The Intelligence from The Economist

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The Intelligence from The Economist artwork
News

by The Economist

Join Jason Palmer and Rosie Blau for noise-cancelling news and analysis from The Economist's global network of correspondents. Every weekday this award-winning podcast picks three stories shaping your world—the big shifts in politics, business and culture, plus things you never knew you needed to know. On Saturdays, download The Weekend Intelligence to dive deep into a single story, vividly told. If you’re already a subscriber to The Economist, you’ll have full access to all our shows as part of your subscription.For more information about Economist Podcasts+, including how to get access, please visit our FAQs page at htt...

20 episodes summarized

Episodes

Taking the shine off: albedo and global temperatures

Taking the shine off: albedo and global temperatures

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<p>Fewer clouds, shrinking ice caps, changing pollutants: all result in less of the sun’s energy being reflected back into space. Which is <a href="https://www.economist.com/leaders/2026/07/16/its-too-darn-hot-blame-global-dimming?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 bad news</a> for a changing climate. Our correspondent explains why so much more of the world’s cocaine is <a href="https://www.economist.com/middle-east-and-africa/2026/07/28/west-africa-has-become-a-huge-cocaine-trading-hub?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">passing through west Africa</a>. And the data that reveal Americans’ discomfort about wives <a href="https://www.economist.com/finance-and-economics/2026/07/13/the-stubborn-scarcity-of-female-breadwinners?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">earning more</a> than their husbands.</p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Oliver Morton, planetary-affairs editor</li><li>Ọrẹ Ogunbiyi, Africa correspondent</li><li>Doug Dowson, data journalist</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:&nbsp;</p><ul><li>climate change, albedo, global temperatures</li><li>Africa, cocaine, smuggling</li><li>wage equality, gender pay gap</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 The Economist</em></a><em>.</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>

August 5, 202623:00
In arms’ way: Gaza-deal sticking points

In arms’ way: Gaza-deal sticking points

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<p>President Donald Trump’s claim that Hamas had agreed to disarm in Gaza was, at best, premature. We examine the sticking points of a lasting deal. New-business applications are <a href="https://www.economist.com/business/2026/07/27/america-has-become-an-entrepreneurs-paradise?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">on a tear</a> in America. We ask why so many people are working for themselves—but not doing much hiring. And the enduring <a href="https://www.economist.com/middle-east-and-africa/2026/07/23/why-young-africans-still-listen-to-the-radio?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">popularity of radio</a> in Africa, aided rather than degraded by social media.&nbsp;</p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Anshel Pfeffer, Israel correspondent</li><li>Shera Avi-Yonah, business correspondent</li><li>William Finlator, contributor to <em>The Economist</em></li><li>Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Topics covered:&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Gaza, Hamas, Israel, Board of Peace</li><li>American business, entrepreneurship</li><li>Africa, media, radio</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 The Economist</em></a><em>.</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>

August 4, 202621:22
Taken littorally: Spain’s sudden crisis in Ceuta

Taken littorally: Spain’s sudden crisis in Ceuta

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<p>The deadly <a href="https://www.economist.com/europe/2026/07/31/a-migrant-surge-tests-spains-open-policies?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">rush of migrants</a> into the Spanish exclave has deep roots in a wider North African conflict—and implications for a far wider European fight about immigration. Our India columnist presents an incomplete list of <a href="https://www.economist.com/asia/2026/07/12/an-incomplete-list-of-falling-objects-in-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">falling objects</a> as a way to examine public-safety failures. And a data dive that reveals how AI writing is <a href="https://www.economist.com/culture/2026/07/30/how-to-spot-ai-writing?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">forever shifting</a>.</p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Michael Reid, Spain correspondent and writer at large</li><li>Leo Mirani, Ashoka columnist</li><li>Caitlin Talbot, digital culture correspondent</li><li>Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Topics covered:&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Ceuta, migration, Spain, EU, Schengen</li><li>India, public safety</li><li>AI writing, waning human primacy</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 The Economist</em></a><em>.</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>

August 3, 202624:17
Omission accomplished: why the Iran-war cycle spins on

Omission accomplished: why the Iran-war cycle spins on

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<p>From <a href="https://www.economist.com/middle-east-and-africa/2026/07/28/new-strikes-in-iran-show-the-weakness-of-donald-trumps-deal?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">impasse in Iran</a> to still-unresolved conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon, a trend is clear: President Donald Trump’s scant, early plans for peace do not actually forge a path to it. Our correspondent says that in the driverless-car future, it will often be Chinese AI <a href="https://www.economist.com/finance-and-economics/2026/07/23/can-china-dominate-ai-exports-too?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">behind the wheel</a>. And remembering <a href="https://www.economist.com/obituary/2026/07/23/wally-funk-was-told-women-couldnt-be-astronauts?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">Wally Funk</a>, who never relinquished her ambition to become an astronaut.&nbsp;</p><br><p><em>Watch extended clips from Insider, plus our full Elon Musk interview, </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><em>&nbsp;</em></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>Ann Wroe, obituaries editor</li><li>Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Topics covered:&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Iran war, Strait of Hormuz, diplomacy</li><li>China, AI, driverless cars</li><li>Wally Funk, astronauts</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 The Economist</em></a><em>.</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>

July 31, 202625:39
Working memory: the surprising decline of dementia

Working memory: the surprising decline of dementia

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<p>A dive into the data reveals that, despite dire past predictions, the prevalence of dementia is actually <a href="https://www.economist.com/briefing/2026/07/09/how-dementia-is-being-defeated?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">waning</a>. We take a look at Pix, a beloved Brazilian digital-payments system, and why it <a href="https://www.economist.com/the-americas/2026/07/19/brazils-beloved-payments-system-has-drawn-donald-trumps-ire?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">so bothers</a> President Donald Trump. And we attend one of the concerts that reveals how the appeal of emo music is <a href="https://www.economist.com/culture/2026/07/16/emo-culture-was-not-just-a-phase-as-it-turns-out?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">holding strong</a> across generations.&nbsp;</p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Jonathan Rosenthal, international correspondent</li><li>Carla Subirana, news editor</li><li>Sarah Lawrynuik, deputy editor of “The Intelligence”</li><li>Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Topics covered:&nbsp;</p><ul><li>dementia, global health statistics, ageing</li><li>Brazil, Pix, payment systems, Donald Trump</li><li>emo music, My Chemical Romance</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 The Economist</em></a><em>.</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>

July 30, 202625:08
Cockroaches 1, Modi 0: India’s remarkable protests

Cockroaches 1, Modi 0: India’s remarkable protests

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<p>The resignation of India’s education minister was a <a href="https://www.economist.com/asia/2026/07/25/narendra-modi-caves-to-indias-gen-z?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">stunning capitulation</a> by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government. The Cockroach Janta Party, a fast-growing youth movement, has the upper hand for now. So-called <a href="https://www.economist.com/finance-and-economics/2026/06/23/why-macro-trading-is-hard?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">macro trading</a> is hard: even with advance knowledge of events, neither man nor machine seems to make much money. And hunting the <a href="https://www.economist.com/culture/2026/07/16/a-mystery-street-artist-is-taking-over-cities?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">mosaics</a> of Invader, an anonymous French street artist.</p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Kira Huju, Asia correspondent</li><li>Joshua Roberts, capital markets correspondent</li><li>Caitlin Talbot, digital 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:&nbsp;</p><ul><li>India, Cockroach Janta Party, protest, Narendra Modi</li><li>macro trading, retail investing</li><li>Invader, Flashinvader, street art</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 The Economist</em></a><em>.</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>

July 27, 202622:34
The Elon game: Musk’s vision of the future

The Elon game: Musk’s vision of the future

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<p>After <a href="https://www.economist.com/insider/the-insider/an-interview-with-elon-musk?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>’s first extended interview since SpaceX’s blockbuster IPO, <em>The Economist</em> editor-in-chief reflects on what he told her: that AIs will be in charge in ten years, his dark view of Europe and the inevitably of civil war in Britain. At what age is a <a href="https://www.economist.com/leaders/2026/07/09/who-is-capable-of-evil?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">child responsible</a> for their crimes? And remembering <a href="https://www.economist.com/obituary/2026/07/09/mona-khalil-defied-danger-to-protect-her-family?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">Mona Khalil</a>, Lebanese protector of turtles.&nbsp;</p><p>Watch extended clips from Elon Musk on “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>Zanny Minton Beddoes, editor-in-chief of <em>The Economist</em></li><li>Maighna Nanu, editor of foreign newsletters&nbsp;</li><li>Ann Wroe, obituaries editor</li><li>Rosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Topics covered:&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Elon Musk, AI, killer robots, far right, The Insider</li><li>child criminals, criminal responsibility, gangs</li><li>Mona Khalil, Lebanon, turtles, conservation</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 The Economist</em></a><em>.</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>

July 24, 202627:42
For bucks’ sake: the rise of self-made billionaires

For bucks’ sake: the rise of self-made billionaires

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<p>Many people, including politicians, love to hate the super-rich, and assume they have gamed the system. Yet our correspondent reports that a growing share of today’s wealthiest earned their money providing goods and services we all want. A new crackdown on <a href="https://www.economist.com/asia/2026/07/16/a-real-but-selective-crackdown-on-cambodias-scam-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">scam compounds</a> in Cambodia. And lessons from the ultimate political animal, Downing Street’s <a href="https://www.economist.com/britain/2026/07/16/lessons-from-a-cat-about-to-outlast-yet-another-prime-minister?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">Larry the Cat</a>.&nbsp;</p><p>Watch “<a href="https://www.economist.com/insider/the-insider/an-interview-with-elon-musk?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>” interview with Elon Musk from 6pm BST, 1pm EST.&nbsp;</p><p>Listen to our 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>”.&nbsp;</p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Callum Williams, senior economics writer</li><li>Sue-Lin Wong, Asia correspondent</li><li>Chris Impey, co-editor of “The Intelligence”</li><li>Rosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Topics covered:&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Billionaires, Elon Musk, Lionel Messi, Taylor Swift</li><li>Scams, scam compounds, Cambodia</li><li>Larry the Cat, Andy Burnham, Downing Street</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—<a href="https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">subscribe to <em>The Economist</em></a>.</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>

July 23, 202625:10
Kyiv brawl: Ukraine’s top general fired

Kyiv brawl: Ukraine’s top general fired

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<p>Ukraine’s president Volodymyr Zelensky has fired the <a href="https://www.economist.com/europe/2026/07/20/ukraines-top-general-could-be-on-the-way-out?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">commander-in-chief</a> of the armed forces, Oleksandr Syrsky. That follows days of protests at his sacking of the defence minister. Our correspondent analyses the fallout. America’s murder rate is falling, so why are <a href="https://www.economist.com/united-states/2026/06/21/american-police-killings-are-rising-even-as-murder-rates-fall?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">cops killing</a> more people? And a shift in the <a href="https://www.economist.com/asia/2026/07/14/haunted-houses-are-in-demand-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">Japanese taboo</a> on living in homes where people have died.</p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Shashank Joshi, defence editor</li><li>Daniel Knowles, US Midwest correspondent</li><li>Moeka Iida, East Asia reporter</li><li>Rosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Topics covered:&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Fedorov, Syrsky, Zelensky, Ukraine</li><li>Police killings, gun crime, murder</li><li>Japan, haunted houses, jiko bukken</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—<a href="https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">subscribe to <em>The Economist</em></a>.</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>

July 22, 202621:34
Hard cedar: Lebanon seeks Trump’s help

Hard cedar: Lebanon seeks Trump’s help

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<p>Today, Lebanon’s president <a href="https://www.economist.com/middle-east-and-africa/2026/07/20/lebanons-president-wants-donald-trumps-help-to-rebuild-the-country?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">Joseph Aoun</a> visits the White House to ask for Donald Trump’s help rebuilding the country. Our correspondent reports from his recent trip to Lebanon on the challenges it faces. Threats to <a href="https://www.economist.com/business/2026/07/13/how-high-can-red-bull-fly?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 Bull</a>’s magnificent marketing machine. And why the <a href="https://www.economist.com/graphic-detail/2026/03/10/trophy-wives-are-out-of-fashion?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">age gap</a> between the wealthiest men and their wives is shrinking.</p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Gregg Carlstrom, Middle East correspondent</li><li>Vendeline von Bredow, senior Germany correspondent</li><li>Doug Dowson, data journalist</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:&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Lebanon, Beirut, Joseph Aoun, Hizbullah</li><li>Red Bull, energy drinks, extreme sports</li><li>Trophy wives, age gap, misogyny</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—<a href="https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">subscribe to <em>The Economist</em></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>

July 21, 202622:24
A firm Andy: what are new British PM’s plans?

A firm Andy: what are new British PM’s plans?

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<p><a href="https://www.economist.com/britain/2026/07/19/how-britains-new-prime-minister-can-revive-labour?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> faces tough challenges as Britain’s new prime minister, both within his party and the country at large. Our correspondent analyses his prospects. After years of strife, how can <a href="https://www.economist.com/middle-east-and-africa/2026/07/07/rebuilding-syria-will-cost-over-200bn-bombs-are-not-helping?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 be rebuilt</a>? And food markets have changed New York.</p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Hugo Gye, Britain political correspondent</li><li>Gareth Browne, Middle East correspondent</li><li>Annie Crabill, senior digital editor</li><li>Rosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Topics covered:&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Andy Burnham, Keir Starmer, prime minister</li><li>Syria, Ahmad al-Sharaa, Assad</li><li>New York, street markets, farmers’ markets</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—<a href="https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">subscribe to <em>The Economist</em></a>.</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>

July 20, 202626:19
You’ve come a long way, Bibi: Israel’s crucial election

You’ve come a long way, Bibi: Israel’s crucial election

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<p>Binyamin Netanyahu’s government will, unusually, serve out its full term. What comes after October’s election will decide <a href="https://www.economist.com/briefing/2026/07/16/israels-future-hangs-in-the-balance?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 Israel will emerge</a>. Our correspondent asks whether the World Cup will be remembered more for the dramas on the pitch or off it. And a tribute to <a href="https://www.economist.com/obituary/2026/07/02/a23a-had-more-adventures-than-most?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">A23a</a>, the world’s largest iceberg, after it melts away at last.</p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Josie Delap, Middle East editor</li><li>Jon Fasman, senior culture correspondent</li><li>Ann Wroe, obituaries editor</li><li>Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Topics covered:&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Israeli election, Binyamin Netanyahu</li><li>World Cup</li><li>icebergs, climate</li></ul><p><br></p><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><em>. And 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 The Economist</em></a><em>.</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>

July 17, 202624:00
In it to bin it: Nigel Farage v Count Binface

In it to bin it: Nigel Farage v Count Binface

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<p>We take a peek into a quirk of British politics as the country’s populist-right polling leader goes up against a man who wears <a href="https://www.economist.com/the-world-in-brief/2026/07/11/b240d63f-2768-43dd-89b6-2bdceb6df745?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 bin on his head</a>. It is <a href="https://www.economist.com/britain/2026/07/09/nigel-farages-stunts-made-him-a-successful-politician-they-wont-make-him-pm?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 serious</a> than it sounds. Africans tired of shoddy internet services are turning to Starlink—<a href="https://www.economist.com/middle-east-and-africa/2026/07/02/africans-are-turning-to-starlink?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 a price</a>. And our culture editor reviews an <a href="https://www.economist.com/culture/2026/07/15/a-very-silly-adaptation-of-the-odyssey?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">anachronism-laden take</a> on a classic epic.</p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><p><br></p><ul><li>Hugo Gye, British political correspondent</li><li>Ọrẹ Ogunbiyi, Africa correspondent</li><li>Catherine Nixey, culture correspondent</li><li>Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Topics covered:&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><ul><li>Nigel Farage, Count Binface, British politics, farce</li><li>Africa’s internet infrastructure, Starlink</li><li>“The Odyssey”, Christopher Nolan</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 The Economist</em></a><em>.</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>

July 16, 202622:53
Strait and narrowing: the Iran deal crumbles

Strait and narrowing: the Iran deal crumbles

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<p>The sketch of a deal to end the war is all but dead; oil is up as strikes rain down. We look at the options available to America—<a href="https://www.economist.com/middle-east-and-africa/2026/07/14/donald-trump-has-no-good-options-for-reopening-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">all of them bad</a>. India’s government websites are almost universally <a href="https://www.economist.com/asia/2026/06/28/why-cant-indias-government-build-a-decent-website?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">impossible to use</a>; we look at the structural reasons behind the bad IT. And the growth of summer camps <a href="https://www.economist.com/culture/2026/06/18/adults-are-going-back-to-summer-camp?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 adults</a>.&nbsp;</p><br><p><em>Listen to our “The Weekend Intelligence” episode on </em><a href="https://www.economist.com/podcasts/2026/03/14/kidulting" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>kidulting</em></a><em>.</em></p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Gregg Carlstrom, Middle East correspondent</li><li>Leo Mirani, Ashoka columnist</li><li>Rachel Mayman, senior audience editor&nbsp;</li><li>Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Topics covered:&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Iran war, Strait of Hormuz</li><li>India’s government, IT</li><li>summer camps, kidulting</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 The Economist</em></a><em>.</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>

July 15, 202622:26
The case of the missing totem: Aung San Suu Kyi

The case of the missing totem: Aung San Suu Kyi

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<p>Myanmar’s jailed leader has not been seen since 2022. We ask <a href="https://www.economist.com/asia/2026/07/13/is-aung-san-suu-kyi-dead?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">if she is in fact alive</a>, and what might happen if the military junta acceded to demands for her release. We examine <a href="https://www.economist.com/finance-and-economics/2026/06/29/turkeys-economic-plan-to-win-from-the-iran-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">Turkey’s plan</a> to turn the war in Iran to its advantage. And delving into the research on just how much sleep is enough—<a href="https://www.economist.com/science-and-technology/2026/06/26/is-too-much-sleep-as-bad-as-too-little?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">and too much</a>.</p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Aaron Connelly, Asia diplomatic editor</li><li>Cerian Richmond-Jones, international economics correspondent</li><li>Sam Wikeley, science correspondent</li><li>Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Topics covered:&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Aung San Suu Kyi, Myanmar</li><li>Turkey, economics, Iran war</li><li>sleep, science</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 The Economist</em></a><em>.</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>

July 14, 202622:42
A hawk who flew on political winds: Lindsey Graham

A hawk who flew on political winds: Lindsey Graham

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<p>The longtime South Carolina senator died suddenly at the weekend. His political arc mirrored that of his Republican party in the Trump era. We ask what his death <a href="https://www.economist.com/united-states/2026/07/12/lindsey-graham-represented-the-arc-of-his-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">leaves behind</a>. Frontier AI models opaquely embody a worldview and set of values; we poke the big ones, asking <a href="https://www.economist.com/briefing/2026/06/25/ai-models-values-are-very-different-from-most-peoples?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 they believe</a>. And why Old Master paintings are again <a href="https://www.economist.com/culture/2026/07/07/why-old-master-paintings-are-back-in-vogue?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">so popular</a>.&nbsp;</p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Adam Roberts, foreign editor</li><li>Sondre Solstad, senior data journalist</li><li>Alexandra Suich Bass, culture editor</li><li>Jason Palmer, co-host of “The Intelligence”</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Topics covered:&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Lindsey Graham, Republican party, American foreign policy</li><li>AI frontier models, values</li><li>art market, Old Masters</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 The Economist</em></a><em>.</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>

July 13, 202620:15
Putin’s options: an oligarch speaks out

Putin’s options: an oligarch speaks out

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<p>This week <a href="https://www.economist.com/leaders/2026/07/09/the-man-who-would-change-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">Andrey Melnichenko</a>, Russia’s biggest industrialist, warns in <em>The</em> <em>Economist</em> that disaster is looming for his country as the war in Ukraine continues. What does it mean when members of the elite risk broadcasting their discontent? Our correspondent describes <a href="https://www.economist.com/europe/2026/07/02/ukraine-is-trying-to-threaten-vladimir-putin-into-peace-talks?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">life in Kyiv</a> as attacks intensify. And our week-long journey down <a href="https://www.economist.com/culture/2026/07/02/route-66-how-a-century-old-highway-helps-explain-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">Route 66</a> reaches the end of the road.</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><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Edward Carr, Economist deputy editor</li><li>Arkady Ostrovsky, Russia editor</li><li>Oliver Carroll, Ukraine correspondent</li><li>Jon Fasman, senior culture correspondent</li><li>Rosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Topics covered:&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Russia, Putin, Andrey Melnichenko</li><li>Ukraine, Kyiv, drone, interceptor</li><li>Route 66, car culture</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—<a href="https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plus" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">subscribe to <em>The Economist</em></a>.</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>

July 10, 202625:05
Peace fire: further US-Iran strikes

Peace fire: further US-Iran strikes

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<p>As America hit 90 targets in a second day of <a href="https://www.economist.com/interactive/middle-east-and-africa/2026/07/08/is-donald-trump-serious-in-declaring-the-ceasefire-with-iran-over?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>, the fragile truce is in jeopardy. Our correspondent explains how power shifts within Iran may affect the war. Asian governments are trying to <a href="https://www.economist.com/asia/2026/06/25/asian-governments-are-making-children-care-for-their-parents?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">force children</a> to care for ageing parents. And day four of our journey down <a href="https://www.economist.com/culture/2026/07/02/route-66-how-a-century-old-highway-helps-explain-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">Route 66</a> traverses a darker side of the road.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Nicolas Pelham, Middle East correspondent</li><li>Farah Cheah, Asia reporter</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:&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Iran, ceasefire, Strait of Hormuz, Ayatollah</li><li>Filial piety, ageing, elderly care</li><li>Route 66, Oklahoma, race relations</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>

July 9, 202620:44
Marine warfare: Le Pen runs for president

Marine warfare: Le Pen runs for president

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<p>Last night, the populist-right leader <a href="https://www.economist.com/europe/2026/07/07/marine-le-pen-is-running-for-the-french-presidency?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">announced</a> that she will run in the French presidential election next year. Our correspondent analyses the Le Pen dynasty and explains how this decision will shape the campaign. The world’s first <a href="https://www.economist.com/podcasts/2026/03/07/the-last-whales-at-marineland?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">refuge for whales</a> once held in captivity. And our journey down America’s <a href="https://www.economist.com/culture/2026/07/02/route-66-how-a-century-old-highway-helps-explain-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">Route 66</a> takes us into its commercial history.</p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Sophie Pedder, Paris bureau chief</li><li>Sam Colbert, senior podcast producer</li><li>Jon Fasman, senior culture correspondent</li><li>Rosie Blau, co-host of “The Intelligence”</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Topics covered:&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Marine Le Pen, National Rally</li><li>Whales, beluga, animal rights</li><li>Route 66, America</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.&nbsp;</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>

July 8, 202624:27
Continental rift: NATO’s tense summit

Continental rift: NATO’s tense summit

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<p>As <a href="https://www.economist.com/international/2026/07/02/nato-ponders-how-to-defend-eastern-europe-as-america-pulls-back?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">NATO leaders</a> gather for the annual summit in Turkey today, the thorniest issue is off the agenda: fractures within the alliance. Our correspondent travels to the Baltics, where a strategic shift is already evident. First there was vibe coding, now <a href="https://www.economist.com/business/2026/06/29/the-rise-of-vibe-lawyering?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">vibe lawyering</a> is coming to courtrooms. And day two of our great American roadtrip down <a href="https://www.economist.com/culture/2026/07/02/route-66-how-a-century-old-highway-helps-explain-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">Route 66</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><br><p>Guests and host:</p><ul><li>Anton La Guardia, diplomatic editor</li><li>Anna Kerr, senior audience editor</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:&nbsp;</p><ul><li>NATO, Ukraine, Ankara</li><li>Vibe lawyering, vibe coding, courtroom</li><li>Route 66, California</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.&nbsp;</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>

July 7, 202620:19