Economics Explained

Economics Explained

On Economics Explained, we take a look at interesting countries, policies, and decisions from the point of view of an economist. The world is an interesting place and we hope to uncover some of this intrigue in our short, informative podcasts.

Episodes

July 7, 2025 50 mins
Germany, Italy, and France—once the powerhouses driving Europe’s economy—are now grappling with some tough problems. We’ve put together this collection of videos to give a broader picture of Europe’s economic struggles. From Germany’s industrial slowdown to Italy’s stalling economy and France’s balancing act, these videos show how these old powers are really finding it hard to keep up with the changing global scene. Learn more ab...
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From state-owned enterprises to real estate issues - how does China’s economy operate under different rules? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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June 23, 2025 21 mins
How does tiny, cold Denmark defy the odds to become one of the richest nations? Despite sky-high taxes and a lack of oil wealth, it boasts free education, universal healthcare, and global giants like Novo Nordisk. Unpack the Nordic model, flexicurity, and explore why high taxes haven’t crushed growth. Is Denmark’s dream sustainable? Watch to find out! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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June 13, 2025 22 mins
Does foreign aid work, or does it merely trap countries in poverty? Each year, billions are spent, yet 692 million people still live in extreme poverty. From success stories like South Korea to struggles in Sub-Saharan Africa, we explore why aid often fails to stimulate economic growth, the hidden pitfalls of dependency, and what occurs when the funding ceases. Curious about the truth behind foreign aid? Watch now and join the deba...
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Why is Gen Z stuck in a world drowning in wealth? Homes, families, and financial freedom—milestones older generations nailed, but young folks are falling behind! Are boomers hogging the riches, or is inequality the sneaky villain? From crushing student debt to tech-creating billionaire gaps, we uncover the shocking truth! Could Gen Z still become the richest and poorest generation? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone....
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Ever wondered how a small nation like Malaysia transformed from a colonial commodity hub into a Southeast Asian economic powerhouse? Nestled in the heart of global trade routes, Malaysia’s rise is a masterclass in leveraging geography, smart policies, and foreign expertise. But can it maintain the momentum to rival giants like Japan or China? From the bustling Strait of Malacca to cutting-edge semiconductor hubs, we unpack the sec...
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The world faces a staggering $315 trillion debt crisis—three times global GDP! Are we on the verge of economic collapse with 10% of production going to interest payments? From meme coins exceeding major car manufacturers' values to escalating trade threats and actual wars, could a recession be the wake-up call we need? Or will it harm workers and small businesses while the wealthy exploit the situation? We examine why we avoid econ...
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California’s economy is a global powerhouse, but is it crumbling? We dive into why the Golden State keeps growing despite sky-high housing, taxes, and trade war threats, from Silicon Valley's tech giants to Hollywood studios. Unpack the real story behind migration, wildfires, and overhyped headlines. Watch to see if California still got it or if it’s on the edge! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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April 15, 2025 17 mins
Australia stands as an exemplary success story—prosperous, secure, and filled with opportunities. However, a closer examination reveals a fragile framework dependent on unsustainable sectors, skyrocketing housing prices, and increasing inequality across generations. In this video, we delve into the true narrative of Australia’s economic success, the precarious dependencies it maintains, and why tackling these issues could prove qui...
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While Europe struggles with debt and stagnation, Poland is booming—the fastest-growing major economy on the continent! How did Poland transform from a broken USSR satellite into a tech and military powerhouse? We explore its smart moves—slow privatization, EU funds, innovation—and risks like debt and brain drain. Can it overtake Germany or France? Watch to find out! Subscribe for more economics made simple. Learn more about your ad...
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April 3, 2025 3 mins
Sharing an excerpt of a podcast we’re enjoying, Tools and Weapons, from Microsoft Vice Chair and President Brad Smith. Tools and Weapons explores technology’s impact on our changing world. To celebrate 50 years of Microsoft, Brad is hosting exclusive conversations with the company’s CEOs, where they share their take on the company’s legacy and its AI-fueled future. In this clip from the podcast, Bill Gates takes Brad back to the da...
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Does the finance industry add value, or just chaos? From crashing economies to turning homes into gambling chips, it’s made billions while leaving us questioning its worth. We unpack its core role—connecting capital to land, labor, and ideas—and how it fueled the Industrial Revolution and consumer credit. But today’s mega-banks, high-frequency trades, and info gaps are sucking value dry, boosting inequality instead. Featuring insig...
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March 26, 2025 16 mins
US debt hit $36 trillion—117% of GDP—and DOGE aims to cut $2 trillion from yearly spending. Madness or masterstroke? We’re here to argue why it could work. The 1993 cuts sparked a rare surplus—proof it’s doable. Yes, today’s economy leans hard on government spending (35% of GDP), and high interest rates sting, but America’s unique leverage might just hold. Watch to see why DOGE deserves a chance and what’s at stake. Learn more abo...
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The USA wants to create its own sovereign wealth fund (SWF), but is this a smart move or just wishful thinking? Countries like Norway, China, and the Gulf States use these massive investment funds to generate long-term revenue, but can the U.S. pull it off with soaring debt and low natural resource taxation? In this video, we break down how SWFs work, the challenges the U.S. would face, and whether this is the right tool for the ec...
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March 13, 2025 15 mins
The BRICS alliance is expanding, with new members like Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Iran, Ethiopia, and Indonesia joining Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. As global tensions rise, BRICS sees a chance to challenge the Western-led financial system and build its economic powerhouse. But can this diverse group truly unite, or will internal conflicts and economic dependencies hold them back? Watch now to see what a BRICS-led glob...
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March 3, 2025 15 mins
Canada, Canada Economy, Canada Housing Crisis, Canada Real Estate, Canada Debt, Canadian Immigration, Canada Brain Drain, Canada vs USA, Canada Housing Bubble, Canada Economic Crisis, Canada Financial Crisis, Canada Economy 2024, Canada Housing Market, Why is Canada so expensive, Cost of living in Canada, Canada Recession, Canadian Dollar, Canada Economic Collapse, Housing Bubble Burst, Global Economy, Economic Decline, Canada Mort...
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February 24, 2025 15 mins
Why do some nations thrive while others collapse? Tolstoy’s famous quote applies to economies—successful nations share key traits, while failed states unravel in distinctive ways. From corruption and weak institutions to war and economic mismanagement, history reveals clear patterns of failure. This video examines why countries like Barbados, the Congo, and Yemen have struggled, while South Korea has transformed into a global power...
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February 17, 2025 14 mins
Greenland is a massive land with a tiny population, and it relies on fishing, government support, and Denmark’s financial aid to survive. But why are global superpowers suddenly so interested in this frozen frontier? Is it the untapped resources, the potential to become a major Arctic trade route, or something even bigger? And could the USA acquire it? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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February 10, 2025 17 mins
Japan was once on track to become the world’s largest economy, but after decades of stagnation, that future never came. From the post-war boom to the Plaza Accord, risk-averse business culture, and an aging population, Japan's rise and plateau have fascinated economists for years. Yet, despite its economic slowdown, the country still enjoys high job security, low inflation, affordable housing, and a high quality of life. But can an...
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February 3, 2025 17 mins
Are tariffs just sneaky taxes, or can they actually help economies grow? From washing machines to national security, we break down the real impact of tariffs, why they once worked for the U.S., and whether they still make sense today. Join us as we explore the trade-offs, history, and hidden costs of tariffs in a globalized world! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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