The Intelligence from The Economist

Head out of the cloud: Nvidia’s personal-computer shift

<p>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.</p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Shailesh Chitnis, global business writer</li><li>Aryn Braun, West Coast correspondent</li><li>Andrew Palmer, executive editor and “Bartleby” columnist</li><li>Jason Palmer (no relation), co-host of “The Intelligence”</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Topics covered: </p><ul><li>Nvidia, AI, technology</li><li>Los Angeles, American politics</li><li>corporate jargon</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>

Mistrusting the process: containing Congo’s Ebola outbreak

<p>Aid is ramping up to the Democratic Republic of Congo, and vaccine work is progressing. But what the Ebola response <a href="https://www.economist.com/middle-east-and-africa/2026/05/28/congos-response-to-ebola-is-late-and-chaotic?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">most lacks</a> is trust of the community. European governments and businesses are wary of their dependence on America’s tech giants; we examine a spate of <a href="https://www.economist.com/europe/2026/05/21/how-europe-is-fighting-for-digital-sovereignty?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">home-grown efforts</a>. And sticky toffee pudding, a staid British classic, gets a sweet <a href="https://www.economist.com/britain/2026/03/31/for-the-love-of-sticky-toffee-pudding?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-media boost</a>. </p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>John McDermott, chief Africa correspondent</li><li>Christian Odendahl, European economics editor</li><li>Ọrẹ Ogunbiyi, Africa correspondent and sticky toffee pudding enthusiast</li><li>Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Topics covered: </p><ul><li>Ebola outbreak, Democratic Republic of Congo, epidemiology, vaccines</li><li>European technology, American tech giants, technological sovereignty </li><li>sticky toffee pudding</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>

New world of warcraft: how conflict has forever changed

<p>Our outgoing defence editor reflects on <a href="https://www.economist.com/interactive/essay/2026/05/28/the-dangerous-delusion-of-modern-warfare?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">how war has changed</a> during the eight years of his tenure. Wars have become <a href="https://www.economist.com/leaders/2026/05/28/smart-tech-is-making-war-a-dumber-choice?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">easier to start and harder to finish</a>, and the little guy has a better chance than ever before. And our obituaries editor pays tribute to <a href="https://www.economist.com/obituary/2026/05/28/barney-frank-always-took-the-underdogs-side?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">Barney Frank</a>, a trailblazing Democratic congressman.</p><br><p><em>Watch extended clips from Insider </em><a href="https://www.economist.com/interactive/insider/previews?utm_campaign=a.brand_fy2627_q1_awareness-imp-tr_prospecting_global-global_direct_na&utm_medium=audio.podcast.pd&utm_source=economist&utm_content=discovery.awareness.anonymous.tr_nativeread_np-tiinsider-apr_na-na_web_na_na_na_na&utm_term=sa.arc-isi" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>here</em></a></p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Shashank Joshi, defence editor</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>war, technology, Ukraine, Iran</li><li>Barney Frank</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>

Deal or ordeal: Trump’s bad options in Cuba

<p>The American administration’s next round of sabre-rattling has been directed at Cuba. But more military adventures there would probably prove <a href="https://www.economist.com/leaders/2026/05/27/attacking-cuba-would-be-a-huge-mistake?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">disastrous</a>. We profile the three starkly different contenders in Colombia’s hyper-polarised <a href="https://www.economist.com/the-americas/2026/05/24/colombias-pivotal-polarised-election-could-not-be-tighter?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">presidential election</a>. And our series looking at World Cup squads goes to Mexico.</p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Sarah Birke, bureau chief for Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean</li><li>Kinley Salmon, Latin America 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>Cuba, American foreign policy</li><li>Colombia’s elections</li><li>World Cup, Mexico</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>

What price victory? Ukraine on the front foot

<p>Economic support, drone capability, defence under new management: the tide may have turned for Ukraine. But domestic politics and perceptions will define <a href="https://www.economist.com/europe/2026/05/26/ukraines-latest-challenge-is-how-to-deal-with-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">what kind of win</a> the country might hope for. We examine how Home Depot, the world’s largest DIY chain, is <a href="https://www.economist.com/finance-and-economics/2026/05/20/economics-lessons-from-home-depot?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">a window</a> into America’s ailing housing market. And what is <a href="https://www.economist.com/britain/2026/05/07/the-surprising-supply-chain-choke-point-for-cricket-bats?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">pinching the supply</a> of England’s famed cricket bats. </p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Oliver Carroll, Ukraine correspondent</li><li>Vinjeru Mkandawire, news editor</li><li>Andrew Rummer, Britain contributor</li><li>Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Topics covered: </p><ul><li>Ukraine war</li><li>America’s housing market, Home Depot</li><li>cricket bats, supply chains</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>

No big deal: murky Iran-war negotiations

<p>More mixed messages from President Donald Trump and air strikes that seem to violate the ceasefire: all that is remotely in prospect is <a href="https://www.economist.com/middle-east-and-africa/2026/05/25/what-an-america-iran-deal-might-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">a deal to keep on dealmaking</a>. China’s “superapps” are pioneering <a href="https://www.economist.com/business/2026/05/17/ai-super-apps-are-remaking-chinas-internet?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 use of agentic AI</a>—with some odd outcomes. And the curious reason that grouse harm themselves on ski lifts (and <a href="https://www.economist.com/science-and-technology/2026/04/22/how-to-stop-colour-blind-grouse-flying-into-ski-lifts" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">how to save them</a>). </p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Gregg Carlstrom, Middle East correspondent</li><li>Don Weinland, China business and finance editor</li><li>Matt Kaplan, science correspondent</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>Iran war, diplomacy</li><li>China, business, agentic AI</li><li>birds, science</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>

Pulp fiction v the classics: summer reading

<p>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. </p><br><p>This is a full list of the books mentioned in the show:</p><p>“Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen</p><p>“Red Rising” by Pierce Brown</p><p>Jack Reacher series by Lee Child</p><p>“The Hunt for Red October” by Tom Clancy</p><p>“Riders” and the other Rutshire chronicles by Jilly Cooper</p><p>Dungeon Crawler Carl series by Matt Dinniman</p><p>“Middlemarch” by George Eliot</p><p>“Ulysses” by James Joyce</p><p>“Wolf Hall” by Hilary Mantel</p><p>“The Diamond Age” by Neal Stephenson</p><p>The Murderbot series by Martha Wells </p><p>“The Martian” by Andy Weir</p><p>“American Wife” by Curtis Sittenfeld</p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Catherine Nixey, culture and Britain correspondent</li><li>Tom Standage, Economist deputy editor</li><li>Alexandra Suich Bass, culture editor</li><li>Alex Hern, AI writer</li><li>Rosie Blau, host of “The Intelligence”</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Topics covered: </p><ul><li>Fiction, romance, sci-fi, crime, thrillers, fantasy, romantasy</li><li>Jane Austen, Jilly Cooper, Curtis Sittenfeld, Lee Child</li><li>Matt Dinniman, Pierce Brown, Neal Stephenson</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>

Big boosts to fill: SpaceX’s giant IPO

<p><a href="https://www.economist.com/leaders/2026/05/21/spacex-is-capitalism-on-rocket-fuel?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">Elon Musk</a> 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 <a href="https://www.economist.com/united-states/2026/05/03/young-men-are-souring-on-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">young men</a> are turning away. And, after a blind tasting 50 years ago unleashed a new wave of <a href="https://www.economist.com/culture/2026/05/21/a-blind-tasting-revolutionised-the-wine-world-50-years-ago?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">wine drinking</a>, the market is drying out.</p><br><p>Watch extended clips from Insider <a href="https://www.economist.com/interactive/insider/previews?utm_campaign=a.brand_fy2627_q1_awareness-imp-tr_prospecting_global-global_direct_na&utm_medium=audio.podcast.pd&utm_source=economist&utm_content=discovery.awareness.anonymous.tr_nativeread_np-tiinsider-apr_na-na_web_na_na_na_na&utm_term=sa.arc-isi" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a></p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Tim Cross, senior science writer</li><li>Robert Guest, <em>Economist</em> deputy editor</li><li>Alexandra Suich Bass, culture editor</li><li>Rosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”</li><li>Jason Palmer, co-hosts of “The intelligence”</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Topics covered: </p><ul><li>SpaceX, Starlink, XAI, Elon Musk</li><li>Donald Trump, Republicans, masculinity</li><li>Wine, Judgement of Paris</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><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>

The Peking order: Xi meets Putin after Trump

<p>Within the space of a week Chinese president <a href="https://www.economist.com/china/2026/05/18/now-its-vladimir-putins-turn-to-visit-beijing?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">Xi Jinping</a> has welcomed both Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin to Beijing. Our correspondent explains the significance of these consecutive meetings. How the <a href="https://www.economist.com/britain/2026/05/20/in-football-britain-has-a-world-beating-industry?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">Premier League</a> got its kick – and became one of Britain’s most successful businesses. And, some relax on holiday, others relish <a href="https://www.economist.com/culture/2026/05/14/who-wants-to-relax-on-holiday?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">adrenaline-fuelled</a> activities.</p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Jeremy Page, chief China correspondent</li><li>Sonny Loughran, Britain writer</li><li>Caitlin Talbot, culture correspondent</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>Xi Jinping, Vladimir Putin, Donald Trump</li><li>Premier League, football, soccer</li><li>Adrenaline holidays, darecations</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>

Bibi, one more time? Israel’s election launches

<p>Is <a href="https://www.economist.com/middle-east-and-africa/2026/05/17/is-binyamin-netanyahu-facing-his-last-stand?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">Binyamin Netanyahu</a>’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 <a href="https://www.economist.com/middle-east-and-africa/2026/05/07/mali-shows-the-growing-strength-of-jihadism-in-the-sahel?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">counter-terrorism</a> training exercise in Africa and question whether such missions will outlast Trump. And how Cape Verde came to take part in its first <a href="https://www.economist.com/graphic-detail/2026/05/18/fifas-exorbitant-world-cup-tickets-could-backfire?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">World Cup</a>.</p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Anshel Pfeffer, Israel correspondent</li><li>Tom Gardner, Africa correspondent</li><li>Jon Fasman, senior culture correspondent</li><li>Rosie Blau, host of “The Intelligence”</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Topics covered: </p><ul><li>Binyamin Netanyahu, Israel, Knesset, Gaza, Hizbullah, Iran</li><li>Ivory Coast, jihadism, anti-terrorism, overseas aid</li><li>World Cup, FIFA, Cape Verde</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>

Spread too thin: Africa’s next Ebola outbreak

<p>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 <a href="https://www.economist.com/britain/2026/05/15/andy-burnham-britains-could-be-prime-minister-is-a-man-of-two-parts?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">Andy Burnham</a>, the Labour party’s polling favourite. And celebrity book clubs abound—but useful criticism in them <a href="https://www.economist.com/culture/2026/05/07/many-celebrities-now-have-book-clubs-most-are-irritating?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">does not</a>. </p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>John McDermott, chief Africa correspondent</li><li>Joel Budd, social affairs editor</li><li>Catherine Nixey, culture correspondent</li><li>Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Topics covered: </p><ul><li>Ebola outbreak, West Africa</li><li>Andy Burnham, British politics</li><li>celebrities, book clubs, book industry</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>

Equal before the law? Transitional justice in Syria

<p>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 <a href="https://www.economist.com/middle-east-and-africa/2026/05/12/bashar-al-assads-henchmen-start-to-go-on-trial-in-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">troubles many Syrians</a>. Our series leading up to America’s 250th birthday continues to plumb our archive. Today: <a href="https://www.economist.com/interactive/america-at-250#chapter-5?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 cold war and Vietnam</a>. And why whiskymaking is <a href="https://www.economist.com/business/2026/04/22/the-curious-rise-of-chinese-whisky?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</a> in China.</p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Gareth Browne, Middle East correspondent</li><li>Annie Crabill, senior digital editor</li><li>Don Weinland, China business and finance editor</li><li>Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Topics covered: </p><ul><li>Syria, judicial system, transitional justice</li><li>America, 250th anniversary, history</li><li>China, business, whisky</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>Runtime: 24 min</p><br><p><strong>TWITTER HANDLES OF CONTRIBS</strong> </p><p>@BrowneGareth – Syria</p><p>@annie_crabill – US250</p><p>@donweinland – whisky</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>

Top dog-whistler: Tommy Robinson and Britain’s far right

<p>Tommy Robinson is an influencer who has <a href="https://www.economist.com/britain/2026/05/14/how-tommy-robinson-far-right-influencer-shaped-views-on-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">shaped views</a> 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 <a href="https://www.economist.com/business/2026/04/30/how-a-mega-deal-will-transform-the-lift-industry?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">reshape an industry</a> known for its ups and downs. And remembering <a href="https://www.economist.com/obituary/2026/05/14/raghu-rais-whole-canvas-was-india?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">Raghu Rai</a>, whose photographs captured the intensity of India’s people.</p><br><p><em>Watch extended clips from Insider </em><a href="https://www.economist.com/interactive/insider/previews?utm_campaign=a.brand_fy2627_q1_awareness-imp-tr_prospecting_global-global_direct_na&utm_medium=audio.podcast.pd&utm_source=economist&utm_content=discovery.awareness.anonymous.tr_nativeread_np-tiinsider-apr_na-na_web_na_na_na_na&utm_term=sa.arc-isi" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>here</em></a>.</p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Georgia Banjo, Britain correspondent</li><li>Simon Wright, industry editor</li><li>Ann Wroe, obituaries 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>Tommy Robinson, Britain’s far right, America’s far right</li><li>Lifts, mergers, business</li><li>Raghui Rai, India, photojournalism</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>

Fired alarm: AI hype versus labour-market history

<p>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.</p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Callum Williams, senior economics writer</li><li>John McDermott, chief Africa correspondent</li><li>Jon Fasman, senior culture correspondent</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>AI, labour market, economics, history </li><li>Africa, critical minerals, investment, development</li><li>World Cup, Japan</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><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>

Duo’s lingo: what to watch for in Trump-Xi summit

<p>The <a href="https://www.economist.com/leaders/2026/05/07/the-trump-xi-summit-will-expose-a-dysfunctional-duo?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">meeting</a> 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 <a href="https://www.economist.com/business/2026/04/28/coca-cola-is-trouncing-pepsi-can-the-underdog-turn-things-around?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">more like its rival</a>. And this year’s Venice Biennale is <a href="https://www.economist.com/culture/2026/05/08/welcome-to-a-spectacularly-fraught-edition-of-the-venice-biennale?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">uncomfortably besieged</a> by geopolitics. </p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Simon Rabinovitch, Beijing bureau chief</li><li>Shera Avi-Yonah, business 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>Trump/Xi summit, geopolitics</li><li>Coca Cola, Pepsi, business</li><li>Venice Biennale, culture</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>

Apocalypse soon? AI could hasten bioweapons

<p>Artificial intelligence could help terrorists develop new <a href="https://www.economist.com/leaders/2026/05/07/the-world-must-stop-ai-from-empowering-bioterrorists?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">dangerous pathogens</a>. 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 <a href="https://www.economist.com/finance-and-economics/2026/04/14/how-to-build-a-portfolio-when-bonds-fail-to-buffer-stocks?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">safe assets</a>? And the doughs and don’ts of <a href="https://www.economist.com/europe/2026/05/02/germany-claims-it-has-the-worlds-best-bread?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">German bread</a>.  </p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Arthur Holland Michel, emerging tech writer</li><li>Josh Roberts, capital markets correspondent</li><li>Lily Meckel, audience fellow</li><li>Rosie Blau, host of “The Intelligence”</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Topics covered: </p><ul><li>Bioweapons, AI, virus</li><li>Stockmarkets, oil shock, dollar, government bonds</li><li>German bread, Bernd das Brot</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>

Keir hunters: will Britain’s PM go?

<p>After catastrophic local-election results, Britain’s prime minister <a href="https://www.economist.com/britain/2026/05/08/nigel-farages-triumph-is-not-quite-what-it-seems?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> is fighting for his political life. One airline has folded and others may follow: <a href="https://www.economist.com/business/2026/05/07/airlines-are-grappling-with-dwindling-supplies-of-jet-fuel?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">jet-fuel prices</a> are crimping carriers the world over, but the pain is not spread evenly. And could <a href="https://www.economist.com/the-americas/2026/04/30/the-caribbean-island-that-calls-colombia-a-coloniser?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">San Andrés</a>, a popular Colombian tourist island, ever declare independence? </p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Owen Winter, Britain political correspondent</li><li>Simon Wright, industries editor</li><li>Claire McQue, Americas 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>Britain elections, Keir Starmer, Reform UK, Labour </li><li>Airlines, jet fuel, oil price, Strait of Hormuz</li><li>San Andrés, Colombia, Caribbean</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><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>

Drone team: Russia’s plan to arm Iran

<p>The Kremlin <a href="https://www.economist.com/europe/2026/05/07/how-russia-planned-to-help-iran-kill-americans?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">planned to provide</a> Iran with unjammable drones, plus training in how to use them, according to leaked documents seen exclusively by <em>The Economist.</em> Meanwhile there are nearly 20,000 merchant seamen <a href="https://www.economist.com/asia/2026/05/05/asias-stranded-seafarers-suffer-as-the-iran-war-drags-on?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">stranded in the Gulf</a>. And a tribute to <a href="https://www.economist.com/obituary/2026/05/01/craig-venter-raced-to-decode-the-human-genome?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">Craig Venter</a>, dark horse of the Human Genome Project.</p><br><p>Watch extended clips from Economist Insider <a href="https://www.economist.com/interactive/insider/previews?utm_campaign=a.brand_fy2627_q1_awareness-imp-tr_prospecting_global-global_direct_na&utm_medium=audio.podcast.pd&utm_source=economist&utm_content=discovery.awareness.anonymous.tr_nativeread_np-tiinsider-apr_na-na_web_na_na_na_na&utm_term=sa.arc-isi" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Shashank Joshi, defence editor</li><li>Joshua Spencer, Asia news editor</li><li>Geoffrey Carr, senior editor, science and technology</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>Iran war, Russia, drones</li><li>Commercial shipping</li><li>Craig Venter</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>

A hatred normalised: antisemitism in Britain

<p>An egregious attack in a Jewish neighbourhood in London is just the latest example of a <a href="https://www.economist.com/britain/2026/05/03/what-to-do-about-britains-rising-antisemitism?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">troubling trend</a>. 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 <a href="https://www.economist.com/business/2026/04/13/from-ralph-lauren-to-the-row-american-luxury-is-booming?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">flourishing</a>. And our series of profiles of teams contesting the World Cup continues with Argentina.</p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Shera Avi-Yonah, business writer</li><li>Avantika Chilkoti, global business writer</li><li>Jon Fasman, senior culture correspondent</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>antisemitism, Britain</li><li>American brands, luxury goods</li><li>World Cup, Argentina</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>

On the off chancellor: Friedrich Merz, one year in

<p>Germany’s chancellor came to office making big promises. A year later they are unfulfilled, his government is squabbling and he <a href="https://www.economist.com/europe/2026/05/03/friedrich-merzs-ill-timed-tussle-with-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">has drawn</a> President Donald Trump’s ire. The advertising industry is, inevitably, starting to <a href="https://www.economist.com/business/2026/04/19/why-your-ai-assistant-is-suddenly-selling-to-you?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">peddle its wares</a> quietly in AI chatbots. And a historical look at the oratory around war and how it has taken a sharp turn <a href="https://www.economist.com/culture/2026/04/23/the-rhetoric-of-war-has-changed-not-for-the-better?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">for the worse</a>.</p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Tom Nuttall, chief Germany correspondent</li><li>Tom Wainwright, media editor</li><li>Catherine Nixey, culture correspondent</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>Germany, Friedrich Merz, Donald Trump</li><li>AI, chatbots, advertising</li><li>rhetoric of war </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>

Naval piercing: strait shooting in Iran war

<p>The Trump administration’s “<a href="https://www.economist.com/middle-east-and-africa/2026/05/04/can-donald-trump-reopen-the-strait-of-hormuz?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">Project Freedom</a>” 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’ <a href="https://www.economist.com/europe/2026/04/26/the-fashion-influencer-speaking-truth-to-putin?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 grumbling</a> into the open. And how India’s notorious street noise comes with <a href="https://www.economist.com/interactive/asia/2026/04/23/honking-is-harming-indias-health-and-its-economy?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">costs to human health</a>. </p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Gregg Carlstrom, Middle East correspondent</li><li>Arkady Ostrovsky, Russia editor</li><li>Vishnu Padmanabhan, Asia correspondent</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>Iran war, Strait of Hormuz</li><li>Russia, Vladimir Putin, influencers</li><li>India, noise pollution, health</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>

Spoils of war: money flows into defence tech

<p>In Iran, America is using expensive weaponry against cheap local drones. Can upstart <a href="https://www.economist.com/international/2026/04/20/anduril-palantir-and-spacex-are-changing-how-america-wages-war?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">tech companies</a> change the economics – and nature — of conflict? As part of our ongoing series on the <a href="https://www.economist.com/interactive/america-at-250#chapter-3?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">US at 250</a>, we examine the impact of the two world wars. And should you ever use an <a href="https://www.economist.com/business/2026/03/26/welcome-to-emoji-school?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">emoji</a> at work?</p><p>Listen to “<a href="https://www.economist.com/podcasts/2026/04/23/the-upstarts-shaking-up-the-defence-industry" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Money Talks</a>” on defence tech upstarts. </p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Henry Tricks, US technology editor</li><li>Annie Crabill, a senior digital editor</li><li>Andrew Palmer, host of “Boss Class” podcast</li><li>Rosie Blau, host of “The intelligence”</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Topics covered: </p><ul><li>Pentagon, Palantir, SpaceX, Anduril</li><li>America 250, Woodrow Wilson, FDR</li><li>Emojis, aubergines</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>

Beirut watch: can Lebanon subdue Hizbullah?

<p>Can peace hold in <a href="https://www.economist.com/middle-east-and-africa/2026/04/30/hizbullahs-air-of-invincibility-is-gone?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">Lebanon</a> while Hizbullah remains? Our correspondent weighs the balance of power between government forces and the Iran-backed militia. The resale value of <a href="https://www.economist.com/culture/2026/04/24/the-staggering-strangeness-of-the-labubu-bubble?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">Labubus</a> is falling – who cares? And remembering Swedish death-clearer, <a href="https://www.economist.com/obituary/2026/04/30/margareta-magnusson-believed-in-leaving-the-world-tidy?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">Margareta Magnusson</a>. </p><br><p>Watch extended clips from “<a href="https://www.economist.com/interactive/insider/previews?utm_campaign=a.brand_fy2627_q1_awareness-imp-tr_prospecting_global-global_direct_na&utm_medium=audio.podcast.pd&utm_source=economist&utm_content=discovery.awareness.anonymous.tr_nativeread_np-tiinsider-apr_na-na_web_na_na_na_na&utm_term=sa.arc-isi" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Insider</a>”. And listen to our “<a href="https://www.economist.com/podcasts/2026/03/14/kidulting" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Weekend Intelligence</a>” episode on “Kidulting: why adults are turning to toys”.</p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Gareth Browne, Middle East correspondent</li><li>Josh Roberts, capital markets correspondent</li><li>Ann Wroe, obituaries editor</li><li>Rosie Blau, host of “The Intelligence”</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Topics covered: </p><ul><li>Lebanon, Hizbullah, Israel, ceasefire</li><li>Labubus, PopMart, Funko, financial bubbles</li><li>Margareta Magnusson, death-clearing, decluttering </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>

Drill pickle: oil prices still misjudge shock

<p><a href="https://www.economist.com/leaders/2026/04/30/oil-markets-are-still-in-la-la-land?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">Oil prices</a> 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 <a href="https://www.economist.com/europe/2026/04/16/a-scramble-ahead-of-frances-presidential-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">pivotal election</a> in France? And great expectations in Brazil ahead of the World Cup.</p><p>Watch “<a href="https://www.economist.com/insider?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 Insider</a>”: How high will the oil price go </p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Matthieu Favas, commodities editor</li><li>Sophie Pedder, Paris bureau chief</li><li>Jon Fasman, senior culture correspondent</li><li>Rosie Blau, host of “The Intelligence”</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Topics covered: </p><ul><li>Oil, Brent crude, OPEC, Iran, UAE</li><li>France, Macron, Marine Le Pen, National Rally</li><li>World Cup, Brazil, Pele </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>

Power ranges: AI faces supply crunch

<p>Artificial Intelligence is becoming ubiquitous, but the industry that powers it is <a href="https://www.economist.com/business/2026/04/27/ai-is-confronting-a-supply-chain-crunch?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">struggling</a> to keep up with demand. The host of our award-winning podcast series “<a href="https://www.economist.com/audio/podcasts/scam-inc?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">Scam Inc</a>” says <a href="https://www.economist.com/interactive/asia/2026/04/10/scam-inc-has-a-new-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">fraudsters in Asia</a> are becoming more sophisticated. And after <a href="https://www.economist.com/business/2026/04/21/from-allbirds-to-glossier-millennial-brands-have-lost-their-mojo?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">Allbirds</a> stops selling shoes, what comes next?</p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Shailesh Chitnis, global business writer</li><li>Sue-Lin Wong, host of Scam Inc </li><li>Shera Avi-Yonah, business writer</li><li>Rosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”</li><li>Jason Palmer, co-hosts of “The intelligence”</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Topics covered: </p><ul><li>AI, Anthropic, GPUs, Nvidia, TSMC</li><li>Scam Inc, malware, cybercrime, fraud</li><li>Allbirds, Casper, Warby Parker, Dollar Shave Club</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>

The regal has landed: can Charles boost US bond?

<p>The “special relationship” between Britain and America is at its weakest since the Suez crisis of 1956. Will a state visit by <a href="https://www.economist.com/britain/2026/04/23/britain-rethinks-its-special-relationship-with-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">King Charles III</a> to America salvage the tie? Why <a href="https://www.economist.com/business/2026/04/09/japans-mighty-carmakers-are-in-serious-trouble?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">Japanese automakers</a> may be running out of road. And <a href="https://www.economist.com/united-states/2026/04/16/the-hudson-is-now-so-clean-that-everyone-can-eat-from-it?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">fish</a> from New York’s Hudson river are now safe to eat.</p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Rosie Blau, host of “The Intelligence”</li><li>Daniel Franklin, senior editor, Britain</li><li>Ethan Wu, Asia business and finance editor</li><li>Stevie Hertz, US policy correspondent</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Topics covered: </p><ul><li>King Charles III, state visit, special relationship</li><li>Japanese carmakers, Toyota, Honda, Nissan, EVs</li><li>Hudson river, fishing</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>

Security banquet: queries over Trump protection

<p>After a <a href="https://www.economist.com/united-states/2026/04/26/a-gunman-storms-donald-trumps-dinner-with-the-press?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">gunman</a> stormed Donald Trump’s dinner with the press, questions are being revived about the president’s security. Germany’s <a href="https://www.economist.com/europe/2026/04/22/can-the-germans-fight?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">top general</a> explains the country’s new defence strategy. And listeners respond to our Weekend Intelligence episode on the <a href="https://www.economist.com/podcasts/2026/04/18/meet-the-passport-bros?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">passport bros</a> who go abroad to find “a good woman”.</p><br><p><em>An earlier version of our lead story stated that the gunman shot a Secret Service agent. Subsequent reports indicate it is unclear whose shot struck the agent.We have now edited the start of the segment.</em></p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>John Prideaux, host of “Checks and Balance” and US editor</li><li>Tom Nuttall, Berlin bureau chief</li><li>Carla Subirana, reporter</li><li>Rosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”</li><li>Jason Palmer, co-hosts of “The intelligence”</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Topics covered: </p><ul><li>Donald Trump, assassination attempt, White House dinner, Cole Tomas Allen</li><li>Carsten Breuer, Bundeswehr, NATO, Ukraine</li><li>Passport bros, tradwife, misogyny </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>

An explosion still echoing: Chernobyl at 40

<p>We go deep inside the Chernobyl nuclear-power plant and the surrounding exclusion zone, <a href="https://www.economist.com/interactive/europe/2026/04/20/chernobyls-forgotten-nuclear-lessons?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">recounting the history</a> 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 <a href="https://www.economist.com/interactive/science-and-technology/2026/04/21/scientists-are-still-learning-from-the-chernobyl-nuclear-disaster?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">still being done</a> at Chernobyl.</p><br><p>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. <a href="https://shows.acast.com/theintelligencepodcast/episodes/the-weekend-intelligence-a-nuclear-catastrophe-waiting-to-ha?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">Listen here</a>.</p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Serhii Plokhy, historian, Harvard University</li><li>Olena Pareniuk, radiobiologist, Institute for Safety Problems of Nuclear Power Plants</li><li>Jim Smith, environmental scientist, University of Portsmouth</li><li>Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Topics covered: </p><ul><li>Chernobyl nuclear-power plant, history</li><li>nuclear safety, nuclear-energy policy</li><li>radiation exposure, radiobiology, radioecology </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>

Bringing the House down: our American midterms model

<p>We examine what our forecast model <a href="https://www.economist.com/united-states/2026/04/21/our-midterms-forecast-predicts-pain-for-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">predicts so far</a>—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 <a href="https://www.economist.com/graphic-detail/2026/04/16/why-eldest-siblings-are-brainier?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">tend to have</a> more-successful lives.</p><br><p><em>Additional music courtesy of Steve Reich (Nonesuch Records), Erik Hall (Western Vinyl)</em></p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Dan Rosenheck, data editor</li><li>Jon Fasman, senior culture correspondent</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>American elections, Congress, polling, gerrymandering</li><li>Steve Reich, contemporary classical music</li><li>birth order, statistics</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>

White hat, black box: AI’s next chapter

<p>The decision of Anthropic, an AI giant, to keep its Mythos model <a href="https://www.economist.com/business/2026/04/08/how-dangerous-is-mythos-anthropics-new-ai-model?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">sequestered</a> 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 <a href="https://www.economist.com/asia/2026/04/14/a-battle-for-female-voters-is-changing-indias-elections?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 means and the outcomes</a>. And next in our World Cup contender-country profiles: Senegal. </p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Alex Hern, AI writer</li><li>Kira Huju, Asia 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>AI, Anthropic, Mythos</li><li>India, women, politics</li><li>World Cup, Senegal</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><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>