Economist Podcasts

Tom Wainwright, Media editor at The Economist, dives into Netflix's strategies as it navigates post-pandemic challenges. He highlights the promising international growth potential for the streaming giant while discussing its focus on original content and gaming. The conversation also touches on alarming censorship trends in China, particularly the purge of LGBT accounts on WeChat amid rising nationalism. Furthermore, they explore the intriguing cataloging of urban microbes and its implications for public health and antibiotic resistance.

John Prideaux, the United States editor and host of Checks and Balance, dives into pressing global issues. He discusses how Western nations unite in response to China’s hacking activities, particularly after a Microsoft breach. The dialogue then shifts to Africa's burgeoning space programs, showcasing innovation and investment potential. Finally, Prideaux tackles Australia’s mouse plague crisis, revealing farmers' drastic measures to combat the infestation while weighing environmental risks.

Recent catastrophic floods in Europe, particularly impacting Germany, raise urgent climate change discussions and political tensions. Meanwhile, Syria's regime is turning to drug trafficking, specifically the stimulant Captagon, to generate funds amid its ongoing turmoil. On a more positive note, New England sees a rise in kelp farming, highlighting its economic benefits and sustainable practices, driven by innovative communities and entrepreneurial women shaping the industry's future.

Alice Fullwood, The Economist's Wall Street correspondent, shares intriguing insights on the recent surge in American bank profits despite lower revenues, analyzing the pandemic's lasting effects on the sector. Georgia Banjo, a foreign affairs writer, dives into Jamaica's complex marijuana laws, illustrating the struggles local farmers face amid stringent regulations and the cultural significance of cannabis in Rastafarianism. The discussion also touches on the challenges of the Cannes Film Festival's comeback, reflecting on its resilience and contemporary societal issues.

John McDermott, Chief Africa correspondent for The Economist and based in Johannesburg, delves into the recent unrest in South Africa, sparked by the imprisonment of former President Jacob Zuma. He discusses how political divisions and social media have fueled violence, reflecting on the ramifications for the nation's stability. The conversation also touches on the complexities of administering COVID-19 booster shots and the disparities in global vaccine access. Lastly, McDermott highlights the challenges facing Major League Baseball in engaging younger audiences.

John Priddo, the United States editor for The Economist, joins Tim Cross, the Technology editor, to delve into pressing issues like the voting rights showdown in Texas. They discuss the dramatic exodus of Democratic lawmakers to Washington as a response to restrictive bills. Additionally, the conversation shifts to the alarming rise of ransomware attacks, exploring their impact on critical industries and emphasizing the urgent need for improved cybersecurity measures. Lastly, an interesting nod to Britain's eels reveals a historical struggle for conservation.

Simon Wright, The Economist's industry editor, discusses the airline industry's turbulent recovery post-pandemic. He dives into which airlines are more likely to thrive, weighing long-haul versus short-haul and no-frills versus luxurious carriers. The conversation also touches on the surge of unruly passengers and contrasting financial fates of airlines like Delta and EasyJet. Additionally, Wright sheds light on the cultural implications of increased Latin American migration to Mexico and the rejuvenation of traditional Japanese public bathhouses.

Joining the conversation are Roseanne Lake, a Cuba correspondent for the Economist, and Oliver Morton, the Briefings and Essays editor with a passion for space. They delve into the unprecedented protests in Cuba as citizens voice their demands amidst dire food shortages and government inaction. The duo also explores the implications of Richard Branson's recent space flight on the budding space tourism industry, discussing its potential and challenges. They wrap up with a look at the resilience of England's football team following a narrow championship defeat.

Jonathan Rosenthal, The Economist's Africa editor, sheds light on South Sudan's tumultuous history since independence, juxtaposing initial optimism with ongoing struggles of poverty and ethnic tensions. He emphasizes the pressing need for political change and advocates for grassroots movements to foster peace and women's rights. David Benin reflects on the haunting legacy of folk singer Karen Dalton, discussing her emotional depth and recent resurgence in popularity, showcasing how her music resonates with both past and present audiences.

Join Rosemary Ward, The Economist's New York correspondent, as she unpacks the fallout from the assassination of Haiti's president, Jovenel Moïse. She discusses the political chaos that follows and examines the challenges facing interim leadership. The conversation also shifts to the recent Democratic primary for New York City’s mayor, revealing insights on ranked-choice voting and voter dynamics. Additionally, explore the evolving discourse around LGBT rights in the Middle East, highlighting historical attitudes and modern activism.