Economist Podcasts

The race for AI dominance is heating up, as tech giants like Microsoft and Google battle to redefine online search. Discover how integrating AI can enhance efficiency, as illustrated by a personal trainer's experience. Meanwhile, luxury office spaces are emerging as a solution to attract talent in a shifting work environment. Lastly, explore the sugar crisis impacting European bakeries, driven by rising ingredient costs and poor harvests, threatening the future of beloved pastries.

Matt Steinglass, Europe correspondent for The Economist, analyzes the devastating earthquakes in Turkey and Syria, discussing the challenges of delivering aid in a politically charged environment. Chris Whipple, an expert on White House chiefs of staff, shares insights on the crucial role of leadership during crises, focusing on Ron Klain and Jeff Zients. The conversation also touches on the political implications of Turkey's disasters as it approaches elections, highlighting the intersection of humanitarian response and governance.

James Bennett, the insightful author of the Lexington column for The Economist, joins to dissect the recent Chinese balloon incident that has strained U.S.-China relations. He analyzes the contrasting narratives from both nations and the political fallout for the Biden administration. The conversation also explores the vibrant life in Mumbai's Chor Bazaar, reflecting on the challenges of informal labor and urban development. Lastly, Bennett touches on the troubling rise in obesity rates in France, debunking the idealized image of French femininity.

Charlotte Howard, Executive Editor at The Economist, talks with Arkady Ostrovsky, Russia’s editor, and Fiametta Rocco, Culture Correspondent, about various transformative topics. They delve into the Biden administration’s revitalization plans for American manufacturing and clean energy. Ostrovsky highlights the resilience of independent journalists in Russia amid censorship and war. Rocco shares insights on Gina Lollobrigida’s inspiring rise from wartime Italy to Hollywood stardom, emphasizing her cultural impact.

Join Michael Reid, a writer at large for The Economist, as he unpacks the ongoing political turmoil and protests in Peru following a recent presidential crisis. Ore Ogunbi sheds light on the intriguing shopping habits of Gen Z, revealing how economic woes and social media shape their consumer choices. Meanwhile, David Benin explores the satirical brilliance of Tom Lehrer, examining how his unique blend of comedy and mathematics revolutionized modern humor. A thought-provoking discussion that connects politics, culture, and consumer trends!

Tom Easton, The Economist's Asia business correspondent, dives deep into the Adani Group's turmoil, sparked by shocking allegations from Hindenburg Research. He discusses the fallout from the stock manipulation claims and the resilience of India's corporate elite during this crisis. Additionally, the conversation shifts to Mexico's bright future as an electric vehicle manufacturing hub, navigating challenges and competition. Easton also touches on the unexpected rise of MAGA rap, exploring how it intertwines with political culture and personal stories in music.

Sophie Petter, the Paris bureau chief for The Economist, dives into the urgent labor protests in France as workers rally against pension reforms aimed at raising the retirement age from 62 to 64. She illustrates the deep-rooted opposition among the public and the crucial role of unions in this struggle. Additionally, Petter discusses the grim outlook for corporate earnings in the U.S., juxtaposing challenges in the tech sector with surprising successes elsewhere. The conversation also touches on shifting societal attitudes towards polyamory and the legal hurdles faced by non-traditional relationships.

Ore Ogunbiyi, a U.S. editor and host of Checks and Balance, discusses the troubling case of Tyre Nichols and the unique response from the Memphis Police Department. Avantika Chilkoti, a foreign correspondent, highlights the dire situation of women under the Taliban, focusing on the tragic murder of Mursal Nabizada. Abby Burdix, a resident science writer, challenges traditional views on associative learning with new insights into how animals process rewards, diving into the complexities of emotional responses.

John McDermott, Chief Africa correspondent for The Economist, discusses South Africa's dire infrastructure crisis, focusing on the rampant mismanagement of state-owned enterprises like Eskom. He highlights how energy blackouts are fueling public discontent and sparking national protests. Meanwhile, Anne Rowe pays tribute to Ronald Blythe, a celebrated rural writer whose reflections on community and nature echo the struggles of traditional life amidst modern challenges. Their insights paint a vivid picture of a nation at a crossroads.

Anshul Pfeffer, who analyzes Israel's political scene for The Economist, discusses the escalating conflict between the right-wing government and the judiciary, highlighting massive protests and fears for democratic integrity. Don Wineland shares insights on Shanghai's remarkable recovery post-zero-COVID, revealing the community's resilience and evolving social dynamics. Together, they also touch on the heated debate over gas stoves in America, exploring cultural clashes and health concerns surrounding this contentious topic.