Economist Podcasts

Madeline Johan, The Economist's Canada correspondent, delves into pressing topics with insight and wit. She discusses the EU's tough stance on Italy's rising debt and the political fallout at home. The conversation shifts to Canada's changing refugee policies amid an election, highlighting the struggles of asylum seekers. Johan also tackles the issue of presenteeism in workplaces, advocating for a culture that values genuine productivity over mere presence. This mix of economics, politics, and labor issues makes for a compelling listen.

Richard Cockett, a Senior editor at The Economist and author focused on Sudan, discusses the dire political situation in Sudan following a military coup and the brutal crackdown on democracy. James Tozer, Editor of Game Theory, explores how Mohamed Salah's popularity is combatting Islamophobia, showcasing football's role in promoting diversity. The podcast also touches on the alarming rise of gun violence in Latin America, linking it to American-made weapons and the urgent need for regulation.

Reflecting on the 30th anniversary of the Tiananmen Square tragedy, correspondents examine the Chinese government's ongoing suppression of this pivotal moment. They share harrowing accounts from witnesses and discuss the enduring legacy of the protests in shaping political expression today. The podcast also dives into the challenges faced by immigrants regarding language acquisition and cultural integration, advocating for supportive policies and questioning the effectiveness of language laws. Additionally, it calls for gender quotas to improve female representation in corporate leadership.

Gotti Epstein, Media editor at The Economist and expert in media regulation, dives into the complexities of President Trump’s state visit to the UK amidst Brexit and rising tensions. He discusses outdated child protection laws in the U.S. and the urgent need for updated regulations to keep children safe online. Epstein also uncovers how Ramadan dramas in Saudi Arabia reflect the crown prince’s vision for his kingdom, revealing a cultural battle between tradition and modernity. It's a lively exploration of diplomacy, technology, and media.

In this discussion, Simon Rabinovich, an Asia economics editor based in Shanghai, analyzes how China is responding to escalating tariffs in the trade war. He shares insights on rising nationalism and the government's narrative management. Meanwhile, Charles Reid, a transport writer, delves into the ongoing crisis surrounding the Boeing 737 MAX, highlighting regulatory scrutiny and safety implications. The podcast also touches on thought-provoking themes from the Venice Biennale, linking art to pressing global issues like immigration and climate change.

Anshul Pfeffer, an Israeli reporter and author, and Wendelin von Bredow, a European finance correspondent, discuss Israel’s unprecedented political turmoil. They analyze the challenges Prime Minister Netanyahu faces in coalition formation amid corruption allegations. The conversation shifts to the Czech Republic’s mass protests against alleged judiciary manipulation, dissecting the threats to rule of law in Eastern Europe. The struggles of Crimea’s winemakers are also highlighted, revealing the complexities of adapting to new market realities since annexation by Russia.

Nigeria's president, dubbed 'Baba Go Slow,' faces significant challenges during his second term, including economic mismanagement and security threats from Boko Haram. Meanwhile, the rising death toll on Mount Everest raises questions about the dangers of climbing and the impact of commercialization on its allure. In football, English clubs dominate European competitions by investing in youth talent, showcasing successful players like Kevin De Bruyne and Mohamed Salah, while some teams prioritize developing their own talent over new signings.

Jeremy Cliff, the Brussels bureau chief for The Economist, dives into the shifting political terrain in Europe, highlighting the rise of populist parties and the unexpected strength of the Green Party. He discusses how traditional parties face declining voter support and examines the implications of these elections for the EU parliament. The conversation also touches on the transformative effects of e-commerce on retail, spotlighting the growth of industrial real estate. Plus, a light-hearted nod to quinoa's popularity adds a culinary twist to the discussion.

Tom Wainwright, the Britain editor for the Economist, discusses Theresa May's tumultuous resignation amidst Brexit challenges and the political chaos that lies ahead. John Fassman, the Washington correspondent, analyzes President Trump's ongoing legal battles over his financial records, foreseeing more court clashes. They also explore the emotional power of music, unpacking why certain songs can give listeners chills. This lively conversation intertwines politics with the profound impact of music on human emotion.

Alex Trevely, The Economist's India correspondent, shares deep insights on Narendra Modi's significant re-election and the impact of shifting from economic development to nationalist rhetoric. He discusses the ramifications for India and its political landscape. Tom Standage, Deputy Editor, sheds light on Silicon Valley's fascination with optimizing sleep, posing intriguing questions about sleep technology's effectiveness and its psychological effects on well-being. The podcast blends political analysis with a dive into modern tech trends, making for a captivating listen.