Babbage from The Economist - Podcast Rankings and reviews

I’ve listened to a lot of science-focused podcasts, and Babbage stands out from the crowd, not only because of the depth of its coverage but also because of the quality of the writing. A joy to listen to.

The Economist produces many fine podcasts that complement their world-class magazine, and this is the finest of those! I like Babbage above their other fine offerings due to their focus on science reporting. There are mercifully few adds, evocative introductions, and stellar substance within each well-selected topic: check it out and you will have no regrets!

There have been some changes to Babbage and Money Talks, adding more sound effects and focusing on a single theme in each show. I like the focus; before each episode felt like a summary of what I had already read in print. The effects feel very much overproduced. Babbage is the worst offender of these. These need to be toned down. “Checks and Balance” and “To A Lesser Degree” are the best Economist podcasts (IMHO) because of the depth, chemistry between hosts, and classic Economist insight. I’d like more of these aspects brought to Babbage and Money Talks.

Often a great source of information and interviews with experts. A lot of it goes over my head, but I appreciate being able to listening in to such learned people talking about their fields.