Talks begin in Vienna to try to form a government, former French president Nicolas Sarkozy goes on trial, Taiwan introduces a digital-nomad visa and it’s the final day of campaigning ahead of Sunday’s second-round vote in Croatia’s presidential election. Plus: ‘The Invisible Collection’ takes up residency at Féau once again.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An evacuation order is in effect for Hollywood as thousands of acres surrounding Los Angeles are consumed by fire. Then: we’ll uncover the auction selling off the belongings of style-and-design legend Iris Apfel and look at the future of wellness and luxury travel in 2025. Plus: Tibet’s tourism industry in 2025 with the vice-president of Songtsam Hotels Resorts & Tours. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

US president-elect Donald Trump reiterates his desire to take control of both Greenland and the Panama Canal. Plus, how has the return of Donald Tusk to Polish politics gone down one year on? Then, the latest business headlines and how the major luxury hotel brands mark themselves apart in today’s market. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We discuss the race to succeed Justin Trudeau as Liberal Party leader following the Canadian prime minister’s resignation. Then: what can the outgoing Biden administration achieve before Trump’s return to the White House? Plus: the Pope’s historic appointment of a woman to head a major Vatican office and what’s on stage in 2025. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With two weeks to go until Donald Trump’s inauguration, we discuss Russia and Ukraine’s efforts to consolidate as much territory as possible. Then: Syria’s foreign minister calls for an end to US sanctions on his first trip abroad to Qatar. And: what Fernanda Torres’s historic Golden Globe win means for Brazil. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A pacy round-up of the day’s main news stories, anchored from London by Chris Cermak. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chris Chermak, senior news editor at Monocle, provides insight into a tragic New Year's Day incident in New Orleans, highlighting rising security concerns. Mateusz Mazini, a Gazeta Wyborcza writer, discusses Poland’s pivotal role in the EU and the implications of its presidency amid shifting politics. Dr. Chris Smith, a virologist from Cambridge, shares urgent information on H5N1 bird flu, emphasizing the need for European unity and preparedness for health crises. Together, they tackle pressing global challenges with urgency and depth.

Jeffrey Wright, an Oscar-nominated actor celebrated for his roles in the James Bond and Batman franchises, discusses his transformative performance in a satirical film. He delves into the complexities of family dynamics and emotional intricacies portrayed on screen. Wright also shares insights on the challenges of representation in Hollywood and the importance of authentic narratives in the film industry. His reflections illuminate the intersection of art and identity, making for a compelling conversation that resonates with prevailing societal themes.

Aidan Foster-Carter, an expert in South Korean politics, shares his insights on the country's chaotic landscape, discussing the implications of the president's impeachment and corruption charges. Tim Abrams, contributing editor to Architectural Record, reviews the year's standout architectural projects, including the contrasting designs of Paddington Station and the Paddington Cube. Both guests touch on the critical role of storytelling in photography and architecture, emphasizing how they capture and influence cultural narratives amidst global uncertainties.

John Lee, Editor of CareerPro, provides keen insights on the tragic South Korean plane crash, analyzing potential causes and safety concerns. He discusses the emotional aftermath for victims’ families and the political implications amid a leadership crisis in South Korea. The conversation also touches on other key global stories, including the legacy of former President Jimmy Carter and cultural highlights like the film adaptation of 'Wicked,' which is set to skyrocket in success.