Economist Podcasts

In this enlightening discussion, Don Lincoln, a senior scientist at Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory, and Jodi Cooley, executive director of SNOLAB, dive into the elusive world of dark matter. They explore its crucial role in cosmic structure and the innovative detection techniques being developed. The duo highlights groundbreaking research presented at a recent scientific conference, assessing the ongoing challenges and advances in uncovering dark matter's secrets. Will new technologies finally unveil what has long remained hidden?

Join Tom Standage, Deputy Editor at The Economist, and Sarah Larniuk, Senior Producer for The Intelligence, as they dive into the exciting world of lunar exploration and the challenges faced by private lander missions. They discuss the ramifications of a potential soft landing by Odysseus and the dynamics of the renewed space race. Additionally, Sarah offers insights from Ukraine, reflecting on the anniversary of the Revolution of Dignity and the resilience shown through its history. The conversation also touches on the evolution of British obituaries, blending humor and remembrance.

Rachana Shambhog, The Economist's business affairs editor, discusses China's faltering economy and shrinking investor confidence amid regulatory upheaval. Epiphany Nodjukua Johnrang, a slam poet from Chad, uses her artistry to confront social injustices and empower women in a patriarchal society. They explore the decline of multi-talented athletes in sports, contrasting it with the rise of slam poetry as a powerful voice for change in Africa. Together, they highlight resilience in both finance and the arts.

Arkady Ostrovsky, Russia and Eastern Europe editor for The Economist, provides deep insights into the implications of Alexei Navalny's silencing by Putin's regime. They discuss the psychological impact of fear in Russia and how Navalny's legacy of defiance may fuel future resistance. The conversation also touches on the weakening demand for electric vehicles in Britain and the cultural significance of a new stage adaptation of 'The Shawshank Redemption' in China, exploring themes of censorship and resilience in art.

Alexei Navalny, the prominent Russian opposition politician known for his fierce anti-corruption stance, shares his dramatic journey after returning to Russia in 2021. The narrative captures his abrupt detention and the emotional turmoil of his last three years, including a near-fatal poisoning. Listeners learn about mass protests ignited by his arrest and the resilience of young activists fighting against political oppression. The discussion also delves into themes of cultural identity and longing for homeland amidst exile, painting a poignant picture of resistance in modern Russia.

Anton LaGuardia, the diplomatic editor at The Economist, dives into the escalating threats of space warfare and its implications for military strategy. Joan Hurie highlights trends from the Democracy Index, revealing the paradox of rising democracies amid declining democratic quality. Finally, Anne Rowe shares the remarkable story of Jack Jennings, a WWII veteran, showcasing his resilience during harrowing POW experiences. This blend of military, political, and personal narratives provides a thought-provoking look at today's global challenges.

Su Lin Wong, the Southeast Asia correspondent for The Economist, dives deep into Indonesia's recent presidential election, where Prabowo Subianto claimed a controversial victory amid concerns over his human rights record. The discussion sheds light on the potential threat this poses to Indonesia's democratic progress. Additionally, the podcast touches on the groundbreaking advancements in AI technology, particularly with AMD's new microprocessor aiming to rival NVIDIA, and even the rise of slap fighting as a bizarre new spectacle in sports.

In this discussion, Adam O'Neill, Washington correspondent, sheds light on the Senate's contentious approval of a $95 billion foreign aid bill for Ukraine and other allies, highlighting the internal GOP divides. Lina Shipper, South Asia bureau chief, addresses the escalating issue of stray cows in India, exploring the socio-political tensions surrounding cow worship and the rise of vigilante groups. They also touch on the changing trends of Valentine's Day celebrations in Britain, where more couples are opting for cozy, cost-effective at-home gatherings.

Colin Chinnery, a sound artist and archivist, co-founded a sound museum in Beijing to preserve the city's rich auditory heritage. He and Beijing bureau chief David Rennie discuss the historical significance of sound in Beijing, from the echoes of street hawkers to the ceremonial drumming of the Drum Tower. Chinnery shares personal stories that highlight how sound shaped cultural identity while exploring the challenges of modern preservation efforts. Together, they reflect on the contrast between historical vibrancy and today's quieter, more restrictive atmosphere.

Matt Steinglass, the Deputy Europe editor for The Economist, shares insights on Poland's political turmoil as the centrist government grapples with the legacy of the hard-right PiS party. Marie Seger, a data journalist, presents eye-opening research on the 'motherhood penalty', revealing how motherhood adversely impacts women's careers. They discuss the broader implications of these challenges, including media bias and gender disparities in the workforce, while touching on new technologies that could transform climate science.