Economics is about more than models and markets, it’s a way of understanding how the world works and making better decisions about the future.

In this episode, we meet Soumaya Keynes, Economics Columnist at the Financial Times. Soumaya shows how economics isn’t just a subject, but a powerful tool for asking better questions about the world.

Soumaya studied economics at Cambridge before building an impressive career in journalism, including eight years at The Economist and co-hosting Money Talks and Trade Talks. Today, she writes weekly columns for the FT and hosts The Economics Show. Along the way, she’s been flying the flag for greater diversity in economics, sharing what it’s really like to work in the field and why she’s hopeful about its future.

Soumaya shares her journey into economics, offering a refreshing take on what the subject is (and isn’t), why it’s relevant to people who care about real-world problems, and how the skills you learn can take you anywhere.

In this episode, we cover:

• How to use your interests - whether it’s climate change, social justice, or even opera - to find your place in economics.
• How economics helps you make sense of news, politics, and data.
• Why the neatness of maths might hold you back in economics.
• Make better decisions by understanding the difference between correlation and causation.
• Why men disproportionately pick economics and women disproportionately pick subjects like psychology.
• How to identify the secret messages you’re told without knowing you've been told them.
• How to approach uncertainty in a healthy way.
• Advice for students and teachers on accessing economics - whether or not it’s taught at school.

If you’re a student considering your next steps, a student ambassador championing economics, or a teacher eager to open up access to a wider group of young people, you’ll find inspiration and practical advice here.

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The Core Curriculum - https://www.core-econ.org/

The Economics Show - https://www.ft.com/the-economics-show

The Trade Talks Podcast - https://tradetalkspodcast.com/podcast/

Discover Economics - https://www.discovereconomics.co.uk

LISTEN

How Did I Get Here? from Discover Economics - https://www.discovereconomics.co.uk/podcast

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6ymip1H9Tpy5kBInSEJrUz?si=4b4013bcadd24a14

Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/how-did-i-get-here-from-discover-economics/id1557268390

What if studying economics could be the key to understanding the world? Economics isn’t just about money or markets; it’s about solving real-world challenges, from government policies to everyday financial decisions.

In this episode, Fiona Cox, an economist with a PhD and manager at KPMG’s economics team, shares how she lobbied to get economics on her school curriculum and now leads on impact assessments for major investments. Fiona’s journey is proof that economics can open unexpected doors.

If you’ve ever wondered how studying economics can translate into a meaningful career, or even just help you make sense of the world, this episode is for you.

In this episode, we cover:

• Why the Young Economist of the Year Award is a great opportunity for students
• What to do if economics isn’t in your school’s curriculum
• Real-world applications of economics beyond finance and banking
• The techniques economists use to give unbiased answers
• How economics is the only course that won’t pigeon-hole you into one career path
• Why you don’t need to be a maths genius to thrive in economics
• The difference between a data scientist and an economist
• What wealth really means
• The big mistake NASA made, and how it could have been avoided

If you’re ready to see economics in a new light, listen in as Fiona Cox shares her insights on making economics more accessible, impactful, and exciting.

LEARN MORE

The Young Economist of the Year Award 2025 opens on the 25th March 2025. Find out how you can get involved: https://www.discovereconomics.co.uk/young-economist-2024-finalists

KPMG - https://kpmg.com/uk/en/home.html

Discover Economics - https://www.discovereconomics.co.uk

LISTEN

How Did I Get Here? from Discover Economics - https://www.discovereconomics.co.uk/podcast

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6ymip1H9Tpy5kBInSEJrUz?si=4b4013bcadd24a14

Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/how-did-i-get-here-from-discover-economics/id1557268390

Curious about how economics shapes the world around you? It’s not all about GDP and inflation.

In this episode, we sit down with Tuli Saha and Swasti Gupta from the Bank of England to explore the many different paths within economics and how there’s a niche for everyone—whether you love data, policy, social issues, or global markets.

Tuli Saha is a Senior Economist and Data Scientist in the Financial Stability Directorate at the Bank of England, using data science to assess financial risks. Previously, she worked in macroeconomic forecasting and financial markets.

Swasti Gupta is also a Senior Economist at the Bank of England, with prior experience at HM Treasury, advising ministers on the UK economy, Brexit, and fiscal policy. Now, she helps the Monetary Policy Committee understand financial markets and interest rate decisions.

If you're a student considering economics, a teacher looking to inspire your students, or someone curious about how economics can shape the world, this episode is for you.

In this episode, we cover:

• Why economics is more than just maths.
• The four skills that really set you apart in economics.
• The realities of working at the Bank of England and the skills that matter most.
• How economics intersects with healthcare, politics, and social issues.
• Navigating a career in a traditionally male-dominated field and the importance of representation.
• The importance of networking, and taking opportunities as they come.
• The importance of being comfortable with uncertainty.
• How teachers and parents can support students in exploring careers in economics.
• The little known link between diverse managers and their team.

Economics is everywhere, and it can take you anywhere. Listen in to hear how Tuli and Swasti made it work for them, and how you can too!

LEARN MORE

The Bank of England Ambassador Programme - https://www.bankofengland.co.uk/education/school-visits
Bank of England launches economic education quiz with £1000 cash prize - https://www.bankofengland.co.uk/news/2025/january/boe-launches-economic-education-quiz-with-cash-prize
The Bank of England - https://www.bankofengland.co.uk/
Discover Economics - https://www.discovereconomics.co.uk

LISTEN

How Did I Get Here? from Discover Economics - https://www.discovereconomics.co.uk/podcast
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6ymip1H9Tpy5kBInSEJrUz?si=4b4013bcadd24a14
Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/how-did-i-get-here-from-discover-economics/id1557268390

Why do so many students overlook it as a subject and career path? And what can we do to change that?

In this episode, we’re joined by Thando Mafa and Annur Chaudhary, two passionate Discover Economics Student Ambassadors, who are on a mission to inspire more young people to see the value of economics.

Originally from Botswana and Bangladesh, they share their journeys into economics, what made them fall in love with the subject, and how they’re helping students and teachers see its real-world impact.

Through their outreach work in schools, Thando and Annur have discovered that many students don’t realise how broad and exciting economics can be. They break down common misconceptions, highlight how economics connects to everything from sustainability to psychology, and share what’s working when it comes to getting more students engaged.

In this episode, we cover:

• How one student’s simple question about diversity led to a whole new world of economics.
• What makes some students fall in love with economics after just one lesson?
• The surprising ways student ambassadors are changing the way economics is introduced in schools.
• Busting the myth that the subject is ‘just about money’. Hint: It’s way more than that.
• How behavioural economics explains everything from shopping habits to government policies.
• What happens when students finally see themselves represented in economics careers.
• Why a one-to-one conversation with an ambassador can completely change a student’s career path.
• The simple shift teachers can make to help students connect economics to their daily lives.

If you're a student wondering where economics could take you, or a teacher looking for ways to introduce it in the classroom, this episode is packed with insights, advice, and inspiration.

Listen in to hear how student ambassadors like Thando and Annur are opening doors for the next generation of economists, and how you can get involved, too!

LEARN MORE

Find out more about Discover Economics Student Ambassadors - https://www.discovereconomics.co.uk/get-involved

Discover Economics - https://www.discovereconomics.co.uk

LISTEN

How Did I Get Here? from Discover Economics - https://www.discovereconomics.co.uk/podcast

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6ymip1H9Tpy5kBInSEJrUz?si=4b4013bcadd24a14

Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/how-did-i-get-here-from-discover-economics/id1557268390

Think economics is just for those who love maths and follow the traditional university route? It’s time to think again.

In this episode, we chat with Arywen Morris and Susannah East, two degree apprentices working in economics. They share their journeys, from overcoming a fear of maths to choosing apprenticeships over university, challenging common misconceptions and highlighting how economics can drive social change.

Arywen is a degree apprentice economist working on freight and motoring services policy for the UK government. Susannah works at the Offi ce for National Statistics, researching regional GDP and economic wellbeing. They both share insights into breaking into economics, why apprenticeships can be a game-changer, and how economics shapes the world.

Whether you’re a student curious about economics or a teacher looking for new career pathways for your students, this episode offers valuable insights.

In this episode, we cover:

• Have we found the root cause of the gender gap in economics?
• The two traits that matter more than any degree.
• 3 compelling reasons to turn down top university offers in favour of an apprenticeship.
• The unexpected school subject that’s perfect training for a career in economics.
• How adding numbers to your arguments makes you instantly more persuasive.
• How and why schools should introduce students to economics early.
• The simplest way to explain economics to anyone.
• One type of economist you should never trust.
• How schools can use LinkedIn to help educate students.

LEARN MORE

LEAF - https://www.leaf.courses/

Office for National Statistics Careers - https://careers.ons.gov.uk/

Discover Economics - https://www.discovereconomics.co.uk

LISTEN

How Did I Get Here? from Discover Economics - https://www.discovereconomics.co.uk/podcast

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6ymip1H9Tpy5kBInSEJrUz?si=4b4013bcadd24a14

Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/how-did-i-get-here-from-discover-economics/id1557268390

Economics is more than numbers and theories - it’s about the questions we ask and the stories we tell.

In this episode, Karen Ward shares her journey into economics, proving that a passion for understanding the world can open doors you never expected.

Karen is the Managing Director and Chief Market Strategist for EMEA at J.P. Morgan Asset Management. Before that, she worked at HSBC’s Investment Bank, contributed to key economic research on global trends, and advised the UK government on major financial decisions.

But she didn’t start with a master plan. Her career was built on taking opportunities, asking questions, and embracing new challenges. That mindset, combined with storytelling skills, helped her stand out in competitive spaces, from job interviews to high-level economic discussions.

In this episode, we cover:

• How 2 new grads stood out among 900 applicants, and how you can too.
• What makes a great economist and why it’s not always about the data.
• How a random summer job can make you infinitely more employable.
• The simple way teachers can engage students in economics.
• One way to get your foot in the door at any company - and it’s not about who you know.
• Why a CV full of A-stars and distinctions could hold you back.
• The one thing to admit during an interview that can set you apart.

Whether you're a student considering your future or a teacher guiding the next generation, Karen’s journey is proof that economics isn’t just something you study - it’s something you experience, question, and shape.

LEARN MORE

J.P. Morgan Asset Management - https://am.jpmorgan.com/gb/en/asset-management/adv/bios/karen-ward/
Discover Economics - https://www.discovereconomics.co.uk

LISTEN

How Did I Get Here? from Discover Economics - https://www.discovereconomics.co.uk/podcast Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6ymip1H9Tpy5kBInSEJrUz?si=4b4013bcadd24a14 Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/how-did-i-get-here-from-discover-economics/id1557268390

What if you could shape the future of economics without a traditional university degree? Apprenticeships are unlocking new pathways for the next generation of economists.

In this episode, we sit down with a dynamic group from the Health Foundation’s REAL Centre (Research and Economic Analysis for the Long-Term), which provides independent research to help shape the future of health and social care.

Our guests include Hannah-Rose Douglas (Assistant Director), Ann Raymond (Economist), Zeyad Issa (Economist), George Stevenson (Apprentice), and Ashley Fernando (Apprentice).

Together, we discuss their unique journeys into economics, the value of apprenticeships, and how that diversity strengthens decision-making in the field.

Whether you’re a student, educator, or career changer, this conversation will inspire you to think differently about how to enter a career in economics - and its real-world impact.

In this episode, we cover:

Why traditional university routes aren’t the only option.

• The hidden value of bringing young apprentices to the table.
• The role of economics beyond profit - how it influences social policy, healthcare, and inequality.
• How apprentices are busting the ‘Wolf of Wall Street’ myth.
• ‘Why is no one asking this question?’
• The unexpected skills that might put off some students, but attract others.
• What are the prospects of having a career in economics?
• Why economics is a good choice for people with neurodiversity.

The future of economics should reflect the diversity of the world it serves. Tune in to hear how these economists and apprentices are helping to open doors for the next generation.

LEARN MORE

The Health Foundation’s REAL Centre https://www.health.org.uk/about-the-real-centre

Discover Economics - https://www.discovereconomics.co.uk

LISTEN

How Did I Get Here? from Discover Economics - https://www.discovereconomics.co.uk/podcast

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6ymip1H9Tpy5kBInSEJrUz?si=4b4013bcadd24a14

Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/how-did-i-get-here-from-discover-economics/id1557268390

From public policy to the price of your morning coffee, economics is everywhere—but who gets to shape it?

In this episode, we’re joined by Stephanie Flanders, one of the most influential voices in economic journalism, to explore the many ways economics shapes the world—and how we can make the field more diverse and inclusive.

Stephanie Flanders is the Senior Executive Editor for Economics at Bloomberg and the head of Bloomberg Economics. Previously, she was the BBC’s Economics Editor, Chief Market Strategist for Europe at JP Morgan, and an advisor to the US Treasury. She’s spent her career breaking down complex economic issues and making them accessible to the public.

But how did she get there? And what does she think needs to change in economics today?

If you're a student, teacher, or just someone curious about the world, this episode will give you fresh insights into the power of economics and why it needs a broader range of voices.

In this episode, we cover:

The importance of understanding economics beyond financial markets.

• How economic decisions impact everything—from transport to diversity in the workplace.
• The role of women in economics and why the gender gap still exists.
• Why broadening the economics pipeline is key to inclusion.
• The surprising connections between economics, accessibility, and disability rights.
• How the media shapes public understanding of economics—and why clear explanations matter.
• Advice for students and teachers on making economics more approachable.

The future of economics should be as diverse as the world it impacts—tune in to hear how Stephanie Flanders is helping to shape the conversation.

LEARN MORE

Stephanie Flanders - https://x.com/MyStephanomics

Discover Economics - https://www.discovereconomics.co.uk

LISTEN

How Did I Get Here? from Discover Economics - https://www.discovereconomics.co.uk/podcast

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6ymip1H9Tpy5kBInSEJrUz?si=4b4013bcadd24a14

Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/how-did-i-get-here-from-discover-economics/id1557268390