Today in Focus

Maanvi Singh, a dedicated reporter for Guardian US, shines a light on the harrowing case of Kilmar Ábrego García, a victim of a wrongful deportation mistake. The podcast delves into the dire circumstances surrounding García's detention in a notorious Salvadoran prison. Singh discusses the emotional fallout of immigration policies, the legal battles faced by families, and the controversial designation of García as a gang member. The conversation opens a broader dialogue on the inhumane effects of swift deportation policies on vulnerable communities.

Jasper Jolly, a financial correspondent at The Guardian, dives into the British Steel crisis and its far-reaching implications. He discusses the emergency measures to rescue the Scunthorpe plant and the tension surrounding public demonstrations. The importance of this plant for local and national economies is highlighted, alongside the challenges posed by cheap imports and foreign ownership. Jolly also explores the precarious balance between national security and foreign investment as the UK navigates its steel industry's future amidst sustainability goals.

Ta-Nehisi Coates, an award-winning writer and journalist known for his insights on race and politics, discusses the crucial role of storytelling in America. He critiques how US liberals misunderstand cultural narratives, contrasting them with right-wing messaging. Coates highlights the failures of the Democratic Party in resonating with voters and examines the complex narratives surrounding the Israel-Palestine conflict. He urges young writers to maintain integrity in a polarized climate, emphasizing the importance of authentic storytelling.

Bethan McKernan, The Guardian's Jerusalem correspondent, sheds light on a tragic attack resulting in the deaths of 15 Palestinian paramedics in Gaza. She discusses the chilling smartphone footage that captured the chaos and challenges faced by medical workers on the ground. The conversation dives deep into the implications of these killings as potential war crimes, spotlighting human rights concerns and the culture of impunity in conflict zones. McKernan emphasizes the vital role of evidence in seeking justice amidst immense human suffering.

In this discussion, Jessica Murray, The Guardian's social affairs correspondent, dives into Birmingham's current chaos. She reveals how a strike by bin collectors has led to a rat infestation, exposing deep disparities between neighborhoods. Struggles of the workers, compounded by rising living costs, paint a grim picture of their financial instability. The financial crisis facing the Birmingham City Council is also highlighted, revealing the troubling effects of past mismanagement. Murray's insights shed light on the urgent need for change in the city's waste management and public services.

Richard Partington, senior economics correspondent at The Guardian, dives into the chaos ignited by Trump's tariffs. He discusses the turmoil faced by global markets and Wall Street's significant losses. Despite the mayhem, Partington explores the fragile hope for recovery and how investment behaviors are shifting under uncertainty. The escalating trade war with China raises critical questions about job reshoring and the broader economic implications. He also highlights how globalization is evolving, with China's emerging role prompting new challenges for Western economies.

Jasmine Mooney, a Canadian entrepreneur, shares her harrowing experience of being detained by ICE for two weeks due to a visa misunderstanding. Adam Gabbatt, a writer for Guardian US, discusses the increasing risks and scrutiny travelers from allied countries face when visiting the US. They explore the mental toll of detention and the emotional impact of current immigration policies, including the unsettling possibility of renewed travel bans. Their conversations highlight the urgent need for reforms in a system that often dehumanizes those seeking entry.

Michael Savage, The Guardian's new media editor, and Steph Loffrey, a seasoned TV producer, dive into the current crisis plaguing the UK TV production industry. They reveal that around 70% of freelancers are out of work, discussing the emotional and financial strain this places on professionals. The conversation also touches on the shift from traditional TV to digital platforms, the decreasing focus on local storytelling, and how innovation is crucial for the industry's recovery. They highlight the potential role of government support and the effects of technology on job diversity.

Join John Harris, a Guardian columnist and father, as he shares the heartfelt journey of connecting with his autistic son, James, through the universal language of music. He recounts how the Beatles transformed their relationship, aiding in James's language development and joy. Harris reflects on the initial uncertainties of parenting with an autism diagnosis and the emotional struggles they faced. Highlighting music's role in fostering expression and community, he advocates for greater support and understanding for autistic individuals as they transition into adulthood.

Richard Partington, Senior economics correspondent at The Guardian, dives into the implications of Donald Trump's hefty tariffs. He discusses how these tariffs aim to reshape American industry while sparking global market reactions. The conversation shifts to the impact on developing nations and the looming question of sustainability in trade policies. Partington critiques the belief that tariffs can revive traditional jobs, urging a focus on future job opportunities in emerging sectors. He also explores the effects of U.S. trade isolation on global relations and market confidence.