Economist Podcasts

Ludwig Sigle, U.S. technology editor for The Economist, navigates Google's monumental growth and the challenges it faces, from market scrutiny to data privacy concerns. Ryan Avent, author of the Free Exchange column, links economic success with hygiene through history, analyzing how pandemics have shaped wealth. The discussion also sheds light on Dubai's innovative tourism strategies amidst extreme summer heat and ongoing pandemic recovery, showcasing both historical lessons and modern adaptations.

Tim Judah, The Economist's Balkans correspondent, navigates the complex landscape of migration and organized crime. He discusses how COVID-19 has intensified border restrictions, impacting migrants disproportionately. Judah highlights a resurgence of tech-savvy criminal networks in the Balkans, evolving from the notorious 1990s gangs. He also critiques nationalist policies that have transformed migration debates in the region, shedding light on the interplay between local and international crime syndicates. Additionally, the conversation touches on recent Mars missions, expanding horizons for exploration.

In this engaging discussion, Miranda Johnson, Southeast Asia correspondent for The Economist, sheds light on the political upheaval following the 1MDB scandal in Malaysia, including the conviction of former Prime Minister Najib Razak. The podcast highlights the rise of shadow banking in response to shifting regulations and the pandemic's impact on the financial landscape. Additionally, Johnson explores the intriguing world of wild mushroom picking in China's Yunnan province, revealing its economic importance and cultural significance for local communities.

John Fassman, The Economist's Washington correspondent, dives deep into the controversial deployment of federal troops in American cities and its implications for civil liberties and democracy. He dissects the political motivations behind these actions amidst ongoing protests. The conversation also touches on the fascinating Big Mac Index, which hilariously serves as a cultural and economic barometer. Lastly, Indian scientists unveil a creative solution to local water issues by turning pine needles into biochar, addressing both pollution and forest fire risks.

Natasha Loader, health policy editor at The Economist with expertise on SARS-CoV-2 origins, joins Katrine Braik, the environment editor focusing on climate issues. They delve into the search for SARS-CoV-2's beginnings in Southeast Asia and discuss the crucial role of wildlife trade in public health. The conversation shifts to the alarming impacts of climate change, highlighting record Arctic temperatures and the rise in Siberian wildfires. They also touch on the disparity in travel freedom for African passport holders, sparking a discussion on 'passport shopping' for better mobility.

Sasha Nauta, The Economist's public policy editor, discusses the deep-rooted systemic issues in elderly care that the pandemic has magnified. She advocates for community-based support models to reform nursing homes. John Fassman, the Washington correspondent, reflects on the legacy of civil rights icon John Lewis, emphasizing his role in the ongoing fight for racial justice. The conversation also touches on the evolution of economic data analysis in a post-pandemic world, highlighting the necessity of combining traditional metrics with real-time data for better insights.

Roger McShane, The Economist's Middle East editor, discusses Israel's COVID-19 crisis and the rapid increase in cases due to government missteps and waning public trust. He outlines how protests emerge as the Prime Minister grapples with both public health and political instability. Additionally, the conversation touches on severe flooding in China and questions the effectiveness of the country’s river management strategies amid climate challenges, alongside a surprising trend in soothing celebrity bedtime stories for adults during these turbulent times.

Matthew Holhouse, British political correspondent for The Economist, and Charlie McCann, Southeast Asia correspondent, delve into critical issues facing the UK and Myanmar. They discuss the unsettling findings of the Russia report, questioning the government's inactivity regarding foreign interference in elections. Meanwhile, McCann sheds light on Myanmar's alarming methamphetamine crisis, propelled by ineffective government responses and rising local addiction, alongside the emergence of vigilante groups tackling the issue.

Tom Nuttall, the Berlin bureau chief of The Economist, and Kinley Salmon, the Africa correspondent, dive into significant developments shaping Europe and Africa. They discuss the historic €750 billion recovery plan initiated by the EU, spotlighting contentious negotiations among member states. Meanwhile, Salmon sheds light on the alarming rise of jihadist activity in the Sahel, where instability is spilling over borders. On a brighter note, he shares the inspiring story of prisoners in Burkina Faso who are breaking free through music, thanks to a local charity.

Idris Kaloun, U.S. policy correspondent for The Economist, and Charlotte Howard, energy and commodities editor, dive deep into America’s economic stimulus debates. They discuss partisan divides in Congress over COVID-19 aid and how it stacks up against European strategies. The impact of low oil prices on the energy industry is explored, highlighting shifting regulations and the push for cleaner energy. They also examine the intriguing link between wealth and happiness, questioning if financial growth truly translates to well-being.