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
11 snips
Dec 30, 2024 • 38min
Revisited: The mother who forgave her daughters’ killer – but not the police
Mina Smallman, the mother of Biba and Nicole Smallman, turned her tragic loss into a powerful fight for justice after her daughters' murder. She reveals the shocking betrayal by law enforcement that propelled her activism. Mina shares insights about resilience, navigating grief, and the importance of family bonds. Her story juxtaposes moments of joy with deep sorrow, illustrating how personal tragedy can spark a quest for systemic reform. Through it all, she emphasizes the strength found in community and the need for accountability in policing.
5 snips
Dec 27, 2024 • 23min
Revisited: The man who fell to Earth
Esther Addley, a Guardian journalist, shares the heartbreaking story of Mohammed Ayaz, who fell from a plane in 2001, and the profound impact on his brother, Khalil Ullah. They discuss the emotional journey of reconnection and closure brought about by grief. Addley highlights the aspirations and struggles that led Ayaz to seek a better life, as well as the family’s enduring memory of loss. The poignant visit to the site of discovery at Heathrow serves as a powerful symbol of hope and remembrance, weaving together themes of family and resilience.
Dec 26, 2024 • 27min
Revisited: The birdwatcher fighting racism in public spaces
Christian Cooper, an avid birdwatcher who gained fame after a racially charged incident in Central Park, dives deep into the intersection of birdwatching and racial dynamics. He shares how nature became his refuge from societal pressures and isolation. Discussing initiatives to connect underrepresented Black youth with nature, Cooper highlights the joy and transformative power of birdwatching. He also addresses efforts to broaden the community's diversity and the importance of fostering inclusivity in outdoor spaces.
14 snips
Dec 25, 2024 • 29min
Revisited: Creating The Spark: the kids behind 2024’s surprise summer hit
Join Rory Carroll, the Guardian's Ireland correspondent, who covers the inspiring story of 'The Spark', and Gary McCarthy, creative director at The Cabin Studio, as they dive into the magic behind a viral hit. They discuss the vibrant collaboration between kids from diverse backgrounds and the transformative power of music through community initiatives. Discover how this electrifying summer anthem captivated over a billion listeners on TikTok and the joy found in creative expression at the Electric Picnic festival.
9 snips
Dec 24, 2024 • 33min
How the Guardian reported 2024
Katharine Viner, Editor-in-chief of The Guardian, shares her insights on the tumultuous global landscape of 2024. She discusses the rising tensions in the Middle East and the continuing war in Ukraine, revealing the emotional toll on journalists. Viner highlights the challenges of reporting amid political unrest, including the far-right riots in the UK. She also reflects on the resilience of Ukraine and outlines the impact of changing media dynamics on journalism. The conversation showcases vital societal issues like inequality and the evolving demand for responsible reporting.
27 snips
Dec 23, 2024 • 36min
A radical way to teach contested history
Hugh Castle, Director of Education for Parallel Histories, leads a discussion on innovative methods for teaching contested histories. He highlights an immersive approach that includes structured debates and field trips to help students grasp the complexities of the Israel-Palestine conflict. Castle emphasizes fostering empathy and critical thinking, showcasing how students can respectfully navigate sensitive topics. Listeners learn about the transformative power of understanding multiple perspectives and the challenges educators face in teaching these intricate narratives.
Dec 20, 2024 • 28min
Yasser’s story: the Syrian refugee who lived with me
A heartfelt reunion unfolds as Yasser, a Syrian refugee, reflects on his past amid the backdrop of the 2015 crisis. He shares the bittersweet journey of adapting to life in the UK while grappling with memories of a devastated homeland. Culinary traditions, like cooking makluba, spark nostalgia for a lost culture. Yasser's hopes for a safe return to Syria clash with harsh realities, revealing the challenges refugees face. The discussion emphasizes community kindness and the power of support as they navigate their complex identities.
11 snips
Dec 19, 2024 • 32min
Can a steel town survive if its furnaces are turned off?
Jason White, an electrical engineer and trade unionist at Tata Steelworks in Port Talbot, and Gareth Edwards, a former electrician with deep ties to the plant, delve into the heart of a steel town facing profound change. They discuss the emotional and economic turmoil stemming from Tata Steel’s decision to close its blast furnaces. The conversation highlights community resilience, union activism, and the looming loss of thousands of jobs, underscoring how intertwined the town's identity is with its steel production legacy.
20 snips
Dec 18, 2024 • 29min
The prince and the ‘spy’
David Pegg, a Guardian investigations correspondent, delves into the controversial Yang Tengbo case, revealing deep ties between Prince Andrew and the accused Chinese spy. Dan Sabbagh, the Guardian's defence and security editor, highlights the drastic changes in China's espionage tactics, blending traditional hacking with personal influence. The discussion also uncovers alarming cybersecurity threats facing the UK, including a significant breach at the Ministry of Defence, raising urgent questions about national security and international diplomacy.
14 snips
Dec 17, 2024 • 25min
The reformed jihadi? Al-Jolani, the new most powerful man in Syria
Jason Burke, an international security correspondent for The Guardian, delves into the intriguing transformation of Abu Mohammed al-Jolani from an al-Qaeda ally to a proponent of moderate ideologies in Syria. He examines al-Jolani's shift towards local unity and governance, balancing authoritarianism with service provision in Idlib. The discussion raises questions about the legitimacy of al-Jolani's rebranding amidst ongoing conflict and explores the complex power dynamics of Syrian leadership, hinting at a hopeful political future for the war-torn nation.
