Today in Focus
The Guardian
Hosted by Helen Pidd, Nosheen Iqbal and Annie Kelly, 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
Oct 24, 2025 • 27min
Why is Trump giving billions to Argentina?
In this discussion, journalist Harriet Barber, who has firsthand experience in Argentina, sheds light on President Javier Milei's radical reforms and their impact on everyday Argentines. Economist Miguel Quigel explains the mechanics of Trump’s $20 billion currency swap, outlining its critical role in stabilizing Milei's government amid economic turmoil. The conversation delves into Milei's promises, public backlash due to austerity measures, and the political implications of U.S. intervention in a time of crisis.
41 snips
Oct 23, 2025 • 30min
The heist of the decade
In this engaging discussion, Angelique Chrisafis, the Paris correspondent for The Guardian, shares vivid details of the brazen Louvre burglary, revealing the thieves' rapid four-minute heist and the historical significance of the stolen crown jewels. Joined by Arthur Brand, a renowned stolen art detective, they delve into the professionalism of the criminals, potential fates for the loot, and the broader implications of targeting museums. Both guests reflect on the national shock and evolving crime patterns, heightening the intrigue around this audacious heist.
9 snips
Oct 22, 2025 • 24min
AI slop: Is the internet about to get even worse?
Chris Stokel-Walker, a tech journalist with a focus on AI and social media, delves into the rise of AI-generated video and its consequences for the digital landscape. He discusses how Sora 2 enables personalized video experiences, contrasts Meta's social strategies, and highlights the rapid advancements in AI video realism. Stokel-Walker raises alarms about the erosion of trust in visual media due to indistinguishable deepfakes and examines the political misuse of AI content, all while contemplating the risks of a potentially unsustainable AI bubble.
37 snips
Oct 21, 2025 • 23min
Prince Andrew, Jeffrey Epstein and the scandal that won’t go away
Zoe Williams, a Feature writer for The Guardian, dives into the ongoing fallout from Prince Andrew's relationship with Jeffrey Epstein. She explains why Andrew relinquished his royal titles, highlighting the symbolic implications of his decision. Williams reveals shocking details from Virginia Giuffre's memoir and discusses the gruesome allegations against Andrew. The conversation also touches on his attempts to discredit Giuffre and ongoing communication with Epstein, raising questions about royal accountability and the monarchy's handling of the scandal.
34 snips
Oct 20, 2025 • 24min
Boriswave, fighting-age men, cultural Marxism: how the far right is changing how we speak
Dr. Robert Topinka, an academic specializing in reactionary digital politics at Birkbeck University, explores how far-right language infiltrates mainstream discourse. He discusses the emergence of phrases like 'Boris wave' and their racial implications, explaining the roles of platforms like X and 4chan in spreading extremist memes. Topinka also delves into the manipulative framing of migrants as 'illegal' and the conspiratorial term 'cultural Marxism.' He argues the left should consider adopting similar meme strategies to counteract this trend.
Oct 17, 2025 • 24min
‘The sacrifice’: was Kai Shannon wrongfully convicted of murder? Part 2
Investigative reporter Emily Dugan, from The Guardian, delves into the controversial conviction of Kai Shannon for the murder of Wahab Zaaki. She unfolds a secretly recorded conversation revealing hints of police pressure against a key witness. Discussions emerge about Kai's strategy to use this tape in seeking a review of his conviction. Emily also highlights testimonies indicating that witness accounts were influenced by threats. With new leads sparking a full CCRC review, she questions the evidence and raises doubts about Kai's guilt, reflecting on the complexities of justice.
Oct 16, 2025 • 32min
‘Sacrifice’: Was Kai Shannon wrongfully convicted of murder? – part one
Investigative reporter Emily Dugan delves into the perplexing case of Kai Shannon, convicted for the 2009 murder of Wahab Zaki. Emily explores allegations of wrongful conviction, revealing Kai's claims of being set up. She describes his tumultuous childhood and the gang's allure as a surrogate family. The podcast raises questions about critical evidence, including a key witness's reliability and police tactics during the investigation. Emily's insights highlight the complexity surrounding Kai's case, prompting listeners to reconsider the nature of justice.
22 snips
Oct 15, 2025 • 30min
Inside the mystery of the collapsed Chinese spy trial
Dan Sabbagh, Defence and security editor at The Guardian, dives into the mysterious collapse of a high-profile Chinese espionage trial. He discusses the March 2023 arrests of two suspects and sheds light on their roles and accusations under the Official Secrets Act. Sabbagh explores modern espionage tactics and the implications of recent legal changes, revealing the political tension between the UK and China. Should we be concerned about spies in Westminster? With evidence being questioned, the ramifications for UK-China relations remain crucial.
8 snips
Oct 14, 2025 • 34min
Release of Israeli hostages and Palestinian detainees: how the day unfolded
In this gripping discussion, Dan Boffey, Chief reporter for The Guardian, shares his insights from Tel Aviv, while Jason Burke, the International security correspondent, analyzes the geopolitical impacts of recent ceasefire talks. Will Christou provides a poignant account of the emotional reunions in Ramallah. They explore the mixed reactions to political figures, the unprecedented dynamics of the ceasefire, and the overwhelming challenges returning detainees face in devastated regions. The balance between hope and skepticism permeates the narrative.
Oct 13, 2025 • 36min
The Palestinian and Israeli kids trying to be friends
In Cyprus, Israeli and Palestinian teens gather at a unique peace camp aimed at fostering friendship. Campers share personal stories, confront fears, and express hopes, despite facing societal backlash for their participation. They bond through icebreaker activities, revealing the impact of grief and loss on their lives. Discussions about differences in daily life under occupation highlight their struggles. The journey of reconciliation isn't easy, but the shared goal of acknowledging mutual pain brings them closer to the possibility of peace.
