Today in Focus
The Guardian
Hosted by Nosheen Iqbal and Helen Pidd, Today in Focus brings you closer to Guardian journalism. Combining storytelling with insightful analysis and personal testimonies, the podcast takes you behind the headlines for a deeper understanding of the news, every weekday. Today in Focus is unmatched in both scope and depth, delivering analysis and storytelling from right across the planet. With a global network of over 900 journalists and five dedicated editions covering news in the US, UK, Australia, Europe, and beyond, the Guardian offers comprehensive reporting across every continent. Most recently we have introduced new correspondents in the Caribbean, South America and Africa.
Episodes
Mentioned books
30 snips
Oct 3, 2025 • 26min
Is TikTok about to go full Maga?
Emily Baker-White, an investigative journalist and senior writer at Forbes specializing in tech policy, dives into the controversial deal to transfer TikTok’s US operations to Trump allies. She discusses TikTok's powerful algorithm and how it shapes user engagement, along with national security concerns stemming from its ties to China. Emily also explores political maneuvers for regulation and the implications of new ownership on content direction, revealing a complex landscape where media and politics intersect.
6 snips
Oct 2, 2025 • 8min
The Manchester synagogue terror attack – Today in Focus Extra
A harrowing account unfolds from the heart of Manchester, where a recent attack on a synagogue has left two dead and several injured. Reporters delve into the chaotic scenes following the car and knife assault, highlighting the rapid police response and the chilling presence of a suspected explosive device. The community's grief is palpable, with worshippers shaken during Yom Kippur services. As details about the suspect remain scarce, the broader implications of rising antisemitism in local neighborhoods take center stage.
33 snips
Oct 2, 2025 • 28min
Here comes the sun! The solar energy revolution
In this insightful discussion, Bill McKibben, a renowned environmentalist and author focused on climate change, shares his optimism about the clean energy revolution. He highlights surprising advances in solar, wind, and battery technologies. McKibben emphasizes the urgent need for accelerated adoption to combat rising emissions. He discusses how decentralized solar power can challenge authoritarian regimes and geopolitical dynamics. With innovative storage solutions and growing accessibility, he conveys a cautiously hopeful message about the future of renewable energy.
10 snips
Oct 1, 2025 • 34min
Starmer takes aim at Farage
Peter Walker, Senior Political Correspondent for The Guardian, analyzes Keir Starmer's recent conference speech amidst his low approval ratings and pressure from Reform UK. They discuss Starmer's positioning against Nigel Farage and his commitment to community values. Walker highlights the speech's focus on national renewal but notes the lack of concrete policies. He reflects on broader concerns about immigration rhetoric and the stability of Starmer's leadership moving forward, emphasizing the uncertain political landscape ahead.
30 snips
Sep 30, 2025 • 31min
OnlyFans, AI girlfriends and ‘stepdads’: the porn industry in 2025
Amelia Gentleman, a Guardian reporter known for her investigative journalism, shares insights from Europe's largest porn conference in Amsterdam. She delves into how creators adapt to industry changes and the rise of OnlyFans, highlighting its subscription model and economic impact. The discussion covers the struggles of creators facing burnout and the escalation of extreme content for attention. Amelia also explores the emergence of AI in adult content, featuring AI girlfriends and the mixed reactions from creators about this technological shift.
24 snips
Sep 29, 2025 • 38min
How to defeat Britain’s far right
Nick Lowles, founder of the anti-fascist organization Hope Not Hate, has dedicated decades to fighting far-right extremism. He shares his journey from encountering the National Front in his youth to infiltrating groups like Combat 18 to gather vital intelligence. Lowles discusses crucial successes, including preventing violence in Oldham and the role his organization played in convicting Tommy Robinson. He stresses the importance of community resilience and offers strategic advice for countering far-right narratives while highlighting the changing tactics of online radicalization.
Sep 26, 2025 • 34min
‘Like Amazon Prime but with human beings’: inside Trump’s deportation machine
In this engaging discussion, Maanvi Singh, an immigration reporter, and Oliver Laughland, Southern Bureau chief at Guardian US, uncover the dark world of Trump’s deportation machine. They detail the discovery of a secret deportation hub in Alexandria, exposing the harrowing experiences of detainees. The conversation covers how rapid transfers obstruct legal access, the complexities of family separations, and the dire conditions in El Salvador’s prisons. Their investigation reveals the chilling impact of these practices on immigrant communities and legal systems.
Sep 25, 2025 • 28min
Escaping Gaza City, while reporting on its destruction
Malak A Tantesh, a courageous Gazan journalist for The Guardian, shares her harrowing experiences fleeing Gaza City amid destruction. She discusses her family's evacuation, life in refugee tents, and coping with famine while reporting on the crisis. Malak reflects on returning home to find her childhood memories reduced to rubble and the emotional weight of documenting suffering under constant danger. Her determination to tell the story of her homeland highlights both the resilience of Gazans and the profound impact of her work.
11 snips
Sep 24, 2025 • 24min
Russia’s high-risk game in Nato skies
Dan Sabbagh, The Guardian's security and defence editor, dives into the recent surge of Russian drones and jets violating NATO airspace. He discusses the troubling implications of these incursions, including a specific drone attack on Poland and responses from NATO. Sabbagh explains the rapid decision-making process for pilots intercepting these threats. He also assesses the broader political and military dynamics at play, highlighting European allies' unwavering support for Ukraine and increased military readiness despite Russia’s provocations.
24 snips
Sep 23, 2025 • 29min
Does Labour’s new home secretary signal a harder line on immigration?
Peter Walker, Senior political correspondent at The Guardian, dives into Shabana Mahmood's impactful rise as Home Secretary. He explores her immigrant roots and how her Oxford background shapes her political identity. The discussion highlights her vocal pro-Palestine stance and her challenges in tackling prison reform. Walker also examines her priorities, including migration and modern slavery, and considers the potential implications of her appointment for Labour’s immigration policies. Tune in for a nuanced analysis!
