Today in Focus

Chloë Hamilton, a Guardian journalist who reported on millennial culture, joins Gen Z commentator Emma Lofhagen and comedian Will Owen to dissect why millennials are viewed as uncool. They explore the economic struggles shaping both generations, from the financial crash to the2020 graduation experience. The trio humorously debate millennial traits like 'curated selfies' and the 'millennial pause' versus Gen Z's 'goblin mode.' They also tackle societal expectations, political divides, and strategies for handling the cringe narrative.

In this insightful discussion, journalist Nicola Slawson, author of 'Single, Living a Complete Life on Your Own Terms', shares her unique journey of platonic co-parenting with her best friend, Tom. They talk about how they decided to have a baby together, navigating the challenges of social infertility, and the humorous moments of home insemination. Nicola reflects on the emotional rollercoaster of pregnancy, their commitment to equal parenting, and the importance of their deep friendship in raising their daughter.

Katharine Viner, the Editor-in-chief of The Guardian, reflects on a tumultuous 2025. She discusses Donald Trump's continued influence on politics, the disturbing impact of US policies on civil liberties, and the struggles of the Labour government in the UK. Viner highlights the rise of Reform and Farage, as well as the collapse of global norms amid escalating conflicts. She emphasizes the threats to press freedom and celebrates impactful investigative journalism. Amidst challenges, Viner also finds hope in a left-wing resurgence and praises frontline coverage from Gaza.

Munther Isaac, a Palestinian Lutheran pastor and director of the Bethlehem Institute for Peace and Justice, shares insights on Bethlehem celebrating Christmas for the first time in three years. He describes the city's transformation into a 'near-ghost city' due to tourism collapse and political barriers. Munther discusses his viral nativity scene depicting Gaza rubble, reactions from Christian communities, and the changing attitudes towards Gaza among Christians. Celebrating Christmas this year represents resilience and defiance amidst ongoing humanitarian crises.

Michael Safi, a former presenter and current host of Guardian Investigates, shares touching stories from post-Assad Syria, highlighting moments of fleeting freedom in Damascus. Oliver Lachland, the Southern bureau chief, gives a stark account of the Alligator Alcatraz detention center and the protests against it. John Reid describes the vast, isolated Jabari Valley and its indigenous communities. Hannah Ellis-Peterson reports on the Kumbh Mela's immense scale and a tragic stampede, while Angélique Chrysafis recounts the emotional public response during a court appeal for justice.

Jonathan Freedland, a Guardian columnist and host of the Politics Weekly America podcast, dives into the anticipated release of Jeffrey Epstein files by the DOJ. He discusses the implications of potential redactions and the political pressure surrounding Trump's obligation to release documents. The conversation highlights notable figures in Epstein's orbit, like Noam Chomsky and Bill Gates, emphasizing that proximity doesn't imply guilt. Freedland also addresses heightened tensions within the Republican Party and how conspiracy theories thrive on the withheld information.

Join critics Ben Beaumont-Thomas, Catherine Shoard, and Hannah J Davies as they dissect the highs and lows of culture in 2025. Ben spotlights Blood Orange's grief-fueled artistry and CMAT's breakout charm. Catherine champions the touching film Young Mothers and the underrated crowd-pleaser Marty Supreme. Meanwhile, Hannah praises the darkly comedic Such Brave Girls and the gripping Severance. The trio also teases exciting releases to look forward to in 2026. Tune in for their insightful and humorous takes on music, film, and TV!

Alexandra Topping, a Senior reporter at The Guardian specializing in crime and gendered violence, dives into the UK government's new strategy to combat violence against women and girls. She highlights alarming statistics and the pressing need for consent education in schools. The conversation addresses the influence of online misogyny, particularly from figures like Andrew Tate, and the dangers of deepfakes. Topping also discusses vital funding for victim services and the challenges posed by overburdened support systems.

Journalist John Bartlett provides an insightful look at José Antonio Kast’s surprising electoral victory in Chile. He discusses how Kast’s focus on security and immigration resonated with voters amidst rising crime fears. Bartlett explores Kast's controversial family history, including his father's Nazi ties, and assesses how Kast altered his messaging to appeal to a broader audience. The conversation also covers Kast's policy agenda, comparisons to other Latin American leaders, and the role of media in shaping public perception of crime.

Denis Campbell, the Guardian's health policy editor, dives into the ongoing strike by resident doctors in England amid a winter flu crisis. He highlights how this walkout, involving about 70,000 doctors, is set to disrupt NHS services significantly. Denis discusses the intense pressures caused by a surging flu outbreak and the nurses' demands to restore pay to 2008 levels. He also explores the government's fiscal constraints and the public's shifting support amid the unfolding crisis, revealing the complexities at play in the healthcare system.