John Boone, who covers Afghanistan for The Economist, shares insights into the country's current humanitarian crisis, driven by the Taliban's return to power and the dire needs of 28 million people. Nicolas Pelham, the Middle East correspondent, highlights the complex resilience of Afghans, especially women grappling with oppression yet finding ways to push back. John Bleasdale discusses how mobile phones have reshaped cinema, especially impactful in genres like horror, showcasing their cultural significance over decades.

Lizzie Peet, a researcher for The Economist in New York, discusses the uphill battle for livestock welfare reforms in Massachusetts, highlighting the disconnect between public support and legislative action. John Bleasdale, a film writer, analyzes the new 'Predator' film, 'Prey,' focusing on its themes of colonialism and gender roles. They also explore the ramifications of Najib Razak's corruption conviction on Malaysian politics, raising questions about the future political landscape and ongoing legal challenges.

Stephen Mazey, The Economist's courts correspondent, delves into Ketanji Brown Jackson's Supreme Court nomination, exploring both respectful inquiries and tense moments from senators. John Bleasdale, a film writer, reflects on the challenges and memorable highlights of hosting the Oscars. Additionally, a poignant narrative emerges from Kharkiv, sharing a young man's struggles and resilience amidst the war, offering a stark contrast between daily life and the chaos of conflict.