Oliver Carroll, Ukraine correspondent for The Economist, shares insights on a new ceasefire proposal between Ukraine and Russia, highlighting the complexities of negotiations without Russian involvement. Ainsley Johnston, data journalist, reveals startling findings on the effects of loneliness, equating its impact on life expectancy to major health risks like smoking. The discussion unfolds the interplay of social connections and mental health, alongside Europe’s evolving defense strategies amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions.

Daniel Franklin, Senior editor at The Economist, shares intriguing insights on Kamala Harris's slim lead in the presidential race as Democrats gather in Chicago. Ainsley Johnston, a data journalist, discusses stunning research revealing that patients often fare better when treated by female doctors. The conversation takes a delightful turn with a look at the sophisticated communication of elephants, who may use low-frequency sounds similar to names to identify each other, challenging our understanding of animal intelligence.