Economist Podcasts

Guy Scriven, the US technology correspondent for The Economist, delves into the surge in surveillance tech sales from Silicon Valley to law enforcement, raising important ethical concerns. Kenneth Werner explores the intertwining of religious beliefs and abortion rights, shedding light on legal challenges and progressive activists leveraging faith in their fight for reproductive freedom. The discussion also highlights the environmental struggles faced by Northern Ireland's Dark Hedges, a Game of Thrones filming site, amid tourism's impacts.

Greg Karlstrom, The Economist's Middle East correspondent, dives into the expanding Israeli ground offensive in Gaza and the humanitarian crisis ensuing from intense military actions. He discusses the complex military objectives amidst growing international scrutiny. Meanwhile, Stanley Pignol sheds light on the looming threat of the fentanyl crisis in Europe, comparing it to America's ongoing struggles with addiction. The conversation also amusingly touches on the micro-napping habits of penguins, revealing their unique evolutionary sleep patterns.

This podcast explores the resilience of Ukraine amidst the ongoing conflict, highlighting personal stories from students and families striving for normalcy. It delves into the psychological impacts of war on identity and mental health, reflecting on collective trauma. The discussion also touches on the historical significance of memorials like Babi Yar, emphasizing remembrance as crucial for national identity. Additionally, it examines the broader implications of the war and introduces a segment celebrating influential figures in Black history.

Olena Zelenska, First Lady of Ukraine, shares her journey from screenwriter to advocate during the war, emphasizing the vital role of mental health and resilience amid crisis. She discusses the challenges her family faces and the importance of supporting veterans. James Miles delves into China's ambitious toilet revolution, exploring urban-rural disparities and public health implications. The conversation also touches on the surprising growth of the luxury superyacht market, reflecting a paradox in consumer behavior during economic uncertainty.

Edward Carr, Deputy Editor of The Economist and a seasoned analyst of foreign policy, joins Oliver Morton, Planetary Affairs Editor, to unpack the multifaceted legacy of Henry Kissinger after his passing. They discuss Kissinger's controversial realpolitik approach and lasting impact on diplomacy. The conversation shifts to the COP28 summit, emphasizing carbon dioxide removal as a crucial strategy in climate efforts. Finally, they delve into the global cost of living crisis, spotlighting the rising prices in top cities amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.

Matt Steinglass, Europe correspondent, delves into Sweden's escalating gang violence, revealing alarming youth recruitment trends and the complexities of political responses. David Rennie, Beijing Bureau Chief, discusses China's strategic maneuvering in Middle East diplomacy, highlighting its role in the Gaza conflict and implications for global politics. The discussion also touches on maritime innovations, including advances in sailing technology that aim to shatter speed records. Join for insights into urgent social issues and evolving diplomatic landscapes.

Henry Tricks, a global business columnist for The Economist, and Alessandro Ford, an expert on Latin America, dive into the recent turnaround of Meta under Mark Zuckerberg’s leadership. They explore the illegal gold rush in Venezuela, where desperate workers turn to dangerous mining amid economic turmoil, and discuss the connection between mining and crime. Additionally, they touch on the cultural significance of North Korea's women's football team, examining how their success serves as propaganda amidst complex social dynamics.

Kinley Salmon, Africa correspondent for The Economist, shares harrowing accounts from Sudan, detailing the brutal impact of the ongoing conflict and the urgent humanitarian crisis. Meanwhile, Piotr Zalewski discusses how the war is reshaping Ukraine's labor market, with women stepping into roles traditionally held by men, such as mining. Their stories reveal the emotional complexities of these changes and the broader implications for society. They also touch on the evolving age of career peaks in science and literature, challenging the notion of young prodigies.

Noah Snyder, Tokyo bureau chief for The Economist, shares insights on Japan's economic revival prospects amid a deflationary struggle. John McDermott, chief Africa correspondent, discusses the significance of lithium mining in Zimbabwe, emphasizing China's role in the market. Meanwhile, Anne Rowe recounts the inspiring story of Eleanor Otto, a remarkable worker at Boeing who embodied resilience by riveting aircraft until the age of 95. Together, they delve into economics, history, and the quest for sustainable development.

Arjun Ramani, an AI expert at The Economist, and Ludwig Siegele, a specialist in AI safety and regulation, unpack the whirlwind events at OpenAI. They discuss the implications of Sam Altman's dramatic firing and reinstatement, raising questions about governance in tech. The conversation dives into the dual structure of OpenAI and its challenges balancing innovation with safety. Finally, they explore the complex landscape of AI regulation and the competitive pressures shaping the future of artificial intelligence.