Economist Podcasts

Piotr Zalewski, a correspondent in Kherson, shares gripping insights into the city's resilience a year after its liberation from Russian occupation. Meanwhile, Tom Wainwright, The Economist's media editor, explores how AI is reshaping the entertainment landscape, emphasizing the rise of the 'Omnistar' and the concerns over job security for creators. Emily Steinmark highlights New York City's bird safety initiatives, showcasing how new legislation is making the urban environment safer for migrating birds.

Jeremy Page, The Economist's Asia diplomatic editor, offers a deep dive into the capabilities and challenges faced by China's People’s Liberation Army, emphasizing the precarious balance regarding Taiwan's security. Anne Rowe, insightful obituaries editor, reflects on the complexities of confronting ancestral legacies, including a family's journey regarding their ties to slavery. The discussion also highlights the thrill of adventure, linking personal accountability to historical narratives. Together, they challenge listeners to rethink both military assessments and historical responsibilities.

The podcast takes listeners on a road trip across America to explore the impact of President Biden's Inflation Reduction Act on green infrastructure. It highlights the construction boom of battery and electric vehicle plants in small towns. The discussion showcases Panasonic's new battery factory in DeSoto, revealing mixed community feelings about industrial growth. Stanton, Tennessee's turn from decline to manufacturing opportunity is explored, shedding light on local hopes and the importance of creative talent. The episode wraps up with insights into Jacksonville's film history and WeWork's financial challenges.

Henry Kerr, Economics editor for The Economist, shares insights on persistent high interest rates and their global implications. Kerry Richmond Jones, an international economics correspondent, analyzes the economic fallout from the ongoing Israeli-Hamas war, specifically its impact on tourism and business in the region. The discussion also explores the surprising resilience of the U.S. economy amid rising rates, as well as cultural reflections in contemporary British literature, particularly Jilly Cooper's provocative new book.

Gareth Brown, Middle East correspondent for The Economist, shares his insights on the rising tide of organized crime in Asia. He discusses a high-profile money-laundering case in Singapore linked to online gambling, revealing how crime gangs exploit these avenues. The conversation shifts to political dynamics in Palestine, featuring Muhammad Dahlan's vision for a post-war future. Additionally, the health crisis posed by lead-adulterated turmeric in South Asia is examined, highlighting the urgent need for awareness and successful mitigation efforts.

Najib Mikati, Lebanon's prime minister and seasoned businessman, shares his insights on the recent Gaza conflict and his ambitious peace plan aimed at stabilizing the region. He discusses the critical need to prevent Hizbullah from escalating tensions and the broader implications for Middle Eastern relations. The conversation also touches on the tragic impact of the conflict on civilians and the urgent quest for diplomatic solutions. In addition, listeners learn about the evolving strategies in Ohio's abortion rights debate and the challenges of honesty in today’s job market.

Anshul Pfeffer, a seasoned correspondent for The Economist, reports from the front lines in Gaza, providing a gripping account of the ongoing military operations and their humanitarian toll. Callum Williams, the senior economics writer, dives into the lingering effects of the pandemic on consumer behavior, questioning why many are still withdrawing from social activities. They discuss the concept of 'quiet quitting' and its implications for various generations in the workplace, shedding light on drastic shifts in engagement and satisfaction among workers post-pandemic.

Catherine Brahic, Environment editor at The Economist, and Sacha Nauta, Social affairs editor, share their deeply personal journeys with IVF. They explore the emotional rollercoaster of hope and despair that comes with fertility treatments. Their candid discussions highlight the grief, loneliness, and relationship dynamics shaped by their experiences over five years. Both guests emphasize the need for openness about these struggles, shedding light on the often-untold realities of the IVF process and advocating for greater understanding and support.

Alice Fullwood, a Wall Street correspondent for The Economist, and Sasha Nauter, the social affairs editor, dissect the dramatic fall of Sam Bankman-Fried, convicted of fraud and its ripple effect on the cryptocurrency market. They also explore the evolution of IVF treatment, shedding light on accessibility issues many face. Lastly, the discussion turns to the shifting nuances of Southern accents, revealing how generational change is shaping linguistic identities in America’s South.

Arkady Ostrovsky, the Russia and Eastern Europe editor for The Economist, shares his insight on the stagnation in the Ukraine conflict, drawing parallels to historical military strategies. Alexandra Sewage-Bass, the Culture editor, delves into the dynamic shift in the art market from London to Paris, emphasizing the impact of Brexit on auction practices. The discussion also touches on the role of social media influencers in bridging the gap in sexual health education in India, revealing cultural challenges amidst traditional festivities.