Economist Podcasts

The latest round of US-China trade talks reveals deepening complexities and skepticism on both sides. Apple’s bold move into the entertainment industry highlights the evolving landscape of streaming wars as traditional media struggles. Meanwhile, Kim Jong Un’s recent approachable demeanor raises questions about North Korea's propaganda strategies in a world increasingly influenced by foreign narratives.

In this insightful discussion, Henry Kerr, Editor at The Economist, unveils the troubling trends in corporate debt and its looming risks over the global economy. Guy Scriven, a Correspondent focused on Southeast Asia, sheds light on the alarming surge of methamphetamine use in the region, detailing its causes and far-reaching consequences. They also delve into Slovakia's political scene, highlighting the rise of an anti-corruption candidate as she navigates a landscape marred by scandals and extremism. A riveting exploration of interconnected crises!

James Astill, Washington correspondent for The Economist, dives into the fallout from the Mueller report regarding President Trump, exploring its potential impact on the political landscape. He discusses how the report's findings—or lack thereof—reshaped the Democrats' strategies in Congress. The conversation shifts to Greece, analyzing the Syriza party's promises and its current struggles amidst economic pressures and a looming election, offering insights into the evolving political dynamics under Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras.

Jeremy Cliff, who reports from Brussels for The Economist and has a keen insight into British politics, joins Miranda Johnson, Southeast Asia correspondent, to explore the latest on Brexit. They discuss the recent refusal of EU leaders to grant a three-month extension, raising stakes for the UK. Switching gears, they dive into Thailand's turbulent political landscape as it prepares for a historic election amid military influence. Lastly, learn how dubstep music is innovatively used to accelerate whiskey aging, sparking intrigue in the spirits industry.

As Brexit looms, Theresa May pushes for a deadline extension while facing political hurdles in Parliament. Tensions with the EU escalate, and urgent decisions hang in the balance. Meanwhile, concerns grow over potent cannabis strains potentially contributing to psychosis, urging a rethink of consumption guidelines. Additionally, intriguing research reveals that sharing food can enhance negotiation success, fostering emotional connections and quicker agreements. Who knew dinner could be so diplomatic?

Beto O’Rourke's charisma drives his presidential campaign, making waves with impressive fundraising and a progressive message. The podcast also dives into the palm oil paradox, weighing its economic benefits against environmental harm. Additionally, it highlights gender disparities in economics academia, shedding light on the challenges women face and advocating for a more inclusive culture. Finally, the discussion on the evolving landscape of AI in business showcases its potential to enhance productivity while pushing for timely adoption.

Natasha Loda, Health policy editor for The Economist, dives into the resurgence of Ebola in the Democratic Republic of Congo. She discusses the significant hurdles health workers face, including regional instability and public distrust. Personal tragedies, like a police officer's death, underscore the crisis. Loda highlights the efforts of Médecins Sans Frontières in rebuilding community trust amid chaos and emphasizes the need for effective strategies and international cooperation to combat the outbreak.

David Rennie, The Economist's China columnist, explores the impact of white supremacist terrorism, particularly in the wake of the Christchurch attack. He discusses the growing threat of far-right extremism and its troubling acceptance in political discourse. Alongside this, Rennie takes listeners into a network of Chinese museums that navigate the delicate balance of remembering the Cultural Revolution while avoiding the ire of the Communist Party. The podcast also touches on the quirky culture of exploiting free offers in Silicon Valley.

Fred Harter, a journalist for The Economist known for his insights on global issues, dives into the turbulent waters of Brexit and the vibrant youth climate movement. He discusses the chaotic negotiations and divisions within Parliament, shedding light on the uncertainty of the UK’s future relationship with the EU. Additionally, Harter explores radical geoengineering solutions to climate change and their implications. Lastly, he uncovers the complex history of pub licensing in Ireland, highlighting the unique challenges faced by aspiring pub owners.

Stephen Gibbs, an Economist correspondent in Caracas, shares a harrowing look at the ongoing power outages in Venezuela and the desperate impact on citizens' lives. He discusses how these blackouts not only jeopardize healthcare but also exacerbate food insecurity amid a backdrop of political turmoil. Gibbs also touches on the contrasting narratives between the government and opposition. Additionally, the podcast intriguingly delves into the art of shipbreaking and a scholar's journey to translate the Hebrew Bible, exploring literary beauty and spiritual depth.