Economist Podcasts

Noah Snyder, the Tokyo bureau chief for The Economist, shares insights on Japan's evolving security policy amidst rising geopolitical tensions in Asia. He discusses Japan's formation of new military bases and the complex dynamics of self-defense forces in response to threats from China and Taiwan. Alongside him, Daniel Smith, a rare voice from the civil rights era, shares compelling stories about his father's journey from slavery to resilience. They explore how historical narratives shape contemporary society and the significance of storytelling in preserving legacy.

Arkady Ostrovsky, the Russia and Eastern Europe editor for The Economist, dives into the historical tensions between Russia and Ukraine, explaining why these two nations remain at odds since the Soviet Union's fall. Callum Williams, a senior economics writer, explores the evolution of the restaurant industry, highlighting how societal changes and rising costs have transformed dining out into a cultural experience. They also touch upon the pandemic's impact on culinary habits and share insights on 2021's best books, blending history, economics, and culture.

As the vote’s second round has neared, the candidates have shifted, a bit, from their positions at opposite ends of the political spectrum. Which radical vision for the country will win out? The transition to electric vehicles may well stall, unless the chicken-and-egg problem of public chargers can be cracked. And a soaring history of “birdmen”, successful and otherwise.For full access to print, digital and audio editions of The Economist, subscribe here www.economist.com/intelligenceoffer Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join Simon Rabinovich, U.S. economics editor at The Economist, and Mian Ridge, the U.S. news editor, as they dive into pressing issues. They discuss the Federal Reserve’s accelerated bond-buying tapering to combat inflation and its broader economic implications. The conversation also highlights the growing loneliness among American men, linking it to shifts in social dynamics and friendships. Plus, discover how streaming is changing the landscape of Christmas music, favoring seasoned artists during the holiday season.

Tom Gardner, the Addis Ababa correspondent for The Economist, shares insights from the turbulent Amhara region as Ethiopia's civil war intensifies. He sheds light on the humanitarian crisis and the unpredictable power dynamics at play. Matsou Favas, a finance correspondent and cryptocurrency regulation expert, discusses the rising scrutiny on the booming crypto market, highlighting the contrasting approaches of different nations. With humor, they also unravel the unconventional marital dynamics emerging in North Korea, as women increasingly take on financial roles in challenging societal conditions.

Oliver Morton, a Briefings and Essays Editor at The Economist, analyzes the complex ties between climate change and tornado occurrences in the Upland South. He highlights the increasing frequency of these disasters and their implications for severe weather patterns. Greg Karlstrom, The Economist's Middle East correspondent, discusses the evolving citizenship policies in Gulf states for expatriates, focusing on recent changes that favor a small elite. They also touch on the cultural transformation of Britain's iconic red phone boxes, from communication tools to trendy cafes.

Hal Hudson, a science writer for The Economist, delves into the swift emergence of the Omicron variant, discussing its mutations and impacts on vaccine efficacy. He highlights the variant's capacity to evade some antibody responses while still guarding against severe disease. The conversation also critiques Southeast Asia's ineffective methamphetamine treatment centers, revealing human rights abuses and advocating for a health-focused approach. Additionally, Hudson introduces the fascinating role of mouse lemurs in understanding human health and their potential as model organisms.

Don Wineland, The Economist's China business and finance editor, discusses the alarming delisting of Chinese firms from U.S. exchanges and what it means for investors. Sarah Maslin, the Brazil correspondent, explores Bolivia's vast lithium reserves and the hurdles to unlocking their potential. Meanwhile, Matt Steinbach, the Europe correspondent, highlights the ongoing migrant crisis at the Polish border, interwoven with a Chopin concert aimed at bridging cultural divides. Each guest sheds light on pressing global financial and humanitarian issues.

Anne McElvoy, a Senior editor at The Economist renowned for her insights on British politics, joins Max Rodenbeck, the South Asia bureau chief based in Delhi. They discuss the ongoing scandals plaguing Boris Johnson's government, scrutinizing his leadership during crises. Shifting gears, they delve into a remarkable archaeological discovery in Tamil Nadu, challenging narratives about early civilization and emphasizing Tamil identity. The podcast also whimsically touches on a British birdwatcher's documentation of Beijing's avian diversity, blending culture with nature.

In this engaging discussion, Tom Nuttall, The Economist's Berlin Bureau Chief, and Stephanie Studer, the China correspondent, dive into pressing global issues. They analyze Olaf Scholz's first steps as Germany's chancellor after Merkel's era, weighing fiscal policies against COVID-19. Meanwhile, they highlight the struggles of single mothers in China battling systemic barriers amid declining birth rates. The conversation also touches on the booming yet risky landscape of mental health apps, stressing the importance of user safety and regulatory measures.