Today in Focus
The Guardian
Hosted by Michael Safi 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
Aug 6, 2025 • 26min
Is this the summer the British left comes back?
Owen Jones, a Guardian columnist known for his sharp political insights, joins Aletha Adu, a political correspondent who covers the Labour Party, to discuss the resurgence of the British left. They dive into the formation of a new left-wing party founded by Jeremy Corbyn and Zarah Sultana, sparked by discontent with Labour's current leadership. The duo critically examines Keir Starmer's performance and the growing desire for meaningful political change, as well as the challenges of revitalizing the Labour left amidst a fragmented political landscape.
25 snips
Aug 5, 2025 • 31min
How the Trump administration made a sewage crisis ‘woke’
Nina Lakhani, a senior reporter for Guardian US focused on environmental justice, delves into the sewage crisis in Lowndes County, Alabama. She reveals how the Trump administration's policies eroded crucial environmental protections and civil rights victories. Lakhani discusses the severe sanitation issues that plague predominantly low-income black families, emphasizing the public health risks they face. The podcast also highlights community advocacy efforts and the impact of federal funding cuts on their struggle for basic sanitation.
27 snips
Aug 4, 2025 • 32min
The Tesla whistleblower and the cost of taking on Elon Musk
Sönke Iwersen, an investigative journalist at Handelsblatt, dives deep into his extensive probe into Tesla, aided by a courageous whistleblower. He reveals shocking safety concerns linked to Tesla’s cars, including alarming claims about the autopilot system. Iwersen discusses the unique corporate culture shaped by Elon Musk's whims, where loyalty is paramount. He reflects on the severe toll of whistleblowing, highlighting the courage needed to expose corporate malpractices while shining light on the ethical responsibilities of journalism in safeguarding public safety.
16 snips
Aug 1, 2025 • 32min
Did lead poisoning help create a generation of serial killers?
Caroline Fraser, a Pulitzer Prize-winning author known for her book 'Murderland', explores the shocking link between lead poisoning and the rise of serial killers in America. She delves into the chilling cases of the 1970s, particularly Ted Bundy’s infamous crimes. Fraser discusses how environmental factors, like lead exposure, may have fueled male violence and aggression during this tumultuous era. The conversation also highlights the corporate negligence behind pollution and its deadly legacy, underscoring the urgent need for public health awareness.
12 snips
Jul 31, 2025 • 28min
How will the UK’s recognition of Palestine help those starving in Gaza?
Nick Maynard, a consultant surgeon and volunteer for medical aid, shares haunting stories from Gaza's hospitals, revealing the harrowing malnutrition and hunger faced by many. Emma Graham-Harrison, chief Middle East correspondent for The Guardian, analyzes the implications of the UK's recognition of Palestine amid the crisis. The discussion raises questions about effective humanitarian intervention, the challenges of aid distribution, and the urgent need for action to alleviate suffering in the region.
21 snips
Jul 30, 2025 • 24min
Can people still protest about Palestine in the UK?
Haroon Siddique, The Guardian's legal affairs correspondent, and Audrey White, a 74-year-old activist from Liverpool, delve into the complexities surrounding Palestine Action's proscription as a terrorist organization. They discuss the impact of this classification on freedom of speech and the challenges activists face, including increased police surveillance and the psychological toll of arrests. Audrey shares her decades-long commitment to activism, emphasizing the critical need for collective action in the face of rising restrictions on protests and civil liberties.
13 snips
Jul 29, 2025 • 27min
Protests against Zelenskyy as drones torment Ukraine
Luke Harding, a Senior foreign correspondent for The Guardian, dives into the chaos of Kyiv where protests erupt against President Zelenskyy's anti-corruption reforms. He sheds light on the struggles of ordinary Ukrainians coping with drone attacks while demanding accountability. Harding discusses the shifting political dynamics, revealing growing disillusionment with U.S. support and the implications for Zelensky's leadership amidst the strife. The geopolitical landscape is complex, as Ukraine juggles challenges from autocratic regimes while yearning for democracy.
11 snips
Jul 28, 2025 • 27min
The hunt for the next Dalai Lama
Hannah Ellis-Petersen, The Guardian's South Asia correspondent, and Lhadon Tethong, Director of the Tibet Action Institute, dive into the complex battle over the next Dalai Lama amidst Chinese state control. They discuss the Dalai Lama's legacy at 90 and the challenges Tibetan monks face in preserving their spiritual practices under oppressive regimes. The duo explores how the selection of his successor could reshape global politics and the fight for Tibetan identity, linking it to broader human rights struggles worldwide.
Jul 25, 2025 • 28min
Euros 25: Can the Lionesses bring it home again?
Faye Carruthers, a presenter of Women's Football Weekly, dives into England's thrilling journey in the women's Euros. She highlights the tension-filled semi-final against Italy and the Lionesses' evolution fueled by increased media coverage and investment. The conversation covers the emergence of stars like Chloe Kelly and Michelle Adjumang, while also tackling key issues of equality and diversity in women's football. With their sights set on a final against Spain, Carruthers discusses the stakes for the team and the future implications for women's sports.
24 snips
Jul 24, 2025 • 28min
Donald Trump’s Epstein problem
David Smith, The Guardian's Washington Bureau Chief, delves into the troubling connections between Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein. He discusses the implications of recent revelations that might alienate Trump's support base. The conversation touches on conspiracy theories surrounding Epstein’s client list and a contentious birthday message that allegedly ties Trump to Epstein. Smith also examines the broader impact on Trump’s political standing as the midterms approach, highlighting the complex relationship between media and power.
