Economist Podcasts

Anshul Pfeffer, a Jerusalem reporter for The Economist and author of a biography on Benjamin Netanyahu, joins Ryan Avent, a senior editor focusing on aging economies. They delve into Netanyahu's potential fifth term and its implications for Israeli-Palestinian negotiations. The conversation sparks interest in Israel's moon mission, intertwining political ambitions with scientific aspirations. They also tackle the challenges of an aging workforce, discussing its impact on productivity and the economy, and how robotics may reshape labor dynamics.

Simon Cox, Emerging Markets Editor based in Hong Kong, shares insights into the shifting global economic landscape, highlighting persistent low growth as the new norm. Jonathan Rosenthal, Africa Editor, discusses the escalating jihadist threat in the Sahel and international efforts to bolster local forces through military training in Burkina Faso. They also explore the fluctuating public interest in climate change, illustrating how major environmental events can reignite awareness, but concern often wanes amidst competing issues.

Hal Hodson, Technology correspondent for The Economist, dives into Libya's chaotic political landscape and the rising tensions as General Khalifa Haftar advances on Tripoli. He explores the complex web of foreign interests at play, alongside an intriguing discussion on algorithmic bias in Facebook's advertising system, revealing how race and gender discrimination can unintentionally skew ad visibility. Hodson also touches on the evolving gaming industry, examining the challenge of making slot machines appealing to a new generation while promoting fairness.

Adrian Wooldridge, a political commentator for The Economist, tackles the intriguing alliance forming between Prime Minister Theresa May and opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn amidst Brexit turmoil. The discussion highlights the dramatic shifts in political strategies and unexpected collaborations. They also reflect on the 25th anniversary of the Rwandan genocide, sharing personal survival stories and the ongoing struggle for national unity. Finally, a scientist introduces Alcosynth, an innovative synthetic alcohol alternative aimed at preserving the enjoyment of drinking while minimizing health risks.

Roger McShane, the Middle East editor for The Economist, unpacks the political fallout following President Bouteflika's resignation in Algeria, highlighting the power struggle and disorganized opposition. Madeleine Johan, the Canada correspondent, discusses the intensifying gun control debate sparked by protests and a tragic incident in parliament. They also examine how parenthood exacerbates the gender pay gap globally, revealing critical data on salary disparities linked to motherhood. This lively discussion offers deep insights into pressing international issues.

In this insightful discussion, Miranda Johnson, the Southeast Asia correspondent for The Economist, uncovers the 1MDB scandal, revealing the chaos that ensued from billions in misappropriated funds linked to Malaysia’s former prime minister. Patrick Fowles, the Business affairs editor, sheds light on corporate scandals plaguing American companies and the waning sense of accountability. The conversation also touches on a Chinese soap opera that humorously challenges traditional familial values, showcasing the cultural shifts within modern society.

Adam Roberts, The Economist's Midwest correspondent, and Hal Hodson, the technology correspondent, dive into the rising visibility of LGBT candidates in U.S. politics, spotlighting Chicago’s historic mayoral race. They discuss changing voter attitudes towards openly gay and transgender politicians and the ongoing need for diverse representation. The conversation also tackles Mark Zuckerberg’s call for internet regulation amidst societal challenges in tech, alongside the dark realities facing the glamorous K-pop industry.

Fyatr Zalewski, The Economist's Turkey correspondent, discusses the recent local elections in Turkey, revealing how economic mismanagement has led to significant losses for the ruling AK party while still retaining power. The conversation highlights the role of Kurdish voters and the broader implications for Turkey's political landscape. Erin Conway-Smith provides a harrowing look at the aftermath of Cyclone Idai in Mozambique, detailing the struggles of survivors in the face of food shortages and health crises, while showcasing their resilience amid climate change challenges.

Noah Snyder, a Moscow correspondent for The Economist, and Pamela Druckerman, a Paris-based writer, dive deep into the curious intersection of entertainment and politics in Ukraine's upcoming election, where a comedian leads the polls. They discuss the complexities of cultural heritage as calls grow louder for the return of looted artifacts, particularly the Benin bronzers. The conversation then shifts to France, exploring the decline of the beloved baguette, the challenges artisans face, and what the future holds for this iconic bread.

Anne McElvoy, Senior Editor at The Economist, dives into the chaotic state of Brexit as the Prime Minister promises to resign if her deal is passed. She analyzes the lack of consensus among political leaders and the potential candidates vying for leadership amid this turmoil. The discussion takes a sharp turn to public health, highlighting the resurgence of measles driven by anti-vaccine misinformation and the serious consequences of vaccination hesitancy. Lastly, McElvoy advocates for a fresh approach to grammar education to better engage students.