Keir Starmer, a prominent British politician and former Prime Minister, teams up with Shishank Joshi, The Economist's Defense editor, to dissect Elon Musk's audacious meddling in UK politics. They explore how Musk's social media antics are shaping political discourse and raising questions about tech influence. The discussion also shifts to Europe's security landscape, emphasizing pressing defense challenges in light of the Ukraine war and shifting U.S. policies, highlighting the urgent need for a unified European strategy.

Shashank Joshi, Defense editor for The Economist, and Emmett Livingstone, Africa correspondent, delve into the recent U.S.-Russia negotiations regarding Ukraine, highlighting the sidelining of Ukraine's president. They explore the impact of these discussions on Europe while also interviewing Kornén Nonga, leader of the M23 rebel group in Goma, about the complexities of regional conflict. The conversation also humorously touches on pop culture, specifically the enduring charm and cultural relevance of Bridget Jones.

Shashank Joshi, Defense editor at The Economist, dives into the invisible but crucial electronic warfare shaping the Ukraine conflict, revealing how strategies evolve from jamming to cutting-edge software. Tim Cross, Senior science writer, unveils the sinister side of cycling with carbon monoxide as a potential performance booster, exploring its biochemical effects. Meanwhile, Catherine Nixie, Culture correspondent, critiques the dwindling art of oratory in British Parliament, attributing it to social media's influence on political discourse and engagement.

Shashank Joshi, Defense editor for The Economist, dives into the implications of the recent phone conversation between Trump and Putin regarding Ukraine, highlighting the sidelining of Ukraine in negotiations and its potential consequences for European security. Emmett Livingstone, Africa correspondent, sheds light on the M23 rebel group's dramatic takeover of Goma in Congo, discussing regional dynamics and the chaos that ensued. The podcast blends politics with a dash of cultural commentary, capturing both global tensions and local conflicts.

Matthew Hulhouse, British political correspondent, and Shishank Joshi, defense editor, delve into Elon Musk's surprising influence on UK politics. They discuss the tension between traditional politics and social media's disruptive role, highlighting Musk's controversial remarks and their ripple effects. The conversation shifts to Europe's security challenges post-Ukraine conflict, as they analyze NATO commitments and the need for increased defense spending amidst a shifting political landscape. They also remember the literary contributions of Chiung Yao in shaping romantic narratives.

Shashank Joshi, Defence Editor at The Economist, shares his insights into the geopolitics of cybersecurity. He discusses the tension between Iran and Israel in the cyber realm and explores the complex narratives of recent cyber warfare. The conversation dives into the US-China tech rivalry and domestic vulnerabilities, highlighting how historical events shape contemporary threats. Shashank also examines the evolving role of technology and intelligence in counter-terrorism strategies and the challenges of effectively communicating cybersecurity risks.

Shashank Joshi, Defence Editor for The Economist and Middle Eastern politics expert, joins to dissect the Syrian civil war's origins. They delve into Syria's rich cultural history and its transformation into a battleground. Shashank recounts his personal experiences in war-torn Syria, while exploring the Ottoman Empire's legacies and foreign interventions that exacerbated tensions. The discussion reveals the impact of sectarianism and how key political figures shaped the path to instability, laying the groundwork for current conflicts.

Shashank Joshi, Defence Editor at The Economist, dives into the serious implications of Russia's evolving nuclear doctrine. He discusses the strategic value of ATACMS for Ukraine and the controversial use of anti-personnel landmines. The conversation delves into the risks of escalation, how Western military support could shift the dynamics, and the likelihood of nuclear deployment amidst rising tensions. Joshi provides expert insights on the geopolitical landscape and the complexities of military technology in the ongoing conflict.

Shashank Joshi, the Defense editor for The Economist, sheds light on the grave situation at the Zaporizhia nuclear power plant, occupied by Russian forces amidst the Ukraine conflict. He discusses urgent diplomatic efforts to prevent disaster and the struggles of Ukrainian staff. The conversation also touches on the deadly impact of Britain's recent heatwave and the importance of social capital in enhancing upward mobility among different socio-economic classes.

Heather Conley, a senior advisor at the German Marshall Fund, Elisabeth Braw from the Atlantic Council, and Shashank Joshi, Defence Editor at The Economist, dive into the uncertainties of European defense post-Trump's victory. They explore NATO's challenges, especially the struggle for fair defense spending among member states. The conversation examines Trump's transactional approach and its impact on Europe’s military readiness, alongside the rising threats from Russia and the need for stronger alliances amid changing geopolitical landscapes.