Economist Podcasts

Idris Kalun, The Economist's Washington correspondent, dives into the chilling aftermath of the January 6 insurrection, revealing deep political divides that persist among Trump's supporters. Mike Bird, Asia and Business Finance Editor, discusses gold's surprising underperformance despite economic uncertainty and inflation, while Margaret Khadiva reports on London’s cringe-worthy attempt to revitalize Oxford Street with a controversial design. The podcast explores these complex themes, shedding light on both political turmoil and retail struggles.

In this insightful discussion, Sue Lin Wong, The Economist’s China correspondent, reveals the tightening grip on media freedom in Hong Kong, detailing the shutdown of pro-democracy outlets and the chilling effects of the national security law. Meanwhile, Jonathan Rosenthal, the Africa editor, sheds light on Sudan’s political turmoil post-Abdallah Hamdok, discussing the military's resistance to civilian governance amid ongoing protests. They also touch on the unintended consequences of US sanctions on the saffron trade, showcasing global interconnectedness.

Tom Wainwright, Media Editor for The Economist, dives into the fallout from Elizabeth Holmes's fraud conviction and its ramifications for high-profile investors and startup culture. He highlights the ethical dilemmas raised by Theranos's rise and fall, posing questions about accountability in tech. The discussion shifts to Apple's strategic moves in the streaming market, underscoring how their entertainment investments primarily aim to boost iPhone sales. Finally, Wainwright touches on the alarming resurgence of syphilis in Britain and its societal implications.

Join Samaya Keynes, Britain’s economics editor at The Economist, as she discusses the economic fallout of Brexit, highlighting the decline in trade and the increase in regulatory hurdles. Kevin Young, head of audience, offers a personal glimpse into the ongoing struggles faced by clinically vulnerable individuals amid lingering COVID restrictions. Together, they explore the complexities of public sentiment around Brexit, the impact on various sectors, and the emotional challenges of a pandemic repeatedly reshaping lives.

Anne Rowe, the Obituaries editor for The Economist, reflects deeply on the lives of influential figures who passed away in 2021. She highlights the legacies of Prince Philip and Desmond Tutu, exploring their impacts on society. Rowe also shares inspiring stories of lesser-known heroes, including an Ethiopian educator who transformed lives through schooling and an Auschwitz survivor whose musical journey championed anti-racism. The discussion emphasizes the remarkable resilience and contributions of both prominent and everyday figures.

Leo Marani, Asia editor for The Economist based in Mumbai, dives into the intriguing process behind selecting the 'Country of the Year.' He discusses the alarming democratic recession across Asia, highlighting the rise of authoritarianism and the resilience of youthful democratic movements. Marani also shares insights on significant global events and the contrasting achievements of Italy, examining its recent successes amidst challenges. This conversation captures the complex political landscape and the spirit of nations striving for improvement.

Join Turkish correspondent Piotr Zalewski and Tom Rowley from 1843 magazine as they break down President Erdogan's bid to stabilize Turkey's plummeting lira. They discuss the implications of backing deposits with dollars and the taxpayer's role in this gamble. The conversation also dives into the Mass Observation Project, revealing intriguing insights about societal reflections over 40 years. Additionally, they explore Saudi Arabia's ambitious tilt toward the film industry, facing cultural hurdles while uncovering deeper societal narratives.

Slavia Czankova, Healthcare correspondent for The Economist, and Tim Cross, Technology editor, dive into the implications of the Omicron variant's rapid spread, suggesting a potential shift towards viewing COVID-19 as endemic. They discuss the need for evolved public health strategies amid improving immunity. The conversation also highlights the concerning rise in video game addiction, driven by modern business models, and the WHO's classification of gaming disorder. Their insights blend health, technology, and a nod to cultural resilience.

Oliver Bolo, a writer for 1843 magazine, dives into the chaos in Haiti following serious unrest and a presidential assassination. He recounts harrowing tales of Haitians seeking safety and the disheartening reality they face. Bolo also uncovers the staggering amounts of unaccounted banknotes in circulation, raising alarms about public indifference toward this financial mystery. He humorously connects this to the unsung role of a secretary for Sherlock Holmes, emphasizing the links between literature and real-world complexities.

Alexandra Sewage Bass, a senior correspondent at The Economist focusing on the dynamics of population shifts, joins David Rennie, the Beijing bureau chief with a lens on international affairs. They discuss America's unprecedented internal migration trends, revealing how the pandemic has pushed people from cities to suburbs, reshaping political landscapes. The conversation dives into the growing diversity in these areas and the enduring cultural divides reminiscent of historical narratives, like those of Julius Caesar's conquests.