Economist Podcasts

Alice Fullwood, a U.S. correspondent specializing in finance, and Sarah Maslin, Brazil correspondent based in Sao Paulo, delve into the contrasting fortunes of investment banks versus everyday people during the pandemic. They discuss the ethical dilemmas faced by Brazil’s isolated tribes as threats from missionaries and miners loom. The conversation highlights the stark financial successes on Wall Street and the struggles on Main Street, emphasizing the urgent need to address these economic disparities.

Susanna Savage, an Economist correspondent based in Bangladesh, discusses the grim realities for 1.5 billion students impacted by school closures, shifting from education to labor. Vijay Vethi Swan, U.S. business editor, delves into executive pay, reflecting on how the pandemic might force changes. Mariana Palau, Colombia correspondent, analyzes Cartagena's decision to reject its old tourism model in favor of sustainable practices that preserve culture while addressing over-tourism challenges.

Guests Arkady Ostrovsky, Russia editor for The Economist, and Piotr Zalewski, Turkey correspondent for The Economist, share compelling insights on current geopolitical tensions. Ostrovsky discusses the unrest in Khabarovsk triggered by the arrest of a regional governor, highlighting growing discontent toward Putin's regime. Zalewski argues that Turkey's conversion of Hagia Sophia back into a mosque reflects deeper political distractions amid economic issues. They also touch on the Segway's rise and fall, showcasing the fleeting nature of innovative trends.

Roger McShane, the Middle East editor for The Economist, explores the seismic shifts in the Arab world as countries confront cheap oil prices. He discusses how historic price drops are pushing for essential economic reforms and could lead to both unrest and innovation. With a focus on diversifying economies and reducing oil dependency, he highlights the challenges and opportunities that arise during this timely transition. Additionally, the impacts of COVID-19 on midwifery services are touched upon, showcasing health system adaptations in the wake of crises.

Join Patrick Fowles, The Economist's business affairs editor, and Adam Roberts, the Midwest correspondent, as they discuss the escalating tech divide between the U.S. and China. Fowles highlights the geopolitical implications of the tech cold war, including security fears tied to companies like Huawei. Meanwhile, Roberts explores shifting American attitudes towards the death penalty, noting a generational divide and growing discomfort with capital punishment. The podcast also touches upon the legendary collaboration of Ennio Morricone and Sergio Leone in film music.

Annabelle Chapman, an Economist writer in Warsaw, delves into Poland's crucial presidential runoff that could redefine the nation's trajectory. She discusses the stark political divide between the conservative incumbent and the liberal challenger, and what this means for Poland's relationship with the EU. The conversation also touches on lessons from the HIV/AIDS crisis for COVID-19 responses, stressing the importance of community engagement. Lastly, intriguing insights on penguin breeding success reveal how climate factors influence wildlife dynamics.

Sarah Donilon, an international affairs writer for The Economist, discusses the recent escalations in tensions between Iran and Israel following an attack on a nuclear facility. She explores the implications of the U.S. withdrawal from the nuclear deal, emphasizing the growing complexities in negotiating a new agreement. Meanwhile, Saskia Solomon dives into the stark contrast between Eastern Europe's drug policies and the harm-reduction approaches more commonly seen in the West, shedding light on the struggles faced by women in Ukraine and Georgia amid societal stigma.

John Fasman, Washington correspondent for The Economist, discusses Joe Biden's centrist appeal during a time of division in America. He highlights Biden's balancing act between progressive and moderate ideologies while aiming for national healing. Sophie Pett, Paris bureau chief, analyzes Emmanuel Macron's surprising appointment of Jean Castex as Prime Minister and the implications for French politics. They also explore the rise of rap music in the Arab world, where artists address social injustices and challenge conservative norms through their lyrics.

Natasha Loder, The Economist's health policy editor and vaccine development expert, discusses the race to create a COVID-19 vaccine and the complexities of equitable distribution once approved. Jonathan Rosenthal, Africa editor, delves into the unrest in Ethiopia following the assassination of a musician, examining its effects on ethnic tensions and the country's fragile democracy. The conversation also touches on unusual political intrigue in Fiji, highlighting the intersection of media and government amidst rising tensions.

Gary Epstein, a China affairs editor, reveals the shocking human rights abuses in Xinjiang, including forced labor and sterilizations, while exploring why global responses are muted. Samaya Keynes, a trade editor, humorously tackles racism in economics, shedding light on the systemic issues faced by black economists. Meanwhile, Matt Steinglass discusses how Sweden's COVID-19 response is reshaping Nordic relations and stereotypes, revealing unexpected tensions and perceptions among neighboring countries.