Economist Podcasts

Ben Farmer, a journalist focused on Afghanistan for The Economist, shares insights into the humanitarian crisis gripping the country after the Taliban's takeover. He discusses deepening poverty and critical food shortages as winter approaches. Tim Cross, the tech editor, adds a lighter note, exploring Apple's recent legal battles and implications for its app ecosystem. They also highlight oversight failures in pollution monitoring, revealing how it affects public health. Together, they navigate these pressing global issues with a mix of gravity and intrigue.

Alexandra Sewage Bass, a senior correspondent for The Economist, dives into the high-stakes recall election of California's Governor Gavin Newsom. She reveals the political significance of this vote for both state and nation, stressing the importance of voter engagement. The discussion also touches on Russia's military exercises, comparing their implications to historical contexts. Finally, the enduring relevance of Dante Alighieri's The Divine Comedy is explored, highlighting its lessons of despair and hope that resonate even today.

Kenneth Werner, a writer on American affairs, and Callum Williams, a senior economics writer, dive into America's vaccine mandates and their political pushback. They evaluate the efficacy of President Biden's mandates amidst rising COVID-19 cases and the legal challenges they face. The conversation shifts to post-pandemic urban transformations, exploring the stark silence in once-vibrant cities. Finally, they discuss an archaeological find in Finland that reshapes our understanding of ancient gender roles, revealing complexities in historical identities.

Rosemary Ward, the New York correspondent for The Economist, discusses the city's remarkable transformation since 9/11, showcasing the resilience of its citizens and the shift towards a more diverse economy. Robert Guest, the foreign editor, explores the troubling connection between the mistreatment of women and societal instability, emphasizing the need for reforms to empower women for a stable society. They also touch on a fascinating hummingbird phenomenon that reflects broader themes of gender dynamics and survival strategies.

Kinley Salmon, Africa correspondent for The Economist, shares crucial insights into the recent military coup in Guinea, discussing the detainment of President Alpha Condé and the rise of Colonel Mamadi Domboya. He emphasizes the troubling resurgence of coups across Africa. Meanwhile, James Yan, Foreign correspondent based in Vancouver, analyzes the political turbulence facing Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau as he navigates a challenging election amid rising tensions. The conversation reveals the intricate dynamics shaping governance in both regions.

Daniel Knowles, an international correspondent for The Economist who reports on conspiracy theories in Congo, discusses Brazil's recent protests led by President Jair Bolsonaro. He examines how these demonstrations reflect Bolsonaro's waning popularity ahead of elections while highlighting the dangerous influence of conspiracy theories on political landscapes. Knowles also dives into the role of misinformation, especially in Congo, where political narratives can incite violence. The conversation ultimately explores the broader implications of trust erosion in democracies.

Alice Fullwood, Wall Street correspondent for The Economist, provides fascinating insights on El Salvador's bold move to adopt Bitcoin as legal tender. She discusses the government's hopes to boost financial inclusion and attract foreign investment, while many citizens remain skeptical. The episode also touches on the cultural pressures surrounding education and the extreme measures parents take for their children's success, reflecting broader societal challenges. Additionally, it briefly explores themes from Sally Rooney's latest novel and the complexities of modern literary evaluation.

In this discussion, Stephen Mazey, Supreme Court correspondent for The Economist, delves into the implications of Texas's restrictive 'heartbeat bill' on Roe v. Wade, revealing its chilling effect on women's rights. Sarah Maslin, Brazil correspondent, highlights the alarming rate of police killings in Brazil, uncovering the racial disparities that haunt its communities. The conversation uncovers the devastating consequences of violence in marginalized areas, while also touching on Lebanon's hopeful revival of the olive oil industry, showcasing a blend of local resilience and global aspirations.

Join Stephen Gibbs, a keen observer of Venezuela's complex political landscape, alongside Tim Judah, who sheds light on Madagascar's struggle with drought, and Anne Rowe, who honors the legacy of war surgeon Gino Strada. They delve into the fraught negotiations for fair elections in Venezuela, scrutinizing past failures and potential breakthroughs. Tim shares stark realities of drought-induced famine in Madagascar, affecting education and family dynamics. Meanwhile, Anne reflects on Strada's impactful humanitarian work in conflict zones.

Ed McBride, Deputy Foreign Editor at The Economist, shares his insights on the complexities of engaging with the Taliban following America's withdrawal from Afghanistan. He discusses the need for a diplomatic approach that prioritizes aid aimed at improving the lives of ordinary Afghans. McBride also addresses the broader geopolitical implications of this engagement. Additionally, the conversation touches on China's ongoing pork crisis due to swine fever and the resilience of feminist artist Judy Chicago, highlighting her impactful work celebrating marginalized voices.