Economist Podcasts

Sarah Maslin, The Economist's Brazil correspondent, reports on the grim COVID-19 situation in Manaus, where government negligence and a dangerous belief in herd immunity have led to devastating healthcare crises. Meanwhile, Mike Dunn explores the revolutionary journey of lasers, tracing their evolution from obscurity to vital technology across industries. The podcast also highlights an innovative method in Poland, using clams for water monitoring to detect contaminants. Tune in for an insightful discussion that connects health crises with technological advancements.

Alex Trevely, an expert India correspondent for The Economist, delves into the mass protests by Indian farmers resisting government agricultural reforms that threaten their livelihoods. He highlights the protesters' resilience and community spirit. Meanwhile, Greg Karlstrom discusses the U.S. designation of the Houthis in Yemen as terrorists, detailing the humanitarian crisis this decision exacerbates. They also touch on the burgeoning African comics scene, showcasing how it offers fresh narratives that contrast with traditional Western storytelling.

Arkady Ostrovsky, Russia editor for The Economist, discusses the dramatic return of opposition leader Alexei Navalny to Moscow and the political tensions that ensue. Navalny faces immediate arrest, reflecting the precarious state of dissent in Russia. Meanwhile, Tom Nuttall, Berlin bureau chief, analyzes Armin Laschet's election as CDU leader and its broader implications for Germany's political landscape post-Merkel. They also touch on a cultural debate over film classifications, spotlighting the misclassification of the acclaimed film 'Minari'.

Liam Taylor, an Economist writer based in Kampala, dives into Uganda's tumultuous electoral landscape. He discusses the violent intimidation faced by opposition candidate Bobi Wine and the chilling effects of government internet shutdowns. Taylor emphasizes the youth's growing support for Wine amidst declining democracy, while the appreciation for President Museveni's elite backing raises concerns for the future. The conversation also touches on the resonance of this political strife with broader regional issues of unrest and democracy.

Edward Carr, Deputy Editor of The Economist, provides an in-depth analysis of Donald Trump’s latest impeachment and its broader implications for democracy, emphasizing the risks of political extremism. Meanwhile, John McDermott, the Chief Africa Correspondent, sheds light on the precarious future of South Africa's black middle class amidst fiscal mismanagement by the ANC. They also explore the rising trend of non-alcoholic spirits, reflecting changing consumer habits in a health-conscious world.

Zanny Minton Beddoes, Editor-at-large at The Economist, and Callum Williams, Senior economics writer, tackle urgent topics today. They dive into the rise of universal jurisdiction trials, highlighting a pivotal German case against a Syrian war criminal. With a focus on human rights justice, they discuss how international law seeks to hold violators accountable. On the economic front, they also analyze the lesser impact of recent lockdowns on global economies and the struggles Cambodian rat-catchers face in adapting to changing market conditions.

Patrick Fowles, Business affairs editor for The Economist, dives into the controversial bans on social media that raise questions about free speech and tech power, specifically spotlighting the Trump ban. Sasha Nauta, Public policy editor, discusses the evolution of girlhood, emphasizing the positive shifts and ongoing challenges due to the pandemic and societal pressure. They also touch on the struggle to combat snake bite fatalities with innovative science and potentially universal antidotes.

John Priddo, US editor for The Economist and host of Checks and Ballots, and Bill Ridgers, the Asia digital editor with a passion for 80s music, dive into the current political turmoil surrounding President Trump’s potential removal. They dissect the complexities of impeachment and its implications for the Republican Party. The conversation also touches on the urgent need for COVID-19 treatments amidst vaccination efforts, highlighting promising arthritis drugs. Plus, they celebrate the Yamaha DX7 synthesizer's revolutionary role in 1980s music.

Dom Ziegler, Asia columnist for The Economist, sheds light on Hong Kong's political landscape under a stringent national security law as pro-democracy arrests escalate. Anne Rowe shares the inspiring journey of Agitou Gudetta, a goat-herding refugee whose life story highlights resilience and community. Ryan Avent calls for a shift in economic thinking, urging a reevaluation of policies considering social norms and collective values, which could enhance welfare programs in a post-pandemic world.

John Fasman, The Economist's U.S. digital editor, provides sharp insights into the chaos from the January 6 Capitol riot and its echoing implications for American democracy and Republican lawmakers. Sarah Burke, the new Mexico City bureau chief, discusses the landmark shift in Argentina's abortion laws, highlighting its potential to inspire broader changes in Latin America. The conversation also touches on the vibrant history of Ethio-jazz, showcasing its cultural significance and the journey of introducing it to a global audience.