Economist Podcasts

Join John Peet, Brexit editor for The Economist, as he dives into the aftermath of Brexit's trade challenges. He discusses the recent overwhelming vote in Europe’s parliament to extend a temporary trade agreement, revealing the underlying tensions this decision reflects. John highlights concerns over non-tariff barriers, particularly impacting small businesses. Additionally, he touches on the evolving roles of women in the military, emphasizing their influence on community dynamics, and explores the complex narrative of censorship in China following Chloe Zhao's Oscar win.

Alice Fullwood, The Economist's Wall Street correspondent, dives into the world of Special Purpose Acquisition Companies (SPACs), exploring their rise and recent decline, while hinting at a more stable investment future. Mariana Simos, the Brazil correspondent, discusses President Bolsonaro's controversial push for increased gun ownership and its implications on Brazil's political and cultural landscape. Meanwhile, Michael Hann sheds light on the world's largest magazine archive, revealing intriguing insights about the evolution of media.

John McDermott, the Chief Africa correspondent for The Economist, sheds light on the challenges of COVID-19 vaccination in Africa amid operational hurdles and vaccine hesitancy. He discusses the urgency for African nations to secure vaccine supplies and contrasts their struggles with those faced by developed countries. Additionally, McDermott touches upon the political repression in Russia surrounding Alexei Navalny and the implications of branding his movement as extremist, linking domestic strife to wider geopolitical tensions.

Guests Charlotte Howard, an energy and commodities editor, and Avantika Chilcotti, an international correspondent, dive into President Biden's ambitious climate goals and the need for America to enhance its reputation on global climate action. They explore the implications of remote work, including the emerging issue of Zoom fatigue and the psychological toll of virtual meetings. The conversation also addresses the dwindling relevance of awards shows in today’s media landscape, reflecting on how cultural shifts are reshaping recognition in entertainment.

Max Rodenbeck, the South Asia bureau chief based in Delhi, sheds light on India’s alarming surge in COVID-19 cases, revealing how government inaction and healthcare inadequacies have fueled the crisis. He discusses tragic incidents like patient deaths due to oxygen shortages and critiques the flawed vaccine rollout amid mass gatherings. Additionally, the conversation touches on the political fallout from Chad's president's recent assassination and the broader implications for regional security.

Henry Kerr, Economics editor at The Economist, gives an insightful look into the chaotic fallout from the failed European Super League initiative, revealing its economic implications and the contrasting models of football competition. Nicholas Pelham, a Middle East correspondent, discusses the Kurdish quest for statehood amid unyielding geopolitical challenges, reflecting on their historical struggles. The conversation also touches on the recent judicial outcomes in notable cases, alongside the quirky complexities of English spelling.

Adam Roberts, Midwest correspondent for The Economist, shares insights on the Derek Chauvin trial, discussing the societal implications of the verdict and the emotional testimonies presented in court. He highlights the evolving accountability in policing and the growing role of video evidence in judicial outcomes. Additionally, Roberts addresses the challenges faced by left-behind children in China due to parental migration, emphasizing the emotional toll on families and the government's initiatives for better child welfare.

In this engaging discussion, Su Lin Wong, a China correspondent for The Economist, sheds light on the harsh sentencing of Hong Kong's pro-democracy activists like Jimmy Lai and Martin Lee. The podcast examines the implications for dissent and the future of democracy in the region. Meanwhile, Claire Oliver-Williams, a science writer, explores the ethical dilemmas surrounding groundbreaking human-monkey chimeras, highlighting their potential in regenerative medicine and the societal concerns they raise. A thought-provoking blend of politics and science!

Join Charlie McCann, The Economist's Southeast Asia correspondent, as he dissects the escalating violence and protests in Myanmar following a military coup. He highlights the resilience of the population and the dire economic consequences they face. Roseanne Lake, The Economist's Cuba correspondent, then sheds light on Cuba's leadership transition post-Castro, tackling economic challenges and the country's ambitious vaccine development efforts amidst a crumbling economy. The conversation also touches on surprising trends in road fatalities in America.

Daniel Knowles, an international correspondent for The Economist, discusses the precarious aftermath of America's troop withdrawal from Afghanistan and its implications for stability and women's rights. Katrine Braik, the environment editor, highlights the urgent need to address methane emissions, revealing they've been underestimated in major cities and are critical to combating climate change. Max Rodenbeck, the South Asia bureau chief, shares insights into Bhutan's remarkable COVID-19 vaccination campaign, showcasing its cultural significance amid wider global challenges.