Immigration, Housing & Trump's Shadow

In this week's episode, we tackle Ireland's election season, where policies are less about vision and more about swapping slogans. We explore how a lack of imagination in housing and infrastructure could undermine one of the world’s wealthiest nations. From Dublin's derelict buildings to Finland's solutions for homelessness, we dive into how local councils can learn to self-finance and finally address Ireland's housing crisis. We zoom out to examine the global context: Trumpism's shadow over Ireland's economic model and how a looming U.S. civil war—between corporate boardrooms and MAGA ideologues—might reshape foreign direct investment and Ireland’s reliance on American multinationals. As history shows, great decisions often emerge in hard times. Will Ireland rise to the occasion, or settle for short-term thinking? Join the gang! https://plus.acast.com/s/the-david-mcwilliams-podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we're tackling two seismic shifts in politics: Ireland’s sugar-rush election and Trumpism’s ripple effects across Europe. As Irish politicians shower voters with freebies—from energy credits to student grants—are they ignoring the storm clouds brewing overseas? Meanwhile, Germany is picking up the phone to Russia, reshaping the geopolitics of Europe as Trump’s influence pushes allies to rethink old alliances. What does Ireland’s obsession with giveaways say about its political class, and how will Trumpism challenge Ireland's economic model? From Olaf Scholz to selection boxes, and from bounties (both the chocolates and political ones) to balanced budgets, join us as we explore how the world—and Ireland—may be on the cusp of monumental change. Join the gang! https://plus.acast.com/s/the-david-mcwilliams-podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we’re diving into Germany's political shake-up as the country heads for a snap election this February. Beyond coalition drama, there’s a deeper story here: Germany’s cultural obsession with saving and fiscal restraint—a "fetish for frugality" that hasn’t always served them well. Seen as both a national virtue and a strict economic doctrine, balanced budgets are gospel, and spending is often viewed with suspicion. How will this election impact Germany's economic direction? And could a new leadership shift the country's stance on growth, flexibility, and spending? Join us this week to find out. Join the gang! https://plus.acast.com/s/the-david-mcwilliams-podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Live from Kilkenomics, we unpack the ‘Trump Epoch,’ a transformative shift that’s reshaping America and reverberating across the globe. From disrupting political dynasties to setting the stage for a new supercycle, we dive into how Trumpism is redefining the world’s economic and political landscapes. Expect a deep dive into the rise of disaffected voices, shifting priorities like immigration and cost of living, and the lasting impact of this new era. If you’re curious about where America—and by extension, the world—is headed, this episode maps out the road ahead. Join the gang! https://plus.acast.com/s/the-david-mcwilliams-podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The unthinkable has happened: Donald Trump has swept the Presidency, Congress, the Senate, the popular vote—even the Supreme Court stands behind him. In today’s episode, we dive into the five emotional stages America seems to be racing through, from denial to acceptance, as a the Trumpquake sends shockwaves across the world. With Bitcoin soaring and alliances shifting, what does this all mean for the globe—from an empowered Netanyahu in Israel to an isolated Europe led by a wary Berlin? We’ll explore the billionaire backers pulling strings, the curious coalition of Bitcoiners and evangelicals in Trump’s camp, and the simmering question of whether this mandate signals peak plutocracy. Tune in as we confront the realities of this bold new era—where old rules don’t apply, and power takes on a whole new meaning. Join the gang! https://plus.acast.com/s/the-david-mcwilliams-podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.