The Intelligence

After decades of overpopulation worries, the country now has the opposite concern. We examine India's unusual demographic turn, and why it is a wider warning to the world. Vegan substitutes have broadly improved in recent years—so why is there no good vegan cheese? And remembering Sonny Rollins, an absolute colossus of the saxophone. Watch extended clips from Insider here.Guests and host:Tom Sasse, South Asia bureau chiefSam Colbert, senior series producer, Economist PodcastsJon Fasman, senior culture correspondentJason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”Topics covered: India, fertility rates, global populationvegan cheeseSonny Rollins, jazzGet a world of insights by subscribing to Economist Podcasts+. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nigel Farage, leader of the populist-right Reform UK party, wants Britons to be enraged by a killing in the street. We ask why his tone has changed from “colour-blind” to race-baiting. NATO must now take seriously the idea that America is pulling back; we ask how it is adjusting. And why skipping title sequences is forgoing some of television's magic.Guests and host:Hugo Gye, British political correspondentJonathan Rosenthal, international correspondentAndrew Miller, “Back Story” columnistJason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”Topics covered: British politics, race relationsNATO, American foreign policytelevision, mediaGet a world of insights by subscribing to Economist Podcasts+. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Now that America has stepped back, Europe is at last stepping up. We examine the bloc's tactics (if not yet a strategy) and how steady its support is likely to be. With the coming public listings of SpaceX and Anthropic, we ask whether stockmarkets can handle a string of “giga-IPOs”. And our World Cup series looks at Iran's side.Guests and host:Tom Nuttall, chief Germany correspondentJoshua Roberts, capital markets correspondentJon Fasman, senior culture correspondentJason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”Topics covered: Europe, security, Ukraine warIPOs, investment, stockmarkets, SpaceX, Anthropic, OpenAIWorld Cup, IranVisit education.economist.com and use code 5YEARS to save 15% on courses developed by our editors and correspondents.Get a world of insights by subscribing to Economist Podcasts+. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The AI world's go-to chipmaker is blazing a trail toward your personal computer. We ask what moving out of the cloud indicates about the future of computing. The three candidates for mayor of Los Angeles could not be more different, and they are running neck and neck. And updating generic filler text for the business-jargon era.Guests and host:Shailesh Chitnis, global business writerAryn Braun, West Coast correspondentAndrew Palmer, executive editor and “Bartleby” columnistJason Palmer (no relation), co-host of “The Intelligence”Topics covered: Nvidia, AI, technologyLos Angeles, American politicscorporate jargonGet a world of insights by subscribing to Economist Podcasts+. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aid is ramping up to the Democratic Republic of Congo, and vaccine work is progressing. But what the Ebola response most lacks is trust of the community. European governments and businesses are wary of their dependence on America's tech giants; we examine a spate of home-grown efforts. And sticky toffee pudding, a staid British classic, gets a sweet social-media boost. Guests and host:John McDermott, chief Africa correspondentChristian Odendahl, European economics editorỌrẹ Ogunbiyi, Africa correspondent and sticky toffee pudding enthusiastJason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”Topics covered: Ebola outbreak, Democratic Republic of Congo, epidemiology, vaccinesEuropean technology, American tech giants, technological sovereignty sticky toffee puddingGet a world of insights by subscribing to Economist Podcasts+. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our outgoing defence editor reflects on how war has changed during the eight years of his tenure. Wars have become easier to start and harder to finish, and the little guy has a better chance than ever before. And our obituaries editor pays tribute to Barney Frank, a trailblazing Democratic congressman.Watch extended clips from Insider hereGuests and host:Shashank Joshi, defence editorAnn Wroe, obituaries editorJason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”Topics covered: war, technology, Ukraine, IranBarney FrankGet a world of insights by subscribing to Economist Podcasts+. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The American administration's next round of sabre-rattling has been directed at Cuba. But more military adventures there would probably prove disastrous. We profile the three starkly different contenders in Colombia's hyper-polarised presidential election. And our series looking at World Cup squads goes to Mexico.Guests and host:Sarah Birke, bureau chief for Mexico, Central America and the CaribbeanKinley Salmon, Latin America correspondentJon Fasman, senior culture correspondentJason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”Topics covered: Cuba, American foreign policyColombia's electionsWorld Cup, MexicoGet a world of insights by subscribing to Economist Podcasts+. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Economic support, drone capability, defence under new management: the tide may have turned for Ukraine. But domestic politics and perceptions will define what kind of win the country might hope for. We examine how Home Depot, the world's largest DIY chain, is a window into America's ailing housing market. And what is pinching the supply of England's famed cricket bats. Guests and host:Oliver Carroll, Ukraine correspondentVinjeru Mkandawire, news editorAndrew Rummer, Britain contributorJason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”Topics covered: Ukraine warAmerica's housing market, Home Depotcricket bats, supply chainsGet a world of insights by subscribing to Economist Podcasts+. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

More mixed messages from President Donald Trump and air strikes that seem to violate the ceasefire: all that is remotely in prospect is a deal to keep on dealmaking. China's “superapps” are pioneering the use of agentic AI—with some odd outcomes. And the curious reason that grouse harm themselves on ski lifts (and how to save them). Guests and host:Gregg Carlstrom, Middle East correspondentDon Weinland, China business and finance editorMatt Kaplan, science correspondentRosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”Topics covered: Iran war, diplomacyChina, business, agentic AIbirds, scienceGet a world of insights by subscribing to Economist Podcasts+. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What do we mean by a “good book”? Some people choose a holiday read that demands time and attention. Others pick rip-roaring novels that require little thought. Our bookworms discuss whether art has to be improving to be praiseworthy, and give genre fiction some much-needed air time. This is a full list of the books mentioned in the show:“Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen“Red Rising” by Pierce BrownJack Reacher series by Lee Child“The Hunt for Red October” by Tom Clancy“Riders” and the other Rutshire chronicles by Jilly CooperDungeon Crawler Carl series by Matt Dinniman“Middlemarch” by George Eliot“Ulysses” by James Joyce“Wolf Hall” by Hilary Mantel“The Diamond Age” by Neal StephensonThe Murderbot series by Martha Wells “The Martian” by Andy Weir“American Wife” by Curtis SittenfeldGuests and host:Catherine Nixey, culture and Britain correspondentTom Standage, Economist deputy editorAlexandra Suich Bass, culture editorAlex Hern, AI writerRosie Blau, host of “The Intelligence”Topics covered: Fiction, romance, sci-fi, crime, thrillers, fantasy, romantasyJane Austen, Jilly Cooper, Curtis Sittenfeld, Lee ChildMatt Dinniman, Pierce Brown, Neal StephensonListen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—Subscribe to Economist Podcasts+For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Elon Musk has launched the largest stockmarket listing in history. The accompanying space mission remains grounded. Our correspondent weighs SpaceX's extraordinary ambitions. The Republican party trades on its masculine image, but some young men are turning away. And, after a blind tasting 50 years ago unleashed a new wave of wine drinking, the market is drying out.Watch extended clips from Insider hereGuests and host:Tim Cross, senior science writerRobert Guest, Economist deputy editorAlexandra Suich Bass, culture editorRosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”Jason Palmer, co-hosts of “The intelligence”Topics covered: SpaceX, Starlink, XAI, Elon MuskDonald Trump, Republicans, masculinityWine, Judgement of ParisListen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—Subscribe to Economist Podcasts+For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Within the space of a week Chinese president Xi Jinping has welcomed both Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin to Beijing. Our correspondent explains the significance of these consecutive meetings. How the Premier League got its kick – and became one of Britain's most successful businesses. And, some relax on holiday, others relish adrenaline-fuelled activities.Guests and host:Jeremy Page, chief China correspondentSonny Loughran, Britain writerCaitlin Talbot, culture correspondentRosie Blau, co-host of “The intelligence”Jason Palmer, co-host of “The intelligence”Topics covered: Xi Jinping, Vladimir Putin, Donald TrumpPremier League, football, soccerAdrenaline holidays, darecationsListen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—Subscribe to Economist Podcasts+For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is Binyamin Netanyahu's time up as Israel's prime minister? As a vote in parliament triggers the election campaign, our correspondent – and Netanyahu's biographer – analyses what comes next. We join a US-backed counter-terrorism training exercise in Africa and question whether such missions will outlast Trump. And how Cape Verde came to take part in its first World Cup.Guests and host:Anshel Pfeffer, Israel correspondentTom Gardner, Africa correspondentJon Fasman, senior culture correspondentRosie Blau, host of “The Intelligence”Topics covered: Binyamin Netanyahu, Israel, Knesset, Gaza, Hizbullah, IranIvory Coast, jihadism, anti-terrorism, overseas aidWorld Cup, FIFA, Cape VerdeListen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—Subscribe to Economist Podcasts+For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The latest Ebola emergency is different from previous ones: there is no vaccine, and the kind of community-level work that stops the spread has been thinned by aid cuts. Britain is likely to get a new prime minister soon; we profile Andy Burnham, the Labour party's polling favourite. And celebrity book clubs abound—but useful criticism in them does not. Guests and host:John McDermott, chief Africa correspondentJoel Budd, social affairs editorCatherine Nixey, culture correspondentJason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”Topics covered: Ebola outbreak, West AfricaAndy Burnham, British politicscelebrities, book clubs, book industryGet a world of insights by subscribing to Economist Podcasts+. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Atef Najib, a former security chief, is the highest-profile member of the Assad regime to go on trial. We ask why the speed, uneven spread and murky legal basis of justice troubles many Syrians. Our series leading up to America's 250th birthday continues to plumb our archive. Today: the cold war and Vietnam. And why whiskymaking is booming in China.Guests and host:Gareth Browne, Middle East correspondentAnnie Crabill, senior digital editorDon Weinland, China business and finance editorJason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”Topics covered: Syria, judicial system, transitional justiceAmerica, 250th anniversary, historyChina, business, whiskyGet a world of insights by subscribing to Economist Podcasts+. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account.Runtime: 24 minTWITTER HANDLES OF CONTRIBS @BrowneGareth – Syria@annie_crabill – US250@donweinland – whisky Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tommy Robinson is an influencer who has shaped views on Britain, particularly among his American supporters and funders. A rally this weekend will show how his worldview is reaching the mainstream. A merger in the oligopoly of liftmakers will reshape an industry known for its ups and downs. And remembering Raghu Rai, whose photographs captured the intensity of India's people.Watch extended clips from Insider here.Guests and host:Georgia Banjo, Britain correspondentSimon Wright, industry editorAnn Wroe, obituaries editorRosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”Topics covered: Tommy Robinson, Britain's far right, America's far rightLifts, mergers, businessRaghui Rai, India, photojournalismGet a world of insights by subscribing to Economist Podcasts+. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Perhaps the AI “boomers” are right about a sweeping labour-market revolution. But a careful look at history shows just how unprecedented their bullish scenarios would be. Africa's bounty of minerals has drawn tremendous recent interest; will the continent see the benefits this time around? And our World Cup profile series continues with a look at Japan's squad.Guests and host:Callum Williams, senior economics writerJohn McDermott, chief Africa correspondentJon Fasman, senior culture correspondentRosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”Topics covered: AI, labour market, economics, history Africa, critical minerals, investment, developmentWorld Cup, JapanGet a world of insights by subscribing to Economist Podcasts+. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The meeting between President Donald Trump and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping will set the tone for three more this year. We examine what and what not to expect. Pepsi has been losing ground to Coca Cola recently; to catch up, it may have to become more like its rival. And this year's Venice Biennale is uncomfortably besieged by geopolitics. Guests and host:Simon Rabinovitch, Beijing bureau chiefShera Avi-Yonah, business correspondentAlexandra Suich Bass, culture editorRosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”Topics covered: Trump/Xi summit, geopoliticsCoca Cola, Pepsi, businessVenice Biennale, cultureGet a world of insights by subscribing to Economist Podcasts+. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Artificial intelligence could help terrorists develop new dangerous pathogens. Our correspondent asks how humanity can protect itself from machine-assisted biological weapons. Stock markets are soaring, despite the oil shock. What does this tell us about investor confidence in traditionally safe assets? And the doughs and don'ts of German bread.  Guests and host:Arthur Holland Michel, emerging tech writerJosh Roberts, capital markets correspondentLily Meckel, audience fellowRosie Blau, host of “The Intelligence”Topics covered: Bioweapons, AI, virusStockmarkets, oil shock, dollar, government bondsGerman bread, Bernd das BrotListen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—Subscribe to Economist Podcasts+For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After catastrophic local-election results, Britain's prime minister Sir Keir Starmer is fighting for his political life. One airline has folded and others may follow: jet-fuel prices are crimping carriers the world over, but the pain is not spread evenly. And could San Andrés, a popular Colombian tourist island, ever declare independence? Guests and host:Owen Winter, Britain political correspondentSimon Wright, industries editorClaire McQue, Americas writerRosie Blau co-host of “The Intelligence”Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”Topics covered: Britain elections, Keir Starmer, Reform UK, Labour Airlines, jet fuel, oil price, Strait of HormuzSan Andrés, Colombia, CaribbeanListen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—Subscribe to Economist Podcasts+For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Kremlin planned to provide Iran with unjammable drones, plus training in how to use them, according to leaked documents seen exclusively by The Economist. Meanwhile there are nearly 20,000 merchant seamen stranded in the Gulf. And a tribute to Craig Venter, dark horse of the Human Genome Project.Watch extended clips from Economist Insider here.Guests and host:Shashank Joshi, defence editorJoshua Spencer, Asia news editorGeoffrey Carr, senior editor, science and technologyRosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”Topics covered: Iran war, Russia, dronesCommercial shippingCraig VenterGet a world of insights by subscribing to Economist Podcasts+. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

An egregious attack in a Jewish neighbourhood in London is just the latest example of a troubling trend. We investigate the claim that antisemitism is becoming normalised in Britain. While many of the world's luxury brands are struggling, American ones seem to be flourishing. And our series of profiles of teams contesting the World Cup continues with Argentina.Guests and host:Shera Avi-Yonah, business writerAvantika Chilkoti, global business writerJon Fasman, senior culture correspondentRosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”Topics covered: antisemitism, BritainAmerican brands, luxury goodsWorld Cup, ArgentinaGet a world of insights by subscribing to Economist Podcasts+. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Germany's chancellor came to office making big promises. A year later they are unfulfilled, his government is squabbling and he has drawn President Donald Trump's ire. The advertising industry is, inevitably, starting to peddle its wares quietly in AI chatbots. And a historical look at the oratory around war and how it has taken a sharp turn for the worse.Guests and host:Tom Nuttall, chief Germany correspondentTom Wainwright, media editorCatherine Nixey, culture correspondentRosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”Topics covered: Germany, Friedrich Merz, Donald TrumpAI, chatbots, advertisingrhetoric of war Get a world of insights by subscribing to Economist Podcasts+. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Trump administration's “Project Freedom” has done and will do little to boost traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. We examine an unsustainable standoff. A fashion influencer's post addressed to President Vladimir Putin has brought Russians' wider grumbling into the open. And how India's notorious street noise comes with costs to human health. Guests and host:Gregg Carlstrom, Middle East correspondentArkady Ostrovsky, Russia editorVishnu Padmanabhan, Asia correspondentRosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”Topics covered: Iran war, Strait of HormuzRussia, Vladimir Putin, influencersIndia, noise pollution, healthGet a world of insights by subscribing to Economist Podcasts+. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Iran, America is using expensive weaponry against cheap local drones. Can upstart tech companies change the economics – and nature — of conflict? As part of our ongoing series on the US at 250, we examine the impact of the two world wars. And should you ever use an emoji at work?Listen to “Money Talks” on defence tech upstarts. Guests and host:Henry Tricks, US technology editorAnnie Crabill, a senior digital editorAndrew Palmer, host of “Boss Class” podcastRosie Blau, host of “The intelligence”Topics covered: Pentagon, Palantir, SpaceX, AndurilAmerica 250, Woodrow Wilson, FDREmojis, auberginesListen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—Subscribe to Economist Podcasts+For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Can peace hold in Lebanon while Hizbullah remains? Our correspondent weighs the balance of power between government forces and the Iran-backed militia. The resale value of Labubus is falling – who cares? And remembering Swedish death-clearer, Margareta Magnusson. Watch extended clips from “The Insider”. And listen to our “Weekend Intelligence” episode on “Kidulting: why adults are turning to toys”.Guests and host:Gareth Browne, Middle East correspondentJosh Roberts, capital markets correspondentAnn Wroe, obituaries editorRosie Blau, host of “The Intelligence”Topics covered: Lebanon, Hizbullah, Israel, ceasefireLabubus, PopMart, Funko, financial bubblesMargareta Magnusson, death-clearing, decluttering Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—Subscribe to Economist Podcasts+For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oil prices are at their highest since 2022, as a swift end to the Iran conflict proves elusive. Yet, our commodities editor says, markets do not yet yet recognise how deep the supply shock is. Who will contest next year's pivotal election in France? And great expectations in Brazil ahead of the World Cup.Watch “The Insider”: How high will the oil price go Guests and host:Matthieu Favas, commodities editorSophie Pedder, Paris bureau chiefJon Fasman, senior culture correspondentRosie Blau, host of “The Intelligence”Topics covered: Oil, Brent crude, OPEC, Iran, UAEFrance, Macron, Marine Le Pen, National RallyWorld Cup, Brazil, Pele Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—Subscribe to Economist Podcasts+For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Artificial Intelligence is becoming ubiquitous, but the industry that powers it is struggling to keep up with demand. The host of our award-winning podcast series “Scam Inc” says fraudsters in Asia are becoming more sophisticated. And after Allbirds stops selling shoes, what comes next?Guests and host:Shailesh Chitnis, global business writerSue-Lin Wong, host of Scam Inc Shera Avi-Yonah, business writerRosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”Jason Palmer, co-hosts of “The intelligence”Topics covered: AI, Anthropic, GPUs, Nvidia, TSMCScam Inc, malware, cybercrime, fraudAllbirds, Casper, Warby Parker, Dollar Shave ClubListen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—Subscribe to Economist Podcasts+For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The “special relationship” between Britain and America is at its weakest since the Suez crisis of 1956. Will a state visit by King Charles III to America salvage the tie? Why Japanese automakers may be running out of road. And fish from New York's Hudson river are now safe to eat.Guests and host:Rosie Blau, host of “The Intelligence”Daniel Franklin, senior editor, BritainEthan Wu, Asia business and finance editorStevie Hertz, US policy correspondentTopics covered: King Charles III, state visit, special relationshipJapanese carmakers, Toyota, Honda, Nissan, EVsHudson river, fishingListen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—Subscribe to Economist Podcasts+For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After a gunman stormed Donald Trump's dinner with the press, questions are being revived about the president's security. Germany's top general explains the country's new defence strategy. And listeners respond to our Weekend Intelligence episode on the passport bros who go abroad to find “a good woman”.Guests and host:John Prideaux, host of “Checks and Balance” and US editorTom Nuttall, Berlin bureau chiefCarla Subirana, reporterRosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”Jason Palmer, co-hosts of “The intelligence”Topics covered: Donald Trump, assassination attempt, White House dinner, Cole Tomas AllenCarsten Breuer, Bundeswehr, NATO, UkrainePassport bros, tradwife, misogyny Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—Subscribe to Economist Podcasts+For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We go deep inside the Chernobyl nuclear-power plant and the surrounding exclusion zone, recounting the history of the accident on April 26 1986, and speaking with plant workers who were on shift that day. A pre-eminent Chernobyl historian discusses the lessons learned and yet to be learned from the disaster. And we consider the science still being done at Chernobyl.In 2024 “The Weekend Intelligence” went to Ukraine to consider the aftermath of the Russian invasion and occupation of Chernobyl, and then of the Zaporizhia nuclear-power plant. What we found was an industry that had no expectation that could even happen, and nothing of a plan when it did. Listen here.Guests and host:Serhii Plokhy, historian, Harvard UniversityOlena Pareniuk, radiobiologist, Institute for Safety Problems of Nuclear Power PlantsJim Smith, environmental scientist, University of PortsmouthJason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”Topics covered: Chernobyl nuclear-power plant, historynuclear safety, nuclear-energy policyradiation exposure, radiobiology, radioecology Get a world of insights by subscribing to Economist Podcasts+. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We examine what our forecast model predicts so far—and consider what might change its confident prediction for one house of Congress and toss-up call for the other. Our correspondent sits down with Steve Reich, a pioneering classical composer who is nearing his 90th birthday. And the surprising reason why firstborns tend to have more-successful lives.Additional music courtesy of Steve Reich (Nonesuch Records), Erik Hall (Western Vinyl)Guests and host:Dan Rosenheck, data editorJon Fasman, senior culture correspondentAinslie Johnstone, data journalistJason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”Topics covered: American elections, Congress, polling, gerrymanderingSteve Reich, contemporary classical musicbirth order, statisticsGet a world of insights by subscribing to Economist Podcasts+. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The decision of Anthropic, an AI giant, to keep its Mythos model sequestered surely makes for good press. But there seems to be more to it than that—and it might change the whole industry's approach. Indian politicians are chasing female voters more than ever; we question the means and the outcomes. And next in our World Cup contender-country profiles: Senegal. Guests and host:Alex Hern, AI writerKira Huju, Asia correspondentJon Fasman, senior culture correspondentJason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”Topics covered: AI, Anthropic, MythosIndia, women, politicsWorld Cup, SenegalGet a world of insights by subscribing to Economist Podcasts+. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tim Cook is stepping down after overseeing 15 years of spectacular growth. We take a look at his successor. Japan's rural women are disproportionately heading to cities, and their home towns are working hard to lure them back. And a historical examination of boredom, and why Britons have perhaps less of it than they should.Guests and host:Tom Lee-Devlin, business editorMoeka Iida, Japan reporterCatherine Nixey, culture correspondentRosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”Topics covered: Apple, technology, CEO, John TernusJapan, demographicsBritain, boredomGet a world of insights by subscribing to Economist Podcasts+. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week's peace talks are endangered after American forces fired on and boarded a cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz. We visit Chernobyl's ruined reactor to assess the damage done by a Russian drone to its enormous safety structure. The likes of McDonald's and KFC have long been in China's cities; now they are expanding at pace in the countryside.Guests and host:Gregg Carlstrom, Middle East correspondentSarah  Lawrynuik, deputy editor of “The Intelligence”Don Weinland, China business and finance editorRosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”Topics covered: Iran war, Strait of HormuzChernobyl, Ukraine warChina, fast foodGet a world of insights by subscribing to Economist Podcasts+. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When America seized Venezuela's president Nicolas Maduro in January, it left the rest of his regime intact. Three months on, our correspondent finds optimism and some loosening of repression. Venezuela's opposition leader María Corina Machado fled to America, now she explains her ambitions for the country. And celebrating the life of Nick Pope, who spent decades investigating UFOs.Guests and host:Kinley Salmon, Latin America correspondentAnn Wroe, obituaries editorRosie Blau, host of “The Intelligence”Topics covered: Venezuela, oil, Maduro, TrumpMaría Corina Machado, electionsNick Pope, UFOs, aliens, NASAListen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—Subscribe to Economist Podcasts+For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After six weeks of Israel's offensive against Hizbullah, Lebanon's president and Israel's prime minister are due to talk today. What can they achieve? Britain's “triple lock” pensions are unsustainable. And Uzbekistan's footballers prepare for the World Cup.Vote for The Economist at the Webby Awards: “The Last Boat” podcast, TikTok channel and language series. Guests and host:Anshel Pfeffer, Israel correspondentJosh Roberts, capital markets correspondentJon Fasman, senior culture correspondentRosie Blau, host of “The Intelligence”Topics covered: Israel, Lebanon, Hizbullah, NetanyahuState pension, Britain, triple lock, inflationWorld Cup, UzbekistanListen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—Subscribe to Economist Podcasts+For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Iran conflict and blockades in the Strait of Hormuz are slowing supply not just of fuel, but food and fertiliser. Geophysics could worsen the approaching hunger crisis: an El Niño weather event is predicted for this year. Anti-conversion laws are resulting in horrific scenes at Christian burial sites in India. And why Britain's vets are struggling.Guests and host:Catherine Brahic, environment editorAvantika Chilkoti, global business writerKira Huju, Asia correspondentCarla Subirana, news desk editorRosie Blau, host of “The Intelligence”Topics covered: Iran conflict, oil, food crisis, fertilisers, El NiñoIndia, Hindu nationalism, Christian conversions, ModiBritain, pets, vetsListen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—Subscribe to Economist Podcasts+For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After the failure of talks at the weekend, America is now stopping all ships from using Iranian ports and coastal areas. Our correspondent analyses the rationale. Burkina Faso's government is committing war crimes. And which type of fizzy water tastes best?Vote for “The Economist” in the Webby Awards: “The Last Boat” podcast and Lane Greene on languagesGuests and host:Shashank Joshi, defence editorTom Gardner, Africa correspondentJon Fasman, senior culture writerRosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”Topics covered: America, Iran, blockade, Strait of Hormuz, oilBurkina Faso, Sahel, jihad, Ibrahim TraoréSparkling water, fizzy drinks, alcoholListen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—Subscribe to Economist Podcasts+For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In a momentous election, Viktor Orban has lost power in Hungary after 16 years of increasingly autocratic rule. Our correspondent explains how the country's opposition led by Peter Magyar ousted a corrupt regime. Why cows in Britain are producing too much milk. And celebrating the giant rat that helped sniff out landmines in Cambodia.  Guests and host:Matt Steinglass, Europe editorHarry Taunton, Britain writerVishnu Padmanabhan, Asia correspondentRosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”Jason Palmer, co-host of “The intelligence”Topics covered: Hungary, Viktor Orban, Peter Magyar, populismDairy farming, cows, milk, wellnessCambodia, landmines, Magawa, heroRatsListen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—Subscribe to Economist Podcasts+For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Also on the daily podcast: what the Artemis Moon mission really accomplished and remembering a brave Soviet psychiatristSHOW-NOTES TEXT  (60ish wds)Binyamin Netanyahu says his strikes against Hizbullah are separate from the Iran-war ceasefire. That assertion is putting cracks in the deal, and in Israel's relationship with America. We look at the stated and the unstated goals of the Artemis mission to the Moon—both achieved. And a tribute to Semyon Gluzman, who exposed the Soviet ruse of labelling dissidents as mental-health cases.Guests and host:Anshel Pfeffer, Israel correspondentOliver Morton, senior editorAnn Wroe, obituaries editorJason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”Topics covered: Israel, Iran war, Lebanon, AmericaArtemis mission, NASA, MoonSemyon Gluzman, Soviet Union, psychiatryGet a world of insights by subscribing to Economist Podcasts+. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

President Donald Trump has long threatened to pull America out of the alliance. We examine why the Iran war has made this time look significantly more serious. Westerners are fleeing their countries in record numbers—with economic consequences for their origins and destinations. And our series profiling the countries contesting the World Cup starts with Spain.  Guests and host:Anton La Guardia, diplomatic editorCallum Williams, senior economics writerJon Fasman, senior culture correspondentRosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”Topics covered: NATO, war in Iran, Donald Trump, Mark Rutteexpats, emigration, economicsWorld Cup, SpainGet a world of insights by subscribing to Economist Podcasts+. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.