Economist Podcasts

Arkady Ostrovsky, Russia and Eastern Europe editor for The Economist, discusses Vladimir Putin's recent constitutional changes allowing him to potentially remain in power until 2036. He highlights the growing public disillusionment with Putin and the political standoff it creates. The conversation touches on the internal fears within Putin's entourage as they face increasing legitimacy crises. Ostrovsky also examines the implications of sick leave policies during the pandemic, calling for improvements in worker support as economic dynamics shift.

Duncan Weldon, the Britain economics correspondent for The Economist, shares insights on the UK's monetary responses to COVID-19, including a £30bn stimulus aimed at cushioning the economic blow. Shoshank Joshi, the defense editor, discusses the exciting advancements in laser weapon technologies, their military implications, and how they’re being set for the battlefield. The conversation also takes a whimsical turn as they celebrate the 42nd anniversary of 'The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy,' examining its cultural impact and the hilarity of its themes.

Sasha Nauta, The Economist's public policy editor, sheds light on the complexities surrounding Harvey Weinstein's sentencing and its implications for the #MeToo movement. Brooke Unger, the Americas editor, discusses Guyana's pivotal election and the challenges of managing its newfound oil wealth amidst political turmoil. They tackle the nuances of societal change beyond the media spotlight and delve into how nations can balance security with urban aesthetics amidst rising anti-terror architecture concerns.

The discussion covers Italy's stringent COVID-19 lockdown, highlighting the balance between individual freedoms and public health. It also explores Slovakia's emerging political landscape, marked by an anti-corruption campaign led by a former media tycoon. Additionally, the benefits of bilingualism are examined, revealing its positive impact on cognitive health and enhanced communication skills. The economic turmoil from declining oil demand is analyzed, showing its global repercussions and challenges for Slovakia's new government.

Richard Enzer, The Economist's Mexico City bureau chief, sheds light on a significant women's strike in Mexico amidst rising violence, emphasizing the urgent need for change. Matt Steinglass, Europe correspondent, discusses the MH17 trial, revealing insights into the evidence against Russian involvement. Don Scott, CTO of the Mayflower Autonomous Ship project, explains the innovative challenges of unmanned voyages and how these advancements can revolutionize scientific research. Together, they explore themes of social justice, accountability, and technological progress.

Sasha Nauta, The Economist's public policy editor, discusses the evolving landscape of global abortion access amidst U.S. legal battles. Katherine Johnson, the pioneering black mathematician from NASA, is celebrated for her crucial calculations that propelled early space missions. The conversation highlights how banning abortion fails to reduce its occurrence, the health risks involved, and contrasts the dire U.S. situation with progressive global trends. Additionally, they address workplace equality and the importance of women's representation in policy-making.

Tom Burrell, Finance correspondent at The Economist, dives deep into America's student loan crisis. He reveals how systemic issues contribute to the staggering debt facing graduates, especially those without degrees. The discussion expands to compare U.S. solutions to those in countries like the UK, exploring disparities in repayment and the potential for educational reforms. Additionally, Burrell highlights the broader societal benefits of investing in accessible education, making a compelling case for change in student debt policy.

John Priddo, The Economist's US editor, shares insights on Biden's strong showing in the Democratic primaries, setting the stage for an intense two-horse race. Vijay Vethyswaran, the U.S. business editor, discusses the barriers posed by the 'bamboo ceiling' that limits Asian Americans in corporate roles. They also explore the contrasts in the financial health of football clubs, linking these disparities to broader societal inequalities and how they influence local voting patterns.

Roger McShane, the Middle East editor for The Economist, discusses the dire humanitarian crisis in Idlib, Syria, where millions are trapped amidst escalating violence. He reveals how Turkey's military actions against Russian-backed forces heighten the geopolitical stakes and impact European migration. Stephen Gibbs shares insights into Venezuela's economic optimism, highlighting a rum company’s bold share offering despite rampant inflation and limited loans. They also touch on the struggles of the postal system in Goma, showcasing resilience amid chaos.

John Prideaux, an expert on Brexit and international trade, and Wendelin von Bredow, the European business correspondent for The Economist, discuss the current state of post-Brexit trade negotiations. They outline the tough challenges negotiators face, including the looming threat of a no-deal scenario. The conversation also shifts to innovative uses of digital twin technology in healthcare for heart monitoring. Additionally, they delve into the complex legal case surrounding the Rothschild Foundation, highlighting historical injustices faced by the family.