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
Nov 20, 2024 • 28min
Starmer v farmers – will the government have to backtrack?
Heather Stewart, the Guardian's economics editor, dives into the heated debate as over 10,000 farmers protest against Labour's inheritance tax plans threatening family farms. She highlights the emotional strains on traditional farmers grappling with rising costs and government policies, contrasting their struggles with wealthier landowners who exploit tax loopholes. Stewart also discusses the potential political fallout for Labour, emphasizing the disconnect between rural realities and government decisions that could reshape the landscape of British farming.
8 snips
Nov 19, 2024 • 30min
Inside Port-au-Prince, Haiti: the capital where gangs have taken over
In this episode, Tom Phillips, The Guardian's Latin America correspondent, sheds light on the turmoil in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. He discusses the relentless gang violence post-2010 earthquake and the political instability following the assassination of President Moïse. Ordinary Haitians face a desperate humanitarian crisis, while the elite manage to escape the chaos. Phillips highlights the resilience of the Haitian spirit amidst adversity, emphasizing the importance of telling these stories to push for international awareness and support.
Nov 18, 2024 • 31min
Assassins, spies and a superpower on the rise: the rift between Canada and India
Hannah Ellis-Petersen, The Guardian's South Asia correspondent, delves into the shocking assassination of Sikh activist Hadeep Singh Nijjar and its ramifications for Canada-India relations. She discusses Nijjar's life and the challenges he faced as a Khalistani advocate. The podcast reveals escalating diplomatic tensions, with serious allegations of India's involvement in the murder. Additionally, it explores India's rising global influence, the complexities of its relationship with Canada, and the delicate balance the U.S. must maintain amid these geopolitical shifts.
Nov 15, 2024 • 26min
Hardliners, loyalists and a dog killer: Trump’s new White House team
Laura Gambino, a political correspondent at the Guardian, dives into Donald Trump's new White House team. She discusses his focus on loyalty over qualifications, spotlighting key figures like Tulsi Gabbard and Robert F. Kennedy. The conversation highlights the complex dynamics of Trump's management style and the implications of his hardline policies on issues like immigration and foreign relations. Gambino also addresses the potential challenges faced by the Republican Party as Trump consolidates his power and the impact of a new government department aimed at efficiency.
Nov 14, 2024 • 29min
The fall of Justin Welby
Harriet Sherwood, a Guardian journalist with extensive experience covering the Church of England, delves into the recent resignation of Archbishop Justin Welby amid a major child abuse scandal. They discuss the disturbing history of John Smythe and the church’s failure to protect victims. Sherwood highlights the impact of a revealing documentary that shed light on the abuse and raises critical questions about current safeguarding measures. The conversation emphasizes the ongoing trauma faced by survivors and the urgent need for reform within the Church.
6 snips
Nov 13, 2024 • 30min
The briefcase, the Porsche and the collapse of the German government
Regina Steffens, a Der Spiegel journalist, and John Kampfner, a Berlin-based author and journalist, dive deep into the recent collapse of Germany's traffic light coalition. They discuss the significant implications for German politics and Europe's stability. Learn about the political turmoil following finance minister Christian Lindner’s dismissal, the impact of the Ukraine war on Germany's economy, and the challenges of outdated digital infrastructure. The conversation also touches on potential future political candidates and the complexities of coalition politics.
Nov 12, 2024 • 27min
A week of tumult and triumph for Netanyahu
Julian Borger, The Guardian’s senior international correspondent, shares insights on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's political landscape. He discusses the fallout from Netanyahu dismissing his defense minister amidst public protests, highlighting contrasting relations with Trump and Biden. The conversation dives into the consolidation of Netanyahu's power during ongoing conflicts, the implications of leaked sensitive documents, and how his leadership has paradoxically strengthened amid turmoil, reshaping Israel’s military strategy.
6 snips
Nov 11, 2024 • 26min
Finding one trillion dollars at Cop29
Damian Carrington, Environment editor at The Guardian, offers sharp insights on COP29's climate finance obstacles. He discusses Azerbaijan's paradox as a fossil-fuel-rich nation hosting the summit, raising questions about its commitment to sustainability. The conversation highlights the urgent need for financial backing for developing countries and critiques secretive deals that undermine climate goals. Carrington also addresses global political shifts that could endanger climate agreements, urging collective action to combat greenwashing and promote innovative funding solutions.
Nov 8, 2024 • 30min
Where do the Democrats go from here?
Lauren Gambino, a political reporter with Guardian US, delves into the aftermath of Donald Trump's victory over Kamala Harris and its implications for the Democratic Party. She discusses the party's struggles to reconnect with disillusioned voters, particularly key demographics like Latinos and Black voters. Gambino highlights the urgent need for a strategic reevaluation and rebranding in response to economic grievances. Additionally, she examines the mixed sentiments among Arab American voters and the disconnect between Democratic messaging and voters' immediate concerns.
15 snips
Nov 7, 2024 • 21min
What will Trump do in power?
David Smith dives into Donald Trump's surprising second-term victory, revealing how he garnered unexpected support from minority and female voters. The discussion highlights Trump's controversial plans for aggressive domestic policies, including mass deportations and significant tariffs. Concerns about democracy surface with potential appointments and the implications of shifting social dynamics. The episode further explores the complex interplay of class, race, and nostalgia among his supporters, painting a vivid picture of a divided America.
