Economist Podcasts

Sophie Petter, Paris bureau chief for The Economist, shares her firsthand experience traveling with Emmanuel Macron during his diplomatic trip to China, emphasizing Europe's strategic role amid global rivalries. Elliot Morris discusses the changing political landscape of Texas, focusing on the rise of young, diverse voters who are pushing for a potential shift to Democratic leadership. Meanwhile, Miki Kobayashi tackles the pressing issue of groping on Japan's public transport, exploring innovative solutions and societal shifts aimed at combating this pervasive problem.

Join Jonathan Rosenthal, Africa editor for The Economist, and Simon Long, Deputy digital editor, as they navigate the current global wave of protests. They delve into Zimbabwe's economic crisis, revealing the urgent need for reform in a nation grappling with extreme inflation. The conversation extends to international demonstrations, driven largely by economic disparities and social media influence. In a surprising twist, they also explore the scenes in Beirut, where protests spark not just dissent but also unexpected romance amidst the chaos.

John Fassman, a Washington correspondent for The Economist, shares insights on Roger Stone’s trial, discussing the tension between his confrontational tactics and legal challenges that could impact Trump. Hal Hodson dives into the race for 5G technology, revealing how China’s advancements may give it a competitive edge in the autonomous vehicle market. The conversation also touches on the paradoxes of AI-driven text generation, emphasizing its evolving potential amidst the complexities of transportation tech.

Miranda Johnson, Southeast Asia correspondent for The Economist, delves into the critical threats facing coral reefs and the millions dependent on them. She explores ambitious political movements aimed at dismantling big tech monopolies, highlighting Elizabeth Warren's intricate proposals. The discussion also covers unconventional leadership models drawn from history, examining how figures like Genghis Khan could inform modern corporate culture while maintaining a balance between competitiveness and employee well-being.

John Perdue, United States editor for The Economist, sheds light on the impeachment inquiry against President Trump as the House takes its first vote. Gadi Epstein, China Affairs editor, reveals the dangers faced by Uyghur exiles, including intimidation tactics from the Chinese government. Imogen White, an arts and culture writer, discusses the rediscovery of Plautile Nellie's Last Supper, the first-known version painted by a woman, emphasizing its importance in recognizing women's contributions to art history.

Protests in Iraq rage on, with over 250 lives lost as citizens demand government reform amidst growing violence. The podcast also explores a Lithuanian software innovation designed to combat fake news, revealing its importance in preserving democratic integrity. Additionally, it dives into the cultural clash facing Germany over the contentious issue of speed limits on the Autobahn, highlighting contrasting views on personal freedom versus safety regulations. These topics weave a compelling narrative of resilience and the fight for truth in turbulent times.

Boris Johnson's bold call for a general election raises questions about his political future amid Brexit challenges. The discussion delves into the shifting dynamics in the Democratic primary race, spotlighting Amy Klobuchar's moderate approach and her strategy to unite voters. Additionally, the podcast critiques the alcohol industry's self-regulation in promoting responsible drinking, revealing surprising public health links and government initiatives like Scotland's minimum unit pricing to curb consumption. A fascinating blend of politics and public health!

Brooke Unger, America's editor for The Economist, shares her expertise on the Chilean protests that evolved from fare hikes into a powerful movement for social equality. Wendelin von Bredow, European business and finance correspondent, discusses the economic successes and political challenges facing the Visegrad Four countries. The conversation highlights systemic inequalities in Chile and examines labor market dynamics in Central Europe, raising questions about the future of democracy and economic stability.

Greg Karlstrom, the Middle East correspondent for The Economist, discusses the killing of Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, dissecting the impact on ISIS and global extremism. David Smith, the Argentina correspondent, analyzes the recent electoral shift back to Peronism amid economic turmoil. Both explore how these political changes affect governance and stability. Additionally, they touch on a California law pushing school start times later, emphasizing its potential benefits for education and the economy.

Anne McElvoy, Senior Editor at The Economist and a seasoned political analyst, dives into Boris Johnson's bold call for a December election amid Brexit chaos. She examines the potential risks, comparing them to his predecessor's failed attempts. The conversation shifts to Japan's strict drug policies, sparked by a recent high-profile arrest, highlighting societal attitudes towards marijuana. Finally, the podcast explores the cultural significance of Uluru and the ongoing debates surrounding Indigenous rights and land respect.