Well-Informed & Open-Minded

What if the secret to a well-ordered society starts in primary school? In this episode, we explore Japan’s unique approach to education, where the goal isn’t just academic excellence—it’s hito-zukuri, the art of character building. From students cleaning their own classrooms to serving lunch and navigating school life with remarkable independence, Japan’s system shapes responsibility, cooperation, and social harmony from an early age. It’s a model so admired that countries from Singapore to Egypt are trying to copy it. But beneath the discipline and high achievement lie harder truths: conformity can stifle creativity, excessive rules can overwhelm kids who don’t fit the mold, and mental-health pressures are rising. For many parents, the question becomes: how do you balance order with individuality? And what do we lose—or gain—when a school system molds not just minds, but character?https://www.economist.com/christmas-specials/2024/12/19/why-do-small-children-in-japan-ride-the-subway-alone

What happens when a global pandemic rewrites one of our most ingrained daily habits—the shower? In this episode, we explore why many Americans are bathing less often than before lockdowns, and why they say it feels more practical, more freeing, and even better for the planet. We hear from individuals who embraced the shift, as experts remind us that daily showering is a surprisingly recent cultural invention—one that’s medically unnecessary and tough on the skin. But old habits die hard, especially when they’re tied to identity, hygiene norms, and big marketing budgets. Can science and sustainability persuade Americans to rethink the daily rinse?https://www.nytimes.com/2021/05/06/health/shower-bathing-pandemic.html

“Bring your whole self to work”—it’s the slogan plastered across modern offices, onboarding decks, and HR campaigns. But what if the idea doesn’t actually make sense? In this episode, we unpack the corporate obsession with authenticity, exploring why companies encourage employees to show up as their “full” or “true” selves… while quietly expecting professionalism, conformity, and performance. We look at why the well-intentioned mantra falters in reality—after all, no one’s “whole self” is entirely workplace-ready—and why the real key to effective collaboration might be embracing our role self instead: the part of us aligned with the shared mission. Is corporate authenticity liberating, misleading, or just another management fad?https://www.economist.com/business/2022/06/14/do-not-bring-your-whole-self-to-work

Psychedelics have left the counterculture—and entered the boardroom. In this episode, we explore why a growing number of companies are embracing substances like ketamine, psilocybin, and MDMA as tools for employee well-being and executive performance. From biotech investors betting on psychedelic medicine to firms like Dr. Bronner’s offering ketamine therapy as a workplace benefit, the corporate world is reframing these drugs as pathways to better mental health, reduced anxiety, and even enhanced creativity. Some leaders are going further, hosting psychedelic-inspired retreats meant to deepen empathy and strengthen team bonds. But with these breakthroughs come big risks: misuse, blurred boundaries, and the possibility that an employee’s “expanded perspective” may prompt them to question their job—or the entire company. Are psychedelics the next frontier in workplace wellness, or a step too far?https://www.economist.com/business/2022/06/08/bosses-want-to-feed-psychedelics-to-their-staff

How did the humble backpack—once the domain of hikers, students, and schoolyard scuffs — become a bona fide fashion statement? In this episode, we trace the backpack’s unlikely rise from practical gear to luxury accessory. As workers returned to the office and travelers faced rising baggage fees, demand for stylish, functional packs surged to record highs. Advances in materials like waxed canvas and leather have pushed the backpack into boardrooms, while global fashion houses from Dior to Chanel now release limited-edition versions worthy of a runway. From Ötzi the Iceman’s wooden frame to today’s designer collaborations, the backpack has evolved for 5,300 years—and it’s never looked more chic.https://www.economist.com/culture/2025/01/23/backpacks-are-surprisingly-in-vogue

China is trying to tame the dragon—linguistically. In this episode, we explore why Chinese state media has begun replacing the English word dragon with loong in reports about the zodiac and beyond. The shift isn’t cosmetic; it’s strategic. For centuries, the dragon has been a benevolent symbol of imperial authority and good fortune in Chinese culture—yet in the West, dragons are fire-breathing monsters. As China rises on the global stage, officials worry that this Western imagery fuels suspicion and fear. We unpack how this language makeover fits into a broader pattern of political rebranding, from renaming Tibet as “Xizang” to refining English translations to shape global perception. Can a single word reshape how the world sees China?https://www.economist.com/china/2024/02/22/a-nationalist-effort-to-rebrand-the-chinese-dragon

On Japan’s Sado Island, an ancient art form isn’t just preserved—it’s lived. In this episode, we journey into the world of Noh drama, where ghost stories, Zen philosophy, and centuries-old ritual unfold not on grand stages, but in village shrines and community halls. Here, caregivers, fishermen, and shopkeepers perform as offerings to the gods, sustaining a tradition carried to the island by samurai and embraced by generations of locals. Sado now holds more Noh stages than anywhere else in Japan, even as its population ages and declines. Yet the islanders remain determined to pass this living inheritance to those who come next. What keeps a 700-year-old theater form thriving on a remote island—and what does it reveal about the soul of a community?https://www.nytimes.com/2025/09/06/world/asia/sado-island-japan-noh-theater.html

We’re told to “omit needless words”… but what if some of those words aren’t so needless after all? In this episode, we explore the surprising power of linguistic redundancy—the repetitions, reminders, and extra signals that language purists love to hate. From long-winded transit announcements to the grammar lessons we hear twice, we dig into why wordiness can actually make language easier to learn, more resilient in noisy environments, and less mentally exhausting for listeners. Redundancy, it turns out, isn’t just clutter—it’s part of how communication stays clear, stable, and human. So how much is too much, and how much is essential?https://www.economist.com/culture/2023/03/16/omit-needless-words-but-not-all-of-them

We cheer their triumphs—but we rarely see the toll. In this episode, we pull back the curtain on the painful paradox at the heart of elite sport: the glory fans celebrate is often built on profound personal suffering. From Andy Murray’s emotional retirement to the raw comebacks of Paris Olympians like Florent Manaudou and Adam Peaty, and the mental health struggles of icons such as Simone Biles, the stories behind the medals reveal a world shaped by relentless pressure, punishing training, and coaches who prioritize discipline over joy. Yet, for spectators, this very risk and hardship is part of what makes sport feel meaningful. What do we really ask of the athletes we idolize—and what do they sacrifice to deliver the moments we love?https://www.economist.com/culture/2024/08/23/elite-sport-isnt-meant-to-be-fun-is-it

Hong Kong wants its tourists back—but first, it has to fix its taxis. In this episode, we unpack the city’s sweeping effort to repair its battered hospitality image after years of political turmoil and pandemic paralysis. With passenger complaints up 53% in a single year, officials are rolling out courtesy campaigns, penalty points, mandatory digital payments, and even surveillance cameras to rein in bad behavior behind the wheel. But these reforms hit an industry already under strain: aging drivers, costly licenses, shrinking wages, and relentless competition from a not-quite-legal Uber. Add rising frustration from mainland Chinese tourists—Hong Kong’s biggest visitor group—and the pressure to improve becomes a matter of economic survival. Can a taxi makeover help revive the city’s global appeal?https://www.economist.com/china/2025/03/13/hong-kongs-taxi-drivers-are-told-to-smile-more

Pickles are no longer just a sidekick—they’re the main event. In this episode, we dive into the internet-fueled rise of the humble cucumber, now a full-blown obsession among Gen Z food lovers. With billions of #pickles views on TikTok, everything from chamoy-soaked giants to neon-bright sweet-and-sour creations is turning into viral content—and serious business. Sales are skyrocketing, recipe books are hitting shelves, and even pickle juice is having a moment as athletes swear by its electrolyte kick. What’s behind this briny boom, and is it just a trend… or the new cultural craving?economist.com/culture/2024/10/16/food-lovers-the-world-over-are-tickled-by-pickles

In Bangkok, skyscrapers rise, traffic roars, and yet—everywhere you look—spirits still rule the land. In this episode, we step into Thailand’s vibrant world of spirit worship, where ancient beliefs aren’t just remembered but woven seamlessly into modern life. From ornate spirit houses tucked beside luxury condos to daily offerings left on busy sidewalks, these unseen guardians are treated as powerful neighbors who must be fed, honored, and kept content. Some Thais even credit the country’s low COVID-19 case counts to the spirits’ protection. Blending Buddhism, Hinduism, and deep-rooted animism, this living cosmology shapes how developers build, how families occupy their homes, and how the city understands its own fate. In Thailand, to take care of the spirits is to believe—they’ll take care of you.https://www.nytimes.com/2020/06/13/world/asia/bangkok-spirit-houses.html

What happens when our words get too soft—or too sharp—to tell the truth? In this episode, we explore the modern battle over language through the twin lenses of euphemism and exaggeration. Drawing on George Orwell’s warnings about political speech that hides brutality behind phrases like “transfer of population,” we look at how today’s discourse still blurs reality with foggy abstractions such as “unfolding violence.” But there’s a new problem too: the dysphemism treadmill, where once-grave terms like “white supremacy” or “genocide” are deployed so broadly that they risk losing their meaning altogether. We unpack how these distortions warp public understanding—and why choosing clear, vivid, accurate language remains a moral act in describing the world as it truly is.https://www.economist.com/culture/2023/11/23/euphemism-and-exaggeration-are-both-dangers-to-language

Divorce is changing—and fast. In this episode, we explore how wealthy countries are moving away from blame, courtroom battles, and financial devastation toward a more humane way of ending a marriage. From Australia’s government-funded mediation to the global rise of collaborative divorce, couples are finding that splitting up doesn’t have to mean tearing each other down. We look at why alimony is fading, how shared custody and even “birdnesting” are reshaping family life, and why these approaches often spare both wallets and emotional well-being. Is this the beginning of a kinder, less combative era for divorce?https://www.economist.com/international/2022/01/22/divorce-in-the-rich-world-is-getting-less-nasty

In northeastern Nigeria, danger isn’t just avoided—it’s carried in a plastic bucket. In this episode, we meet Usman Maikunama, the self-proclaimed Scorpion King of Gwoza, who makes his living breeding, handling, and selling some of the region’s most venomous black scorpions. This is no stunt: it’s a family craft passed down through generations, complete with homemade herbal antidotes he insists neutralize the sting. From crafting potions to ward off sorcery to clearing homes of snakes, Maikunama’s work sits at the crossroads of tradition, mysticism, and survival. And his clientele? They range from rural households to Nigeria’s elite Guards Brigade, which proudly carries the black scorpion as its mascot. What does it mean to turn one of nature’s deadliest creatures into both a business—and a legacy?https://www.economist.com/middle-east-and-africa/2023/02/23/a-nigerian-trade-in-insects-that-bite

Saunas aren’t just for Scandinavians anymore—they’re becoming a global wellness obsession. In this episode, we explore why high heat is suddenly so hot, from Finland’s long-standing sauna culture to rising adoption in gyms, spas, and backyards around the world. Scientists say this ritual acts as a gentle, controlled stressor, mimicking moderate exercise and boosting circulation—and observational studies even link frequent sauna use with lower risks of heart disease and dementia. But there’s a catch: the evidence isn’t airtight. Wealthier, healthier people are more likely to be sauna regulars, muddying the research. So are saunas truly medicinal, or just relaxing? We break down what scientists know, what they don’t, and why the next big test will require far more rigorous trials.https://www.economist.com/science-and-technology/2025/08/22/are-saunas-actually-good-for-you

Saudi Arabia has been “dry” for decades—at least officially. In this episode, we explore a quiet shift inside the kingdom’s alcohol prohibition: an unmarked liquor store in Riyadh that once served only diplomats is now discreetly selling bottles to a select group of wealthy, non-Muslim foreign residents. It’s a small change with big implications. As Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman pushes rapid social and economic reforms to attract global talent and boost tourism, this controlled access—complete with a dual-pricing system—hints at a broader softening of the ban. Yet the government maintains silence, relying on its signature strategy of incremental, deniable change to avoid angering conservatives. With major international events on the horizon, is Saudi Arabia preparing for a future where alcohol quietly, cautiously, becomes part of the landscape?https://www.nytimes.com/2025/12/06/world/middleeast/saudi-arabia-alcohol-riyadh-store.html

Protein: miracle macronutrient or overhyped fitness buzzword? In this episode, we break down what protein actually does—from repairing tissues to fueling growth—and why the World Health Organization sets the daily baseline at 0.83 grams per kilogram of body weight. We unpack why certain groups, from teenagers to new mothers to the elderly, often need far more, and how higher intakes paired with resistance training can build muscle or support weight loss. Supplements like whey powders make hitting those targets easy, but whole foods offer valuable micronutrients without the additives. And despite the booming market for shakes, bars, and “high-protein” everything, most people eating a Western diet already get plenty. So how much protein do you really need—and when does more stop being better?https://www.economist.com/science-and-technology/2025/06/06/how-much-protein-do-you-really-need

It’s the liquor that fuels toasts, seals deals, and measures corruption—and it’s one of the most profitable businesses on the planet. In this episode, we pour into the world of Kweichow Moutai, the state-run distillery behind China’s infamous national spirit, baijiu. Despite ignoring every Western rule of marketing, Moutai has become a financial juggernaut with sky-high margins and a premium customer base larger than France. But its rise is tangled in politics: from decades of elite misconduct that turned its price into a “barometer of corruption” to recent bribery arrests and a meddlesome government shareholder that won’t let the company act like a normal corporation. Built on nationalism, elitism, and the spending power of older consumers, Moutai is a rare success story that thrives by breaking all the rules. The question is—how long can it keep defying gravity?https://www.economist.com/business/2020/01/23/moutai-madness

“Bring your passion!” It sounds inspiring—until it becomes a trap. In this episode, we unpack the rise of “passion” as a job requirement, and how hobbies once meant for joy have been transformed into performance metrics. With job postings now explicitly demanding emotional devotion, passion has become both a ticket to promotions and a smokescreen for declining performance that managers too often ignore. Worse still, it gives employers moral cover to exploit their most committed workers—asking them to stay late, accept lower pay, or sacrifice boundaries in the name of loving what they do. We examine why constant displays of enthusiasm can warp judgment, erode work-life balance, and push employees into unhealthy, unsustainable careers. Is passion still empowering—or has it become the newest workplace hazard?https://www.economist.com/business/2023/02/09/the-pitfalls-of-loving-your-job-a-little-too-much

Is ice cream getting… weird? In this episode, we dip into the world of experimental scoops—from ketchup and cheddar creations dreamed up by British designer Anya Hindmarch to the long, surprising history of chefs pushing frozen boundaries. But as adventurous as these flavors get, the story reveals a delicious truth: ice cream’s real magic still lies in childhood joy, not culinary shock value. Because when the taste-tests end, it’s vanilla and Coco Pops—not vinegar swirls—that people come running back to. We explore why this universal treat inspires both wild innovation and simple nostalgia, and why ice cream remains one of the world’s most lovable foods, no matter what strange shape it takes.https://www.economist.com/culture/2023/07/13/when-it-comes-to-ice-cream-the-instinct-to-innovate-is-misguided

Who really invented butter chicken—and why does it matter so much? In this episode, we dive into one of India’s most heated culinary courtroom battles, where two families, descended from wartime business partners, are fighting over the legacy of a dish loved across the world. The Gujrals of Delhi’s iconic Moti Mahal insist their patriarch created butter chicken (and dal makhani) as a clever way to rescue leftover tandoori chicken—a claim they’ve backed with a 2,752-page lawsuit. Meanwhile, the Jaggis of Daryaganj say their ancestor cooked it up on the fly to satisfy a late-night order. Behind the creamy sauce lies a story of migration, memory, money, and the high stakes of gastronomic fame. And in the end, we ask: do eaters even care who invented it… as long as it tastes divine?https://www.nytimes.com/2024/02/07/world/asia/india-butter-chicken-lawsuit.html

India is one of the most unequal countries in the world—so why does social peace still hold? In this episode, we dig into the unsettling question explored in journalist Manu Joseph’s Why the Poor Don’t Kill Us. Joseph argues that fear of police brutality, faith in education, and even the shared ugliness of urban life help keep class conflict at bay. But critics say he’s looking in the wrong direction. Drawing on Katherine Boo’s work, we examine how the poor often end up competing—even sabotaging one another—for scarce opportunities, leaving the wealthy untouched. Yet beneath the surface lies a deeper tension: a growing, educated generation whose hopes for mobility are colliding with reality. The real threat to India’s elite may not be revolt from below—but rising bitterness from those who feel they were promised more.https://www.economist.com/asia/2025/10/09/what-rich-indians-fear

The sneaker resale empire has stumbled. In this episode, we unpack why once-hyped collectible sneakers—the kind that sparked bidding frenzies and eye-watering markups—are now languishing at discounts. The COVID-era surge in casual footwear collecting has faded, brands have flooded the market with restocks, and ultra-realistic counterfeits have eroded confidence and value. But the biggest shift is cultural: buyers are ditching chunky lifestyle shoes in favor of performance sneakers, loafers, and boots. Today, only the rarest grails — think game-worn signatures from legends who’ve passed—can command sky-high prices. Has the golden age of sneaker flipping finally ended?https://www.economist.com/culture/2025/04/03/sneakernomics-and-the-surprising-future-of-sneakers

Singapore prides itself on self-reliance—except in one beloved corner of public life: the hawker centre. In this episode, we explore why the state intervenes so heavily in these iconic food courts, regulating everything from stall prices to cuisine mix to the simple act of clearing your tray. Once created for public order, hawker centres now feed the nation affordably, embody multicultural identity, and preserve a UN-recognized cultural heritage. But with aging hawkers and little interest from younger generations, government programs like the Incubation Stall and Hawkers’ Development schemes are struggling to keep the tradition alive. Can Singapore maintain this cherished institution without violating its own philosophy of not “coddling” citizens—or is the future of hawker culture at risk?https://www.economist.com/asia/2024/12/19/singapores-government-is-determined-to-keep-hawker-centres-alive

Strength training isn’t just having a moment—it’s becoming the new foundation of fitness. In this episode, we explore why gyms, apps, and health experts worldwide are shifting their focus from pure cardio to the power of the weight room. Backed by the World Health Organisation and medical research, resistance training is now recognized not just for boosting metabolism and lowering disease risk, but for its crucial role in preventing sarcopenia—the age-related muscle loss that can rob older adults of mobility, independence, and safety. As populations age and health demands rise, building muscle has never been more essential. So why did it take so long for strength training to get its due?https://www.economist.com/science-and-technology/2025/01/10/should-you-start-lifting-weights

Pickleball may be America’s fastest-growing sport—but it’s also becoming its loudest headache. In this episode, we dive into the surprising national uproar over the sport’s signature pop-pop-pop, a sharp, irregular sound that’s driving neighbors from Arlington to Scottsdale to the brink. While the decibels aren’t extreme, experts say the high pitch and chaotic rhythm make pickleball uniquely aggravating—“a torture technique,” as one critic puts it. With complaints, lawsuits, and even sound-mitigation consultants entering the fray, communities are struggling to balance booming player demand with residents desperate for silence. Can peace be restored, or is the soundtrack of America’s new favorite pastime here to stay?https://www.nytimes.com/2023/06/30/sports/pickleball-noise-complaints-lawsuits.html

The tandoor has shaped centuries of cooking—but its charcoal-fired glow is fading. In this episode, we explore why traditional tandoor ovens are disappearing from cities like London and Mumbai, as air-pollution rules push restaurants toward cleaner gas and electric alternatives. Chefs fear what may be lost: the unmistakable smoky flavor of naans and kebabs, born from clay walls heated by charcoal and tended by artisans with rare, hard-won skill. We trace the tandoor’s journey from ancient civilizations and Mughal courts to global fame after the 1947 Partition, and examine how rising material costs and modern efficiency pressures are reshaping kitchens worldwide. Is this the end of the classic charcoal tandoor—or just the next chapter in its long, fiery story?https://www.economist.com/culture/2025/04/28/mumbai-wants-to-extinguish-the-charcoal-tandoor

Across East Asia, young workers are hitting a breaking point. In this episode, we dive into the region’s growing wave of corporate despair—from rigid hierarchies and relentless presenteeism to the quiet rebellions reshaping office culture. We explore how frustration is spilling into unprecedented union strikes in South Korea, rising emigration among Japanese and Chinese youth, and the subtler protest movements like China’s “lying flat” and the trend of wearing intentionally “disgusting” outfits to work. With governments and CEOs now promising “cuddlier capitalism,” the pressure for reform is real—but deeply entrenched attitudes among older executives may be the hardest barrier to break. What happens when an entire generation decides the corporate deal is no longer worth it?https://www.economist.com/business/2024/06/13/how-gen-zs-rebel-against-asias-rigid-corporate-culture

In Indonesia, badminton isn’t just a sport—it’s a heartbeat. In this episode, we explore why a Tokyo Olympic gold in women’s doubles sent the nation into celebration, and how Indonesia became a global badminton powerhouse. While the sport may be a casual backyard pastime in its English birthplace, in Indonesia it’s a source of national pride, unity, and real opportunity. We look at the champions who became household heroes, the tournaments Indonesia dominates, and why badminton remains the country’s most developed and beloved sport. What is it about this fast, feathered game that brings an entire nation together?https://www.economist.com/asia/2021/08/12/how-indonesia-became-the-home-of-badminton

Chicken is now the world’s favorite meat—cheap, abundant, and traded across continents. But behind its meteoric rise lies a far more complicated story. In this episode, we unpack how decades of selective breeding engineered birds that grow faster and larger than ever, helping chicken conquer global markets while raising serious animal-welfare concerns: cramped sheds, chronic lameness, and heavy antibiotic use just to keep the system running. We explore the highly specialized international trade—from America’s white-meat obsession to China’s love of chicken feet—and the growing pushback from activists and regulators that’s forcing change in places like the EU. Yet for all the momentum around free-range and organic farming, one stubborn truth remains: most shoppers still choose the cheapest bird on the shelf. Can the industry evolve when the market itself resists reform?https://www.economist.com/international/2019/01/19/how-chicken-became-the-rich-worlds-most-popular-meat

Hong Kong’s hottest food trend isn’t fine dining—it’s a $4 takeout box. In this episode, we explore the unexpected rise of “two dishes and rice,” a humble, no-frills meal that became a citywide obsession during economic downturns and pandemic lockdowns. Once dismissed as commoners’ fare, these steam-filled counters now draw massive queues and social media buzz, offering comforting, home-style flavors at a price everyone can afford. The high-volume model has thrown struggling food entrepreneurs a lifeline while feeding a city hungry for simplicity and stability. And even as restrictions fade and the hype cools, one truth remains: cheap, reliable, filling food never goes out of style.https://www.nytimes.com/2022/05/02/world/asia/hong-kong-inexpensive-dining.html

Why has a 2,000-year-old food become a political punchline? In this episode, we unpack the strange culture war around tofu—a staple across Asia for millennia, now unfairly stereotyped in the West as the bland mascot of the “wokerati.” We explore tofu’s real story: a product made much like cheese, with textures ranging from silky to extra-firm, and a culinary versatility that lets it mimic chorizo one moment and crisp up beautifully in a stir-fry the next. And we challenge the idea that tofu must replace meat at all—looking at dishes like Sichuanese mapo tofu, where bean curd and beef work together in perfect harmony. So how did tofu get stuck with a bad reputation, and what do we lose when politics shapes our palate?https://www.economist.com/culture/2025/01/27/tofu-never-judge-a-food-by-its-political-reputation

What happens when a sport removes the very thing that keeps athletes safe—defense? In this episode, we dive into the explosive rise of Power Slap, America’s first official slap-fighting league, created by UFC president Dana White. With nearly half its matches ending in knockouts and mounting fears over brain injury and CTE, the league has become one of the most controversial spectacles in modern sports. Its TV debut bombed, but TikTok turned it into a viral juggernaut, reviving the franchise on Rumble and drawing comparisons to the UFC’s chaotic early days. Critics argue that slap fighting can never follow MMA’s path to safety—because the danger is the appeal. So what does it mean when the future of a sport depends on how much risk we’re willing to watch?https://www.economist.com/culture/2024/02/01/the-violence-of-power-slap-is-part-of-its-allure

In the corporate jungle, power still looks a lot like a silverback. In this episode, we explore why superficial status markers—height, posture, fitness, a deep voice — continue to shape who makes it to the top, even in an era of shifting global leadership. Despite progress for women, emerging economies, and tech founders, research shows that executives who “look” or “sound” powerful are still favored over those who don’t fit the mold, from uptalkers to candidates who defy traditional body stereotypes. We unpack why these biases persist, how they distort leadership pipelines, and why some experts argue that those outside the “magic genetic circle” must go out of their way to cultivate the outward signals of authority. What does it say about modern business that our instincts haven’t evolved as fast as our industries?https://www.economist.com/business/2014/09/27/the-look-of-a-leader

Forget Federer vs. Nadal—the fiercest rivalry in racket sports today is happening at the local park. In this episode, we dive into the escalating battle between tennis players and pickleball devotees, a conflict born not from sport itself but from scarcity: too many players, not enough courts. Since pickleball’s pandemic-fueled boom, arguments, noise complaints, and even police calls have become common as the two games fight for the same hard surfaces. But zoom out, and the story shifts. Cities are now investing in new courts that could benefit both sports, and pickleball might just be a gateway game that leads beginners into tennis. Much like skiing and snowboarding, what began as turf warfare could evolve into a mutually beneficial partnership. The question is: are these sports destined to clash — or to grow together?https://www.economist.com/finance-and-economics/2024/06/27/the-economics-of-the-tennis-v-pickleball-contest

In South Korea, postpartum care isn’t a few days in a hospital—it’s a full retreat. In this episode, we step inside the world of joriwon centers, luxury postpartum facilities where new mothers spend weeks recovering in hotel-style rooms, eating chef-prepared meals, and relying on round-the-clock nurses to care for their newborns. What began as simple rest houses have evolved into highly professional, fiercely sought-after sanctuaries staffed by nurses, pediatricians, and nutritionists—so popular that many parents reserve spots the moment they learn they’re expecting. But beneath the comfort, community, and healing lies a deeper truth: this exceptional care is expensive, highlighting the growing financial weight of raising a child in South Korea. What does a society’s postpartum system reveal about its values—and its pressures?https://www.nytimes.com/2024/01/28/world/asia/south-korea-joriwon-postpartum-care.html

Hollywood has a new favorite character—the brand. In this episode, we dive into the rise of the “brand biopic,” the genre reshaping movie theaters from Barbie to sneakers, video games, and now Ferrari. These films are sleek, well-crafted, and undeniably entertaining—but they also reveal an industry racing away from risk. Instead of traditional product placement, the product is the story, giving studios a built-in audience and a safer financial bet in an uncertain box-office era. We explore how the dominance of familiar names, franchises, and corporate legends is transforming the stories Hollywood tells — and what it means for the future of originality on screen.https://www.economist.com/culture/2023/12/23/ferrari-is-the-latest-example-of-hollywoods-love-of-brands

Vinyl isn’t just back—it’s booming. In this episode, we explore the global vinyl renaissance, where collectors, casual listeners, and Gen Z crate-diggers have pushed sales past CDs and toward a multibillion-dollar future. But behind the warm analog glow lies a harsh bottleneck: the world simply can’t press enough records. With demand more than double manufacturing capacity, superstar artists like Taylor Swift dominate the factories, stretching wait times from weeks to nearly a year. The result? A zero-sum game where indie musicians struggle to get their albums made at all. We unpack the nostalgia, the economics, and the production crunch reshaping the modern music landscape.https://www.economist.com/culture/2023/10/23/how-superstars-and-heritage-acts-hijacked-the-vinyl-revival

Red meat: nutritional powerhouse or health hazard? In this episode, we cut through the noise to explore one of nutrition’s most polarizing debates. We break down the benefits—from protein to B vitamins to highly absorbable iron—and the risks, including saturated fats, cholesterol, and the cancer-linked preservatives found in processed meats. We look at the big evidence: massive observational studies showing poorer long-term outcomes among heavy meat eaters, and randomized trials revealing spikes in biomarkers like cholesterol and TMAO. But the story isn’t all-or-nothing. Experts say that an occasional lean steak is unlikely to harm you—it’s the overall diet pattern that shapes your health. So how should red meat fit into a modern plate?https://www.economist.com/science-and-technology/2025/03/28/is-red-meat-unhealthy

How did the cow—once eaten and sacrificed in ancient India—become the blazing symbol of a modern political movement? In this episode, we trace the rise of Gau Mata as a tool of Hindu nationalism, unpacking how a constructed sacred ideal has fueled polarization, vigilante violence, and some of the most fraught Hindu-Muslim tensions of recent years. We revisit the 2015 lynching of Mohammed Akhlaq, explore the historical texts that contradict today’s sanctity narrative, and examine how the BJP has used cow protection to forge a forceful national identity. And in a bitter twist, we hear how the strictest bans and loudest rhetoric often leave the cows themselves abandoned and suffering. What does it mean when an animal becomes a political weapon?https://www.economist.com/christmas-specials/2022/12/20/indias-movement-to-protect-cows-is-rooted-in-politics-not-religion

In Bangkok, the heartbeat of the city isn’t found in its malls or temples—it sizzles on the sidewalks. In this episode, we explore the vibrant world of Bangkok’s street food, starting with the crack of mortar and pestle preparing green papaya salad and widening out to the livelihoods and identities built around these stalls. Street vendors feed millions, offer affordable meals to those who need them most, and provide crucial income—especially for the women who make up the vast majority of sellers. Yet city planners increasingly see them as clutter, threatening a culture that’s as essential as it is iconic. With even the Michelin guide celebrating their craft, we ask: can Bangkok preserve the street food that sustains both its people and its soul?https://www.nytimes.com/2019/12/14/world/asia/bangkok-street-food.html

How did a humble drink from Australia and New Zealand conquer the world’s coffee menus? In this episode, we trace the rise of the flat white—the espresso-forward, milk-light beverage now beloved by coffee purists everywhere. We uncover how Australia went from serving notoriously bad brews to becoming a powerhouse of café culture, thanks to postwar Greek and Italian immigrants who brought espresso expertise with them. And we explore how the flat white became more than a drink: a cultural export so influential it’s even been deployed as “flat-white diplomacy” on the world stage, from global cafés to UN climate summits. What makes this small cup such a big ambassador?https://www.economist.com/culture/2024/04/11/flat-whites-are-australias-greatest-culinary-export

As American religious identity declines, one corner of Christianity is booming—the megachurch. In this episode, we explore how these massive congregations are growing, consolidating, and reshaping worship across the country. With concert-level production, branded experiences, and sermon delivery that feels more like a Spotify playlist than a Sunday ritual, megachurches have mastered the “spiritual marketplace.” Chains like Life.Church now span dozens of campuses, using pre-recorded sermons and live bands to reach tens of thousands each week—and influencing the style of churches far beyond their walls. But this surge isn’t about winning new converts; it’s about gathering the already convinced. As history shows, today’s giants won’t reign forever. So what does megachurch success really tell us about the future of American faith?https://www.economist.com/united-states/2023/08/24/american-megachurches-are-thriving-by-poaching-flocks

How did one anime movie topple a twenty-year legend? In this episode, we dive into the explosive rise of Demon Slayer: Mugen Train, the film that shattered Spirited Away’s box-office record and became a cultural juggernaut almost overnight. We explore how pandemic-era binge-watching, a perfectly timed release, and a drought of Hollywood blockbusters created the ideal storm for its success. But the real story goes deeper—from a rare female creator shaping the world of Demon Slayer to its strong, dynamic female protagonists and a streaming model built for modern audiences. With merchandise everywhere and even Japan’s prime minister weighing in, we ask: what does Mugen Train’s runaway dominance reveal about the future of anime?https://www.economist.com/asia/2021/01/21/demon-slayer-is-the-most-successful-japanese-film-of-all-time

In a small Philippine village, survival swims alongside the world’s largest fish. In this episode, we explore the delicate, deeply conflicted relationship between Tan-Awan and its endangered whale sharks—animals that locals hand-feed daily to draw tourists and keep the community afloat. The practice has lifted the town out of poverty, creating jobs and millions in revenue, but conservationists warn it disrupts the sharks’ natural behavior and puts them in danger. Caught between ecological ethics and economic necessity, Tan-Awan’s sea wardens defend the bonds they’ve formed with these gentle giants, even as the pandemic proved how fragile a one-species economy can be. What happens when a community’s lifeline is also its greatest moral dilemma?https://www.nytimes.com/2021/10/24/world/asia/philippines-whale-shark-tourism.html

Why do some people run from risk while others leap straight into it—literally? In this episode, we dive into the world of wingsuit BASE jumpers, athletes who hurl themselves off cliffs in one of the most dangerous pursuits on Earth. Through the experiences of Laurent Frat, Steph Davis, and others, we explore what draws them to a sport with a long list of fatalities, and why their mindset stands in stark contrast to our increasingly risk-averse society. Beyond the clichés of thrill-seeking or social-media fame, we uncover a deeper truth: for these jumpers, danger isn’t a flaw—it’s the point. It’s a path to control, freedom, and a kind of aliveness they say modern life can’t offer. Are they reckless… or are they chasing something the rest of us have forgotten?https://www.economist.com/international/2021/01/30/why-do-some-people-risk-their-lives-for-fun

Before Dune became a blockbuster franchise, it was a strange, ambitious novel born from sand dunes, invasive grasses, and a warning about human arrogance. In this episode, we trace how Frank Herbert transformed an ecological field trip on the Oregon coast into the desert world of Arrakis—and why his story of spice, power, and prophecy still shapes science fiction today. We explore the book’s rocky road to publication, its influence on everything from Star Wars to modern climate allegories, and the uncomfortable truth at its core: Paul Atreides isn’t a hero to cheer, but a cautionary tale about the seduction of charisma and messianic destiny. As new film adaptations invite us to root for a future tyrant, we ask: are we missing Herbert’s most important warning?https://www.economist.com/united-states/2024/03/14/dune-is-a-warning-about-political-heroes-and-their-tribes

America’s pools are open—but the lifeguard chairs are empty. In this episode, we dive into the nationwide lifeguard shortage that’s forcing cities to cut hours, cancel swim lessons, and even close entire facilities. Becoming a guard has always required real skill—from grueling swim tests to intensive certification courses—but the pandemic shattered the training pipeline and drained the workforce. Now, with only a fraction of parks fully staffed, communities are scrambling: recruiting on TikTok, offering signing bonuses, even hiring seniors to keep people safe in the water. We explore why lifeguards are so hard to find, what’s at stake when supervision disappears, and whether the industry can recover before another summer arrives.https://www.economist.com/united-states/2022/06/30/where-have-all-the-lifeguards-gone

Fifty years ago, Dungeons & Dragons was a niche hobby played in basements. Today, it’s a full-blown cultural force. In this episode, we explore how a fantasy role-playing experiment built from war-game mechanics—complete with character classes, monster manuals, and the iconic 20-sided die—became one of the most influential storytelling engines of our time. From blockbuster hits like Honour Among Thieves to the runaway success of Baldur’s Gate 3, D&D’s world has exploded far beyond the tabletop. We revisit the “Satanic panic” that once made it infamous, the rules revisions and COVID-era boom that brought in a new generation, and the creators who now cite D&D as the birthplace of their imagination. How did a game about quests become a cultural quest of its own?https://www.economist.com/culture/2024/12/06/how-did-dungeons-and-dragons-win