Economist Podcasts

In this lively discussion, Donald Trump, the former president facing legal troubles, vents about his recent arraignment, highlighting the charged political atmosphere. Meanwhile, Vishnu Padmanabhan, a data journalist, unveils the looming global rice crisis, linking climate change and public health challenges to rice production. The episode intriguingly connects panda diplomacy, exploring how leased pandas play into U.S.-China relations and the emotional impact on communities, especially in light of welfare concerns for pandas like Yaya.

Jeremy Page, Asia diplomatic editor at The Economist, provides insights into Emmanuel Macron’s delicate diplomatic dance during his China visit. He discusses the impact of economic motivations and European views on China amid rising tensions from the Ukraine conflict. Andrew Knox, the Korea correspondent, tackles North Korea's severe food crisis, highlighting rare public protests and environmental challenges. The conversation also touches on potential agricultural reforms, while maintaining skepticism about the regime's willingness to change.

Avantika Chilkoti, an International correspondent for The Economist, alongside Eleanor Whitehead, Australia's correspondent, dives into the fast-growing economies of India and Indonesia. They explore how these nations are reshaping their economic strategies amid global tensions, focusing on IT services and resource-based manufacturing. The conversation also highlights Australia's environmental crisis, particularly the Darling River and its urgent need for management. Additionally, the complexities of seizing luxury yachts owned by Russian oligarchs spark a discussion on the intersection of wealth and political accountability.

John Priddo, US editor at The Economist, explores the historic indictment of Donald Trump, delving into its potential to energize his supporters and affect the 2024 election. John McDermott highlights the rapid urbanization in Africa, focusing on how towns like Gwagwalada are evolving and the challenges they face. Vishnu Padmanabhan provides insights on the often overlooked yet crucial role of sports commentators and their evolution, showcasing how they enhance the viewer's emotional connection to the game.

Join Alexandra Switchbass, senior correspondent at The Economist, and Sam Weston, senior producer of The Intelligence, as they dive into the stormy waters surrounding TikTok's future in the U.S. They discuss rising national security concerns linked to the app’s Chinese ties and bipartisan talks of regulation and potential bans. The conversation shifts to the troubled state of Britain's court system, facing delays and disrepair. Lastly, explore the innovative concept of human composting as a sustainable alternative to traditional burials.

Greg Karlstrom, a Middle East expert for The Economist, discusses the recent diplomatic breakthrough between Iran and Saudi Arabia after seven years of tension. He delves into the implications this deal has for regional stability and the ongoing aggressions of Iran. Erin Braun, the West Coast correspondent, sheds light on the potential of geothermal energy in the U.S., outlining what it would take to harness this renewable resource effectively. They also touch upon the multifaceted challenges of COVID-19 origins and the wildlife trade.

Matt Steinglass, Europe correspondent for The Economist, and Tom Lee-Devlin, Global business correspondent, dive deep into Finland's historic NATO accession and what it means for Russia and European security. They explore the challenges faced by Western multinationals in a volatile geopolitical landscape. Additionally, they discuss an unexpected trend: TikTok's influence on the popularity of romance novels in Britain, revealing how social media reshapes cultural consumption.

In this discussion, Anshul Pfeffer, the Israel correspondent for The Economist, dives into the mounting protests erupting in Israel over Prime Minister Netanyahu's controversial judicial reforms. He highlights how these demonstrations are shaking the foundations of Israeli democracy amidst growing dissent. The conversation also touches on the unusual trend of pregnant Russian women seeking refuge in Argentina to capitalize on birthright citizenship. Together, they explore the implications of these events on society and governance.

Nick Pelham, the Middle East correspondent for The Economist, shares deep insights on Iraq two decades after the U.S. invasion. He highlights Baghdad's bustling marketplaces and the gradual recovery amid still-present challenges. Leo Marani, the Asia correspondent, discusses India's ambitious railway updates and their potential to bolster the economy. They explore the disillusionment among Iraqi youth and the complexities of India's infrastructure growth, delivering a thought-provoking dialogue on recovery, resilience, and the road ahead.

Simon Rabinovich, The Economist's U.S. economics editor, discusses the Federal Reserve's balancing act amid rising inflation and banking instability. He highlights the risks of raising interest rates too quickly versus too slowly. Meanwhile, Anne Rowe reflects on the transformative legacy of Jacqueline Gold, who revolutionized the retail landscape by empowering women in the lingerie and sex toy industry. Their insights reveal the intersection of economic strategies and societal change, offering a thought-provoking look at contemporary challenges.