Economist Podcasts

Robert Guest, the Foreign editor at The Economist, shares his insights on the ongoing Ebola outbreak in Congo, highlighting the complex challenges of violence and local distrust. He discusses the dire consequences of inadequate infrastructure amid a global health emergency. Emily Bobrow, based in New York, explores the evolving landscape of prison design in America, advocating for rehabilitation-focused facilities over traditional jails. They also touch on the absurdities of modern job advertisements, revealing how they can mislead potential candidates.

Brooke Unger, America's editor at The Economist, dives into the complexities surrounding Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's upcoming re-election bid. They discuss Trudeau's balancing act between economic growth and environmental concerns, as well as the challenges posed by public scandals and the polarized political landscape. The conversation also touches on Canada's evolving role as a leader in liberal values and how this contrasts with shifts in global politics, all while Bayer grapples with the fallout from its Monsanto acquisition.

The race for the Democratic nomination heats up as party rules favor extreme candidates, overshadowing more qualified voices. Meanwhile, Amazon's rapid shipping innovations are radically transforming global supply chains. In contrast, Lego enjoys massive success in China due to smart localization strategies, while Western brands like Barbie struggle to connect with local tastes. The podcast explores the clash of cultures in branding and the implications for the retail landscape.

Tensions rise as Hong Kong protests challenge the notion of 'one country, two systems,' bringing fears of governmental crackdowns. The region's citizens showcase remarkable resilience, demanding greater autonomy beyond economic growth. Meanwhile, a woman's harrowing escape from oppressive Saudi guardianship laws shines a light on ongoing struggles for women's rights. The podcast also highlights how younger generations are turning away from Facebook while flocking to its other platforms, reflecting a shift in social media dynamics.

Roger McShane, Middle East editor for The Economist, highlights the political upheaval in Tunisia following President Essebsi's passing, discussing the nation's struggle with economic challenges and the rise of populism. Joel Budd, Social policy editor, dives into the global pet ownership trend, exploring its societal implications and changing attitudes towards pets. The conversation also touches on the removal of state subsidies for homeopathy in France, raising questions about consumer habits and health perceptions.

Join John Pridot, U.S. editor for the Economist with a keen insight into political headlines, and Ryan Avent, author of Free Exchange examining economic theory. They dissect the implications of Robert Mueller's congressional testimony, revealing its impact on public perception and political strategy. The conversation shifts to evolving economic theories, emphasizing culture's critical role in shaping growth. Finally, they dive into the exhilarating world of speedcubing, showcasing the intense competition and rapid advancements in solving techniques.

Dan Rosenheck, Data editor at The Economist with a focus on Puerto Rico, and Michael Reid, Senior editor specializing in El Salvador, dive into the recent protests in San Juan over the governor's leaked derogatory texts. They discuss the island's broader issues beyond these revelations, touching on economic struggles and political discontent. The conversation expands to critical themes of peace versus justice in Latin America, especially analyzing the complexities of amnesty laws and accountability in El Salvador's turbulent history.

Tom Wainwright, Britain editor at The Economist, and Charles Reid, industry writer specializing in steel, dive into the challenges facing the new Prime Minister Boris Johnson. They discuss the complexities of Brexit amid a fragmented political landscape. In a surprising twist, a resilient Austrian steel mill showcases innovation in an industry battered by tariffs. The conversation also touches on roommate compatibility and how political beliefs can make or break a living situation, reflecting broader societal divisions.

Greg Karlstrom, Middle East correspondent for The Economist, and John Parker, international correspondent, delve into Iran's recent seizure of a British tanker and the geopolitical implications of this act. They discuss how hardliners in Iran view this as a PR victory, amidst complex international dynamics. The conversation also uncovers the paradox of increasing happiness in Europe juxtaposed with rising political discontent and the impact of populism. Lastly, they explore the intriguing trend of art lending as a novel financial strategy.

Join Andrew Palmer, an Executive editor at The Economist with expertise in space law, and Michael Reed, a Senior editor focused on Latin America, as they dive into fascinating discussions. They explore the political upheaval in Ukraine, highlighting Volodymyr Zelensky's ambitions to dismantle oligarchical structures. They also tackle the complexities of space commercialization and propose necessary legal reforms. Plus, they pay tribute to João Gilberto, the Bossa Nova pioneer, reflecting on his cultural influence during Brazil's vibrant 1950s.