Economist Podcasts

Chris Lockwood, Europe editor for The Economist, dives into Russia's alarming third wave of COVID-19, highlighting mixed messaging and public mistrust surrounding the Sputnik V vaccine. Anne Rowe, Obituaries editor, reflects on Kenneth Kaunda's influential legacy in African liberation, noting both his achievements and challenges. Meanwhile, Hamish Beryl, public policy correspondent, discusses the global interest in creating agencies like DARPA to foster innovation, pointing out the complexities of governmental support for ambitious projects in tech.

In this discussion, Don Wineland, The Economist's China business and finance editor based in Hong Kong, delves into the aftermath of Didi's New York IPO and the fierce regulatory response from Chinese authorities. He explores how this crackdown reflects broader pressures on tech giants in China, influencing investor confidence. The conversation also touches on the current challenges facing the Biden administration in filling key ambassador roles, highlighting the impact on global diplomacy, and the complexities in defining the Southern Ocean.

Ben Farmer, a journalist specializing in Afghanistan and Pakistan, shares first-hand insights from Kabul, while Tom Wainwright, Media editor, discusses the dynamics of the media industry. They dive into the chaos of Afghanistan following the U.S. withdrawal, drawing comparisons to historical conflicts and the rise of civilian militias. The conversation shifts to the 'attention recession' in media consumption post-pandemic, examining how habits are evolving. They even touch on the curious world of thoroughbred horse breeding and its genetic challenges.

Join Natasha Loader, The Economist's health policy editor specializing in COVID-19, and Tom Gardner, Addis Ababa correspondent with deep insights into the Tigray conflict. They discuss the alarming spread of the Delta variant and its implications for public health and vaccination efforts. The conversation shifts to the escalating crisis in Ethiopia, highlighting the power struggle in Tigray and the looming regional tensions. They also touch on the strange absence of compelling films about the Fourth of July, reflecting on Hollywood's relationship with American history.

David Rennie, the Beijing bureau chief for The Economist, and James Miles, its China editor, offer a deep dive into the centenary of the Chinese Communist Party. They recount the grand celebrations, marked by a blend of state-sponsored exuberance and underlying paranoia. The discussion includes Xi Jinping's speech merging tradition with a modern narrative, and even explores how hip-hop is repurposed as a tool for propaganda, reflecting national pride over social struggles. Their insights reveal the complexities of governance and control in contemporary China.

John McDermott, The Economist's chief Africa correspondent, shares insights into Jacob Zuma's contempt conviction, marking a pivotal moment for South Africa's judiciary amid ongoing corruption issues. Katrine Bragg, the environment editor, discusses the alarming rise of heatwaves in the Northern Hemisphere, underscoring their severe impacts on health and vulnerable communities. They also touch on the politicization of biryani in India, exploring its historical roots and current controversies, revealing how food can become a powerful political symbol.

Shashank Joshi, defense editor for The Economist, delves into the complexities of military tensions in Europe, particularly in the Black Sea, highlighting how NATO and Russian forces navigate confrontations. He also explores the divergent political views on engaging with Russia following recent summits. Additionally, the podcast touches on South Korea's political landscape, discussing the emerging voice of young men critiquing feminism, and examines how hairstyles in football reflect personal branding and impact players’ confidence on the field.

John McDermott, The Economist's chief Africa correspondent, discusses Africa's alarming COVID-19 resurgence, particularly in South Africa, where cases are surging to nearly 15,000 daily. He highlights overwhelming healthcare strains and the urgent need for vaccinations. Tamara Gilkes-Bohr delves into America’s reading crisis, examining the effectiveness of phonics over whole language strategies. The conversation also touches on how smartphones are reshaping the film industry, enabling a new generation of filmmakers to thrive independently.

Robert, Foreign editor of The Economist, delves into Iraq's tumultuous political scene ahead of crucial elections, revealing citizens' skepticism about leadership and the longing for reform. Erin Braun, the Mountain West correspondent, examines the severe mega-drought gripping the American West, emphasizing its dire implications for water scarcity and local ecosystems. The conversation touches on Iraq's potential for cultural renaissance beyond oil, while historical insights into the Corn Laws highlight the ongoing struggle for trade reform.

Stephen Mazey, The Economist's Supreme Court correspondent, shares insights on how recent rulings have shifted the ideological balance of the court, highlighting contentious decisions on voting rights and healthcare. Kenley Salmon, Africa correspondent, discusses Mauritania's efforts to combat corruption following the imprisonment of a former president, revealing the nation's struggles with its historical societal divides. They also touch on Ludwig Wittgenstein's philosophical journey, emphasizing his lasting influence across disciplines.