Why 1923 still Matters
16 November 2023 - 36 minsAnti-semitism, inflation, threats to democracy, despotic leaders and fragile governments, if you thought it was today, its is - but hold on. It's happened before... This very month 100 years ago, German hyperinflation peaked, Adolf Hitler announced himself with a putsch and anti-semitism was rife. History is repeating itself, or is it? Join us on this epic journey back in time to see what we can learn and whether we can apply any historical remedies to today's global problems. Join the gang! https://plus.acast.com/s/the-david-mcwilliams-podcast.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Culture vs. Economics: The Battle for America's Political Soul with Thomas Frank
This week, we’re stepping away from the usual economic focus to dive into the culture wars dominating U.S. politics as the election looms. Despite strong job growth, voters seem more driven by cultural identity than economic gains. With Thomas Frank, author of What’s the Matter with Kansas, we explore why the working class has shifted towards the Republicans, while Democrats have embraced the highly educated elite. Frank breaks down how these cultural divides are playing out in key swing states, revealing how identity, not economics, has become the driving force behind voter decisions. As we head into one of the most consequential elections in recent history, we have to ask—will culture continue to overpower economics at the ballot box? Join the gang! https://plus.acast.com/s/the-david-mcwilliams-podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
33 mins
10 October Finished
Fuelling the Fire: Middle East Tensions and Ireland's High Cost-Energy Crisis
As tensions rise between Israel and Iran, the global energy market is feeling the strain. Oil prices have jumped from $72 to $78 per barrel, and any further escalation could disrupt key producers like Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE, pushing prices even higher. With Israel attempting to provoke Iran into a wider conflict, the U.S. is caught in a delicate balancing act, trying to avoid being drawn in while managing domestic inflation and rising gas prices. For Ireland, already suffering from the highest energy costs in Europe, this adds a dangerous layer of pressure. With 80% of its energy imported and an overburdened grid, the country is highly vulnerable to global shocks. Despite Ireland’s potential for wind and wave energy, slow adoption of renewables leaves households and businesses exposed to soaring costs. This geopolitical turmoil could deepen Ireland’s energy crisis, highlighting the urgent need for infrastructure upgrades and a more serious commitment to energy independence. The question remains whether Ireland will take decisive action or continue to bear the brunt of an unstable global market. Join the gang! https://plus.acast.com/s/the-david-mcwilliams-podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
37 mins
8 October Finished
Middle East on the Brink: Where are the Adults?
In this episode, we're diving straight into the escalating tensions between Israel and Iran. As missiles fly and regional powers realign, we break down what’s really happening on the ground and why the Middle East is more volatile than ever. With Hezbollah in the mix, and Iran’s influence spreading across Lebanon, Gaza, and beyond, we’re looking at how Israel’s aggressive strategy could lead to something much bigger. We'll also dig into how the U.S. and Europe are responding, or not responding, and why falling oil prices are shaping this crisis in surprising ways. Stay with us as we unravel where this all might be heading and what it means for the future of the region. Join the gang! https://plus.acast.com/s/the-david-mcwilliams-podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
37 mins
3 October Finished
The Tragedy of the Middle East: A Letter from Lebanon
In this episode, we turn our focus to the Middle East, specifically Lebanon, a country currently at the epicentre of political and economic turmoil. Joined by Lebanese economist Carole Nakhle, we dive into the complexities of Lebanese society, a nation shaped by hyperinflation, war, and a delicate balance of religious and ethnic factions. Carole shares her personal experiences growing up in Beirut, and we explore how the economic crisis, worsened by years of corruption and political instability, has led to one of the worst financial collapses in modern history. From the ongoing conflict with Israel, Hezbollah's role in Lebanon, and how the broader geopolitical tensions in the region—especially between Israel, Iran, and the U.S.—are shaping Lebanon’s future. Carole provides invaluable insight into the Lebanese diaspora’s impact, the dynamics of Hezbollah’s social and economic influence, and why the current situation is so critical. A must-listen for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of the Middle East through the lens of Lebanon’s tragic yet resilient story. Join the gang! https://plus.acast.com/s/the-david-mcwilliams-podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
44 mins
1 October Finished
Can Draghi's €800 Billion Plan Save Europe from Decline?
In this episode, we continue our European mini-series, moving from Germany to the broader continental landscape. Europe faces mounting economic challenges as Mario Draghi, the former president of the European Central Bank and technocratic Italian prime minister, issues a bold €800 billion investment proposal aimed at closing the gap with the U.S. and China. Is Europe falling behind due to overregulation, fragmentation, and a lack of innovation? We discuss Draghi’s call for massive investment, the continent’s economic stagnation, and why the gap between Europe and America has widened over the past two decades. Is the European dream of a unified, prosperous continent slipping away, or can Draghi’s vision revive the old-world dynamism that once defined it? Join the gang! https://plus.acast.com/s/the-david-mcwilliams-podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
33 mins
26 September Finished
Germany on the Brink: Economic Fragility, Immigration Tensions, and the Rise of the Right
In this episode, we take a hard look at Germany’s current crossroads, where economic fragility and political tensions collide. Once the bedrock of European stability, Germany now faces challenges like the rise of the far-right AFD party, factory closures at Volkswagen, and energy crises driven by its dependency on Russian fuel. We explore the deeper cultural and historical factors at play, diving into the uneasy relationship between East and West Germany, the legacy of Angela Merkel’s policies, and the country's strained stance on immigration. With the help of historian Katja Hoyer, we unpack why Germany’s once rock-solid economy and political center are starting to crack—and what that means for the future of Europe. Join the gang! https://plus.acast.com/s/the-david-mcwilliams-podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
40 mins
24 September Finished