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
15 snips
Sep 4, 2025 • 21min
Strongmen assemble: Putin, Kim and Xi in Beijing
In this conversation, Amy Hawkins, Senior China correspondent for The Guardian, explores a pivotal week in China marked by a vast military parade and a notable summit of over 20 countries with authoritarian leaders. She discusses how this gathering showcases China's ambitions to reshape global power dynamics and solidify its leadership role. The podcast dives into the implications of strengthening ties between China, Russia, and North Korea, as well as the internal Chinese sentiment of nationalism mixed with concerns over Xi Jinping's authoritarian governance.
9 snips
Sep 3, 2025 • 27min
Can the Green party’s new leader galvanise the left?
This discussion features Peter Walker, The Guardian's senior political correspondent, and Zack Polanski, the newly elected leader of the Green Party and former deputy leader. They delve into Polanski's unexpected rise to power and his innovative, eco-populist campaign strategies that aim to reshape the party's identity. The conversation highlights his plans to increase media visibility, attract younger voters, and invigorate party membership while positioning the Greens as a significant contender against traditional parties like Labour. A pivotal moment in green politics unfolds!
16 snips
Sep 2, 2025 • 28min
A North Korean defector on why Kim Jong Un has sent troops to Ukraine
Jean Lee, a North Korea expert and former Pyongyang correspondent, joins former soldier Hyunseung Lee, who defected in 2014, to unpack North Korea's military involvement in Ukraine. They discuss Kim Jong-un's ambitious geopolitical maneuvers and the troubling alliance with Russia. Hyunseung shares gripping tales of life in the North Korean military, revealing outdated technology and harsh training. Their insights illuminate the severe consequences of a regime that exploits its soldiers, while raising alarms about regional stability and the implications of this dangerous alliance.
29 snips
Sep 1, 2025 • 27min
Spy cameras: are you being watched?
Heidi Marnie, a victim of voyeurism, shares her chilling experience of being spied on by her landlord. Anna Moore, a freelance writer for The Guardian, discusses the alarming rise of hidden spy cameras and voyeurism in the UK. They delve into personal stories of invasion of privacy and the emotional toll on victims. The conversation highlights the dark intersection of technology and domestic abuse, and emphasizes the urgent need for legal reforms to protect individuals in their own homes.
Aug 30, 2025 • 34min
Missing in the Amazon: the frontline – episode six
Tom Phillips, The Guardian’s Latin America correspondent, dives into the heart of the Amazon, revisiting the Javari Valley and those risking their lives to combat organized crime. He discusses the legacy of environmental activism, highlighting the courageous efforts of indigenous defenders. The podcast explores the formation of Indigenous Defense Teams to protect local populations, and the urgent need for advocacy against poaching and illegal mining. It also touches on establishing educational foundations to empower the community and preserve the Amazon's future.
Aug 29, 2025 • 38min
Missing in the Amazon: the fightback – episode five
The podcast delves into the emotional funerals for Dom Phillips and Bruno Pereira, celebrating their lives with music and heartfelt tributes. Sônia Bridi shares insights into the chilling underbelly of crime in the Amazon, revealing complex networks exploiting the region's resources. The conversation highlights the ongoing struggles against illegal mining and poaching, painting a grim picture of the challenges faced by those fighting for justice and environmental protection. The legacy of these brave individuals continues to inspire hope amidst adversity.
Aug 28, 2025 • 25min
Missing in the Amazon: the ambush – episode four
Tom Phillips, The Guardian's Latin America correspondent, shares gripping insights from a harrowing investigation in the Amazon. He recalls the intense moment when searchers unearthed personal belongings tied to two missing individuals, revealing the heartbreaking realities of violence. The conversation dives into the emotional toll on families and the chilling indifference of perpetrators who attempt to conceal their crimes. Phillips reflects on the complexities of grief and the relentless pursuit of justice in the face of such tragedy.
Aug 27, 2025 • 35min
Missing in the Amazon: the protector and the poacher – episode three
A gripping tale unfolds in the Amazon, revealing the clash between Indigenous protector Bruno Pereira and poacher Amarildo da Costa de Oliveira, known as Pelado. Bruno faces peril as he advocates for environmental protection, while Pelado’s transformation from a local to a poacher reflects the escalating violence after political shifts. The podcast delves into the rich history of Indigenous resistance in the Javari region and highlights the personal struggles amidst the chaos, ultimately exposing the dangers faced by those who dare to stand for their rights.
Aug 26, 2025 • 30min
Missing in the Amazon: the journalist and the president – episode two
Dive into the vibrant world of UK rave culture and explore how a music journalist transitioned to reporting on the dark realities of the Amazon rainforest. Discover the deep friendship forged between two unlikely allies as they confront the dangers of illegal land exploitation. The podcast reveals the urgent struggles of indigenous peoples and the environmental crisis under the political climate of Bolsonaro. Experience the clash of cultures and the relentless pursuit of truth that drives their mission in one of the world's most dangerous places.
25 snips
Aug 25, 2025 • 27min
Missing in the Amazon: the disappearance – episode one
A gripping tale unfolds as the mysterious disappearance of journalist Dom Phillips and Indigenous defender Bruno Pereira is explored. The dense Amazon jungle becomes a backdrop for dangerous illegal activities, shedding light on the risks faced by those protecting Indigenous rights. Search efforts and their implications for local communities reveal a web of tension and urgency. This investigation dives deep into the complexities surrounding safety, journalism, and environmental activism in one of the world's most perilous regions.
