Economist Podcasts

Shashank Joshi, the Defense editor for the Economist, and Stevie Hertz, the U.S. audio correspondent, dive into critical issues. They discuss the killing of al-Qaeda leader Ayman al-Zawahiri, analyzing its impact on terrorism and potential successors. The duo also tackles the fiercely contested abortion referendum in Kansas, revealing deep electoral divides. Additionally, they celebrate Diana Kennedy, a key advocate for authentic Mexican cuisine, contrasting traditional dishes with their commercial counterparts.

The podcast dives into the alarming spread of monkeypox, noting its first fatalities outside Africa and calling for urgent vaccination efforts. It draws parallels with the early HIV crisis and emphasizes the need for targeted health messaging. Additionally, it explores groundbreaking nuclear waste management practices in Finland, showcasing innovative technologies for safety. Lastly, it critiques the decline in education quality despite rising enrollment rates, highlighting systemic issues that hinder effective learning and calling for necessary reforms.

Idris Kaloun, Washington bureau chief for The Economist, dissects the surprising revival of Joe Biden's climate legislation thanks to Senator Joe Manchin’s last-minute support. The discussion reveals the intricate political maneuvers and potential impacts on midterm elections. Meanwhile, Anne Rowe honors Ko Jimmy, a pro-democracy activist from Myanmar, sharing his inspiring love story and relentless fight against oppression. Together, they weave a narrative of hope that balances pressing climate action with the struggle for justice.

Simon Rabinovich, the U.S. economics editor for The Economist, discusses the Federal Reserve's latest interest rate hikes and their delicate balancing act between cooling inflation and avoiding a recession. He dives into the rising costs in food and energy sectors and their broader implications on the economy and entrepreneurship. Additionally, the conversation touches on alarming allegations of data fabrication in Alzheimer's research, calling into question the credibility of drug development in this critical field.

Slavea Chankova, Healthcare correspondent for The Economist, dives into pressing issues surrounding EU energy policy and mental health. She discusses Russia's critical gas supply cuts to Europe amid the Ukraine conflict, revealing the urgency facing EU energy ministers. Chankova also explores a groundbreaking review that questions the long-held serotonin hypothesis of depression, suggesting that reliance on SSRIs may be misguided. Additionally, she highlights the vibrant trust within Senegal's community-driven plant market, providing a contrast to broader geopolitical tensions.

Liz Truss, the UK's Foreign Secretary and Prime Minister candidate, dives into the fierce rivalry with Rishi Sunak. They debate crucial topics like tax strategies and the government's response to the rising cost of living. Truss highlights the Conservative Party's internal conflicts and the public's growing disconnect from political debates. The discussion also touches on unexpected issues like skyrocketing luxury hotel prices, revealing a stark contrast between elite luxury and everyday economic challenges faced by families.

Anton LaGuardia, diplomatic editor for The Economist, discusses the dire implications of recent missile strikes on Odessa and their impact on a crucial grain deal for Ukraine’s exports amidst a global food crisis. Greg Karlstrom, Middle East correspondent, analyzes Tunisia’s political turmoil and the risky shift towards authoritarianism as citizens prepare to vote on a new constitution. The contrast between the optimism of the Arab Spring and today's challenges is stark, revealing a troubling trajectory for democracy in the region.

Idris Kalun, a Washington correspondent for The Economist, provides keen insights into the January 6th hearings, highlighting the committee's finding of Trump’s inaction as a ‘dereliction of duty’. Meanwhile, Henry Kerr, the economics editor, discusses the European Central Bank's unexpected interest rate hike, examining its implications on inflation and economic stability. Additionally, the podcast touches on Bangladesh’s evolving drinking culture, revealing how changes in alcohol laws reflect deeper societal shifts.

Join John Hooper, The Economist's Italy and Vatican correspondent, as he unpacks the chaos in Italian politics following Prime Minister Mario Draghi's second resignation. Explore the implications of this political instability on Italy's economy and its pursuit of reforms. The discussion also highlights the pandemic's devastating effect on students' education and the urgent need for recovery strategies. Additionally, learn about innovative bacteria that could revolutionize sustainable jet fuel, paving the way for greener aviation solutions.

Don Wineland, China business and finance editor for The Economist, discusses the ongoing turmoil in China's property market, where homebuyers are refusing mortgage payments amid impressive developer failures like Evergrande. He highlights potential economic repercussions and societal unrest. Shishan Joshi, Defense editor at The Economist, dives into the impactful use of HIMARS missiles in Ukraine, revealing how these systems disrupt Russian logistics and change the course of the conflict as Russia struggles to adapt to new dynamics.