The David McWilliams Podcast
News & Politics Podcasts
The aim of this weekly podcast is to make economics easy, uncomplicated and accessible. With the world at a political, technological and financial tipping point, economics has never been so important to all of us and yet, it’s made inaccessible and complicated by so many.
I’ve always thought what is complicated is rarely important and what is important is rarely complicated.
That will be our motto.
Every week we are going to tease out some big economic or political issue facing us, not just here in Ireland but in Europe and further afield. Globalisation has brought us all together. We all face similar challenges whether you live in Dublin, London, Minnesota or Milan.
If you would like to enjoy all of our content ad-free and have early access to episodes, subscribe to DMCW+ on Apple Podcast.
If you would like to support the show, please consider becoming a patron at www.patreon.com/DavidMcWilliams.
Join the gang! https://plus.acast.com/s/the-david-mcwilliams-podcast.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Location:
United States
Genres:
News & Politics Podcasts
Description:
The aim of this weekly podcast is to make economics easy, uncomplicated and accessible. With the world at a political, technological and financial tipping point, economics has never been so important to all of us and yet, it’s made inaccessible and complicated by so many. I’ve always thought what is complicated is rarely important and what is important is rarely complicated. That will be our motto. Every week we are going to tease out some big economic or political issue facing us, not just here in Ireland but in Europe and further afield. Globalisation has brought us all together. We all face similar challenges whether you live in Dublin, London, Minnesota or Milan. If you would like to enjoy all of our content ad-free and have early access to episodes, subscribe to DMCW+ on Apple Podcast. If you would like to support the show, please consider becoming a patron at www.patreon.com/DavidMcWilliams. Join the gang! https://plus.acast.com/s/the-david-mcwilliams-podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Language:
English
Website:
http://www.davidmcwilliams.ie/
Episodes
Kamala's Cash, Vance's Chance, and Biden's Big Exit
7/24/2024
What a week! The attempted assassination of Donald Trump, Joe Biden's unexpected withdrawal from the race, and Kamala Harris setting a fundraising record has thrown the U.S. political landscape into disarray. Dubbed a Gen X woman with Gen Z vibes, Harris has energized young voters, reminiscent of the Obama era. As Trump names J.D. Vance as his VP pick, we delve into the implications. Vance, a complex figure with a history of criticizing Trump, now embodies a unique mix of Elon Musk's innovation and Bernie Sanders' populism. His anti-corporate stance, advocacy for wage increases, and controversial views on immigration and foreign policy could redefine the MAGA movement. We explore how these shifts might impact Ireland and Europe, especially if American multinationals are pulled back home, potentially destabilizing the global economy. Tune in as we dissect these political upheavals and their far-reaching consequences. Join the gang! https://plus.acast.com/s/the-david-mcwilliams-podcast.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Duration:00:32:59
Ireland's Population Boom: Opportunity or Crisis?
7/23/2024
The Central Statistics Office predicts Ireland's population could surge to 7.5 million by 2057, mostly due to inward migration. What could this mean for Ireland's future? Are we already at maximum capacity as it is? We argue for boosting local industries to match the high productivity of multinationals, crafting a vibrant and resilient economy for the future. We kick off by examining the recent Microsoft outage, exposing the fragility of our hyper-connected global economy. Without a strategic economic plan to harness Ireland's impending growth, we risk social and economic upheaval. Join the gang! https://plus.acast.com/s/the-david-mcwilliams-podcast.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Duration:00:37:24
A Day In The Life Of Abed Salama with Nathan Thrall
7/17/2024
I read Nathan Thrall’s book last year before the Gaza and October 7th massacres. I couldn’t put it down. It tells the true story of a young Palestinian boy, a tragic accident, his family and the daily humiliations of the Palestinian people. There is much cruelty but there is much love, too, and courage, resolve and tenderness. For everyone who is interested in Palestine and Israel, listen to this - this is a conversation for you.
Join the gang! https://plus.acast.com/s/the-david-mcwilliams-podcast.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Duration:00:44:12
Nazi Billionaires: The Dark History Of Germany’s Wealthiest Dynasties
7/15/2024
The true story of how Germany’s wealthiest business dynasties amassed untold money and power by abetting the atrocities of the Third Reich — and how America looked the other way. Many of them continue to control swathes of the world economy, owning iconic brands whose products blanket the globe, brands like Daimler-Benz, Allianz, Porsche, Volkswagen, and BMW. David de Jong shows how these tycoons seized Jewish businesses, procured slave labourers, and ramped up weapons production to equip Hitler’s army – and how they got away with it. Join the gang! https://plus.acast.com/s/the-david-mcwilliams-podcast.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Duration:00:46:55
Beyond The Wall; Life In The GDR With Katja Hoyer
7/10/2024
In 1980, Dalkey United went on a football trip to Germany which ended up in East Berlin. A certain economist, festival director and once under 13s centre half was on that schoolboy trip and so began a lifelong fascination with all things East German. Less than ten years after that Dalkey Utd. trip, the country vanished. In her wonderful book, Katja Hoyer argues that amid oppression and frequent hardship, East Germany was home to a rich political, social and cultural landscape, a place far more dynamic than the Cold War caricature often painted in the West. This is one for cold war anoraks, communist nostalgists and the odd few intrepid ones who always know there’s more to the story of any country than first meets the eye. Join the gang! https://plus.acast.com/s/the-david-mcwilliams-podcast.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Duration:00:51:01
From Millers to Influencers: Navigating the New Economy
7/8/2024
In this week’s episode, we’re journeying from the bustling docks of 17th-century Amsterdam to the modern gig economy, all through the lens of Rembrandt and his old man. Rembrandt’s dad wanted him to have a “real job” – sound familiar? Today’s parents are just as anxious about their kids’ unconventional careers. We dive deep into how technological upheaval has always disrupted legacy jobs, from millers and merchants to telephone operators and typists. We’ll unravel the anxiety driving modern politics, why some jobs vanish while new ones appear, and how this relentless change is both a challenge and an opportunity. Join us to see why every generation fears the future, and why there’s a bit of a Rembrandt in every new wave of change. Join the gang! https://plus.acast.com/s/the-david-mcwilliams-podcast.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Duration:00:31:59
A young Irish economist and a Nobel prize winner walk into a bar....
7/3/2024
In May 1991 I walked into Keenan's Bar in Crossmaglen, South Armagh with a superstar American economist who would go on to win the Nobel Prize for a chat about global monetary policy. Joe Stiglitz and myself must have cut two odd figures for the locals...this was South Armagh, at the height of the troubles after all, maybe not the normal chat in Keenans but the barman didn't bat an eyelid. Against the background noise of British Army helicopters taking off from the largest and most fortified base in the North, that conversation changed my professional life. Thirty years later we picked up the discussion where we left off. I hope you enjoy the chat. Maybe it's time to head back to 'Cross for another natter. Join the gang! https://plus.acast.com/s/the-david-mcwilliams-podcast.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Duration:00:35:39
Blazers Vs. High Viz Jackets
7/1/2024
In this episode, we dive into the Aer Lingus strike, putting it in the context of the larger global economic landscape. We ask if this strike is the beginning of a new era in industrial relations. By exploring the historical shifts in labour and capital dynamics, we question whether we're seeing the pendulum swing back in favour of workers after decades of shareholder dominance. We connect the dots between these labour actions and global economic and political trends, offering an analysis on how these disputes might shape future economic policies. Join us as we unravel what these industrial actions mean for the future of work and wealth distribution. Join the gang! https://plus.acast.com/s/the-david-mcwilliams-podcast.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Duration:00:30:18
The Economics of Irish Restaurants
6/27/2024
We have a very special episode for you today, courtesy of The Bear, Season 3 which is streaming on Disney+ from today, June 27th!
We're digging into what makes an Irish restaurant tick and the hidden contributions that a vibrant restaurant industry adds to our economy. We also talk with Ross Lewis from Chapter One and discuss the dedication and culture required to build up a fine dining scene in Ireland. And we ask if a Michelin star is worth the investment or if a sandwich shop is the better entrepreneurial route.
Join the gang! https://plus.acast.com/s/the-david-mcwilliams-podcast.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Duration:00:33:01
Sold Down the River
6/26/2024
This week, we dive deep into the nitty-gritty of the commercial property market, highlighting its glaring vulnerabilities and the dramatic plunge in values since the pandemic. Using the vivid historical metaphor of being "sold down the river," we unravel how economic cycles often start with a displacement moment, sparking widespread financial speculation and leading to eventual market chaos. Drawing parallels between the flatboat era of early American history, where pioneers navigated the vast Ohio and Mississippi Rivers, and today's real estate woes, we illustrate how fundamental changes can trigger significant economic shifts. We look at the patterns that repeat across time. This episode sheds new light on the dynamics of the commercial property market and its historical underpinnings. Join the gang! https://plus.acast.com/s/the-david-mcwilliams-podcast.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Duration:00:30:07
Common Sense is Coming Home!
6/24/2024
Could Common Sense be Coming Home? We dive into the unexpected shift where Britain now seems like the island of sanity amid European radicalism. We explore the surprising fragility of German infrastructure and the looming chaos in European bond markets, particularly focusing on France's political and economic challenges. By contrasting the historical legacy of Leon Bloom's socialism with today's political climate, we highlight how Britain, with its emerging centrist stability under leaders like Keir Starmer, stands in stark relief against the backdrop of European turmoil. This episode promises a fascinating journey through the complexities and nuances of history, politics, and economics, shedding light on Britain's newfound role as a beacon of stability in an unpredictable world. Join the gang! https://plus.acast.com/s/the-david-mcwilliams-podcast.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Duration:00:39:40
Christiane Amanpour in Conversation
6/19/2024
Join us for a special live recording of the podcast at DBF 2024, where David interviewed the renowned journalist Christiane Amanpour. As CNN's chief international anchor, Amanpour brings unparalleled insights into global affairs, making this session an unmissable highlight of the festival. The conversation covers Amanpour's journey from the Iranian Revolution to her pioneering role at CNN, reflecting on pivotal moments such as reporting from the Gulf War and Bosnia in the 90s, where she witnessed firsthand the harsh realities of conflict. Amanpour's experiences underscore the critical role of journalism in uncovering human rights abuses and shaping global narratives. Her reflections on current events, including the Ukraine crisis and the challenges to democracy, offer profound insights into the pressing issues of our time, emphasizing the importance of a free press and international solidarity in safeguarding democratic values worldwide. Join the gang! https://plus.acast.com/s/the-david-mcwilliams-podcast.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Duration:00:44:06
A Live Podcast Straight from Dalkey!
6/17/2024
Join us for a live recording of the podcast! We dive into the fascinating rise of Gaelic Games live from Cuala in Dalkey - we delve into the incredible impact of free education in Ireland. Discover how the daughters of small farmers seized educational opportunities, sparking unexpected social mobility. We'll also give you a sneak peek into my upcoming book, "Money: A Story of Humanity," out September 12th, where we explore how money has shaped human history. Expect a mix of personal anecdotes, historical deep dives, and economic insights. Don't miss it! Join the gang! https://plus.acast.com/s/the-david-mcwilliams-podcast.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Duration:00:55:13
Decoding Global Markets with Dave Tilson
6/12/2024
This week, we're diving deep into the rollercoaster world of global financial markets. From the wild highs of cannabis stocks crashing down to earth to the ECB's first interest rate cut in five years, we're unpacking it all. Ever wondered why 2% inflation became the magic number for central banks? Spoiler: it’s as arbitrary as it sounds. Joining us to make sense of the chaos is David Tilson, Head of Capital Markets for Cantor Fitzgerald, who’ll give us the lowdown on everything from US job growth and the curious case of immaculate disinflation to the surprising rise of India over China. Whether you're baffled by bonds or curious about why Germany’s economy is having an identity crisis, this episode is packed with insights. So, is it time to rethink everything we thought we knew about money? Tune in and find out! Join the gang! https://plus.acast.com/s/the-david-mcwilliams-podcast.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Duration:00:36:46
Neoliberalism, my arse!
6/10/2024
During the European recent elections, you might have heard lots of people defining Ireland as a "neoliberal" country, governed by the ideology of neoliberalism. Neoliberalism is a political and economic philosophy which emphasises free markets, deregulation, and reducing the role of the state. This episode dives into the myth that Ireland is a neoliberal state, a story often perpetuated but rarely challenged. By examining Ireland’s progressive tax system and vast social welfare network, we reveal a very different narrative. If Ireland isn't neoliberal, why does this myth persist, and what does it say about our understanding of politics and economics? Join the gang! https://plus.acast.com/s/the-david-mcwilliams-podcast.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Duration:00:30:25
Tomorrows World: Living With AI
6/5/2024
This week, we're diving into the fascinating world of AI economics with the brilliant Professor Eli Noam from Columbia Business School. This episode is a special treat as we're kicking off a series of AI events at the Dalkey Book Festival next week. We're talking about how artificial intelligence is shaking up industries, transforming job markets, and reshaping the entire economy. There's a lot of fear out there about AI taking over jobs and the ethical headaches it brings, but it's not all doom and gloom. We'll explore how smart policies and clever strategies can turn AI into a force for good, sparking new opportunities and driving economic growth. Tune in for a deep dive into the future of AI and what it means for all of us. Join the gang! https://plus.acast.com/s/the-david-mcwilliams-podcast.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Duration:00:35:03
Enemies to Lovers: The Conversation We Really Should Be Having Ahead of The European Elections
6/3/2024
This week, while navigating a mid-life crisis and an intensive French course in the south of France, we've decided to reflect on the importance of Franco-German relations and what they mean for the future of Europe and the euro. We delve deep into how centuries of rivalry and reconciliation between France and Germany have shaped the continent, leading to the creation of the European Union. From the devastating conflicts of the World Wars to the visionary treaties that established economic and political integration, we explore the pivotal moments that have defined this partnership. So tune in as we examine the current state and future prospects of the euro, discussing its strengths, challenges, and the role it plays in maintaining European stability. Join the gang! https://plus.acast.com/s/the-david-mcwilliams-podcast.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Duration:00:33:51
Independence Day for the UK, again?
5/29/2024
Is Rishi Sunak's announcement of a snap UK election the answer or a political gamble? Joining us to unpack this is Robert Shrimsley of the Financial Times. Can the Tories pull this one out of the bag? And, away from the political drama, on the economic side, we examine the UK's persistent productivity issues, its triple inequalities and the lack of novel macro-economic or strategic model from the major parties. This election, the absence of one old friend is conspicuous - Brexit, no on wants to talk about it. The UK is a house divided, could this election offer the solutions the UK desperately needs, or will it deepen the existing fractures and uncertainties? Join the gang! https://plus.acast.com/s/the-david-mcwilliams-podcast.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Duration:00:31:25
Recognise Palestine, Now What?
5/27/2024
The Irish government stands with the Palestinians, as does most of the country. A moral foreign policy is a sign of what the country believes in but where does it take us beyond that? Will Ireland sanction Israel ? Many doubt it given the more than 5 billion euros in trade between both economies. Both economies are tied together by the global multinational tech industry, umbilically linked by corporate America. We paint the likely end-game in the Middle East, and conclude there are two broad ways forward. The first is the South Africa model where a pariah Israel changes tack and Ireland's gets first mover advantage - moral and ahead of the game. The second is the Jihad/Settler dystopia, where an ongoing jihad/settler war mutates constantly with no peace and Palestine becomes a ward of Hamas. This scenario means Irish foreign policy gets bogged down with consequences way beyond our control. Join the gang! https://plus.acast.com/s/the-david-mcwilliams-podcast.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Duration:00:36:05
The Price is Wrong with Brett Christophers
5/22/2024
This week, we delve into the economics of climate change with acclaimed author Brett Christophers - who has previously illuminated the pervasive influence of investment funds in our daily lives through books like "Our Lives in Their Portfolios". This time, he turns his analytical lens to the urgent issue of climate change. We'll explore why economic incentives alone may not be the solution we envision. Christophers critically examines the low investibility of wind and solar industries, questioning why big companies would pivot to renewables if they aren't profitable. So what can be done? Tune in for a compelling conversation that challenges conventional wisdom and seeks alternative strategies for effective climate action. Join the gang! https://plus.acast.com/s/the-david-mcwilliams-podcast.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Duration:00:40:40