Today in Focus

Ben Quinn, a senior reporter at The Guardian specializing in policing and crime, dives into the recent mass stabbing on a train from Doncaster to London. He details the timeline of the incident and the quick actions taken by the train crew that helped manage the chaos. Eyewitness accounts provide a chilling perspective from the scene. Quinn discusses the suspect's background and the police's strategic release of information to combat misinformation. Political reactions spotlight proposals for tougher security measures in rail operations.

Esther Adley, an investigative reporter for The Guardian, and Sue Rosello, a brave cancer survivor, delve into the gripping class-action suit against Johnson & Johnson over talc-based baby powder. They discuss the alarming allegations of asbestos contamination linked to ovarian cancer and mesothelioma. Sue shares her personal battle with cancer and the motivations driving her to join the lawsuit. The duo also explores the implications of potential outcomes for the claimants and the corporation's future, revealing a story of resilience and accountability.

Domi Zodranioni, a playwright and lecturer, engages listeners with insights on his play 'Liberation,' showcasing the legacy of the 1945 Pan-African Congress. Keisha Thompson, a Guardian programme manager and poet, discusses the significance of Pan-African ideas in shaping identity and community education today. Stephen Golding, a professor of Garveyism, emphasizes the importance of Pan-Africanism for racial survival and the need for meaningful political cooperation. Together, they explore how the Congress's ideals resonate in contemporary society.

Natricia Duncan, The Guardian's Caribbean correspondent, provides a compelling on-the-ground perspective of Hurricane Melissa's devastating impact on Jamaica. She shares harrowing accounts of community preparations and fears before the storm. After Melissa makes landfall, Natricia reveals the extent of the destruction, citing destroyed homes and flooded areas. She discusses the economic toll on the island and links the storm's intensity to climate change, emphasizing the need for increased advocacy and awareness for vulnerable regions.

Geraldine McKelvey, a Senior correspondent at The Guardian with a deep focus on child sexual exploitation, delves into the turmoil surrounding the national grooming gangs inquiry. She explains the distinctions between grooming and child sexual exploitation. The conversation reveals the complexities of defining grooming gangs and the emerging political controversies that threaten the inquiry's integrity. Geraldine also highlights the urgency felt by survivors due to past failures, as well as the critical need for funding and proper oversight to ensure future protections.

Patrick Greenfield, a biodiversity reporter for The Guardian, takes us on a journey through the Virunga mountains, where he explores the remarkable recovery of mountain gorillas. He shares insights about the vibrant local culture, including a lively naming ceremony prior to his trek. Greenfield highlights the vital role of Gorilla Doctors in veterinary care and profiles dedicated trackers monitoring these incredible animals. He discusses the balance between tourism and conservation, revealing how protective measures helped elevate the gorilla population from near extinction to thriving once more.

Johana Bhuiyan, a senior technology reporter with expertise in self-driving cars, shares insights from her testing of Waymo's autonomous taxis. Gwyn Topham, transport correspondent for The Guardian, discusses the implications of driverless taxis for London's unique urban landscape. They explore the technology behind Waymo's success, the regulatory landscape in the UK, the potential economic impact versus job risks, and the challenges of navigating London's chaotic streets. They also address safety standards, passenger behavior, and how cities might evolve with autonomous vehicles.

Dr. Nayana Prakash, a Chatham House fellow, analyzes the rise of Gen Z protests globally. Yuzhan Rajbandhari, a civil engineering student from Nepal, shares insights on how a TikTok post ignited massive protests against political privilege, while Shelley Andromiaja from Madagascar recounts the youth-led uprising demanding presidential resignation. The podcast explores how social media fuels these movements, the role of TikTok in organizing protests, and the implications of leaderless resistance in the Global South.

In this discussion, journalist Harriet Barber, who has firsthand experience in Argentina, sheds light on President Javier Milei's radical reforms and their impact on everyday Argentines. Economist Miguel Quigel explains the mechanics of Trump’s $20 billion currency swap, outlining its critical role in stabilizing Milei's government amid economic turmoil. The conversation delves into Milei's promises, public backlash due to austerity measures, and the political implications of U.S. intervention in a time of crisis.

In this engaging discussion, Angelique Chrisafis, the Paris correspondent for The Guardian, shares vivid details of the brazen Louvre burglary, revealing the thieves' rapid four-minute heist and the historical significance of the stolen crown jewels. Joined by Arthur Brand, a renowned stolen art detective, they delve into the professionalism of the criminals, potential fates for the loot, and the broader implications of targeting museums. Both guests reflect on the national shock and evolving crime patterns, heightening the intrigue around this audacious heist.