Today in Focus
The Guardian
Hosted by Nosheen Iqbal 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
15 snips
Aug 14, 2025 • 29min
How Israel used Microsoft technology to spy on Palestinians
Harry Davies, Investigations correspondent at The Guardian, delves into the clandestine discussions between Yossi Sariel and Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella about using Microsoft's cloud for surveillance of Palestinians. The conversation spans Israel's Unit 8200's controversial data collection practices, ethical dilemmas, and accountability issues in military operations. Davies highlights the ongoing tension between technology and civil rights, showcasing the profound implications of using tech giants for military intelligence and the ensuing protests against this partnership.
19 snips
Aug 13, 2025 • 30min
The secrets of the world’s richest company
Tae Kim, a seasoned journalist and author of 'The NVIDIA Way', dives into the fascinating world of NVIDIA and its enigmatic founder, Jensen Huang. He details how NVIDIA became the first $4 trillion company and the intriguing trade negotiations revolving around AI chip sales to China. The conversation captures Huang’s inspiring journey, from his humble beginnings to his role in revolutionizing the tech industry. Kim also discusses the intense culture at NVIDIA and the surge in its dominance during the pandemic, highlighting strategic decisions that shaped its success.
26 snips
Aug 12, 2025 • 24min
The Trump-Putin summit
Shaun Walker, The Guardian's correspondent in Central and Eastern Europe, covers the escalating conflict in Ukraine, while Laurie Bristow, former British ambassador to Russia, shares insights from his time in Moscow. They discuss the upcoming Trump-Putin summit in Alaska and the controversial idea of a ceasefire deal that sidelines Ukraine's leadership. Concerns about geopolitical implications arise, especially regarding Russia's history of breaking agreements and the need for Ukrainian voices in negotiations. The conversation sheds light on the complex dynamics of diplomacy and war.
36 snips
Aug 11, 2025 • 34min
How the University of Edinburgh helped create scientific racism
Will the University of Edinburgh confront its dark past? Severin Carrell reports. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/infocus
13 snips
Aug 8, 2025 • 26min
Inside China’s fast-fashion factories as a US trade war looms
Amy Hawkins, The Guardian’s senior China correspondent in Beijing, sheds light on the impact of the US-China trade war on fast fashion factories in Guangzhou. She reveals the harsh living conditions and stress faced by workers caught in the turmoil. The discussion uncovers the resilience of these individuals amidst rising tariffs and consumer pressures. Hawkins also examines how the trade war influences labor exploitation, environmental concerns, and the broader economic challenges China faces as it navigates this uncertain landscape.
96 snips
Aug 7, 2025 • 29min
Has the digital nomad dream turned sour?
Alex Holder, a freelance journalist and author, shares her thoughts on living in Lisbon since 2019, where she opened an English language bookshop. She’s torn between her love for the city and the potential harm caused by digital nomads. Joining her is Lauren Razavi, executive director of Plumio and former digital nomad who has lived in 60 countries. They discuss the cultural tensions and economic impacts of the nomadic lifestyle, the evolving demographics of digital nomadism, and the need for better integration with local communities.
42 snips
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.
26 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.
45 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.
