Economist Podcasts

Anton LaGuardia, Diplomatic Editor for the Economist, and Daniel Knowles, Midwest Correspondent, dive into America's geopolitical shifts 80 years after Pearl Harbor. They discuss how the attack catalyzed U.S. military power and reflect on current foreign policy challenges, including tensions with China. The conversation highlights the evolving political landscape of car ownership versus urban mobility, and how the pandemic is reshaping workplace dynamics. A lively discussion unfolds about the future of transportation and the changing office culture in a post-COVID world.

Charlie McCann, the Southeast Asia correspondent for The Economist, dives into the turmoil in Myanmar following Aung San Suu Kyi's recent four-year prison sentence. He discusses the implications of her verdict on public dissent and the military's tightening grip on power. The conversation also highlights concerns about Interpol's leadership amid rising authoritarianism globally, alongside innovative ideas like seasteading as a potential solution to climate challenges. McCann's insights reveal the complex interplay between governance, resistance, and the future of democracy in Myanmar.

Dominic Ziegler, who writes about the Asia-Pacific region for The Economist, and Natasha Loder, the health policy editor, delve into complex issues. They discuss the Solomon Islands' recent unrest tied to ethnic tensions and the influence of global powers like China and the U.S. The conversation shifts to the challenges of accessing medical cannabis for children with epilepsy in the UK, highlighting heartbreaking stories of families navigating bureaucratic barriers. They also touch on how changes in Saudi Arabia's alcohol policies could reshape societal norms.

Stephen Mazey, The Economist's Supreme Court correspondent, discusses the potential rollback of reproductive rights stemming from the pivotal Dobbs v. Jackson case. Tamara Gilkes Borr, the U.S. policy correspondent, highlights Puerto Rico's impressive pandemic response, defying expectations amidst natural disasters. They also explore groundbreaking theories about how Earth may have acquired its water, suggesting space dust as a major contributor, and uncover the sun's vital role in sustaining life on our planet.

In this engaging discussion, Alexandra Sewitch-Bass, a Senior Correspondent for The Economist, dives into the implications of Jack Dorsey's resignation from Twitter and the challenges facing his successor. The conversation shifts to Ukraine's impressive military advancements since 2014 amid rising geopolitical tensions with Russia. Finally, the latest global cost of living rankings reveal Tel Aviv's surprising rise to the top as inflation continues to affect cities worldwide. It's a thought-provoking exploration of technology, politics, and economics.

In this discussion, Roger McShane, the Middle East editor for The Economist, provides insight into the complex dynamics of the Iran nuclear negotiations, highlighting the challenges posed by geopolitical tensions and sanctions. Tim Cross, the Technology editor, dives into Apple's surprising self-service repair program, shedding light on the right-to-repair movement and its implications for consumer rights and tech ownership. They also touch on the emotional challenges faced by museum directors in preserving cultural artifacts during emergencies.

Slavia Cankova, The Economist’s healthcare correspondent, shares crucial insights into the Omicron variant, emphasizing the need for understanding its mutations and the implications for vaccine strategies. Mike Bird, Asia business and finance editor, discusses the rise of Vietnam’s billionaire class amidst economic growth, highlighting their ventures and connections with the government. Fascinatingly, they draw parallels between human social distancing during pandemics and the instinctual responses of bees facing threats, offering unique lessons from nature.

Join Piotr Zalewski, The Economist’s Turkey correspondent, as he unpacks the turmoil in Turkey fueled by President Erdogan's radical economic policies. Sarah Burke sheds light on the political tensions in Honduras ahead of a critical election, exploring historical unrest and army involvement. Anne Rowe shares the inspiring story of Rossana Banti, a fearless anti-fascist whose secret missions during the Nazi occupation highlight resilience and bravery. These compelling narratives showcase the intertwining of economics, politics, and human spirit.

Join Tom Nuttall, The Economist's Berlin bureau chief, as he navigates the shifting political landscape in Germany. He discusses Olaf Scholz's leadership and the new center-left coalition's agenda, illuminating the complexities following Angela Merkel's era. The podcast also explores Britain's truck driver shortage, highlighting the personal stories behind this critical profession. Additionally, learn about Maine's groundbreaking 'right to food' legislation and its implications for citizens' food security.

Simon Rabinovich, The Economist's U.S. economics editor, dives into America’s inflation crisis, discussing factors driving prices up and how governmental actions are shaping the economic landscape. Robert Guest, the foreign editor, examines the waning influence of the U.S. on global affairs and the ascent of authoritarian regimes. Lane Green, the language columnist, challenges the notion that Inuit languages have many snow words and traces how environmental factors influence color terminology, revealing fascinating insights into language and culture.