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
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.
21 snips
Dec 16, 2024 • 25min
‘The most beautiful word in the dictionary’: Donald Trump’s tariff plan
Dominic Rushe, the Guardian US business editor, delves into President-elect Trump’s controversial tariff strategy aimed at reviving American manufacturing jobs. He discusses the complex repercussions these tariffs may have on consumer goods prices and international trade dynamics, particularly with China. The potential for a retaliatory trade war is highlighted, raising concerns about the broader economic implications. Rushe also critiques the shift towards protectionism in the auto industry and calls for more equitable policies to strengthen American manufacturing.
4 snips
Dec 13, 2024 • 27min
Revisited: Have open marriages gone mainstream?
Molly Roden-Winter, author of the memoir "More," discusses her journey into ethical non-monogamy and its effects on family dynamics. She shares candid insights from her experiences, revealing how opening her marriage led to personal growth and transformation. Listeners will find intriguing perspectives on the shifting societal attitudes towards non-monogamous relationships and the emotional complexities that come with them, including balancing freedom and commitment, navigating jealousy, and handling unique parenting challenges in an unconventional setting.
22 snips
Dec 12, 2024 • 45min
Revisited: The Unabomber and his ongoing influence
In this thought-provoking discussion, Sean Fleming, a research fellow at the University of Nottingham specializing in Kaczynski's ideas, and James R. Fitzgerald, a former FBI profiler integral to the Unabomber investigation, explore the chilling legacy of Ted Kaczynski. They delve into the implications of his manifesto, which advocates for violent revolt against modern society. The conversation touches on the troubling resurgence of his extremist ideas and how they resonate with today's technological anxieties, alongside the profound effects Kaczynski's writings had on law enforcement.
Dec 11, 2024 • 27min
The town that fears losing its high street to climate change
Jessica Murray, a reporter from The Guardian covering the Midlands, and environment reporter Helena Horton delve into the rising flood risks facing Tenbury Wells. They discuss the emotional and financial toll on local businesses from increasingly frequent flooding events. The conversation highlights community resilience despite governmental inaction and the urgent need for effective flood defenses. They also critique the gap between government funding promises and the reality on the ground, emphasizing the dire need for sustainable solutions to combat climate change impacts.
21 snips
Dec 10, 2024 • 35min
Inside Damascus after the fall of Bashar al-Assad
William Christou, Foreign correspondent for The Guardian, shares his insights from Damascus, reporting on the aftermath of Bashar al-Assad's fall. He captures the exhilarating yet chaotic atmosphere following the regime's collapse, with citizens celebrating newfound freedom amidst lingering fear. Anas al-Drooby, a telecom engineer and recent returnee, reflects on the emotional scars and the hope for a better future. Their discussion delves into life under oppressive rule, the challenges of rebuilding, and the complexities of navigating a fragmented society.
57 snips
Dec 9, 2024 • 20min
How Trump’s victory sparked a crypto boom
Blake Montgomery, Guardian US tech editor, delves into Donald Trump’s intriguing ties to the cryptocurrency world, discussing how his presidency might shape the industry. The chat uncovers Trump as the first president to speak at a crypto conference and examines the surge in Bitcoin's popularity amid shifting political alliances. Montgomery highlights the implications of deregulation fostered by powerful figures like Elon Musk, as well as the dual nature of cryptocurrencies that includes both opportunities and risks.
14 snips
Dec 6, 2024 • 34min
Revisited: The Israeli negotiator who talks to Hamas
Gershon Baskin, an esteemed Israeli negotiator known for facilitating key dialogues and hostage agreements, shares his gripping insights on negotiations with Hamas. He recounts an unexpected meeting that ignited his commitment to peace and highlights the emotional challenges faced in hostage situations. Baskin reflects on the controversial Gilad Shalit deal, drawing connections between personal experiences and broader political tensions. He also stresses the urgent need for international intervention to address the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
