
Words & Numbers is one of the highest-rated economics podcasts in the world. Each episode, Antony Davies and James R. Harrigan dig into economics, political science, and current events to explain what’s actually happening and why it matters.
| Publishes | Weekly | Episodes | 533 | Founded | 9 years ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Category | Education | |||

Ant and James go a little further than most in discussing the death penalty as we brace ourselves for the first public execution in the US since 1936.
00:00 Introduction and Episode Preview
01:13 MIT’s Certificate in Piracy
03:59 Political Argumen... more
David Friedman joins us once again to discuss differing legal systems (and Renaissance fairs).
00:00 Introduction and Episode Preview
01:14 Furries, Renaissance Fairs, and Pittsburgh Subcultures
06:42 Rethinking the Social Security Retirement Age more
James and guest co-host Tom Krannawitter try to figure out (and explain) what the normative standard of nature is.
00:00 Introduction and Episode Preview
01:08 Trump, the Midterms, and the Future of the Republican Party
06:27 Colorado Republicans ... more
James and Tom Krannawitter, who is pinch-hitting for Ant this week, discuss the differences between the Greek and German educational methods, and why we should care.
00:00 Introduction and Episode Preview
01:17 Trump’s Triumphal Arch, Snipers, and ... more
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In an era dominated by outrage, slogans, and superficial analysis, Words and Numbers is a refreshing reminder that serious ideas can still be explored thoughtfully, intelligently, and with good humor. It is one of the few podcasts that regularly leaves me with a deeper understanding of the world and a longer list of questions worth considering.
I listen during my commute and this is by far my favorite podcast. It’s honestly a breath of fresh air to listen to two hosts discuss issues without screaming at each other or guests. I learn lots, I laugh often, and genuinely appreciate the knowledge they share.
Give it a listen. Especially if you like economics and politics.
James and Ant are great hosts that deliver as close to unbiased information as you can get. The tandem of economist and political scientist is a great way to look at the things that they present. This podcast is a weekly listen for me and should be for all who are searching for top quality information.
Antony and James have a great rapport. Very educational as well as entertaining. Be nice to each other 😊
Excellent podcast! The combination of economics and political science make this show outstanding! It will give you a firm grasp on politics, the economy, and the web that ties it all together.
Key themes from listener reviews, highlighting what works and what could be improved about the show.









Recent interactions between the hosts and their guests.
Listeners, social reach, demographics and more for this podcast.
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Two educational hosts dissect economics, politics, and current events with rigorous logic and accessible examples. Episodes mix foundational theory with contemporary policy debates, often anchoring discussions in constitutional questions, market incentives, and public choice. A standout is the balance of independent thinking, humor, and civility, plus frequent expert guests from think tanks, academia, and policy advocacy who push for principled, evidence-based dialogue. This show is likely to appeal to listeners who want thoughtful analysis over partisan shouting and enjoy connections between economics and political science in real-world issues.
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5. "YOUR WELCOME" with Michael Malice
Words & Numbers launched 9 years ago and published 533 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.
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Recent guests on Words & Numbers include:
1. David Friedman
2. Thomas Krannawitter
3. James Martin
4. Clark Neily
5. Wes Westmoreland
6. London River
7. Rob McDonald
8. Matt Kibbe
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