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
34 snips
Sep 30, 2025 • 31min
OnlyFans, AI girlfriends and ‘stepdads’: the porn industry in 2025
Amelia Gentleman, a Guardian reporter known for her investigative journalism, shares insights from Europe's largest porn conference in Amsterdam. She delves into how creators adapt to industry changes and the rise of OnlyFans, highlighting its subscription model and economic impact. The discussion covers the struggles of creators facing burnout and the escalation of extreme content for attention. Amelia also explores the emergence of AI in adult content, featuring AI girlfriends and the mixed reactions from creators about this technological shift.
37 snips
Sep 29, 2025 • 38min
How to defeat Britain’s far right
Nick Lowles, founder of the anti-fascist organization Hope Not Hate, has dedicated decades to fighting far-right extremism. He shares his journey from encountering the National Front in his youth to infiltrating groups like Combat 18 to gather vital intelligence. Lowles discusses crucial successes, including preventing violence in Oldham and the role his organization played in convicting Tommy Robinson. He stresses the importance of community resilience and offers strategic advice for countering far-right narratives while highlighting the changing tactics of online radicalization.
Sep 26, 2025 • 34min
‘Like Amazon Prime but with human beings’: inside Trump’s deportation machine
In this engaging discussion, Maanvi Singh, an immigration reporter, and Oliver Laughland, Southern Bureau chief at Guardian US, uncover the dark world of Trump’s deportation machine. They detail the discovery of a secret deportation hub in Alexandria, exposing the harrowing experiences of detainees. The conversation covers how rapid transfers obstruct legal access, the complexities of family separations, and the dire conditions in El Salvador’s prisons. Their investigation reveals the chilling impact of these practices on immigrant communities and legal systems.
Sep 25, 2025 • 28min
Escaping Gaza City, while reporting on its destruction
Malak A Tantesh, a courageous Gazan journalist for The Guardian, shares her harrowing experiences fleeing Gaza City amid destruction. She discusses her family's evacuation, life in refugee tents, and coping with famine while reporting on the crisis. Malak reflects on returning home to find her childhood memories reduced to rubble and the emotional weight of documenting suffering under constant danger. Her determination to tell the story of her homeland highlights both the resilience of Gazans and the profound impact of her work.
11 snips
Sep 24, 2025 • 24min
Russia’s high-risk game in Nato skies
Dan Sabbagh, The Guardian's security and defence editor, dives into the recent surge of Russian drones and jets violating NATO airspace. He discusses the troubling implications of these incursions, including a specific drone attack on Poland and responses from NATO. Sabbagh explains the rapid decision-making process for pilots intercepting these threats. He also assesses the broader political and military dynamics at play, highlighting European allies' unwavering support for Ukraine and increased military readiness despite Russia’s provocations.
24 snips
Sep 23, 2025 • 29min
Does Labour’s new home secretary signal a harder line on immigration?
Peter Walker, Senior political correspondent at The Guardian, dives into Shabana Mahmood's impactful rise as Home Secretary. He explores her immigrant roots and how her Oxford background shapes her political identity. The discussion highlights her vocal pro-Palestine stance and her challenges in tackling prison reform. Walker also examines her priorities, including migration and modern slavery, and considers the potential implications of her appointment for Labour’s immigration policies. Tune in for a nuanced analysis!
47 snips
Sep 22, 2025 • 27min
What happens when you stop weight loss jabs?
Ian Sample, Science editor at The Guardian, breaks down how GLP-1 drugs function and the alarming rise in their costs. He shares insights on their origins and the implications for those reliant on them. Amy Young, a career coach from Kent, recounts her personal journey with the weight-loss drug Mounjaro, detailing the effects on her appetite and the challenges of stopping it. Both emphasize the need for better support systems for individuals facing the abrupt discontinuation of these medications.
12 snips
Sep 19, 2025 • 34min
Why Britain recognising Palestine matters
Arab Barghouti, a passionate Palestinian activist from Ramallah, shares insights on his father Marwan Barghouti's political journey and the significance of Palestinian statehood. He highlights the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and critiques Western policies. Patrick Wintour, The Guardian's diplomatic editor, discusses the UK's timely recognition of Palestine, its implications at the UN, and the reaction from global players. Both guests emphasize that mere recognition must be coupled with genuine pressure for lasting change.
Sep 18, 2025 • 32min
The downfall of Jair Bolsonaro
Tom Phillips, The Guardian's Latin America correspondent, dives into the dramatic downfall of former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, who was sentenced to 27 years for an attempted coup. Phillips uncovers the intricate 13-stage conspiracy that aimed to retain power, highlighting Bolsonaro supporters' fierce reactions and the pivotal role of Judge Alexandre de Moraes. The discussion explores the broader implications for Bolsonaro's political future, potential successors, and the ongoing cultural battle in Brazil over democracy and authoritarianism.
26 snips
Sep 17, 2025 • 33min
The US on the edge after Charlie Kirk’s killing
Ed Pilkington, Chief reporter for The Guardian US, offers an incisive look into the shocking assassination of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk. He discusses the chaotic fallout and escalating political violence gripping the nation. The conversation dives into the implications for conservative rhetoric and society's polarization. Pilkington highlights fears over declining trust in institutions and the troubling legacy Kirk leaves behind, fueling intense debates on free speech and censorship in today's America.
