Economist Podcasts

Mian Ridge, The Economist's Britain correspondent, analyzes the UK’s contentious asylum policy sending refugees to Rwanda and its implications for rights and sovereignty. Catherine Braik discusses the alarming climate crisis as Antarctica melts, affecting global sea levels and weather systems. Anne Rowe pays tribute to journalist Terry Anderson, sharing insights into his harrowing seven-year captivity and the resilience he showed throughout. Together, they unravel the complex intersections of politics, environment, and personal stories shaping our world.

Tom Gardner, an expert on African affairs for The Economist, sheds light on the devastating humanitarian crisis in Sudan, where civil war threatens to lead to widespread famine. He discusses the dire conditions faced by the population and the obstacles blocking vital aid. The conversation also touches on the urgent need to preserve endangered languages, highlighting the impact of colonialism. Additionally, Gardner delves into the implications of neutering domestic cats on the struggling Scottish wildcat population, raising questions about conservation ethics.

Daniel Franklin, The Economist's US Deputy Editor, dives into the contentious landscape of free speech on American campuses amid rising protests. He discusses the challenges university leaders face in balancing free expression and campus safety, particularly during heightened socio-political tensions. The conversation also touches on the shifting sentiments regarding Brexit, with many British voters expressing regret over leaving the EU. Lastly, innovative technologies aimed at protecting endangered whales from ship strikes are highlighted, showcasing the intersection of activism and conservation.

Explore the ethical dilemmas faced by AI companies as they navigate the murky waters of copyright and fair use in training their models. Delve into the startling mortality rates among ex-prisoners shortly after release, highlighting the health risks tied to their reintegration. Additionally, uncover the cultural significance of booing in sports and how it reflects societal tensions, as well as its impact on athletes' performance and well-being.

Shashank Joshi, The Economist's defence editor, discusses the implications of a $61 billion aid package for Ukraine amid ongoing military challenges from Russia. Anjani Trivedi, global business correspondent, shares insights on navigating supply chain disruptions that are affecting businesses worldwide. They explore strategic responses to rising costs and the changing landscape of geopolitical relations. Plus, they delve into the quirky resurgence of perpetual stew, a dish steeped in community and history, showcasing how culinary trends reflect societal shifts.

In this engaging discussion, Greg Karlstrom, The Economist's Middle East correspondent, analyzes the escalating tensions between Iran and Israel, highlighting potential escalations and global implications. Jeremy Page, the Asia diplomatic editor, explores the challenging landscape for India's Congress party amid elections, questioning its future strength against the BJP. Meanwhile, Anne Rowe pays tribute to the first foreign-born grand champion of sumo, sharing insights into his journey through cultural barriers to achieve greatness in Japan's traditional sport.

Georgia Banjo, a health writer for The Economist, and Michael Nedelcovych, a pharmaceuticals analyst at TD Cowen, dive into the booming market of weight-loss drugs. They discuss how these medications not only promise to revolutionize health outcomes for over a billion people suffering from obesity but also have immense economic implications. With companies like Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly leading the charge, they explore market trends, pricing challenges, and the potential reshaping of societal views on health and body image. A fascinating look at the intersection of health and economics!

Matt Steinglass, Deputy Europe editor for The Economist, dives into the pressing issue of military recruitment challenges across Europe. He discusses the potential revival of conscription in light of rising geopolitical tensions and contrasts it with the experiences of Nordic countries. The conversation also shifts to evolving domestic dynamics, highlighting how remote work is changing traditional gender roles, particularly with the rise of 'remote husbands.' Additionally, they explore the cultural sophistication and unique hunting strategies of killer whales, showcasing their remarkable intelligence.

Robert Guest, Deputy Editor at The Economist, discusses the growing political divide between young men and women, with men leaning right and women shifting left. He explores the cultural and educational disparities contributing to these changes. The conversation also dives into the evolving nature of organized crime in Naples, where crime may be hidden rather than erased, and connects it to the fascinating history of the flat white, Australia’s beloved coffee. It's a blend of politics, crime, and café culture!

Noah Snyder, Tokyo Bureau chief for The Economist, shares gripping updates on the Noto Peninsula following the devastating New Year's Day earthquake, exploring community resilience and future preparedness challenges. Andrew Palmer, Britain editor, dives into the intriguing world of corporate uniforms, discussing how attire shapes professional identity and influences perceptions in the workplace. Together, they navigate the complexities of personal choice, touching on the assisted dying debate and its reflection of individual freedom in society.