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Explore every episode of the podcast Economist Podcasts

Dive into the complete episode list for Economist Podcasts. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.

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TitlePub. DateDuration
Silver-year strongman: 25 years of Narendra Modi30 Oct 202600:27:50

We examine the record of the man at the helm of India’s government. As protests pose a fresh threat, where will he take the country next? From New Hampshire to Virginia, our American-midterms series takes you to the races you might be missing. And the life of Winston Churchill’s last personal secretary.


Guests and host:

  • Tom Sasse, South Asia bureau chief
  • Daniella Raz, US correspondent
  • Ann Wroe, obituaries editor
  • Ọrẹ Ogunbiyi, co-host of “The Intelligence”
  • Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”

Topics covered:

  • Narendra Modi, India, Cockroach-Janta party
  • America’s midterm elections, abortion, California
  • Cecily Gemmell, Winston Churchill

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Effective non-altruism: Elon Musk’s foundation29 Oct 202600:23:02

The world’s richest person does not say much nice about philanthropy, and his foundation does not say much about itself. Our correspondent digs deeper. The next stop for our midterm-elections series is Kansas, where a Republican-seeming Democrat has an unlikely shot at the Senate. And an examination of the received wisdom about how many steps to walk in a day.

Guests and host:

  • Avantika Chilkoti, global business writer
  • Daniel Knowles, Midwest correspondent
  • Sam Wikeley, science correspondent
  • Rosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”
  • Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”

Topics covered:

  • Elon Musk, Musk Foundation, philanthropy
  • America’s midterm elections, Kansas
  • wellness, walking, received wisdom

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Bye bye Bibi? Israel’s election results28 Oct 202600:21:19

Binyamin Netanyahu has underperformed but so has his main opponent, Gadi Eisenkot. Who will form a government? We decipher what the messy results mean for Israel. Our American-midterms series heads south to Georgia. And how film critics and audiences have agreed to disagree.


Guests and host:

  • Anshel Pfeffer, Israel correspondent
  • Rebecca Jackson, Southern correspondent
  • Doug Dowson, data journalist
  • Ọrẹ Ogunbiyi, co-host of “The Intelligence”
  • Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”

Topics covered:

  • Israel, Binyamin Netanyahu, Gadi Eisenkot
  • America’s midterm elections, Georgia, Jon Ossoff
  • Film critics, cinema, the box office

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Act of Claude: Anthropic’s IPO bid27 Oct 202600:23:34

It would be the first public listing from a frontier-AI firm—and perhaps the largest IPO of all time. We comb through the filing to understand how the company is thinking about itself and its industry. Our American-midterms series continues in the battleground state of Alaska. And scientists consider how to redefine the second.

Guests and host:

  • Miles Kruppa, technology correspondent
  • Aryn Braun, West Coast correspondent
  • David Adam, science writer
  • Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”

Topics covered:

  • Anthropic IPO, AI
  • America’s midterm elections, Alaska
  • the second, metrology, atomic clocks

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From this day, fourth: Lula’s surprise win26 Oct 202600:27:22

Brazil’s president, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, staged a historic comeback to win a fourth term. We ask how he did it, and what he must do next. Each day this week our correspondents in America are focusing on crucial midterm-election races; today we start in Texas. And tote-bag economics: why so many businesses are getting in on selling merchandise.

Guests and host:

  • Ana Lankes, Brazil bureau chief
  • Rebecca Jackson, southern correspondent
  • Lizzy Peet, researcher
  • Rosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”
  • Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”

Topics covered:

  • Brazil election, Lula, Flávio Bolsonaro
  • America’s midterm elections, Texas, Ken Paxton, James Talarico
  • economics of “merch”

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Songs of disenchantment: the sorrow of Nigeria23 Oct 202600:24:40

Nigeria is suffering a worsening security crisis, compounded by a lean harvest, global aid cuts and rising energy prices. So why is President Bola Tinubu likely to win January’s election? Europe is struggling to develop a rival to Starlink and reduce reliance on American satellites. And our obituaries editor recalls the improbable career of author and conman Jeffrey Archer.

Watch extended clips from Insider here.

Guests and host:

  • Ore Ogunbiyi, Africa correspondent
  • Jonathan Rosenthal, international correspondent
  • Ann Wroe, obituaries editor
  • Rosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”
  • Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”

Topics covered:

  • Nigeria, Bola Tinubu
  • Starlink, Ukraine, Musk, OneWeb, Eutelsat
  • Jeffrey Archer, Kane and Abel, perjury

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Dunes and gloom: MBS’s annus horribilis22 Oct 202600:24:21

This week, Muhammad bin Salman, crown prince of Saudi Arabia, was forced to postpone his annual investment summit. His other big bets on the kingdom’s future are also floundering. Sam Bankman-Fried, a crypto-billionaire supporter of effective altruism, calls our correspondent from prison. And things look hazy in Singapore and other Asian countries.

Guests and host:

  • Gregg Carlstrom, Middle East correspondent
  • Shera Avi-Yonah, US business correspondent
  • Vishnu Padmanabhan, Asia correspondent
  • Rosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”
  • Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”

Topics covered:

  • MBS, Saudi, Davos in the desert, Future Investment Initiative
  • Sam Bankman-Fried, FTX, effective altruism
  • Indonesia, Singapore, wildfires, El Niño

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Cash test: can Europe support Ukraine alone?21 Oct 202600:23:50

Donald Trump’s administration is turning against Ukraine. But as European powers confront trouble at home, they are struggling to replace American support. Are US private science institutions entering a golden age? And the climb in art crime.

Guests and host:

  • Anton La Guardia, diplomatic editor
  • Shera Avi-Yonah, US business correspondent
  • Vendeline von Bredow, senior Germany correspondent
  • Rosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”
  • Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”

Topics covered:

  • Ukraine, Witkoff, Zelenksy
  • Scientific research, National Science Foundation
  • Art theft, Louvre, Museum for Applied Art

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Disorder of magnitude: France’s riots20 Oct 202600:21:27

What started as student protests ballooned into national lawlessness. The disorder plays into the hands of France’s political extremes; expect more of it. In Zimbabwe white farmers are returning to work land taken by Robert Mugabe a quarter-century ago. And our columnist considers the delicate wording that might indemnify AI firms if the bots happen to wipe out humanity.

Guests and host:

  • Sophie Pedder, Paris bureau chief
  • John McDermott, chief Africa correspondent
  • Andrew Palmer, “Bartleby” columnist
  • Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”

Topics covered:

  • France riots, French politics
  • Zimbabwe, agriculture, white farmers
  • AI, extinction-level events, legalese, parody

Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—subscribe to The Economist.

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Independence eh? Canada’s referendum19 Oct 202600:21:43

The province of Alberta will vote on secession today. It is unlikely to go ahead, but the separatist vibe is just one of Prime Minister Mark Carney’s many headaches. Our correspondent examines China’s efforts toward brain-computer interfaces, finding the country is closing the gap with America. And Britain’s “bug superhighways” link up the shrinking number of lush insect habitats.

Guests and host:

  • Robert Russo, Canada writer
  • Don Weinland, China business and finance editor
  • Bella King, news editor
  • Rosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”

Topics covered:

  • Canada, Alberta, separatists, referendum
  • China, brain-computer interfaces
  • Britain, insects, conservation

Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—subscribe to The Economist.

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Schrödinger’s chat: can AI and scientists co-exist?16 Oct 202600:27:53

In recent weeks, AI has solved hundreds of previously unanswered maths problems. Our correspondents ask if machines can do the same in other areas of science and what role human researchers may play. Why crisps are getting chunkier and chocolate chewier. And celebrating the life and work of author Annie Dillard.

Watch extended clips from Insider here.

Guests and host:

  • Alex Hern, AI writer
  • Alok Jha, science editor
  • Avantika Chilkoti, global business writer
  • Ann Wroe, obituaries editor
  • Rosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”
  • Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”

Topics covered:

  • Scientific research, mathpocalypse, AI
  • Crisps, snacks, texture, crunchtok
  • Annie Dillard, nature, obituary

Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—subscribe to The Economist.

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An interview with Alice Weidel15 Oct 202601:01:00

Under Alice Weidel’s leadership the Alternative for Germany (AfD), a right-wing populist party, has been riding high. A series of successes in state elections have brought it closer than ever to power at national level. Ms Weidel is perhaps best known for her calls for “remigration” and criticism of Germany’s support for Ukraine. She spoke to The Economist’s editor-in-chief, Zanny Minton Beddoes, for The Insider, our video show for premium subscribers. Hear their conversation in full.


Watch the show—and sign up to the Insider newsletter.


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Who wants to be a millennial? Generation comeback15 Oct 202600:22:18

Their struggles to get jobs or buy homes once propelled political movements. Now many millennials are out-earning their parents and in positions of power. Our correspondent explains the transformation. Sophisticated tech tools are being used to sway voters in Israel. And why you should hold your tongue to high standards.

Guests and host:

  • Callum Williams, senior economics writer
  • Anshel Pfeffer, Israel correspondent
  • Bella King, digital news editor
  • Rosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”

Topics covered:

  • Millennials, home ownership, unemployment
  • Israel, election, Netanyahu
  • Tongue-scrapers, dental hygiene

Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—subscribe to The Economist.

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Kicking Kyiv: Trump’s doubtful deals14 Oct 202600:26:23

Donald Trump claims to have brokered a deal to import Russian diesel and an energy ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine. As attacks on Kyiv continue, our deputy editor says Trump is risking Ukraine’s future for a mid-term bounce. India’s government is failing to quell Gen Z protests. And how song binds us together and brings joy.

Guests and host:

  • Edward Carr, deputy editor of The Economist
  • Kira Huju, Asia correspondent
  • Joel Budd, Britain social affairs editor
  • Rosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”

Topics covered:

  • Ukraine, diesel, energy ceasefire, Starlink
  • Cockroach party, Modi, Abhijeet Dipke
  • Singing, Sacha Langton-Gilks, choir

Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—subscribe to The Economist.

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Unrest in peace: misery in Gaza13 Oct 202600:24:55

A year ago Donald Trump created the Board of Peace to rebuild Gaza. Yet for many Palestinians, life is even harder, as the ceasefire is repeatedly violated, crime is rising and poverty rife. Why record labels are in a spin over AI music. And Japan is struggling to benefit from the global matcha boom.

Guests and host:

  • Nicolas Pelham, Middle East correspondent
  • Henry Tricks, US technology and media editor
  • Moeka Iida, East Asia reporter
  • Rosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”
  • Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”

Topics covered:

  • Gaza, Board of Peace, Hamas
  • AI music, slop, Warner Music Group
  • Matcha, Japan, Kagoshima

Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—subscribe to The Economist.

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Saudi under siege: Houthis attack airport12 Oct 202600:22:38

This weekend, Yemeni rebels struck Saudi Arabia’s international airport in the deadliest attack on a Gulf Arab country since the Iran war began in February. Our correspondent reports from Riyadh. How European manufacturers are adjusting to high energy prices and war. And the revival of writing by hand.

Guests and host:

  • Gregg Carlstrom, Middle East correspondent
  • Guy Scriven, global business writer
  • Caitlin Talbot, culture correspondent
  • Rosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”

Topics covered:

  • Saudi Arabia, Houthis, Yemen, Riyadh airport
  • European carmakers, energy prices, tariffs
  • Cursive, handwriting

Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—subscribe to The Economist.

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Saving your bacon: healthy-eating policy evolves09 Oct 202600:24:42

Decades of messaging have not worked, so governments are trying new ways to get citizens to eat well, from scary labelling to taxing the junkiest foods. Will it work? The death of a plague researcher in Russia is made more mysterious by the government’s resolute lack of transparency. And a tribute to Cyril Hilsum, the inventor behind ubiquitous flat-screen displays.


Watch extended clips from Insider here.


Guests and host:

  • Slavea Chankova, health-care correspondent
  • Alex Turner, defence editor
  • Ann Wroe, obituaries editor
  • Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”


Topics covered:

  • diet, public health, health policy
  • Russia, plague, bioweapons
  • Cyril Hilsum, liquid crystals, flat-screen displays


Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—subscribe to The Economist.

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Valley of the shadow of debt: bond-market jitters08 Oct 202600:21:39

Bond yields across the rich world keep ticking up. We take a global look at where the risks are mounting most, and just how much worry is warranted. What might have once seemed fanciful is becoming real: delivering daylight to dark parts of the world using mirrors in space. And the fatal earnestness of “The Social Reckoning”.


Guests and host:

  • Alex Domash, economics correspondent
  • Tim Cross, senior science writer
  • Tom Wainwright, culture correspondent
  • Rosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”
  • Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”


Topics covered:

  • bond yields, monetary policy, animal spirits
  • satellite technology, darkness and light
  • “The Social Reckoning”, Aaron Sorkin


Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—subscribe to The Economist.

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Gilets jeunes? France’s school protests07 Oct 202600:19:36

What started as a small protest about conditions of a school and of schooling has mushroomed, and tapped into national anxieties that may prove hard to tame. In the context of the “Cornell 7” case we examine Title IX, the statute that should protect students—but that is failing. And how peddling superstitions to financiers is big business in India.

Guests and host:

  • Sophie Pedder, Paris bureau chief
  • Stevie Hertz, US policy correspondent
  • Abhishek Kumar, India writer
  • Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”

Topics covered:

  • France protests, French politics
  • Cornell 7, Title IX, sexual assault
  • India, finance, astrology, superstition

Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—subscribe to The Economist.

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House call: Spain’s snap election06 Oct 202600:22:33

Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez is gambling that anger about housing might solidify his mandate in a snap poll. Most probably it will instead add to the rightward shift in European politics. America’s beef prices have never been higher, so why is it that the meatpackers have it so tough? And the battery technology to improve medical diagnostics you can swallow.

Listen to our episode of “Babbage” on edible electronics here.

Guests and host:

  • Michael Reid, Spain correspondent and writer at large
  • Bella King, news editor
  • David Adam, science writer
  • Rosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”
  • Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”

Topics covered:

  • Spanish politics, housing crisis, Pedro Sánchez
  • America’s meat industry, meatpackers
  • medical diagnostics, edible electronics, battery technology

Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—subscribe to The Economist.

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Here comes the son? Brazil’s election tips rightward05 Oct 202600:22:41

Flávio Bolsonaro, populist-right son of the imprisoned coup architect Jair, received the most votes in the presidential first round. We ask why Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, the incumbent, fell behind—and what is at stake when they go head-to-head. We examine Americans’ growing anger at automatic number-plate-reading cameras. And the demanding but lucrative business of nannying the children of the super-rich.

Guests and host:

  • Ana Lankes, Brazil bureau chief
  • Hollie Berman, news editor
  • Alice Fulwood, US business editor
  • Rosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”
  • Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”

Topics covered:

  • Brazilian election, Lula, Bolsonaro, populist-right politics
  • Flock cameras, American law enforcement, privacy, surveillance
  • childcare, plutocrats

Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—subscribe to The Economist.

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Coffer stop: AI may shrink tax base02 Oct 202600:26:28

If Artificial Intelligence results in job losses or lower salaries, government revenues will fall. Our correspondent explains how best to tax the windfalls from AI. Paint is a surprisingly cheap way to cool buildings. And remembering the life of Stanislas Hutin, who revealed France’s barbarity in Algeria.

Watch extended clips from Insider here

Guests and host:

  • Callum Williams, senior economics writer
  • Nikita Ostrovsky, science writer
  • Ann Wroe, obituaries editor
  • Rosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”

Topics covered:

  • AI, tax, wealth tax, consumption tax
  • Climate change, paint, adaptation
  • Stanislas Hutin, Algeria, France, war crimes

Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—subscribe to The Economist.

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Trial and terror: Russia escalates Kyiv campaign01 Oct 202600:21:40

Russia has embarked on a new campaign to quell Ukraine, focused on supermarkets, playgrounds and other civilian targets. Our correspondent reports on the toll on daily life in Kyiv. Despite the backlash against “pervert glasses”, companies continue to develop AI-enabled smart specs. And how the pen changed history.


Guests and host:

  • Oliver Carroll, Ukraine correspondent
  • Henry Tricks, US technology editor
  • Catherine Nixey, Britain correspondent
  • Rosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”


Topics covered:

  • Ukraine, Kyiv, civilian targets
  • Smart glasses, Meta, pervert glasses
  • Fountain pen, Simon Garfield


Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—subscribe to The Economist.

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Cheques and the City: Premier League disgrace30 Sep 202600:20:52

An independent commission has found Manchester City guilty of breaching over 100 rules. What penalty will the Premier League exact? Russia’s increasingly brazen attempts to provoke and undermine Europe. And why cute Chiikawa, star of a Japanese blockbuster, gives comfort in anxious times.

Subscribers can listen to “Kidulting” on “The Weekend Intelligence”

Guests and host:

  • Sonny Loughran, Britain correspondent
  • Jonathan Rosenthal, international correspondent
  • Moeka Iida, East Asia reporter
  • Rosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”
  • Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”

Topics covered:

  • Man City, Abu Dhabi, Premier League
  • Russia, Europe, grey-zone, drone
  • Chiikawa, kawaii, manga

Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—subscribe to The Economist.

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Brazil rut: Lula v Bolsonaro, again29 Sep 202600:21:11

On October 4th, Brazil faces a polarising general election: re-elect the octogenarian incumbent or pick the son of a former president jailed for attempting a coup. In some countries honour culture holds women back from even entering the workplace. And why artists are banning phones from concerts.

Guests and host:

  • Ana Lankes, Brazil correspondent
  • Robert Guest, deputy editor
  • Vicky Jessop, culture writer
  • Rosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”

Topics covered:

  • Brazil, Lula, Bolsonaro
  • Women, honour culture, equality
  • Phone-free, concerts, gigs

Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—subscribe to The Economist.

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Foiled plot: did Iran plan British base attack?28 Sep 202600:20:03

Five men are in custody under suspicion of explosives and terrorism offences after being arrested near a British military base used by American aircraft. This could mark a significant escalation in Iranian hybrid warfare. What oil firms are doing with their profits from the Gulf conflict. And why women’s wages rise after their male managers have daughters.

Guests and host:

  • Matthew Symonds, contributing editor
  • Matthieu Favas, commodities editor
  • Michelle Hennessy, graphic detail editor
  • Rosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”
  • Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”

Topics covered:

  • Fairford, Iran, hybrid warfare, terrorist attack
  • Oil, oil prices, Iran
  • Gender-pay gap, fatherhood, daughters

Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—subscribe to The Economist.

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Big meet, little meat: the Trump-Xi summit25 Sep 202600:27:13

Not much of real substance appears to have emerged from the get-together. But our correspondent says there are clues of how both sides view an evolving relationship. Tommy Robinson, a British far-right influencer, is increasingly well known to MAGA types in America; we examine his rise to prominence. And remembering Bob Mackie, daring dressmaker to the stars.

Watch extended clips from Insider here

Guests and host:

  • Simon Rabinovich, Beijing bureau chief
  • Georgia Banjo, Britain correspondent
  • Ann Wroe, obituaries editor
  • Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”

Topics covered:

  • Xi Jinping, Donald Trump, trade war, diplomacy
  • Tommy Robinson, American politics, Texas
  • Bob Mackie, fashion

Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—subscribe to The Economist.

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Home disadvantage: risks in housing markets24 Sep 202600:23:10

Rich-world house prices survived the last fit of interest-rate rises; our correspondent lays out why they may not this time. Nine months after Australia banned social media for under-16s, we ask if anything has changed. And a critical look at Israel’s hit show “Fauda” as it tackles the atrocities of October 7th.

Guests and host:

  • Callum Williams, senior economics writer
  • Josh Spencer, Asia news editor
  • Andrew Miller, special correspondent
  • Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”

Topics covered:

  • housing markets, bond yields, interest rates
  • Australia, social media bans
  • “Fauda”, October 7th

Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—subscribe to The Economist.

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National front-runner: who can beat Le Pen?23 Sep 202600:19:48

Marine Le Pen, party leader of France’s populist-right National Rally, starts her fourth presidential bid with a commanding lead. The country’s political centre is broad, fragmented—and flagging. A buffer zone against so-called infiltrators in India’s West Bengal state is making life miserable also for Indian citizens. And how Argentina’s supply of horses and cowboys led to world dominance in polo.

Guests and host:

  • Sophie Pedder, Paris bureau chief
  • Kira Huju, Asia correspondent
  • Hamish Clayton, culture writer
  • Rosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”
  • Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”

Topics covered:

  • French politics, Marine Le Pen
  • India, West Bengal, Bangladesh, Hindu nationalism
  • Argentina, polo

Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—subscribe to The Economist.

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The mob rule: criminality consumes South Africa22 Sep 202600:20:48

An illicit shadow economy, rampant extortion and the capture of the criminal justice system: mafia members and tactics are eating away at the state. Oura seems to have captured the market for smart rings; we ask whether it can keep its lead finger-tight. And our correspondent finds convention upended, for good and bad, at the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art.


Guests and host:

  • John McDermott, chief Africa correspondent
  • Shera Avi-Yonah, business correspondent
  • Alexandra Suich Bass, culture editor
  • Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”


Topics covered: 

  • South Africa, organised crime, criminal justice
  • wearable tech, Oura rings
  • Lucas Museum


Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—subscribe to The Economist.



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Centre punch: Germany’s state-election shocker21 Sep 202600:21:06

Two more state-election results reveal surging support for both the far-right AfD and the populist-left Die Linke parties. Chancellor Friedrich Merz himself described the outcome as a disaster; what will it mean for him? Our correspondent looks into why there is so much enthusiasm for African stocks. And what the science says about blue-light exposure and sleep. 


Guests and host:

  • Tom Nuttall, Berlin bureau chief
  • Ọrẹ Ogunbiyi, Africa correspondent
  • Sam Wikeley, science correspondent
  • Rosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”
  • Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”


Topics covered: 

  • German politics, Friedrich Merz, AfD, Die Linke
  • African stockmarkets, Aliko Dangote
  • sleep science, blue light


Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—subscribe to The Economist.


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Drone truth: Russia has the upper hand18 Sep 202600:25:48

After a visit to Ukraine last week, our defence editor reports on a new phase of the war as Kyiv and other civilian targets are bombarded by Russian missiles. He also visits an elite Ukrainian drone unit. Why alcohol companies are scrambling to innovate. And remembering the life of feminist pioneer Gloria Steinem. Watch extended clips from Insider 


Guests and host:

  • Alex Turner, defence editor
  • Avantika Chilkoti, global business writer
  • Ann Wroe, obituaries editor
  • Rosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”


Topics covered: 

  • Ukraine, drones, Shahed, Kyiv
  • Alcohol, beer, aperol
  • Gloria Steinem, feminism


Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—subscribe to The Economist.



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Rise and shine: Warsh’s Fed rate test17 Sep 202600:21:54

The Federal Reserve has raised interest rates for the first time since July 2023. For the central bank’s new chair Kevin Warsh, that decision was a test both of monetary policy and politics. A governor’s election in Okinawa is a boon to Japan’s military ambitions. And why summer is a casualty of climate change.


Guests and host:

  • Archie Hall, acting economics editor
  • Moeka Iida, East Asia reporter
  • Andrew Miller, special correspondent
  • Rosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”


Topics covered: 

  • Federal Reserve, Kevin Warsh, interest rates, inflation
  • Okinawa, Japan
  • Summer, climate change, heatwave


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The end of the world is AI? An existential threat16 Sep 202600:24:16

Is artificial intelligence becoming uncontrollably powerful? Our correspondent analyses whether a pause to breakneck development is possible or feasible. We have entered the new age of the orator. And why cheese is getting more popular in India. 


Guests and host:

  • Alex Hern, AI writer
  • Tom Wainwright, culture correspondent
  • Tom Sasse, South Asia bureau chief
  • Rosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”
  • Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”


Topics covered: 

  • Human extinction, AI, Sam Altman, Dario Amodei
  • Oral culture, literacy, James Marriott, Walter Ong
  • Cheese, India, kalimpong


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Islamism in Britain: what is the threat?15 Sep 202600:23:41

Though a growing share of the British population is anxious about Islam, they have no reason to be. Islamism, a fringe ideology that believes government and society should be guided by Islamic principles, is the real concern. America cracks down on multinationals’ efforts to shift profits overseas. And why corporate training videos are virtually useless.


Guests and host:


  • Sonny Loughran, Britain correspondent
  • Shera Avi-Yonah, US business correspondent
  • Andrew Palmer, “Boss Class” host and Bartleby columnist
  • Rosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”
  • Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”


Topics covered: 


  • Islamism, Britain, Islamophobia
  • IRS, corporate tax, Coca-Cola
  • Corporate training videos


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Strait and narrowing: the Houthis’ striking advance14 Sep 202600:22:46

After years of stalemate, Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthis are taking territory, including on a Red Sea strait. We ask what has changed, and how the shift fits into the wider regional conflict. As America’s midterm elections approach, we examine the fragmentation of the coalition that put Donald Trump back in office. And we ask how much nepotism matters in Hollywood today.


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The Weekend Intelligence: Shire folk - Episode 1: Tommy's Town12 Sep 202600:49:13

For 15 years, the British media dismissed Tommy Robinson as a far-right extremist. We kept him off our televisions, and out of our newspapers. 


Today his rallies attract tens of thousands of followers and he has the ear of the world’s richest man.


Shire Folk is the story of how some of the most powerful people in America came to see Britain—and Islam—through the eyes of a fringe football hooligan.


Topics covered:



  • Radical Islam
  • Gangs
  • English Defence League


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This podcast transcript is generated by third-party AI. It has not been reviewed prior to publication. We make no representations or warranties in relation to the transcript, its accuracy or its completeness, and we disclaim all liability regarding its receipt, content and use. If you have any concerns about the transcript, please email us at podcasts@economist.com.


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Out-numbered: AI’s contentious maths milestone11 Sep 202600:22:49

OpenAI’s claim to have solved one of the great problems in mathematics has itself created problems. We ask why the breakthrough has shaken the field. On the 25th anniversary of 9/11 we examine the vast counterterrorism machinery that followed in America, and nascent efforts to pare those powers back. And remembering Guo Lanying, a Chinese singer who championed traditional opera.


Watch extended clips from Insider here.

Guests and host:

  • Sam Wikeley, science correspondent
  • Sam Beal, Washington correspondent
  • Ann Wroe, obituaries editor
  • Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”


Topics covered: 

  • mathematics, AI, Millennium Prize Problems
  • 9/11 anniversary, counterterrorism law
  • Guo Lanying, Chinese opera


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Working through it: the AI jobs boom dawns10 Sep 202600:19:56

The labour data are in from America and a trend is becoming clearer: on balance AI is starting to create more jobs than it hoovers up. Despite advancements of just about every other kind, China cannot seem to escape its food-safety problems. We ask why not. And why Kenya’s ants have become the target of smugglers.


Guests and host:

  • Alex Domash, economics correspondent
  • Gabriel Crossley, China correspondent
  • Carla Subirana, news editor
  • Rosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”
  • Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”


Topics covered: 

  • AI, labour statistics, labour market
  • China, regulation, food safety
  • ants, smuggling, Kenya


Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—subscribe to The Economist.

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TRAILER: Shire folk10 Sep 202600:02:08
Shire Folk is the story of how some of the most powerful people in America came to see Britain—and Islam—through the eyes of a fringe football hooligan.

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Chainsaw sputtering: Milei’s experiment falters09 Sep 202600:22:09

President Javier Milei has tamed inflation and improved the lot of many Argentines. But an election season approaches, and the promised economic and wage growth are not materialising. As LIV Golf files for bankruptcy, we ask where it went wrong in trying to disrupt the sport. And the growth that is good for India’s people is bad for its elephants.


Guests and host:

  • Kinley Salmon, Latin America correspondent
  • Henry Tricks, US technology editor
  • Abhishek Kumar, India writer
  • Rosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”


Topics covered: 

  • Argentina, Javier Milei
  • golf, LIV Golf, Saudi Arabia
  • India, elephants


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School of shock: teenagers get dimmer08 Sep 202600:21:20

International tests in maths and reading show that 15-year-olds today score what 14-year-olds would have done a decade ago. Our correspondent explains the long-term decline. Is Miami’s thriving economic growth sustainable? And why Jeremy Vine’s BBC Radio 2 show is a microcosm of Britain.   


Guests and host:


  • Mark Johnson, senior editor
  • Cerian Richmond Jones, international economics correspondent
  • Sonny Loughran, Britain correspondent 
  • Rosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”


Topics covered: 


  • PISA, education, test scores, exams, aptitude
  • Miami, Trump, Florida, hurricane
  • Jeremy Vine, Radio 2, BBC


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All right on the night: AfD’s victory07 Sep 202600:24:04

Alternative for Germany won an even larger share of the vote than expected in yesterday’s state election. What does the far-right nationalist party’s success mean for Germany and Europe? The climate case for limiting vapour trails from aeroplanes. And why South Korean youths are turning to Buddhism. 


Guests and host:

  • Tom Nuttall, Berlin bureau chief
  • Oliver Morton, planetary affairs editor
  • Soobin Kim, Korea writer
  • Rosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”


Topics covered: 

  • AfD, Alternative for Germany, Alternative für Deutschland
  • contrails, aviation, climate science
  • South Korea, Buddhism


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Bargaining chips: Nvidia is the bank of AI04 Sep 202600:24:33

Nvidia, the world’s most valuable company, has shifted strategy to boost demand for its chips. Our correspondent assesses the opportunities and risks. Knife crime in Britain moves to rural pastures. And our obituaries editor recounts the life of Frank Smith, who died in prison aged 101. 

Watch extended clips from Insider here, plus the full Elon Musk interview


Guests and host:

  • Shailesh Chitnis, global business writer
  • Sonny Loughran, Britain correspondent
  • Ann Wroe, obituaries editor
  • Rosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”


Topics covered: 

  • Nvidia, AI, Jensen Huang
  • Knife crime, county lines, drug market
  • Frank Smith, electric chair, death row


Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—subscribe to The Economist.



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Ire and ICE: the toll of America’s deportations03 Sep 202600:23:12

Donald Trump’s stance on immigration helped him win the presidency. Our correspondent asks if a backlash against the campaign could damage Republican midterm prospects. Reddit is struggling in an age of AI. And the enduring beauty of the Bayeux tapestry.


Guests and host:

  • Aryn Braun, West Coast correspondent
  • Shera Avi-Yonah, business correspondent
  • Alexandra Suich Bass, culture editor
  • Rosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”
  • Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”


Topics covered: 

  • Deportation, ICE, immigration, Minneapolis
  • Reddit, Google, AI
  • Bayeux tapestry, 1066, British Museum


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Right in front: AfD could win German state02 Sep 202600:23:23

On Sunday, Alternative for Germany could become the first far-right nationalist party to win a state election since the end of the second world war. Is Britain right to worry about Palantir handling government contracts? And could the Chinese learn to love chocolate? 


Guests and host:

  • Tom Nuttall, chief Germany correspondent
  • Georgia Banjo, Britain correspondent
  • Don Weinland, China business and finance editor
  • Rosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”
  • Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”


Topics covered: 

  • Germany, AfD, Alternative for Germany, Saxony-Anhalt
  • Palantir, NHS
  • China, chocolate 


Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—subscribe to The Economist.



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After the flood: Nepal’s ongoing rescue01 Sep 202600:16:27

After the devastating flash flood last week, our correspondent explains why the country is so ill-equipped to deal with the crisis. Does AI stop children from learning? And why Japanese ongaku kissa, or listening bars, are so popular abroad.


Guests and host:


  • Kira Hiju, Asia correspondent
  • Michelle Hennessy, graphic detail editor
  • Aaron Coultate, head of newsletters
  • Rosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”
  • Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”


Topics covered: 


  • Nepal, flood, climate change, glacier, hydropower
  • AI, education, exams
  • Japan, listening bars, ongaku kissa 


Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—subscribe to The Economist.

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Stars in their AIs: tech is changing Hollywood31 Aug 202600:20:02

Behind the scenes, Artificial Intelligence is playing a growing role in every aspect of film-making, from script-writing and production-planning to shot-generation and editing. As the number of people covered by Obamacare falls, our correspondent ponders the future of the healthcare programme. And the secret thrill of American country dancing in France.


Guests and host:

  • Henry Tricks, US technology editor
  • Stevie Hertz, US public policy correspondent
  • Sophie Pedder, Paris bureau chief
  • Rosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”
  • Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”


Topics covered: 

  • Hollywood, filmmaking, AI
  • Obamacare, healthcare, health insurance
  • France, country music, line-dancing


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Bots on the ground: China leads humanoid race28 Aug 202600:24:48

Our correspondent goes inside a Chinese robot facility to see thousands of droids being taught to complete useful tasks. Is it worth the time and money? How Meta’s $17bn settlement at its blockbuster trial could change teen social-media use. And 75 years of the Paris bookshop Shakespeare and Company.


Watch extended clips from Insider here, plus the full Elon Musk interview


Guests and host:

  • Don Weinland, China business editor
  • Alice Fulwood, “Money Talks” host and US business editor
  • Alexandra Suich-Bass, culture editor
  • Rosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”


Topics covered: 

  • Robots, humanoids, China, AI
  • Meta, Instagram, Facebook, social media, addiction, 
  • Shakespeare and Company, Paris, bookshops


Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—subscribe to The Economist.



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Big shot: does a cancer vaccine work? 27 Aug 202600:22:05

Personalised vaccines could offer a breakthrough in the fight against cancer. Our correspondent analyses the latest trial. Canada’s oil market is flourishing, despite the trade war. And, why we will always love Dolly Parton.


Guests and host:

  • Natasha Loder, health editor
  • Sarah Lawrynuik, deputy editor of “The Intelligence”
  • Jon Fasman, senior culture correspondent
  • Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”


Topics covered: 

  • Cancer, immunotherapy, vaccines, mRNA
  • Oil, Canada, trade war, tariffs
  • Dolly Parton, country music


Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—subscribe to The Economist.

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