The Intelligence from The Economist

War with Iran: Middle East in flames

<p>This weekend, America and Israel launched long-anticipated <a href="https://www.economist.com/leaders/2026/03/01/why-donald-trump-gambled-in-iran?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">attacks on Iran</a>, killing <a href="https://www.economist.com/obituary/2026/03/01/ali-khamenei-grabbed-power-and-held-it-at-bloody-cost?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ali Khamenei,</a> the country’s supreme leader. Our correspondents analyse what his death <a href="https://www.economist.com/middle-east-and-africa/2026/03/01/war-succession-and-the-perilous-test-of-two-myths-about-iran?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">means for the country</a> and the strategy behind Iran’s retaliation. We report how <a href="https://www.economist.com/middle-east-and-africa/2026/02/28/americas-gulf-allies-face-a-moment-of-great-peril?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Gulf States</a> are dealing with unprecedented instability within their borders. And we assess Iran’s military capability and what might happen next.</p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Nicolas Pelham, Middle East correspondent </li><li>Gregg Carlstrom, Middle East correspondent </li><li>Gareth Browne, Middle East reporter</li><li>Shashank Joshi, defence editor</li><li>Rosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Topics covered: </p><ul><li>Iran attacks, military capability</li><li>Ali Khamenei, succession </li><li>Donald Trump, foreign policy</li><li>Gulf States, Dubai </li></ul><p><br></p><br><p><em>Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—</em><a href="https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>Subscribe to Economist Podcasts+</em></a></p><br><p><em>For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our </em><a href="https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>FAQs page</em></a><em> or watch </em><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gczo71bg1uY" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>our video</em></a><em> explaining how to link your account. </em></p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

The Weekend Intelligence: How to prepare for an invasion

<p>Just one generation after they gained independence, people in the Baltic States are watching the threat from the Kremlin creep closer and closer. In Lithuania, the government is preparing the population to resist an invasion. </p><br><p>On “The Weekend Intelligence” Katie Bryant travels to Vilnius to ask how facing up to threat is changing the nation. </p><br><p>Topics covered:</p><br><p>Lithuania</p><p>Civil defence</p><p>Disinformation</p><br><p>Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—Subscribe to Economist Podcasts+</p><br><p>For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account.</p><br><p>Music by bluedot Sessions and Epidemic Sound.</p><br><p>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.</p><br><p>Read more about how we are using AI.</p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Bot the difference: AI’s absence in economic data

<p>For all the promise of transformation that artificial intelligence offers, a close look at macroeconomic data shows <a href="https://www.economist.com/finance-and-economics/2026/02/22/the-ai-productivity-boom-is-not-here-yet?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">little change</a>. Sit tight. A brutal attack in Nigeria reveals how the security crisis is <a href="https://www.economist.com/middle-east-and-africa/2026/02/12/a-deadly-attack-shows-nigerias-security-crisis-is-worsening?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">spreading ominously</a>. And a tribute to <a href="https://www.economist.com/obituary/2026/02/12/virginia-oliver-worked-maines-waters-for-nearly-a-century?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Virginia Oliver</a>, who cut an unusual figure on the lobster boat she skippered for decades.</p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Alex Domash, economics correspondent</li><li>Ọrẹ Ogunbiyi, Africa correspondent</li><li>Jon Fasman, senior culture correspondent</li><li>Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Topics covered: </p><ul><li>Artificial intelligence, macroeconomics</li><li>Nigeria, security, jihadism</li><li>Virginia Oliver, Maine, lobsters</li></ul><p><br></p><p><em>Get a world of insights by </em><a href="https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>subscribing to Economist Podcasts+</em></a><em>. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our </em><a href="https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>FAQs page</em></a><em> or watch </em><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gczo71bg1uY" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>our video</em></a><em> explaining how to link your account.</em></p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Poised and confused: the will-he-won’t-he of Iran strikes

<p>As a military build-up continues in the Middle East, President Donald Trump’s messaging remains <a href="https://www.economist.com/middle-east-and-africa/2026/02/25/americans-have-no-idea-what-donald-trump-wants-from-iran?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">ambiguous</a>. What could, at this stage, head off conflict? Our <a href="https://www.economist.com/interactive/america-at-250#chapter-2?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">series on America’s 250th birthday</a> continues with a dive into our archive on the era leading up to civil war. And a couple of recommendations for the silver and the small screen.</p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Gregg Carlstrom, Middle East correspondent</li><li>Annie Crabill, senior digital editor</li><li>Alexandra Suich Bass, Culture editor</li><li>Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Topics covered: </p><ul><li>Iran, nuclear deal, military build-up</li><li>American history</li><li>entertainment, “Dreams”, “Bridgerton”</li></ul><p><br></p><p><em>Get a world of insights by </em><a href="https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>subscribing to Economist Podcasts+</em></a><em>. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our </em><a href="https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>FAQs page</em></a><em> or watch </em><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gczo71bg1uY" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>our video</em></a><em> explaining how to link your account.</em></p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Chapo, Mayo, Mencho: another Mexican kingpin falls

<p>The targeting of “El Mencho”, the leader of one of the country’s two biggest gangs, has resulted in a predictable <a href="https://www.economist.com/the-americas/2026/02/23/the-killing-of-mexicos-most-powerful-narco-will-please-donald-trump?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">spate of violence</a>—more of which is virtually assured. We take a rare look inside Russia to see how four years of war has <a href="https://www.economist.com/briefing/2026/02/19/how-four-years-of-war-have-changed-russia?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">changed the country</a>. And some surprising advice on how to get your <a href="https://www.economist.com/science-and-technology/2025/12/26/what-is-the-best-way-to-train-for-a-marathon?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">best marathon time</a>.</p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Sarah Birke, Mexico City bureau chief</li><li>Arkady Ostrovsky, Russia editor</li><li>Tim Cross, senior science writer</li><li>Ainslie Johnstone, data journalist</li><li>Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Topics covered: </p><ul><li>Mexico, cartels, gang violence</li><li>Russia, economy, Ukraine war</li><li>Running, training, marathons</li></ul><p><br></p><p><em>Get a world of insights by </em><a href="https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>subscribing to Economist Podcasts+</em></a><em>. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our </em><a href="https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>FAQs page</em></a><em> or watch </em><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gczo71bg1uY" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>our video</em></a><em> explaining how to link your account.</em></p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

A world-changing war: four years in Ukraine

<p>On the fourth anniversary of a war that many predicted would last mere days, much has changed—even beyond the unthinkable misery <a href="https://www.economist.com/europe/2026/02/18/how-a-four-year-onslaught-has-changed-ukraine?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">in Ukraine itself</a>. Alliances have weakened, Europe is rearming like never before and the very nature of modern war has been redefined. Our correspondents take stock and consider what kind of peace is even possible. </p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Edward Carr, deputy editor</li><li>Oliver Carroll, Ukraine correspondent</li><li>Shashank Joshi, defence editor</li><li>Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Topics covered: </p><ul><li>war in Ukraine, Russia, defence, diplomacy</li></ul><p><br></p><p><em>Get a world of insights by </em><a href="https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>subscribing to Economist Podcasts+</em></a><em>. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our </em><a href="https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>FAQs page</em></a><em> or watch </em><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gczo71bg1uY" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>our video</em></a><em> explaining how to link your account.</em></p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

When the levy brakes: Trump’s tariffs struck down

<p>The smackdown by America’s Supreme Court was <a href="https://www.economist.com/finance-and-economics/2026/02/20/donald-trump-answers-a-supreme-court-rebuke-with-new-tariff-threats?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">resounding</a>: the bulk of Donald Trump’s tariffs were instituted illegally. He will try to rebuild his tariff wall, brick by brick—creating a new crop of winners and losers. Australia’s surging <a href="https://www.economist.com/asia/2026/02/19/could-one-nation-soon-become-australias-most-popular-party?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">One Nation</a> party threatens a conservative coalition that was already looking slightly shaky. And why Agatha Christie’s prolific output is so <a href="https://www.economist.com/culture/2026/01/12/the-secret-to-agatha-christies-success?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">enduringly popular</a>.</p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Rachana Shanbhogue, business-affairs editor</li><li>Aaron Connelly, Asia diplomatic editor</li><li>Jon Fasman, senior culture correspondent</li><li>Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Topics covered: </p><ul><li>America’s Supreme Court, Donald Trump, tariffs</li><li>Australian politics, Pauline Hanson</li><li>Agatha Christie</li></ul><p><br></p><p><em>Get a world of insights by </em><a href="https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>subscribing to Economist Podcasts+</em></a><em>. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our </em><a href="https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>FAQs page</em></a><em> or watch </em><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gczo71bg1uY" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>our video</em></a><em> explaining how to link your account.</em></p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

The arrest is history: Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor

<p>The <a href="https://www.economist.com/britain/2026/02/19/what-andrew-mountbatten-windsors-arrest-means-for-the-monarchy?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">detainment</a> of King Charles’s brother is almost without precedent in Britain’s long royal history. He denies wrongdoing, but damage to “The Firm” is already assured. Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have fallen into a <a href="https://www.economist.com/middle-east-and-africa/2026/02/17/why-the-gulfs-most-powerful-countries-are-at-odds?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">very public spat</a> that may have grave implications far beyond the region. And our obituaries editor reflects on the life of <a href="https://www.economist.com/obituary/2026/02/18/jesse-jackson-made-a-black-president-possible?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Jesse Jackson</a>.</p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Sonny Loughran, Britain writer</li><li>Gregg Carlstrom, Middle East correspondent</li><li>Ann Wroe, Obituaries editor</li><li>Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Topics covered: </p><ul><li>Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, Britain’s royal family, Jeffrey Epstein</li><li>Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, diplomacy</li><li>Jesse Jackson</li></ul><p><br></p><p><em>Get a world of insights by </em><a href="https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>subscribing to Economist Podcasts+</em></a><em>. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our </em><a href="https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>FAQs page</em></a><em> or watch </em><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gczo71bg1uY" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>our video</em></a><em> explaining how to link your account.</em></p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

The splitting image: Yoon verdict will deepen divisions

<p>Yoon Suk Yeol, South Korea’s ex-president, has been handed a life sentence for insurrection. That is by no means the end of the story of <a href="https://www.economist.com/asia/2026/02/18/south-korea-is-still-haunted-by-its-disgraced-ex-president?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">division in the country</a>. Nervous AI-watchers fret about which workers might be replaced; our analysis suggests white-collar workers can <a href="https://www.economist.com/finance-and-economics/2026/01/26/why-ai-wont-wipe-out-white-collar-jobs?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">breathe easy</a>. And the memoir of <a href="https://www.economist.com/culture/2026/02/17/gisele-pelicots-horrifying-rape-case-changed-the-law-and-minds?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Gisèle Pelicot</a>, a rape survivor turned global symbol of strength.</p><br><p>Guests and hosts:</p><ul><li>Noah Sneider, East Asia bureau chief</li><li>Alex Domash, economics correspondent</li><li>Alexandra Suich Bass, Culture editor</li><li>Rosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”</li><li>Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Topics covered: </p><ul><li>South Korea, Yoon Suk Yeol</li><li>AI, white-collar jobs</li><li>Gisèle Pelicot, memoir</li></ul><p><br></p><p><em>Get a world of insights by </em><a href="https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>subscribing to Economist Podcasts+</em></a><em>. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our </em><a href="https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>FAQs page</em></a><em> or watch </em><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gczo71bg1uY" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>our video</em></a><em> explaining how to link your account.</em></p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

The Robin Hood state: taxes are getting more progressive

<p>Income inequality abounds and today’s rich are staggeringly rich, implying that tax regimes are giving the wealthy more and more of a pass. Our dig into the numbers suggests <a href="https://www.economist.com/international/2026/02/16/the-robin-hood-state-is-coming-for-the-rich?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">the opposite</a>. We ask why so many of the world’s international mercenaries <a href="https://www.economist.com/the-americas/2026/02/04/why-so-many-colombians-fight-in-foreign-wars?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">hail from Colombia</a>. And despite the signs, Spanish may be <a href="https://www.economist.com/united-states/2026/02/06/america-may-be-reaching-peak-spanish?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">reaching its peak</a> in America.</p><br><p>Guests and hosts:</p><ul><li>Callum Williams, senior economics writer</li><li>Carla Subirana, news editor</li><li>Lane Greene, senior digital editor</li><li>Rosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”</li><li>Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Topics covered: </p><ul><li>Taxation, welfare state, inequality</li><li>Colombia, international mercenaries</li><li>Spanish</li></ul><p><br></p><p><em>Get a world of insights by </em><a href="https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>subscribing to Economist Podcasts+</em></a><em>. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our </em><a href="https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>FAQs page</em></a><em> or watch </em><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gczo71bg1uY" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>our video</em></a><em> explaining how to link your account.</em></p><br><p><br></p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Ice, ice, maybe: should the Arctic be refrozen?

<p>Many scientists are considering the notion of actively cooling the region that is warming fastest. We examine the merits and the risks—both environmental and geopolitical—of <a href="https://www.economist.com/science-and-technology/2026/01/29/should-the-arctic-be-refrozen?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">messing with the polar climate</a>. We ask why the kind of gig economy that has struggled in many markets is <a href="https://www.economist.com/asia/2026/02/05/a-booming-gig-economy-is-formalising-indias-labour-force?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">booming in India</a>. And an unsettling peek into the first <a href="https://www.economist.com/business/2026/02/02/a-social-network-for-ai-agents-is-full-of-introspection-and-threats?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">social network</a> for AI agents.</p><br><p>Guests and hosts:</p><ul><li>Oliver Morton, senior editor</li><li>Catherine Brahic, environment editor</li><li>Kira Huju, Asia correspondent</li><li>Alex Hern, AI writer</li><li>Rosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”</li><li>Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Topics covered: </p><ul><li>The Arctic, climate change, geoengineering</li><li>India, gig economy</li><li>Agentic AI, social networking, Moltbook</li></ul><p><br></p><p><em>Get a world of insights by </em><a href="https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>subscribing to Economist Podcasts+</em></a><em>. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our </em><a href="https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>FAQs page</em></a><em> or watch </em><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gczo71bg1uY" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>our video</em></a><em> explaining how to link your account.</em></p><br><p><br></p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Check in the mail: our analysis of Epstein’s correspondence

<p>Our data journalists trawled through the vast email archive of Jeffrey Epstein, a dead sex offender. It is a <a href="https://www.economist.com/interactive/international/2026/02/12/inside-epsteins-network?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">revealing look</a> at how and with whom he communicated. As interest grows in banning young people’s use of social media, <a href="https://www.economist.com/leaders/2026/02/12/dont-ban-teenagers-from-social-media?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">we argue</a> there are better ways to mitigate harms. And a blindfolded introduction to “<a href="https://www.economist.com/culture/2026/02/02/why-a-new-playful-style-of-wine-is-delighting-drinkers?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">blouge</a>”, a new, more climate-resilient wine variety.</p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Rosie Blau, host of “The Intelligence”</li><li>Dan Rosenheck, data editor</li><li>Tom Wainwright, media editor</li><li>Tom Standage, deputy editor of <em>The Economist</em></li></ul><p><br></p><p>Topics covered: </p><ul><li>The Epstein files</li><li>Social-media bans</li><li>“Blouge” wine</li></ul><p><br></p><p><em>Get a world of insights by </em><a href="https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>subscribing to Economist Podcasts+</em></a><em>. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our </em><a href="https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>FAQs page</em></a><em> or watch </em><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gczo71bg1uY" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>our video</em></a><em> explaining how to link your account.</em></p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Stock options: how to hedge an AI bubble

<p>Tech firms are spending so much on artificial intelligence that investors are getting nervous. Our correspondent explains whether it is possible to <a href="https://www.economist.com/finance-and-economics/2026/02/08/how-to-hedge-a-bubble-ai-edition?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">protect your portfolio</a> from a crash. <a href="https://www.economist.com/europe/2026/01/15/who-might-succeed-recep-tayyip-erdogan?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Turkey’s ruler</a> has become increasingly autocratic–and increasingly old. Who might succeed him? And celebrating the life of literary agent <a href="https://www.economist.com/obituary/2026/02/05/georges-borchardt-made-a-life-from-a-love-of-reading?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Georges Borchardt</a>.   </p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Rosie Blau, host of “The Intelligence”</li><li>Josh Roberts, capital markets correspondent</li><li>Piotr Zalewski, Turkey correspondent</li><li>Jon Fasman, senior culture correspondent</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Topics covered: </p><ul><li>Hedging against an AI bubble</li><li>Turkey after Erdogan</li><li>Obituary of literary agent Georges Borchardt</li></ul><p><br></p><br><p><em>Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—</em><a href="https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>Subscribe to Economist Podcasts+</em></a></p><br><p><em>For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our </em><a href="https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>FAQs page</em></a><em> or watch </em><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gczo71bg1uY" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>our video</em></a><em> explaining how to link your account. </em></p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Check in Kyiv: prospects for peace?

<p>As Russia’s war in <a href="https://www.economist.com/europe/2026/01/30/peace-negotiations-give-freezing-kyiv-a-hint-of-hope?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ukraine</a> nears four years, there has been no let up in the fighting on the battlefield. Yet there is some optimism that negotiations could yield a ceasefire. Our correspondent joins a <a href="https://www.economist.com/the-americas/2026/02/02/inside-the-hopeless-effort-to-quash-cocaine-by-force?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Colombian drug raid</a> to destroy a cocaine laboratory in the Amazon. And is <a href="https://www.economist.com/britain/2026/01/28/london-is-far-safer-than-violent-viral-videos-will-have-you-believe?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">crime in London</a> really soaring? </p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Rosie Blau, host of “The Intelligence”</li><li>Oliver Carroll, Ukraine correspondent</li><li>Claire McQue, Latin America writer</li><li>Sonny Loughran, Britain writer</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Topics covered: </p><ul><li>Ukraine peace prospects</li><li>Colombia’s war on drugs</li><li>Crime in London</li></ul><p><br></p><p><em>Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—</em><a href="https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>Subscribe to Economist Podcasts+</em></a></p><br><p><em>For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our </em><a href="https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>FAQs page</em></a><em> or watch </em><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gczo71bg1uY" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>our video</em></a><em> explaining how to link your account. </em></p><br><p><br></p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Dhaka matters: an election for Bangladesh

<p>The toppling of authoritarian leader Sheikh Hassina in Bangladesh in 2024 was celebrated as a triumph for democracy. Tomorrow the country finally <a href="https://www.economist.com/leaders/2026/02/05/the-new-bangladesh-is-only-half-built?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">heads to the polls</a>. Our correspondent weighs the choice. Can Mars and other bleak planets be made fit for <a href="https://www.economist.com/science-and-technology/2025/12/30/how-to-export-life-to-mars?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">human habitation</a>? And why <a href="https://www.economist.com/business/2026/01/12/job-applicants-are-winning-the-ai-arms-race-against-recruiters?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">AI bots</a> are applying for human jobs. </p><br><p>To find out how to have <a href="https://www.economist.com/podcasts/2025/04/12/can-we-make-babies-in-space" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">sex in space</a>, listen to this episode of “The Weekend Intelligence”. </p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Rosie Blau and Jason Palmer, co-hosts of “The Intelligence”</li><li>Mark Johnson, senior writer</li><li>Oliver Morton, senior editor</li><li>Shera Avi-Yonah, business writer</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Topics covered: </p><ul><li>Bangladesh’s election</li><li>Astrobiology</li><li>How AI changes job recruitment</li></ul><p><br></p><p><em>Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—</em><a href="https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>Subscribe to Economist Podcasts+</em></a></p><br><p><em>For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our </em><a href="https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>FAQs page</em></a><em> or watch </em><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gczo71bg1uY" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>our video</em></a><em> explaining how to link your account. </em></p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

A Keir-death experience: Britain's PM clings on

<p><a href="https://www.economist.com/britain/2026/02/09/keir-starmer-a-sick-man-who-cant-afford-to-catch-a-cold?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Sir Keir Starmer</a> has faced calls for his resignation from a senior party member. He has survived – but Britain’s prime minister is now fighting for his political survival. <a href="https://www.economist.com/united-states/2026/02/02/the-right-to-die-is-spreading-in-america?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Assisted dying</a> legislation is catching up with public opinion in America. And what happens when <a href="https://www.economist.com/united-states/2026/01/22/welcome-to-the-wild-world-of-skijoring?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">skiing meets rodeo</a>? </p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Rosie Blau, host of “The Intelligence”</li><li>Sacha Nauta, Britain editor</li><li>Stevie Hertz, US policy correspondent</li><li>Aryn Braun, West Coast corrrespondent</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Topics covered: </p><ul><li>Keir Starmer’s political future</li><li>Assisted dying in America</li><li>The sport of skijoring  </li></ul><p><br></p><br><p><em>Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—</em><a href="https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>Subscribe to Economist Podcasts+</em></a></p><br><p><em>For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our </em><a href="https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>FAQs page</em></a><em> or watch </em><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gczo71bg1uY" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>our video</em></a><em> explaining how to link your account. </em></p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Snap judgement: Japan PM’s electoral landslide

<p><a href="https://www.economist.com/asia/2026/02/08/how-japans-prime-minister-will-use-her-massive-new-mandate?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Takaichi Sanae</a>’s gamble to call a general election has paid off. How will the prime minister’s thumping victory change Japan? New legislation in Republican states could imperil <a href="https://www.economist.com/united-states/2026/01/29/republican-states-are-censoring-universities?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">academic freedom</a>. And why “<a href="https://www.economist.com/culture/2026/02/05/fifty-years-on-the-anti-hero-of-taxi-driver-is-eerily-familiar?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Taxi Driver</a>” resonates 50 years after the film’s release.</p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Rosie Blau, host of “The Intelligence”</li><li>Noah Sneider, East Asia bureau chief</li><li>Rebecca Jackson, Southern correspondent</li><li>Andrew Miller, author of <em>The Economist’s</em> Back Story column on culture</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Topics covered: </p><ul><li>Japan’s election</li><li>University censorship in America</li><li>Fifty years of “Taxi Driver”</li></ul><p><br></p><p>For more on Japan’s economy, listen to last week’s episode of <a href="https://www.economist.com/podcasts/2026/02/05/japans-election-why-investors-are-worried" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Money Talks</a></p><br><p><em>Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—</em><a href="https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>Subscribe to Economist Podcasts+</em></a></p><br><p><em>For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our </em><a href="https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>FAQs page</em></a><em> or watch </em><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gczo71bg1uY" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>our video</em></a><em> explaining how to link your account.</em></p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Elon shot: will Musk’s mega-merger work?

<p>This week Elon Musk announced the <a href="https://www.economist.com/business/2026/02/03/elon-musks-mega-merger-makes-little-business-sense?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">merger</a> of two of his companies: SpaceX and xAI, which makes chatbots. Is the new firm viable? As migrant workers return home for lunar new year, the Chinese Communist Party tells <a href="https://www.economist.com/china/2026/01/26/china-fears-a-flood-of-unemployed-workers-in-rural-areas?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">migrant workers</a> not to stay for too long. And our culture editor’s hot take on “<a href="https://www.economist.com/culture/2026/02/05/the-hit-tv-show-that-no-one-saw-coming?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Heated Rivalry</a>”.</p><br><p><em>Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—</em><a href="https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>Subscribe to Economist Podcasts+</em></a></p><br><p><em>For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our </em><a href="https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>FAQs page</em></a><em> or watch </em><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gczo71bg1uY" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>our video</em></a><em> explaining how to link your account. </em></p><br><p><br></p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Nukes of hazard: US-Russia arms treaty expires

<p>The New START <a href="https://www.economist.com/international/2026/02/03/a-new-nuclear-arms-race-is-in-the-offing?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">nuclear deal</a> was signed in 2010 to restrict the number of strategic warheads and missiles America and Russia could amass. Will there be a new deal – and what will happen if not? How social media has helped fuel <a href="https://www.economist.com/international/2026/01/08/social-media-are-helping-cults-to-recruit-and-control-members?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">recruitment to cults</a>. And our <a href="https://www.economist.com/podcasts/2026/01/17/hair-peace?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">baldness</a> correspondent bristles at some hairy questions.</p><br><p>Listen back to "<a href="https://www.economist.com/science-and-technology/2025/07/23/what-does-it-take-to-make-a-nuclear-weapon?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Bomb</a>", our Babbage series on America's quest to modernise its nuclear arsenal.  </p><br><p><em>Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—</em><a href="https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>Subscribe to Economist Podcasts+</em></a></p><br><p><em>For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our </em><a href="https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>FAQs page</em></a><em> or watch </em><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gczo71bg1uY" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>our video</em></a><em> explaining how to link your account. </em></p><br><p><br></p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Peter and the wolves: Mandelson falls but Epstein scandal spreads

<p><a href="https://www.economist.com/britain/2026/02/03/blighty-newsletter-peter-mandelsons-career-is-over-for-real-this-time?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Peter Mandelson</a> was a totem of Britain’s Labour party for decades. The newest Epstein files mark the end of his political career. What are the consequences for the country’s prime minister, Sir Keir Starmer? <a href="https://www.economist.com/business/2026/01/26/ryanair-might-be-the-worlds-most-successful-airline?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ryanair</a> is controversial and widely hated—yet strangely successful. And why so many animals engage in <a href="https://www.economist.com/science-and-technology/2026/01/14/same-sex-sexual-behaviour-in-primates-is-a-survival-strategy?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">same-sex relationships</a>.</p><br><p>To get 15% off Economist Education’s new business writing and storytelling course, <a href="http://economist.com/writingcourse" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">register</a> with the code ECONWRITING-15.</p><br><p><em>Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—</em><a href="https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>Subscribe to Economist Podcasts+</em></a></p><br><p><em>For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our </em><a href="https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>FAQs page</em></a><em> or watch </em><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gczo71bg1uY" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>our video</em></a><em> explaining how to link your account. </em></p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Tug of Warsh: will the new chair politicise the Fed?

<p>After months of speculation, Donald Trump has picked <a href="https://www.economist.com/finance-and-economics/2026/01/30/what-will-kevin-warshs-federal-reserve-look-like?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Kevin Warsh</a> to run the Federal Reserve. Our correspondent explains what this means for America–and the world economy.  What matters more in <a href="https://www.economist.com/asia/2026/01/26/thailands-liberals-face-a-tricky-election?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Thailand’s election</a>: the will of the people or the power of the monarchy? And why Hong Kong’s humble <a href="https://www.economist.com/china/2026/01/15/the-best-way-to-see-hong-kong-is-on-its-trams?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">tram network</a> could help keep tourism on track.</p><br><p><em>Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—</em><a href="https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>Subscribe to Economist Podcasts+</em></a></p><br><p><em>For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our </em><a href="https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>FAQs page</em></a><em> or watch </em><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gczo71bg1uY" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>our video</em></a><em> explaining how to link your account. </em></p><p><br></p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Survival Modi: Indian PM’s fortunes revive

<p>After <a href="https://www.economist.com/asia/2026/01/21/the-remarkable-recovery-of-narendra-modi?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Narendra Modi</a>’s setback in the 2024 Indian elections, many thought his star was falling. Our correspondent explains the surprising resurgence of popular support. Why pushing your child to specialise may not be the best way to nurture their <a href="https://www.economist.com/science-and-technology/2026/01/14/why-child-prodigies-rarely-become-elite-performers?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">genius</a>. And what the departure of <a href="https://www.economist.com/asia/2026/01/28/for-the-first-time-in-54-years-there-are-no-pandas-in-japan?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">pandas</a> from Japan says about the country’s relationship with China.</p><br><p><em>Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—</em><a href="https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>Subscribe to Economist Podcasts+</em></a></p><br><p><em>For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our </em><a href="https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>FAQs page</em></a><em> or watch </em><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gczo71bg1uY" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>our video</em></a><em> explaining how to link your account. </em></p><br><p><br></p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Boss Class 1. Fat layer of humans

<p>Can AI do my job? How should employees and bosses be using the technology right now? And how should all of us prepare for the future?</p><br><p>Andrew Palmer returns for a third season of Boss Class. This time it’s all about AI. In the first episode, he starts introducing AI into his daily work routines, and receives a nasty shock.</p><br><p>To listen to the full series, subscribe to <a href="https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Economist Podcasts+</a>.</p><p><a href="https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus</a></p><br><p>If you’re already a subscriber to <em>The Economist</em>, you have full access to all our shows as part of your subscription. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our <a href="https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">FAQs</a> page or watch our <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gczo71bg1uY" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">video</a> explaining how to link your account.</p><br><p>In this episode, Andrew asks Claude, a generative AI programme, to write his management column for him. You can find <a href="https://www.economist.com/business/2025/08/21/the-last-days-of-brainstorming" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Andrew’s column here</a> and <a href="https://claude.ai/public/artifacts/257d4f11-d2f2-4631-9562-9a0380c395fd" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Claude’s version here</a>.</p><p><br></p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Democracy on ICE? The mood turns in America

<p>On the streets of Minneapolis, in polls and in the halls of Congress, disapproval of President Donald Trump’s immigration agenda is mounting. Democrats won a near-term battle on funding—for now—but a <a href="https://www.economist.com/leaders/2026/01/29/ices-impunity-is-a-formula-for-more-violence?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">wider war</a> awaits. Kim Jong Un, North Korea’s leader, appears to be positioning his daughter <a href="https://www.economist.com/asia/2026/01/08/the-teenage-girl-who-may-rule-north-korea?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">ever more visibly</a> as his successor. And remembering <a href="https://www.economist.com/obituary/2026/01/28/mark-tully-spoke-to-indians-as-one-of-them?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Mark Tully</a>, a veteran BBC correspondent in India. </p><br><p><em>Get a world of insights by </em><a href="https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>subscribing to Economist Podcasts+</em></a><em>. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our </em><a href="https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>FAQs page</em></a><em> or watch </em><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gczo71bg1uY" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>our video</em></a><em> explaining how to link your account.</em></p><p><br></p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

No middle ground: Iran’s dangerous division

<p>As the smoke of a murderous crackdown clears, Iranians have hardened into two camps. Moderates and reformists are out; a sense of looming civil war is in. As America nears its 250th birthday, we launch <a href="https://www.economist.com/interactive/america-at-250?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">our series</a> examining the highlights and low points of its history. And why the wild playground popularity of the song “<a href="https://www.economist.com/culture/2026/01/26/how-russian-brainrot-became-a-hit-for-children?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Sigma Boy</a>” is so worrisome.</p><br><p><em>Get a world of insights by </em><a href="https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>subscribing to Economist Podcasts+</em></a><em>. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our </em><a href="https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>FAQs page</em></a><em> or watch </em><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gczo71bg1uY" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>our video</em></a><em> explaining how to link your account.</em></p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

We’ll be right over here: Europe’s populists sour on Trump

<p>Many of the continent’s populist-right leaders once saw President Donald Trump as an example-setting fellow traveller. But his actions and policies on Venezuela, Greenland and Canada have them <a href="https://www.economist.com/europe/2026/01/20/donald-trumps-bullying-is-irritating-his-european-populist-chums?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">pulling back</a>. Dating apps from the West failed to make inroads in India; now the country has <a href="https://www.economist.com/asia/2026/01/22/homegrown-apps-are-making-dating-in-india-less-awkward?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">its own crop</a> of them. And scientific spying in the jungle <a href="https://www.economist.com/science-and-technology/2026/01/07/where-should-predators-hang-out-if-there-are-no-watering-holes?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">reveals</a> where predators hunt.</p><br><p><em>Get a world of insights by </em><a href="https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>subscribing to Economist Podcasts+</em></a><em>. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our </em><a href="https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>FAQs page</em></a><em> or watch </em><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gczo71bg1uY" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>our video</em></a><em> explaining how to link your account.</em></p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

General ejection: China’s military purge

<p>The two men under investigation are in the army’s highest echelon, and are some of President Xi Jinping’s closest counsel. We examine the probable motives for a <a href="https://www.economist.com/china/2026/01/24/what-xi-jinpings-purge-of-chinas-most-senior-general-reveals?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">surprising purge</a>. In Ukraine’s freezing capital thousands upon thousands of people suffer <a href="https://www.economist.com/europe/2026/01/22/ukraines-new-air-defence-whiz-must-stop-a-redoubled-blitz?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">unpredictable cuts</a> to electricity, heat, even water; we ask them how they cope. And why Strava is leading the <a href="https://www.economist.com/business/2026/01/22/stravas-public-listing-will-help-it-race-ahead-of-competitors?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">fitness-app footrace</a>.</p><br><p><em>Get a world of insights by </em><a href="https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>subscribing to Economist Podcasts+</em></a><em>. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our </em><a href="https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>FAQs page</em></a><em> or watch </em><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gczo71bg1uY" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>our video</em></a><em> explaining how to link your account.</em></p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Resistance is fatal: another killing in Minneapolis

<p>For the second time this month, federal agents in Minneapolis killed a citizen under <a href="https://www.economist.com/united-states/2026/01/24/another-horrifying-shooting-by-federal-agents-in-minneapolis?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">disputed circumstances</a>. We take a wider look at the immigration-enforcement effort and what, if anything, might limit it. OpenAI remains a generative-AI darling but it is burning through eye-watering amounts of money; 2026 may be its <a href="https://www.economist.com/business/2025/12/29/openai-faces-a-make-or-break-year-in-2026?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">make-or-break year</a>. And the effort to save Britain’s <a href="https://www.economist.com/britain/2026/01/10/a-weapon-that-could-help-red-squirrels-in-their-battle-of-britain?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">red squirrels</a>. </p><br><p><em>Get a world of insights by </em><a href="https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>subscribing to Economist Podcasts+</em></a><em>. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our </em><a href="https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>FAQs page</em></a><em> or watch </em><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gczo71bg1uY" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>our video</em></a><em> explaining how to link your account.</em></p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Trailer: Boss Class Season 3

<p>AI is changing how we work. It's turning us all into managers. Be a good one. </p><br><p><em>The Economist</em>’s management columnist, Andrew Palmer, takes on the bots in the third season of Boss Class. From cloning to coding, agents to entry-level jobs, he tackles the threat head on and figures out how to turn anxiety into opportunity. Along the way he meets bulls and bears and the people who can help you to master management in the age of AI. </p><br><p>Full Season 3 out 29th January 2026.</p><br><p>To listen to the full series, subscribe to <a href="https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Economist Podcasts+</a>. </p><p><a href="https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus</a></p><br><p>If you’re already a subscriber to <em>The Economist</em>, you have full access to all our shows as part of your subscription. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our <a href="https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">FAQs</a> page or watch our <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gczo71bg1uY" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">video</a> explaining how to link your account.</p><br><p><br></p><br><p><br></p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

ISIS control: Syria’s prison camp changes hands

<p>Our Middle East correspondent reports from the largest holding camp for ISIS fighters in northern <a href="https://www.economist.com/middle-east-and-africa/2026/01/22/how-the-kurds-lost-control-of-north-eastern-syria?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Syria</a>, which government troops have just retaken from Kurdish control. What will happen to the inmates? <a href="https://www.economist.com/science-and-technology/2026/01/19/treatment-of-a-teenager-with-an-ultra-rare-condition-is-a-medical-milestone?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Custom-made drugs</a> are a medical milestone. And our obituaries editor remembers <a href="https://www.economist.com/obituary/2026/01/22/cecilia-gimenez-only-meant-to-be-helpful?utm_campaign=a.io&utm_medium=audio.podcast.np&utm_source=theintelligence&utm_content=discovery.content.anonymous.tr_shownotes_na-na_article&utm_term=sa.listeners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Cecilia Giménez</a>, whose “Monkey Jesus” transformed the fortunes of a Spanish church. </p><br><p><em>Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—</em><a href="https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>Subscribe to Economist Podcasts+</em></a></p><br><p><em>For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our </em><a href="https://myaccount.economist.com/s/article/What-is-Economist-Podcasts" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>FAQs page</em></a><em> or watch </em><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gczo71bg1uY" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>our video</em></a><em> explaining how to link your account. </em></p><br><p><br></p> <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>