The David McWilliams Podcast
David McWilliams & John Davis
The aim of this weekly podcast is to make economics easy, uncomplicated and accessible. With the world at a political, technological and financial tipping point, economics has never been so important to all of us and yet, it’s made inaccessible and complicated by so many.I’ve always thought what is complicated is rarely important and what is important is rarely complicated.That will be our motto.Every week we are going to tease out some big economic or political issue facing us, not just here in Ireland but in Europe and further afield. Globalisation has brought us all together. We all face similar challenges whether you live in Dublin, London, Minnesota or Milan.If you would like to enjoy all of our content ad-free and have early access to episodes, subscribe to DMCW+ on Apple Podcast.Want to join our crew? Join at davidmcwilliams.ie/crew, where you can enjoy ad-free listening, as well as exclusive bonus content such as premium episodes, our macroeconomics course, early access to episodes and pre-sale access to tickets for Dalkey Book Festival & Kilkenomics. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
56 snips
Jan 22, 2026 • 49min
The old order is not coming back. We should not mourn it. Nostalgia is not a strategy!
This conversation delves into the seismic shifts marking the end of the post-1945 U.S. grand bargain. Japan's rising bond yields signal turmoil in global markets, forcing a reevaluation of risks. Mark Carney's insights frame these changes as a rupture, not a mere transition. The discussion extends to geopolitical flashpoints like Greenland, suggesting a potential break in U.S.-Europe relations. With Europe facing tough choices, the balance of power could see new contenders rise as old alliances fray. The world is indeed on the brink of a transformative year.
18 snips
Jan 20, 2026 • 40min
Trump vs. The Fed: Sabotage, Showdown, or Economic Revolution?
A fierce battle unfolds as Donald Trump challenges the Federal Reserve, questioning who truly controls money in America. The discussion delves into Trump's desire for lower interest rates and the political implications for borrowers and savers. Historical figures like Nero and Lenin illustrate the dangerous temptation to debase currency for short-term gains. The role of central banks comes under scrutiny, raising the question of their independence amidst rising debt and market reactions. Can the Fed withstand political pressure, or is it merely a rhetorical shield?
42 snips
Jan 15, 2026 • 54min
The Great Uncoupling & Fiscal Crisis: America, Europe & the Bond Market Reckoning
Fergal O'Brien, Director of Lobbying and Influence at IBEC, shares insights on Ireland's business landscape as it prepares for its EU presidency. He emphasizes the importance of competitiveness, infrastructure, and talent cultivation amid rising geopolitical tensions. The discussion also delves into the widening philosophical divide between America and Europe, likening it to the historic Sino-Soviet split. Additionally, they examine the looming threats posed by increasing debt and the possibility of a comeback for bond vigilantes, highlighting fiscal vulnerabilities across both continents.
45 snips
Jan 13, 2026 • 49min
The Bipolar Economy: Trump, Oil & the End of Balance with Carole Nakhle
Economist Carole Nakhle, CEO of Crystol Energy, dives into the tumultuous landscape of oil markets and geopolitical tension. She breaks down how Venezuela's oil reserves face significant hurdles for production despite their size. Iran’s unpredictable political climate could flip the oil market overnight, adding to global uncertainty. The discussion illustrates how a booming stock market contrasts sharply with everyday economic struggles, emphasizing the imbalance between asset holders and workers, and the crucial role of energy in shaping our economic future.
20 snips
Jan 8, 2026 • 46min
Venezuela Falls, Cuba Trembles with Marla Dukharan
In this discussion, economist Marla Dukharan, known for her insights on Caribbean economies, unpacks the profound consequences of U.S. actions in Venezuela. She reveals that Caribbean nations hold staggering debts tied to Venezuela, some as high as 50% of their GDP, even as millions flee the country. Dukharan warns that if Venezuela's oil disappears, Cuba could face economic collapse. The episode delves into the complex interplay of historical ties, regional dependency, and the dark side of humanitarian interventions.
31 snips
Jan 6, 2026 • 44min
After Maduro: Who Really Runs Venezuela Now? with Juan Tokatlian
Join Juan Tokatlian, a seasoned Latin America analyst, as he unpacks the aftermath of Nicolás Maduro's removal in Venezuela. He reveals the concept of a U.S.-managed protectorate, where Washington engages directly with the military and Chavista elite. Topics include the shift from drug operations to oil dependencies, and the implications for regional politics with tensions involving China and Russia. Tokatlian delineates fears among Latin American nations and discusses the potential for historical parallels to play out again, highlighting a precarious future.
45 snips
Jan 1, 2026 • 42min
What If 2026 Is the Year America Leaves Us Behind?
What if 2026 sees the US turn its back on Europe? Growing concerns arise as American investments dwindle in Ireland, impacting industries and housing. Discussions reveal a risk-averse political climate paralyzing decision-making on vital infrastructure. The looming housing crisis could exacerbate, with rising rents and insufficient construction. Amidst these challenges, a glimmer of hope surfaces in the form of football: could a World Cup boost offer the economic uplift Ireland desperately needs?
10 snips
Dec 30, 2025 • 46min
What's Really Going on In Venezuela? Oil, Empire & the Next Proxy War
Juan Gabriel Tokatlian, an Argentine professor of international relations, dives deep into Venezuela's descent from wealth to chaos. He discusses how oil dependency, government corruption, and mismanagement under Maduro triggered mass migration without armed conflict. The conversation explores the volatility of US-Venezuelan relations, potential regime change, and the implications for neighboring Cuba. Tokatlian highlights regional reactions to US military presence, warning that any invasion could unify Latin America against further American interventions.
22 snips
Dec 23, 2025 • 43min
2025: China’s Year
China is set to be the dominant global power by 2025, focusing on stability and consolidation rather than conquest. The podcast delves into its 2,000-year history of centralization and the unifying power of its written language. It also explores how China has redirected trade in response to U.S. tariffs, illustrating its strategic economic influence. With a historical perspective on imperial bureaucracy, the discussion highlights why internal cohesion triumphs over imperial ambitions, shaping a resilient and quietly powerful China.
Dec 18, 2025 • 38min
Was Genghis Khan the World’s First Globalist?
Genghis Khan is often seen as history's destroyer, but what if he was also a trailblazer of globalization? The Mongol Empire reopened the Silk Road, creating a massive free-trade zone connecting East and West. This led to the exchange of innovations like paper and gunpowder, but also inadvertently spread the Black Death. With unique governance strategies, the Mongols fostered local autonomy while boosting economic integration. Ultimately, they played a crucial role in laying the groundwork for the Renaissance and reshaping the global economy.
