Economist Podcasts

Avantika Tilkoti, an International correspondent for The Economist, and Abby Bertics, a Science correspondent, dive into Thailand’s political shift with the reformist Move Forward party gaining traction among young voters. They discuss the hurdles posed by military influence and entrenched interests in democracy's path. On a different note, Bertics sheds light on the Ocean Census initiative, aiming to uncover 100,000 new marine species, tapping into cutting-edge DNA research, and emphasizing the importance of marine biodiversity amidst climate challenges.

Join Piotr Zilevski, The Economist's Turkey correspondent, as he breaks down Turkey's recent elections and the surprising resilience of President Erdogan amid opposition hopes. Daniela Raz, a data journalist, highlights alarming trends in teenage girls' mental health and the suspected role of social media. Meanwhile, Shashank Joshi shares intriguing insights from his recommended reading list on espionage, shedding light on the complexities of intelligence work and the challenges of modern-day spying.

Tom Lee Devlin, The Economist's global business correspondent; Fiametta Rocco, senior editor and culture correspondent; and Tom Wainwright, tech and media editor, tackle the shifting landscape of American consumer behavior. They discuss how inflation pushes middle-class shoppers toward budget brands while luxury markets remain resilient. The trio also dives into the transformative role of AI in journalism, weighing its potential benefits against job displacement concerns, and reflects on the importance of marginalized narratives through historical lens.

Turkey is on the brink of a landmark election, with President Erdogan facing a serious challenger for the first time in years, raising questions about democracy and the economy. In Hollywood, ongoing writers' strikes reflect deeper industry tensions, reminiscent of the 2007 labor disputes, as union members stand firm for fair treatment. The discussion shifts gears to mixology, where listeners get valuable insights on cocktail making, blending art and science for an enjoyable experience.

John Priddo, U.S. editor and co-host of Checks and Balance, and Su Lin Wong, Southeast Asia correspondent, discuss the significant legal defeat for Donald Trump in a sexual assault case, highlighting its implications for his political future. They also delve into the dynamic political landscape in Thailand, examining the power struggles and economic challenges that could shape the upcoming elections. Additionally, they explore Ukraine's innovative use of inflatable decoys as a tactical strategy in warfare, redefining modern military deception.

Join Arkady Ostrovsky, presenter of the Russia podcast, Shashank Joshi, defense editor, and Rosie Blau, a China expert, as they delve into the heart of Kyiv. They explore the resilience of its citizens amidst conflict and the innovative military technologies emerging from Ukraine. The conversation shifts to China’s pressing demographic challenges, including a shrinking workforce and rigid immigration policies, while also shedding light on the curious tradition of rattlesnake roundups in America, blending culture with controversy.

John Boone, who covers Afghanistan for The Economist, shares insights into the country's current humanitarian crisis, driven by the Taliban's return to power and the dire needs of 28 million people. Nicolas Pelham, the Middle East correspondent, highlights the complex resilience of Afghans, especially women grappling with oppression yet finding ways to push back. John Bleasdale discusses how mobile phones have reshaped cinema, especially impactful in genres like horror, showcasing their cultural significance over decades.

Catherine Nixey, Britain correspondent for The Economist, shares insights on the upcoming coronation of King Charles III, highlighting its mix of tradition and modern sentiment. She discusses the public’s varied reactions, especially among younger generations, to royal pomp. Meanwhile, Vijay Vaitheeswaran, the Energy, Global and Climate Innovation Editor, dives into America’s rise as a clean energy superpower, fueled by recent legislation and investments, showcasing the potential for sustainable transformation in the energy sector.

Alexandra Sewitch-Bass, a senior correspondent for politics, technology, and society, digs into Florida Governor Ron DeSantis's controversial shift to the right and how it might affect his presidential aspirations. Kinley Semon, Africa correspondent, shares harrowing insights on the escalating jihadist violence in Burkina Faso, particularly its impact on schools and local communities. They also touch on the unexpected rise of Japanese Kei trucks in rural America, reshaping consumer habits away from traditional pickups.

Geoffrey Hinton, a groundbreaking figure in AI known for his pioneering work on neural networks, joins Tom Standage, Deputy Editor of The Economist. They delve into the pressing risks of AI, calling for careful consideration and regulation. Hinton shares concerns about bias and misinformation, highlighting the need for transparency as technology evolves. The conversation also touches on Ukraine’s urgent need for advanced fighter jets and explores a new video game that offers an interactive narrative of the Holocaust, engaging younger generations in history.