Today in Focus

Just hours after wishing the world a happy Easter, the 267th head of the Roman Catholic church passed away. What was his legacy and who will take his place? Catherine Pepinster reports. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/infocus

Why do authors see Meta’s AI model as a threat to their livelihoods? Ella Creamer reports. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/infocus

Isabel Brooks, a freelance writer for The Guardian and a member of Gen Z, discusses how her generation views gyms as new social hubs, replacing traditional pubs. Alongside Nia Kinshe, a regional project lead at a human rights organization, they explore the blend of fitness and social connection. They delve into personal stories of how gym culture fosters relationships while navigating challenges of social isolation. Both highlight Gen Z's pride in fitness, viewing criticism as a motivation for growth, amidst shifting cultural dynamics.

Amy Hawkins, The Guardian's senior China correspondent, dives deep into the escalating U.S.-China trade war. She reveals the complex impact of tariffs on local businesses, particularly in Yiwu, highlighting traders' fears and adapting strategies. Hawkins reflects on her observations from returning to China post-pandemic, noting a shift in market dynamics. She discusses China's transition from low-value manufacturing to high-tech industries and the growing consumer nationalism amid changing global trade relationships.

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.