The Crises Keep Coming, and Inequality Keeps Winning.
Highlights from the EQUALS podcast, featuring Helen Clark, Gordon Brown, and others on how we fight back against inequality.
What do billionaires and slavery have in common? Why do pandemics, wars, and debt crises always seem to leave the poor poorer and the rich richer? And what would real global leadership look like in times of chaos?
Over the years on EQUALS, we’ve sat down with some of the most influential thinkers, activists, academics, and leaders of our time to tackle these very questions. Now, as multiple crises collide in 2025 — spiraling inequality, climate shocks, soaring debt, and fragile leadership — their words feel more relevant than ever.
Some conversations never age. Here’s a set of powerful episodes from the EQUALS archive, just as urgent now as when we recorded them. These aren’t just conversations from the past. They’re roadmaps for today.
1. Gabriel Zucman on Tax, Slavery & Billionaires.
What do billionaires today have in common with slave owners of the past? Economist Gabriel Zucman traces the roots of tax dodging to slavery, exposing why the ultra-rich resist taxes with such ferocity and why a wealth tax is both just and possible. If you’ve ever wondered why billionaires seem untouchable, this one will open your eyes.
Listen here.
2. Gordon Brown on The Global Response to Crisis.
The crises are global, but the response isn’t. Former UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown lays out what real leadership should look like when the world is on fire. A masterclass on what it takes to rise above politics and act with global solidarity. Tune in.
3. Helen Clark on Women Leaders, Crises & Preparedness
Would the pandemic response have looked different if more women were in charge? Helen Clark, former Prime Minister of New Zealand, and UNDP chief on how women leaders managed crises differently and what still needs to change to make preparedness a priority. Much needed insights as the world is dealing with climate, health, war, and inequality crisis all together. Listen here.
4. Branko Milanović on Inequality in Every Crisis
Why do the rich always seem to come out richer when the world goes through hell?
breaks down the structural reasons inequality deepens during pandemics, financial crashes, and wars. A sobering but essential guide to understanding why shocks is never equal. Listen to the discussion.
5. Kristalina Georgieva on IMF, Climate & Debt Reform
Debt. Climate. Inequality. IMF Chief Kristalina Georgieva discusses what it would take for the global financial system to work for people and planet, not just the powerful. From debt restructuring to climate finance, she unpacks reforms that could change the global economic order. Explore the conversation here.
Joseph Stiglitz on Why Inequality is Bad for You
Joseph Stiglitz has spent decades proving that inequality doesn’t just hurt the poor and how it is bad for everyone. In this conversation, Stiglitz breaks down how we got into today’s inequality crisis, what it means for our economies and democracies, and where he still finds hope. A true “godfather” of inequality thinking, his insights remain essential for anyone who wants to understand and change the system. Dive in.
The late Hage G. Geingob former President of Namibia on A Legacy of Leadership and Justice
Before he passed away, Namibia’s former President Hifikepunye Pohamba sat down with us to share his reflections on leadership, inequality, and justice. From the fight for independence to governing through turbulence, his words remain a powerful reminder of how dignity and principle can guide leadership in times of crisis. A conversation that resonates even more deeply today. Full episode here.
The crises may be new, but the playbook is the same. As climate shocks, war and conflicts, and inequality converge, the insights of these influential voices provide a blueprint for action, not just analysis. Do not just scroll past: listen and share. The fight against inequality is still on.
EQUALS is back next week with a brand-new season. Stay tuned for powerful new conversations on inequality, power, and justice.
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I write to explain why most attempts to return the economy to the ones better sharing of prosperity have failed I discussed how the various systems work and how to effective reforms. You may find the information useful. Here is my latest post on the dangers of private equity: https://janweirlaw.medium.com/trump-just-gave-job-killing-private-equity-a-huge-boost-15d8f45b36d4