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
10 snips
Jan 2, 2024 • 29min
2024:01 The Economic Growth Equation & the Great 2023 Book Review
The podcast delves into the formula for economic growth, reviews books from 2023, discusses the legacy of economist Robert Solo, and explores the impact and significance of money on humanity and society.
7 snips
Dec 28, 2023 • 32min
2023 in review
The podcast reviews the eventful year of 2023, discussing topics such as the impact of Brexit on the UK economy, the battle between inflation and interest rates, and reflections on Israel-Palestine conflict and supply chain disruptions.
15 snips
Dec 26, 2023 • 1h 1min
The shifting political landscape - a conversation with Naomi Klein
Naomi Klein, a well-known political and social activist, discusses a wide range of political topics including the impact of technology on our sense of identity, the co-opting of leftist messages by the far right, the significance of Steve Bannon in building a global political movement, the power of rhetoric and action in creating political change, the upcoming American election, and the need to hold oil companies accountable for climate change.
9 snips
Dec 21, 2023 • 33min
The economics of imagination
Discussions include perceptions and realities of Los Angeles, the story of William Mulholland and LA's water infrastructure, the economics of Los Angeles and the booming entertainment industry, the uniqueness of the creative industries in LA, and an upcoming event with Bernie Sanders and Patreon exclusive tickets.
Dec 19, 2023 • 30min
What happens in Vegas!!
Live from Las Vegas, the podcast discusses the upcoming American election, global interest rates, potential American isolationism, the Gutenberg Bible, today's AI boom, and more. They reflect on the surreal nature of Las Vegas and share their experiences attending a U2 concert in a unique structure called the sphere. The podcast also explores the potential consequences of Brexit on Europe, the declining grades in the US education system, and the unintended consequences of technological advancements.
6 snips
Dec 14, 2023 • 32min
Bitcoin is back, why?
Bitcoin's value has risen over 150% this year, leading to a discussion on its resurgence and the wisdom of Charlie Munger. The hosts explore the concept of hoarding in relation to Bitcoin and its impact on its status as money. They also delve into the rising demand for Bitcoin and discuss its potential as a global reserve currency. The hosts share their perspective on Bitcoin and holiday shopping, emphasizing the importance of gifting native Irish trees.
28 snips
Dec 12, 2023 • 39min
The Paradox of Prudence
The podcast discusses the paradox of prudence in Ireland's public finance, highlighting the deficit in public infrastructure and surplus in public finances. It explores the impact of economic policies on frontline workers and migrants, the difference in mindset between poor and rich people, and the influence of outdated thinking on economic policy. The podcast emphasizes the need for investment in infrastructure and the connection between public mood, finances, and infrastructure.
5 snips
Dec 7, 2023 • 36min
Putin's Back!
The podcast explores the inflection point in geo-politics and its impact on America's status in the world. It discusses diasporas, night out chaos, and geopolitical shifts. It also delves into the insights from Henry Kissinger on nation building and geopolitics. The historical connections, industry decline, and solidarity among miners are also explored. The importance of perspectives in geopolitics and the challenges faced by conflicts, climate change, and technological advancements are discussed. The podcast also highlights the diminished role of the United States in the world due to the current president's actions.
Dec 5, 2023 • 37min
Shane MacGowan, the Diaspora and the coming 2nd Irish Republic.
Shane MacGowan, Irish musician and songwriter, discusses the Irish diaspora's impact on English popular culture and the need for a second Irish Republic. They explore the influence of Irish musicians on English music and culture, and the role of diasporas in global relationships. The hosts also touch on different worldviews, the value of the Irish tribe, and empowering local government for direct democracy.
15 snips
Nov 30, 2023 • 43min
Liberal democracy under threat?
The rise of right-wing votes in Ireland and Europe poses a threat to liberal democracy. The interconnectedness between Iran, Russia, and China and their efforts to undermine Western values and democracies. The impact of globalization, the pandemic, and the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis on politics and economics. The deficiencies in China's macroeconomics. The relationship between a successful economy and the rise of millionaires and billionaires. The negative impacts of monopolies and billionaires on society. The corrupting influences on politics and the importance of dissent for creativity and commerce.
