Economist Podcasts

Simon Rabinovich, American economics editor, discusses the economic repercussions of Russia's war, detailing how rising commodity prices challenge central banks. Sophie Petter, Paris bureau chief, analyzes the French election's dynamics as Macron navigates voter sentiments influenced by the conflict. Meanwhile, Matt Kaplan highlights the disruption of critical research at Chernobyl due to ongoing warfare, focusing on the ecological impact and the halt of studies on wildlife resilience. Together, they unravel the complex interplay between war, politics, and economics.

David Rennie, the Beijing bureau chief for The Economist, shares insights into China's strategic calculations regarding the Ukraine conflict, highlighting its unwillingness to upset the balance with the West. Alice Fullwood, a finance correspondent, sheds light on the unexpected role of cryptocurrencies, not just in easing sanctions for Russia, but also in bolstering Ukraine's defenses. They even explore the quirky topic of cyborg cockroaches and their potential in search-and-rescue missions, blending serious geopolitical discourse with fascinating tech innovations.

Tim Judah, an Economist correspondent based in Ukraine, shares vivid tales from Kyiv, where life persists amid the ongoing war. He discusses the city's resilience, showcasing how residents find joy in weddings and music despite scarcity of medicine. The conversation shifts to Australia, highlighting increasing extreme weather events and their devastating effects, particularly the severe floods and bushfires. Judah’s observations paint a poignant picture of human spirit and the urgent need for policy adaptations in the face of environmental calamity.

Christopher Lockwood, Europe editor for The Economist, shares insights on the humanitarian crisis in Mariupol, emphasizing its strategic importance amid Russia's aggression. Michael Reed discusses Latin America's political shifts, focusing on Gabriel Boric's rise in Chile as part of a broader 'pink tide.' They explore how these developments reflect tensions both regionally and globally, from NATO concerns to the evolution of governance in response to public discontent. The conversation also touches on retail workers' safety measures through body cameras amid rising abuse.

Delve into the complexities of the war in Ukraine as listener questions spark intriguing discussions. Explore the risks of no-fly zones, the challenges posed by muddy terrain, and the flow of weaponry into the conflict. The impact of U.S. sanctions on European energy dependence is examined, alongside the urgent humanitarian crisis faced by those displaced. Additionally, uncover the struggle for truthful information in a censored environment and the experiences of individuals affected by the war.

In this enlightening discussion, Alexander Stubb, Finland’s former prime minister and an astute commentator on European politics, shares insights on Finland's evolving NATO stance amidst rising geopolitical tensions. He examines the implications for European security and collective defense. Lena Shipper, The Economist's Seoul bureau chief, covers Yoon Suk-yeol's tumultuous presidential victory in South Korea, highlighting economic challenges and North Korea's threat while also showcasing innovative research on early Parkinson's detection.

Joel Budd, Social Affairs Editor at The Economist, dives into the plight of Kharkiv amid ongoing conflict. He shares harrowing stories from residents adapting to daily chaos while fostering community resilience. The conversation also touches on the evolution of children's play during the pandemic. Traditional games are making a comeback, blending nostalgia with modern adaptation. Additionally, Budd discusses the revival of impactful muralism in Mexico, highlighting its role in community safety and representation.

Arkady Ostrovsky, The Economist's expert on Russia and Eastern Europe, shares deep insights on the current situation in Russia amidst escalating tensions. He discusses how state propaganda shapes public sentiment on the war in Ukraine, revealing a rift in perspectives across different age groups. The conversation also highlights the increasing repression faced by dissenters and examines the rising wave of jihadism in West Africa, emphasizing its impact on regional stability. Ostrovsky's analysis raises questions about the future of resistance in the face of government control.

Patrick Fowles, The Economist's business affairs editor, dissects the pressing economic fallout from the sanctions on Russia post-invasion of Ukraine. Dominic Ziegler, The senior Asia correspondent, analyzes how the conflict influences Asian nations, especially Taiwan, heightening its focus on self-defense against potential Chinese aggression. The conversation reveals the multifaceted impact of these sanctions and the broader geopolitical ramifications, showcasing a new era of economic conflict and the intricate dance of international relations.

Chris Lockwood, Europe editor for The Economist, and Pyotr Zilevsky, the publication's Turkey correspondent, discuss the dire refugee crisis stemming from Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Over a million Ukrainians have fled their homes, with touching stories of their harrowing journeys. They also explore Turkey's intricate relationship with Russia, highlighting its balancing act of support for Ukraine while maintaining ties with Moscow. Additionally, they reflect on the life of Christina Calderon, the last speaker of the Yaghan language, emphasizing the importance of cultural preservation.