Logo
    Search

    Podcast Summary

    • Bank of America's Business Solutions for Entrepreneurs and CorporationsBank of America provides exclusive digital tools, award-winning insights, and powerful business solutions for businesses of all sizes, making it a valuable resource for entrepreneurs and corporations during uncertain global events like the ongoing Israel-Hamas ceasefire negotiations.

      Bank of America offers exclusive digital tools, award-winning insights, and powerful business solutions for businesses of all sizes, making it a smart choice for entrepreneurs and corporations alike. Meanwhile, in the world news, the ongoing ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas have been unpredictable, with optimism turning to doubt and back again. The latest development is Hamas' announcement of a ceasefire agreement, but it remains uncertain whether Israel will accept. Previous proposed terms included a phased ceasefire with hostage releases and prisoner exchanges, but the specifics of the new agreement are not yet clear. Overall, the situation remains volatile, and the outcome of the negotiations remains uncertain. The world continues to watch closely for developments.

    • Israel, Hamas negotiations for hostage release differIsrael and Hamas continue to negotiate hostage releases in Cairo, with Hamas proposing weekly installments and Israel expressing dissatisfaction. The conflict in Gaza persists, with Israel controlling the Rafah border and US opposing offensive without civilian protection.

      The ongoing negotiations between Israel and Hamas over the release of hostages have resulted in some differences, with Hamas agreeing to release hostages in weekly installments instead of every three days as proposed by Egypt. Israel has described the Hamas text as "far from what Israel demanded," but has sent a low-level delegation to Cairo for further negotiations. Meanwhile, the conflict in Gaza continues, with Israel taking control of the Rafah border crossing and announcing plans to continue its offensive in Rafah. The US, under President Biden, has maintained its position against an offensive without adequate provisions for protecting the civilian population. These developments suggest that the conflict is likely to continue in the near term, with negotiations ongoing in Cairo and military action in Gaza.

    • US opposition to Israel's offensive in RafahThe US has delayed weapons deliveries to Israel, potentially signaling disapproval and further punitive measures, while Netanyahu faces pressure from both sides to make a decision on a ceasefire.

      The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza has reached a critical point, with the Americans expressing their opposition to Israel's planned offensive in Rafah. Recent reports suggest that the US has delayed weapons deliveries to Israel, although the Pentagon denies this. This could be a warning sign from the Americans, indicating their disapproval and potential for further punitive measures. The Israeli government, led by Prime Minister Netanyahu, is facing pressure from both sides to make a decision on a ceasefire. Netanyahu has been hesitant due to opposition from his right-wing coalition partners, who threaten to leave the coalition and bring down the government if he makes a deal. Hamas, on the other hand, has accepted a ceasefire proposal, putting the ball in Netanyahu's court. The outcome of this situation will depend on Netanyahu's decision and the ability of both sides to negotiate and find common ground. The situation remains uncertain, and the potential for further escalation or a ceasefire remains to be seen.

    • Adapting Video Games to TV and FilmThe transition of video games to TV shows and films is a successful trend in Hollywood, with shows like 'The Last of Us' and 'The Witcher' finding commercial and critical success. However, not all game adaptations are guaranteed hits, and success depends on the recognition of the brand or the ability to engage audiences regardless of their gaming background.

      The adaptation of video games into TV shows and films is becoming a successful trend in Hollywood. With the increasing popularity of gaming, pre-existing storylines, and a large potential audience, studios are finding commercial and critical success in bringing video games to the screen. The success of shows like "The Last of Us" and "The Witcher" on Netflix, and the cinematic nature of modern video games, have made the transition smoother. However, not all game adaptations are guaranteed hits, with some, like Paramount's "Halo" and Netflix's "Resident Evil," not living up to expectations. The key to success seems to be either the widespread recognition of the brand or the ability to engage audiences regardless of their gaming background. This trend is just the beginning, and it will be interesting to see how Hollywood continues to adapt video games for the screen.

    • Fantasy's New Sub-Genre: RomantasyFantasy is evolving to include romantic elements and explicit sexual content, creating a new sub-genre called 'romantasy.' Classic fairy tales and legends contained more explicit sexual content than modern adaptations, and the growing demand for mature themes indicates a shift in reader preferences.

      The fantasy genre is evolving and embracing romantic elements, resulting in a new sub-genre called "romantasy." This sub-genre is known for its explicit sexual content and adult themes, featuring fornicating fairies, smoldering dragons, and fluid sexual preferences. The success of authors like Sarah J. Maas and Rebecca Yaros, who have sold millions of books, indicates a growing demand for such content. Historically, fantasy has been perceived as chaste due to societal norms and restrictive laws, but it was not always this way. Classic fairy tales and legends contained more explicit sexual content than modern adaptations. With the current generation of adults who grew up on young adult fantasy now seeking more mature themes, the fantasy genre is expanding to meet their demands. These books offer an adult world with sexual exploration and fluid identities, but they also provide an escape from reality with fantastical names and settings. The popularity of "romantasy" suggests that readers are no longer content with the chaste versions of fantasy and are eager for more mature and explicit stories.

    • Fairy tales and their problematic depiction of consent and romanceDespite concerns over nonconsensual encounters, fairy tales continue to fascinate with their blend of the fantastical and romantic

      The world of fairy tales, while filled with magical adventures, also raises complex issues around consent and romance. Characters often spend more time engaging in fantastical battles than mundane tasks, but the depiction of romance can feel outdated and problematic to modern readers. The use of explicit language and consent in contemporary relationships contrasts sharply with the subtle or absent expressions of desire in fairy tales. This has led to debates among readers about the problematic nature of nonconsensual encounters in these stories, with some arguing that these elements detract from the overall appeal. Despite these concerns, the genre remains popular and profitable, indicating a continued fascination with the magical and romantic elements of fairy tales. In essence, fairy tales offer a complex blend of the fantastical and the problematic, making for a compelling and enduring form of storytelling.

    Recent Episodes from Economist Podcasts

    The Weekend Intelligence: The state of Britain

    The Weekend Intelligence: The state of Britain

    On July 4th Britain will have a general election, one in which is widely expected to result in dramatic losses for the ruling Conservative party. If so, it would bring to an end 14 years of Tory rule. It’s been a turbulent period; the twin catastrophes of Brexit and Covid, set to the grinding and gloomy mood music of the 2008 financial crash. The Economist’s Andy Miller travels up and down the country, to the towns and cities shaped by these events, to get a sense of how Britain is feeling.


    Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—Subscribe to Economist Podcasts+


    For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account.



    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


    Economist Podcasts
    enJune 29, 2024

    Debate and switch? Biden’s stumble

    Debate and switch? Biden’s stumble

    America’s president had one primary task at last night’s debate: to close down speculation about his mental faculties. It went so poorly his whole campaign is now in doubt. Tentative results from a newish instrument give tantalising hints that the leading theory on the universe’s makeup might need reworking entirely (10:20). And bullfighting moves from literal arenas to the political arena (18:40).


    Get a world of insights by subscribing to Economist Podcasts+. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account.



    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


    Economist Podcasts
    enJune 28, 2024

    Labour-saving: Britain’s probable next leader

    Labour-saving: Britain’s probable next leader

    After 14 years in opposition, Britain’s Labour Party is on track for a comprehensive win in next week’s general election. We profile Keir Starmer, its leader, asking whether his modus operandi can turn the country around, too. Despite the obvious distractions phones represent, Americans want their children to have them in schools (10:50). And auction houses get into the business of “art-based lending” (16:40). 


    Sign up for and contribute questions to our subscriber-only British-election event on July 5th.


    Get a world of insights by subscribing to Economist Podcasts+. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account.





    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


    Economist Podcasts
    enJune 27, 2024

    Pier pressure: a visit to Gaza’s aid platform

    Pier pressure: a visit to Gaza’s aid platform

    Our correspondents were the first media to see the American-built JLOTS pier, intended for aid deliveries into Gaza. Things have not at all gone to plan. After years of slipping, house prices are on the rise again; we ask why (16:51). And a trip to see the Savannah Bananas, a goofy exhibition-baseball team that has serious lessons for the major leagues (22:57).


    Additional audio courtesy of the Savannah Bananas.


    Get a world of insights by subscribing to Economist Podcasts+. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account.



    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


    Economist Podcasts
    enJune 26, 2024

    Spring a leaker: Assange goes free

    Spring a leaker: Assange goes free

    As Julian Assange is released from prison our correspondent reflects on how the work of Wikileaks changed whistleblowing in the internet era, for good and for ill. Meanwhile Peter Navarro, Donald Trump’s trade hawk, remains behind bars—but is plotting for a second Trump term (09:25). And the social-media trend changing tinned fish from frumpy to foodie fare (18:33).


    Get a world of insights by subscribing to Economist Podcasts+. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account.



    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


    Economist Podcasts
    enJune 25, 2024

    Rocketing science: China’s newest superpower

    Rocketing science: China’s newest superpower

    After decades as a scientific also-ran, China is becoming a superpower particularly in the physical sciences. We examine the risks and opportunities that poses for the West. Our correspondent looks into why denizens of the Mediterranean live so long (10.32). And this year’s confluence of two broods makes for a rare preponderance of cicadas (17.53).


    Get a world of insights by subscribing to Economist Podcasts+. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account.



    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


    Economist Podcasts
    enJune 24, 2024

    Argentina turning? Milei’s surprising political success

    Argentina turning? Milei’s surprising political success

    Since his election last year, President Javier Milei has enjoyed some economic and political wins in Argentina. But his toughest fight is yet to come. On Britain’s general election trail, our correspondent found voters less keen on the prospect of a Labour victory than on punishing the Conservative party at the polls (10:00). And remembering Birubala Rabha, who campaigned against witch-hunting in India (18.35).


    Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—Subscribe to Economist Podcasts+


    For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account.



    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


    Economist Podcasts
    enJune 21, 2024

    Empire of the sun: a solar power revolution

    Empire of the sun: a solar power revolution

    No energy source has ever increased as fast as solar photovoltaics. The technology will transform humanity’s energy consumption–even when the sun doesn’t shine. Many people associate champagne with success but wine collectors often shun it. Now global sales are fizzing (10:51). And many chief executives are early birds, not night owls. Does it really pay to be up with the larks (18:32)?


    Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—Subscribe to Economist Podcasts+


    For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account. 





    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


    Economist Podcasts
    enJune 20, 2024

    French fried: will the election lead to chaos?

    French fried: will the election lead to chaos?

    Both the left and right are likely to do well in France’s upcoming parliamentary poll, with President Emmanuel Macron’s party squeezed in the middle. The snap election could leave the country in chaos. In America, recreational use of weed is now commonplace, but what impact does it have on users’ wellbeing (10:06)? And the joy of short books: the intense pleasure of a quickie (17:40).


    Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—Subscribe to Economist Podcasts+


    For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account. 



    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


    Economist Podcasts
    enJune 19, 2024

    Heir tight: why boomers are so stingy

    Heir tight: why boomers are so stingy

    The post-war generation reaped the benefits of peace and prosperity. Yet rather than spend that bounty, retired boomers are hoarding their riches–and upending economists’ expectations. The science of menstruation is baffling, partly because most animals don’t do it. Now clever innovations may help improve women’s health (9:13). And how old-fashioned wind-power is blowing new life into the shipping industry–and cutting its emissions (16:13).


    Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—Subscribe to Economist Podcasts+


    For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account. 




    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


    Economist Podcasts
    enJune 18, 2024

    Related Episodes

    Len Blavatnik’s Dangerous A.I. Film [TEASER]

    Len Blavatnik’s Dangerous A.I. Film [TEASER]

    Welcome to the George Santos Tribute Episode, lasting as long as his tenure in Congress.The Russian-linked Ponzi Scheme is on his way out. He lavishly spent campaign cash on his honeymoon in Las Vegas, spa treatments, luxury shopping sprees, Botox (he’s 35!), and the naughty fun time site OnlyFans. We have questions, mostly: Did his Russian-linked backers get their money’s worth by having major American embarrassment Santos in Congress? The answer is yes.

    On an oddly related note, super mogul Len Blavatnik, whom you're not allowed to call a Russian oligarch (or else he might sue you), owns Warner Music Group. The industry giant is developing a creepy and dangerous A.I.-generated Edith Piaf biopic. Blavatnik, whose cousin Andrea got into a screaming match with at the start of Putin’s invasion of Ukraine, throws his money around, including to the Democratic Party and the Council on Foreign Relations. As explained in this episode, this is reputation laundering and influence peddling, given Blavatnik's well-documented ties to Putin’s court of oligarchs.

    Are you ready for this? Blavatnik is a longtime friend and business partner of notorious sanctioned “Putin wallet” Viktor Vekselberg in various oligarchy-type ventures like Rusal, Russia’s largest aluminum company owned by Oleg Deripaska, that thug who won the aluminum wars during the car bomb 1990s in Russia. (Paul Manafort was on the hook to Deripaska for a bunch of money in a media venture gone wrong, and made it up to him by running Donald Trump’s presidential campaign in 2016…for free). Blavatnik’s friend/business partner Vekselberg has a seemingly unlucky cousin named Andrew Intrater, a financier who gave George Soros $625,000 to invest in a Florida based fund that turned out to be a Ponzi scheme. Despite losing all that money, Intrater went on to put his full trust in Santos by pumping his Congressional campaign full of cash. A campaign that turned out to be…you guessed it, a Ponzi scheme. It should be noted that longtime friends and associates Intrater, Vekselberg, and Blavatnik all gave heavily to Trump’s inaugural committee–otherwise known as a Russian victory lap. 

    This week’s bonus episode includes questions from listeners on topics ranging from white rage extremism and who’s tracking it, to how to stay hopeful during these dark times. If you didn’t hear your question answered this week, look out for it soon! Next week’s bonus episode will be the Make Art Workshop–a thank you to our community and a way for us to build up our resilience and fight back with joy. Thank you to everyone who supports the show – we could not make Gaslit Nation without you! 

    Show Notes:

    Get your ‘Tis the Season to Prosecute Treason T-shirt featuring an original design by Hamish Smyth here: http://tee.pub/lic/_vLBHBoWkeg

    68-percent of Americans support a ceasefire in Gaza https://www.reuters.com/world/us-public-support-israel-drops-majority-backs-ceasefire-reutersipsos-2023-11-15/

    Israeli opposition leader says time has come to replace Netanyahu https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/israeli-opposition-leader-says-time-has-come-replace-netanyahu-2023-11-16/

    Hamas leader being grilled on live TV and lying https://twitter.com/arash_tehran/status/1715354932595847322

    Santos Won’t Seek Re-election After House Panel Finds Evidence of Crimes The findings, which were referred to prosecutors, are likely to prompt another attempt to expel the embattled congressman from the House. https://www.nytimes.com/2023/11/16/nyregion/george-santos-ethics-committee.html?campaign_id=60&emc=edit_na_20231116&instance_id=0&nl=breaking-news&ref=cta&regi_id=48614702&segment_id=150214&user_id=097a378032011d6e8be1570cdce0a176

    A Soviet-Born Billionaire Is Buying Influence at US Institutions. Anti-Corruption Activists Are Worried. The Council on Foreign Relations is under fire for accepting Len Blavatnik’s gifts thanks to his tie to oligarchs and Russian corruption. https://www.motherjones.com/politics/2019/10/council-on-foreign-relations-leonard-blavatnik-russia/

    Music’s Mystery Mogul: Len Blavatnik, Trump and Their Russian Friends Len Blavatnik is not only a backer of films and potential buyer of a Hollywood studio but also reportedly on the fringe of the Russia probe thanks to GOP giving and links to oligarchs with ties to Putin. https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-features/why-is-warner-music-group-owner-len-blavatnik-russia-probe-1150550/

    How an Investor Lost $625,000 and His Faith in George Santos Andrew Intrater, a wealthy businessman, has been in touch with the S.E.C. about Mr. Santos’s dealings on behalf of a company accused in a Ponzi scheme. https://www.nytimes.com/2023/01/19/nyregion/george-santos-sec-intrater.html

    NY Fund Manager Linked to Russian Oligarch Invested Big With Santos. Now He Claims He Was Conned. https://www.motherjones.com/politics/2023/01/george-santos-andrew-intrater/

    A Putin-Friendly Oligarch’s Top US Executive Donated $285,000 to Trump The head of Viktor Vekselberg’s American affiliate helped finance Trump’s inauguration. https://www.motherjones.com/politics/2017/08/a-putin-friendly-oligarchs-top-us-executive-donated-285000-to-trump/

    ‘It’s shameful’: Russian-linked billionaires have given enormous sums of money to the West’s leading educational and cultural institutions https://www.cnn.com/2022/05/11/us/russian-oligarchs-philanthropy-ukraine-war-invs/index.html

    Oleg Deripaska: Putin ‘favourite’ with strong ties to UK politics https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/mar/10/oleg-deripaska-profile-putin-britain

     

    Israel/Gaza: What happens when the ceasefire eventually ends?

    Israel/Gaza: What happens when the ceasefire eventually ends?

    Negotiations to extend the ceasefire continue. But what could happen when the pause in fighting eventually ends? We bring you the view from both sides, with our correspondents in Israel and Gaza.

    This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: thetimes.co.uk/storiesofourtimes. 

    Guests:

    • Richard Spencer, foreign correspondent, The Times.
    • Amal Helles, The Times’ correspondent in Gaza.

    Host: Luke Jones.

    Clips: NBC, Middle East Eye, Times Radio, MEMRI, France 24.



    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.