Economist Podcasts

Tim Cross, Technology editor at The Economist, delves into the AstraZeneca vaccine concerns, stressing that, despite fears of blood clots, the jab is almost certainly safe. He highlights the crucial link between public trust and vaccination efforts. Gotti Epstein, China affairs editor, examines the hostage diplomacy story involving Canada and China, sparked by the arrest of a Huawei executive. They also touch on the booming NFT market and its potential to empower digital artists in new and exciting ways.

Patrick Collison, co-founder of the online payment powerhouse Stripe, shares insights on the company's astronomical rise in valuation, especially during the pandemic. He discusses its pivotal role in the evolving payment landscape and the fierce competition from other major players. Meanwhile, Rosemary Ward highlights the political turmoil surrounding Governor Cuomo, who faces serious allegations amid a challenging public image. The podcast also touches on the intriguing rise of beauty trends in conflict zones, exemplifying resilience and personal expression.

Nicholas Pelham, The Economist's Middle East correspondent, offers expert insights into Syria's devastating decade-long civil war, discussing its fragmentation and dire economic state. Susanna Savage tackles the urgent global crisis of violence against women, highlighting its severe impact in poorer nations and the surge of protests demanding change. The conversation also touches on the intriguing survival tactics of slugs that can shed their bodies as a response to parasites, intertwining natural regeneration with broader societal issues.

Sasha Nauta, Public Policy Editor at The Economist, discusses the transformative impact of the pandemic on welfare systems. She analyzes Biden’s $1.9 trillion relief plan and its push for more flexible benefits to support vulnerable workers. The conversation touches on the emotional toll of social distancing, highlighting the vital need for human contact and innovations like haptic technology. Nauta also delves into the evolution of language, humorously tackling the challenge of coining new terms for modern relationships.

Noah Snyder, Tokyo bureau chief for The Economist, shares gripping insights into the ongoing challenges following the Fukushima disaster, highlighting struggles with recovery and the complex emotions of affected communities. Tom Wainwright, Media editor for The Economist, reflects on Rupert Murdoch's legacy as he turns 90, discussing the future of his media empire amid family dynamics and scandals. The conversation also briefly touches on Eugene Sandow, the first fitness influencer, illustrating the evolving intersection of media and societal health anxieties.

Helen Joyce, Deputy Foreign Editor at The Economist, and Gadi Epstein, China Affairs Editor, delve into pressing global issues. They highlight the implications of vaccine passports on equity and access, noting privacy concerns and potential misuse. The discussion shifts to the increasing repression of Tibetan Buddhism and its alarming parallels to the Uyghur situation, emphasizing the urgency of protecting cultural identities. They also navigate how the pandemic shaped the future of duty-free shopping, revealing significant changes in consumer habits.

Idris Kaloun, The Economist's Washington correspondent, discusses the $1.9 trillion COVID relief bill's journey through Congress and its implications for future legislation in the Biden administration. Kinley Salmon, the Africa correspondent, delves into the political unrest in Senegal, sparked by the arrest of opposition leader Ousmane Sonko, highlighting the social issues at stake. Together, they explore the intersection of politics and civic expression amidst a backdrop of shifting power dynamics in both the U.S. and Senegal.

Sarah Maslin, Brazil correspondent for The Economist, shares insights on Brazil's chaotic COVID-19 response and the devastating impact of the P1 variant. She discusses how socio-economic disparities have intensified health crises and the urgent need for vaccination. Emma Duncan, Britain editor, weighs in on the fallout from Harry and Meghan's explosive interview with Oprah, exploring serious allegations of mental health struggles and racism within the royal family. The contrasting cultural perceptions of this scandal add another layer to the discussion.

The gathering of China's National People's Congress marks a pivotal moment as Beijing unveils plans for economic growth while tightening control over Hong Kong. Pope Francis makes a historic visit to Iraq, aiming to uplift the beleaguered Christian community amidst ongoing strife. Meanwhile, the nightlife sector struggles to rebound post-pandemic, facing significant challenges yet showing signs of resilience and adaptation as it seeks a revival akin to the Roaring Twenties.

Roger McShane, Middle East editor for The Economist, dives into America’s shifting stance in the region and its complex dynamics following events like Jamal Khashoggi’s assassination. Su Lin Wong, China correspondent, discusses how censorship in China drives fans to pirated films and the rise of volunteer subtitlers facing increased pressure. Together, they highlight the need for adaptable diplomacy in both regions and explore fascinating research connecting dreams to memory and cognition. Expect insights into the intersection of politics, culture, and the unconscious!