Understood: Who Broke the Internet?

Céline Dion is having a moment. It’s not her first. And millions of fans are hoping it won’t be her last. While Céline’s international stardom seems obvious now, it was all so unlikely. This four-part series hosted by Céline expert Thomas Leblanc explores the surprising cultural, political and business alchemy that created one of the most enduring superstars the planet has ever seen. Four episodes releasing weekly starting on Tuesday, October 15, 2024.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi may have narrowly won a third term, but without a majority government, his grip on power appears weaker than ever. On this bonus episode of Modi’s India: Understood, host Salimah Shivji and producer Joyita Sengupta talk about the surprising results of the Indian election. Access the transcript for this episode here.

Exploring Modi's leadership qualities and the evolution of Indian cinema, the podcast delves into the impact of political influence on creative freedom in the media industry. It also discusses Modi's rhetoric and Muslim exclusion, the political landscape in India, and the themes of unity and resilience in modern India.

Exploring Modi's strong leadership image, the podcast delves into escalating tensions and civil unrest in India, including crackdowns on dissent and accusations of government ties to assassination plots. It also covers the farmer protests in Punjab and the resurgence of Khalistani elements amidst the civil movements, shedding light on the challenges to Modi's authority.

Exploring Narendra Modi's rise to power, from controversial past to economic reforms. Discussion on his efforts to attract investments and focus on sanitation issues. Analysis of vigilante violence against Muslims, rise of Hindu nationalism, and Modi's development agenda for a strong India.

Narendra Modi's rise from humble beginnings as a tea seller to India's powerful leader. Discusses the opening of a temple in Ayodhya, Modi's success despite religious riots, and his political journey from chai walla to Chief Minister amidst controversies and accusations. Explores the aftermath of the Godhra incident, Modi's political strategy, and his rise to power through promises and support from Hindu voters.

How did one man rise from poverty to the peak of political power and secure the adoration of nearly one billion people? And how did he overcome accusations — that he denies — of complicity in religious violence and alleged international assassination plots?In the latest season of Understood, Mumbai-based journalist Salimah Shivji examines the remarkable rise, and incredible power that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has acquired. And as his country embarks on a massive election, Shivji asks the pressing question: what’s at stake if he wins again? Coming May 13, 2024.

New name, new owners, new rules. Can Pornhub rebuild its reputation and remain one of the world’s biggest porn sites? Or will the company be disrupted out of business by a new crop of online porn entrepreneurs?This is episode 4 of The Pornhub Empire: Understood. Hosted by Samantha Cole.Full transcript here.

Jane was coerced into making a pornographic film, and told it would never be shared online. Then, it was posted on Pornhub, over and over again. How did a scandal involving the hosting of sexual abuse material seriously damage the lives of many and nearly destroy the company? This is episode 3 of The Pornhub Empire: Understood. Hosted by Samantha Cole.Full transcript here.

Not only did Pornhub become a massive moneymaker, it also helped push porn into the spotlight by using data, clever PR, and the power of celebrity. How did Pornhub make itself a household name? This is episode 2 of The Pornhub Empire: Understood. Hosted by Samantha Cole.Full transcript here.