Today in Focus

The Guardian
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21 snips
Jan 30, 2025 • 31min

A journey to Greenland: Trump’s 51st state?

Miranda Bryant, The Guardian's Nordic correspondent, dives into the tumultuous relationship between Greenland, the U.S., and Denmark. She explores the local reactions to Trump’s infamous interest in buying the island, capturing the unique and often humorous perspective of Greenlanders. The conversation touches on the geopolitical significance of Greenland, as well as the ambitions for autonomy among its people. Bryant also highlights Denmark's strategic shifts and the rising tensions in this complex narrative of international intrigue.
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36 snips
Jan 29, 2025 • 23min

Rachel Reeves’ plans for the UK: all growth, no green?

The discussion kicks off with the UK's strategic push for global investment at the World Economic Forum, framed in a luxurious setting. It then navigates the delicate balance a new political leader faces between economic growth and environmental responsibilities. The conversation dives into critiques over neglecting climate issues amid aggressive growth plans and debates around Heathrow's third runway. Finally, it scrutinizes policies prioritizing short-term gains in housing and aviation, questioning their sustainability and the ongoing tension with workers' rights.
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Jan 28, 2025 • 37min

The Omagh bombing inquiry: one father’s 26-year fight for the truth

Michael Gallagher, a dedicated campaigner whose son Aidan was killed in the Omagh bombing, shares his heart-wrenching journey for justice alongside Shane Harrison, a seasoned reporter on Northern Ireland's troubles. They discuss the tragic chaos of the 1998 car bomb, the deep personal loss for families like Michael's, and the tireless legal battles for an inquiry. Emphasizing the need for truth, they reflect on the lingering pain and hope for accountability, showcasing the strength of community amid heartbreak.
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Jan 27, 2025 • 37min

Revisited: Life after Auschwitz

Susan Pollock and Ivor Perl, both survivors of the Auschwitz concentration camp, share their gripping accounts of childhood trauma during the Holocaust. They reflect on their harrowing journeys to the camp and the resilience required to rebuild their lives afterward. The conversation delves into navigating inherited trauma, the complexities of forgiveness, and the challenges of discussing painful memories within families. As they commemorate the 80th anniversary of liberation, they emphasize the importance of education and remembrance to combat anti-Semitism.
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18 snips
Jan 27, 2025 • 31min

Digital demons: the radical new treatment helping people with psychosis

Join Guardian journalist Jenny Kleeman as she delves into groundbreaking avatar therapy for psychosis. She shares how patients create digital avatars of their hallucinated voices, leading to transformative therapeutic interactions. Listen as she recounts a personal journey battling psychosis, highlighting emotional struggles and societal stigma. The discussion also touches on the innovative treatment's potential to alleviate distress and improve self-esteem, offering hope and insight into the future of mental health care.
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23 snips
Jan 24, 2025 • 30min

Southport attacks: the failures that allowed Axel Rudakubana to kill

In this engaging discussion, Josh Halliday, The Guardian's North of England editor, reveals the harrowing story of three young girls murdered by Axel Rudakubana in Southport. He explores the systemic failures that allowed this tragedy to unfold, including the evolution of his alarming behavior into violence. The conversation also highlights chaotic courtroom scenes, emotional survivor testimonies, and the community's struggle with misinformation. Lastly, Halliday sheds light on future changes in terrorism laws and the importance of combating public distrust post-tragedy.
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6 snips
Jan 23, 2025 • 21min

Why is AI so thirsty?

Helena Horton, an Environment reporter at The Guardian, dives into the intricate balance between AI technology and environmental sustainability. She explores how AI can help combat climate change while highlighting the environmental toll of data centers, particularly in water-stressed areas. Helena discusses the urgent need for responsible AI practices amid government plans to expand AI in the public sector. The conversation weaves personal success stories with cautionary tales, emphasizing the importance of innovative solutions for a sustainable technological future.
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8 snips
Jan 22, 2025 • 25min

The first days of Trump and the migrant raids to come

Joan E Greve, a Senior political correspondent at Guardian US, discusses Trump's controversial immigration executive orders and their immediate impact on undocumented migrants. Annie Huamani, a community organizer, provides a grassroots perspective on fear within migrant communities. They explore community resilience against potential ICE raids, the strategies migrants employ to cope with anxiety, and the legal challenges arising from strict immigration policies. They also touch on how shifting political tides could signal a return to more progressive immigration laws.
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14 snips
Jan 21, 2025 • 27min

The financial time bomb facing special educational needs

Richard Adams, Education editor of The Guardian, sheds light on the SEND funding crisis impacting children in England. He discusses the systemic issues faced by families like that of six-year-old Violet, illustrating the emotional toll of legal struggles for support. Adams highlights the burdensome process of securing Education Health Care Plans and the frustrations of local authorities under financial strain. He emphasizes the urgent need for reforms to address rising demands and the significant challenges faced by families and schools navigating the crisis.
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25 snips
Jan 20, 2025 • 23min

Trump 2.0

Hugo Lowell, Senior Political Correspondent for Guardian US, and David Smith, the Washington Correspondent for The Guardian, dive into the implications of Donald Trump's return to the White House. They discuss the anxiety surrounding his second inauguration and the surprising support from tech moguls like Elon Musk. The duo sheds light on Trump's evolving power dynamics at Mar-a-Lago and the serious legal challenges he faces, including criminal charges. Their insights provide a compelling look at what lies ahead for Trump's administration.

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