine Nixey, Britain correspondent focused on cultural restitution, delve into fascinating topics. They discuss a predictive model for the midterm elections, revealing potential outcomes for both parties. Joshi explains the current nuclear balance in Asia and why an arms race hasn’t emerged yet. Nixey highlights the ongoing debate over the Rosetta Stone's return to Egypt, emphasizing the complexities of cultural heritage and ownership.

As Liz Truss takes the helm in Britain, her ambitious tax-cutting agenda raises questions about its viability amid economic turmoil. Japan confronts an ageing prison population, prompting reforms toward a more rehabilitative system. Meanwhile, in Ukraine, the efficacy of the Javelin missile system offers a glimmer of hope, even as supplies dwindle. Discussing these pressing issues reveals the intricate dynamics of leadership, global conflicts, and societal change.

Mike Bird, Asia business and finance editor at The Economist, shares expert insights on global food price dynamics, revealing how Russian wheat exports are influencing market stability. Meanwhile, Slavia Chankova, the publication's health correspondent, discusses the alarming resurgence of polio in the West, emphasizing vaccination challenges. They also explore the controversies surrounding the viral 'Pink Sauce,' highlighting the difficulties cottage food producers face in a social media-driven world.

Tom Gardner, The Economist's Horn of Africa correspondent, discusses the renewed violence in Ethiopia’s Tigray region, highlighting the humanitarian crisis unfolding as aid efforts are severely hampered. Jeremy Page, Asia diplomatic editor, navigates China's Belt and Road Initiative, exposing the growing debt crises and implications for global finance. Meanwhile, Anne Rowe reflects on fashion designer Issey Miyake's philosophy, shaped by his experiences in Hiroshima, emphasizing resilience and creativity in the face of adversity.

Oliver Carroll, Ukraine correspondent based in Kyiv, shares insights on Ukraine's strategic counter-offensive in Kherson, highlighting the careful planning behind military operations to reclaim this vital region. Alice Fulwood, Wall Street correspondent, delves into the dominance of Visa and Mastercard in the electronic payments space, discussing how high interchange fees impact retailers and consumers. The conversation also touches on the ethical concerns surrounding the harvesting of horseshoe crab blood in the biomedical industry and the quest for sustainable alternatives.

Arkady Ostrovsky, Russia editor for The Economist, discusses Mikhail Gorbachev's unintended role in the Soviet Union's collapse and the polarized views of his legacy in modern Russia. Simon Wright sheds light on the electric vehicle industry's rapid growth, emphasizing looming challenges in battery manufacturing and material sourcing. Fiametta Rocco takes listeners on a journey to Michael Heiser's monumental sculpture 'City' in Nevada, exploring its artistic impact and the evolution of land art.

Vinjera Makandawire, a global property correspondent with The Economist, highlights the shifting landscape of the housing market as interest rates rise. She discusses the fading pandemic-era trends and challenges faced by families amid fluctuating prices. Shashank Joshi, an expert on military strategy, shares insights into the evolving nature of urban warfare, reflecting on the necessity for military forces to adapt strategies for combat in densely populated areas. Together, they explore the interconnections between real estate dynamics and global conflicts.