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
Oct 25, 2024 • 10min
US election extra: TikTok, podcasts and the polls
Adam Gabbatt, a Guardian US writer based in New York City, explores the evolving landscape of news consumption as the 2024 elections approach. He highlights how candidates are turning to podcasts and social media, particularly TikTok, to effectively connect with younger voters. Gabbatt discusses the impact of partisan news channels on public perception and reveals the key role of influential media figures like Rupert Murdoch in the political arena. This dynamic interplay shows how modern strategies shape voter engagement during a crucial election.
11 snips
Oct 25, 2024 • 48min
Undercover inside a ‘scientific racism’ network
Harry Shukman, a journalist and activist from Hope Not Hate, went undercover to shed light on a powerful network promoting scientific racism. He shares his shocking discoveries about elite circles' beliefs regarding race. Adam Rutherford, a writer and geneticist, provides insights on the historical roots of these ideologies. They discuss alarming connections between far-right movements and mainstream discourse, highlighting the need for society to confront and dismantle these harmful narratives while emphasizing the dangers they pose to minority communities.
6 snips
Oct 24, 2024 • 11min
US election extra: Pennsylvania in the balance
Oliver Laughland, Guardian US Southern Bureau Chief and creator of the Anywhere But Washington series, discusses the pivotal role of Pennsylvania in the upcoming elections. He highlights the intense campaigning and the critical nature of voter engagement, especially in lower-income areas. Laughland delves into concerning influences from billionaires like Elon Musk and troubling revelations about Trump’s past actions that could sway voter sentiment. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of grassroots efforts and the impact of journalism in shaping public opinion.
Oct 24, 2024 • 32min
Liam Payne: the heady rise and tragic death of a One Direction star
In this engaging discussion, Alexis Petridis, a seasoned rock critic, and Oritse Williams from JLS delve into the life and struggles of Liam Payne. They highlight One Direction's rise despite the challenges of fame, emphasizing mental health battles that accompany celebrity status. The duo reflects on the emotional toll of public scrutiny and the urgent need for better mental health awareness in the industry. They also explore how music evokes nostalgia, creating lasting emotional connections with fans.
Oct 23, 2024 • 11min
US election extra: Trump accuses Labour of ‘interference’
Jonathan Freedland, a Guardian columnist and host of the Politics Weekly America podcast, dives into Donald Trump's explosive claims of foreign interference from the UK Labour Party. He dissects the implications of UK activists campaigning for Kamala Harris and how this might impact UK-US relations. Freedland also explores the historical context of such allegations and the skepticism surrounding them. Additionally, he discusses the Labour Party's internal dilemmas and Barack Obama's strategic moves in the evolving political landscape.
Oct 23, 2024 • 37min
Will the Chris Kaba murder trial change British policing?
Vikram Dodd, a crime correspondent for The Guardian, dives deep into the controversial Chris Kaba case, which has sparked significant debate over policing in the UK. He explores the emotional turmoil faced by Kaba's family post-acquittal of the officer involved, shedding light on their continued fight for justice. Dodd highlights the community's reactions and the challenging dynamics of police accountability, especially regarding race and systemic biases. The discussion provokes thoughts on potential reforms and the future of law enforcement in Britain.
8 snips
Oct 22, 2024 • 10min
US election extra: is the US ready for ‘Maga-nomics’?
In this discussion, Chris Michael, US editor for The Guardian in London, analyzes the pivotal role of the economy in the upcoming U.S. elections. Voters prioritize economic issues, feeling financial strain despite positive indicators. He explores candidates' contrasting strategies, from focusing on the middle class to tax cuts and tariffs. The influence of billionaires on Trump's and Harris' campaigns highlights the financial dynamics at play. Michael also delves into the perceptions of middle-income voters and how campaign strategies may sway their decisions.
Oct 22, 2024 • 26min
Moldova’s razor-thin EU referendum result
Pjotr Sauer, a Russian affairs reporter for The Guardian, provides keen insights into Moldova’s recent EU referendum results. He unpacks the narrow margin of the vote and the intense internal divisions shaping public sentiment. The conversation dives into Russia's hybrid warfare tactics, including misinformation and vote manipulation, which challenge Moldova's democratic processes. Sauer also highlights the urgency for Moldova to assert its sovereignty amid geopolitical tensions between Western aspirations and Russian influence.
Oct 21, 2024 • 10min
US election extra: could Trump steal the election? – podcast
Archie Bland, Editor of the first edition newsletter, offers a keen analysis of potential strategies Trump may employ to challenge the election results. He discusses how MAGA Republicans are infiltrating election boards to sway outcomes. The conversation highlights rising concerns over election integrity, the role of misinformation, and the dangerous acceptance of conspiracy theories. Bland also examines the chaos stemming from political manipulation, emphasizing the urgent need for vigilance as election day approaches.
Oct 21, 2024 • 33min
How the US border became a toxic issue for voters
Oliver Laughland, the Guardian US's southern bureau chief, dives deep into the immigration crisis from southern Arizona. He shares heart-wrenching accounts of migrants facing deadly conditions. The podcast tackles the polarized views on immigration, revealing how local sentiments reflect larger national debates. Laughland examines the influence of political narratives and misinformation while capturing the complex emotional landscape surrounding current policies. It's a gripping exploration of how immigration shapes voter priorities and the urgent human stories behind the statistics.
