Which podcasts give you more insight into global economic and political developments? Below are eight podcasts that are an important part of my media diet—covering everything from entrepreneurship and stock markets to technology, China, and Russia.

Entrepreneurship

  • Acquired. The podcast I’m most envious of and the one I’d most love to produce in the Netherlands. The two hosts take plenty of time to dive deep into a single company and then create an episode about it that’s often as long as four hours. They explore all kinds of aspects: from the history, the stories, and the founders’ visions, to the technical innovations they bring, the revenue model, and the changing world. The first episode I listened to was about Hermès, and even though I’m not really into luxury brands, I’ve been hooked on Acquired ever since. It’s especially useful if you want to know why tech companies are so successful.
Listen to the Hermès episode here, or find all the episodes here.

Energy

  • Catalyst. American venture capitalist Shyle Kann wants to make money from the energy transition. But to do that, you need to know what the major trends are and which new technologies have a chance of succeeding—and which don’t. That practical approach is what makes this a great podcast. He doesn’t interview big-name figures, but rather people who are experts on a specific topic. Another nice touch: you gain more insight into, for example, the state of the U.S. power grid, and then you think: Oh, things aren’t actually that bad here in the Netherlands.
Listen to an episode featuring guest Nat Bullard on trends for 2025 here , or find all episodes here

Technology

  • Tech Tonic. About twice a year, the Financial Times releases a podcast series that examines “the” hot topic of the moment in the tech world. From AI to China’s tech power, or (currently) the relationship between the various “tech bros” and Trump. Here you can see the strength of a good journalistic brand: a keen eye for current trends, compelling reporting, well-informed journalists, and polished production.
Listen to an episode here that offers insight into China's tech power, or find all the episodes here

Economy

  • Odd Lots. As the name suggests: a somewhat eclectic collection of pieces on economic topics. But they’re often timely, interesting, and insightful. Produced by Bloomberg.
You can find the episodes here

Trade Shows

  • The David Lin Report. My guilty pleasure. Unlike the previous suggestions, not all guests on this investment podcast should be taken entirely seriously. But hey, it’s the stock market: you never know in advance who’s going to be right; sometimes even the craziest predictions turn out to be true. This is a great way to be exposed to different economic perspectives and to gain insight into what’s happening in the economy and on the stock market.
You can find the episodes here

Geopolitics

  • The Rachman Review. Another FT podcast, this time focusing on major issues. Journalist Gideon Rachman is well-respected, so he invites serious guests onto his podcast, where he delves into topics in depth in a short amount of time.
You can find the episodes here

Russia

  • In Moscow's Shadows. I've always been fascinated by Russia—perhaps because one of my ancestors was the Russian tsar's master of ceremonies 200 years ago (yes, really...). Anyway, Mark Galeotti calmly explains what's happening in Russia, from the balance of power at the top to, of course, where things are headed between Russia and the rest of the world.
You can find the episodes here

China

  • ChinaTalk. One of the biggest questions right now is: How dominant will China become? Is the country building an insurmountable lead in artificial intelligence, industry, and the energy transition? Or is it a giant with feet of clay, with an unhealthy economy, an overbearing president, and a rapidly aging population? The ChinaTalk podcast (and newsletter) by American Jordan Schneider is a bit chaotic, but it does offer interesting insights.
You can find the episodes here

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