Economist Podcasts

Tom Wainwright, The Economist's Britain editor, discusses the tragic killing of journalist Lyra McKee, shedding light on its implications for the fragile peace in Northern Ireland. He explores how Brexit could exacerbate tensions among dissident groups. The conversation also touches on the alarming youth unemployment crisis in South Africa, where nearly 40% are jobless or out of education. Lastly, the intriguing phenomenon of multilingual politicians in the U.S. elections is examined, highlighting its impact on political identity and voter connection.

In this engaging discussion, Sarah Maslin, Brazil correspondent for The Economist, delves into the recent bomb attacks in Sri Lanka that devastated the nation. She highlights the government's failure to respond effectively amid political turmoil and explores shifting ethnic tensions. Drawing parallels with Brazil's Lava Jato investigation, Maslin reveals global challenges in tackling corruption and emphasizes the need for legislative reforms. The conversation also touches on regional stability and the broader implications of such crises on international relations.

The lifelong effects of child marriage on girls' health and education are alarming. A significant decline is seen in Kamat, Ethiopia, where community leaders and initiatives are driving change. Meanwhile, the Hanfu movement in China sparks discussions on cultural pride and ethnic identity. Additionally, the rise of Scrabble as a sport in Nigeria is celebrated through the journey of Africa's first world champion, highlighting both challenges and triumphs. The podcast intertwines deep social issues with compelling personal stories.

Robert Guest, Foreign Editor at The Economist and a seasoned traveler, shares hilarious and chaotic airport anecdotes, discussing infamous travel hubs. Fiametta Rocco, the Culture Correspondent, highlights the romantic revival of sleeper trains as a comforting alternative to flying, citing their appeal, especially among artists. Joel Budd, Social Policy Editor, analyzes Lagos' unique traffic jams, revealing how residents transform these delays into entrepreneurial opportunities, showcasing resilience in urban chaos. Safe travels!

Richard Cockett, Senior Editor at The Economist, discusses the impactful role of comedians in politics, especially as they transition from observers to influencers. He delves into the release of the Mueller report, highlighting what the redactions mean for public perception and political allegiances. The conversation also touches on the alarming prevalence of unqualified medical practitioners in Pakistan, illustrating the serious risks and the necessary reforms to protect public health. It's a blend of humor and critical issues shaping today's political landscape.

Guy Scriven, an Economist reporter specializing in Southeast Asian politics, shares insights on Indonesia's pivotal election and the future of its democracy. He discusses incumbent President Joko Widodo's popularity amidst his infrastructure achievements and the political tensions with challenger Proberio Sabianto, especially among youth. The conversation also touches on the booming tech unicorn market, raising questions about sustainability, and interestingly, the global rise of hot pot cuisine, showcasing its dynamic cultural impact.

Sophie Pedder, Paris bureau chief for The Economist, shares her insights on the Notre Dame fire, discussing its profound impact on France's national identity amid President Macron's challenges. Shashank Joshi, defense editor, explores the alarming discrepancies in civilian casualty counts during U.S. airstrikes, revealing the complexities of military transparency. The conversation also touches on the perilous journey of Cuban baseball players trying to make it to the big leagues despite shifting U.S. trade policies, highlighting the intertwining of culture and politics.

In this discussion, Alex Trevely, the India correspondent for The Economist, and reporter Adam Smith delve into the complexities of India's monumental election. They explore Prime Minister Modi’s divisive yet impactful campaign, rooted in Hindu nationalism, amid economic worries. The conversation shifts to social media challenges, highlighting the delicate balance between free speech and content regulation. They also touch on the intriguing evolution of pole dancing, examining its potential transition into a recognized global sport. This blend of politics and culture provides a captivating look at contemporary issues.

Tim Cross, Technology editor at The Economist, brings his insights on Bitcoin's decade-long journey, discussing its flaws and volatile nature. He also connects the recent coup in Sudan, a pivotal moment for democracy, to global themes like financial instability. The conversation dives into the complexities of human evolution, spotlighting discoveries like Homo luzonensis and the interplay among ancient species. Together, these topics illuminate our present challenges and the intricate story of humanity's past.

Mark Johnson, the China correspondent who delves into the implications of social experiments in cities like Sutian, shares insights on how trustworthiness is rated among citizens and businesses. The conversation also highlights the Brexit saga, as leaders grapple with the new October deadline, exposing divisions within the EU. Additionally, there’s a nod to the pioneering women in tech, specifically Dame Stephanie Shirley, who broke barriers in programming during the 1960s and championed women's empowerment in the tech field.