Today in Focus
The Guardian
Today in Focus brings you closer to the Guardian's journalism. Our award-winning morning edition hosted by Helen Pidd, Nosheen Iqbal and Annie Kelly combines on-the-ground reporting, insightful analysis and personal testimony from the people at the heart of the stories that matter, to give you a deeper understanding of the world we live in. And to make sense of a rapidly-changing news cycle, our new evening edition 'The Latest' hosted by Lucy Hough, brings you up to speed on the big news story of the day in just 10 minutes. Available on YouTube and all podcast platforms.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Sep 26, 2025 • 34min
‘Like Amazon Prime but with human beings’: inside Trump’s deportation machine
In this engaging discussion, Maanvi Singh, an immigration reporter, and Oliver Laughland, Southern Bureau chief at Guardian US, uncover the dark world of Trump’s deportation machine. They detail the discovery of a secret deportation hub in Alexandria, exposing the harrowing experiences of detainees. The conversation covers how rapid transfers obstruct legal access, the complexities of family separations, and the dire conditions in El Salvador’s prisons. Their investigation reveals the chilling impact of these practices on immigrant communities and legal systems.
Sep 25, 2025 • 28min
Escaping Gaza City, while reporting on its destruction
Malak A Tantesh, a courageous Gazan journalist for The Guardian, shares her harrowing experiences fleeing Gaza City amid destruction. She discusses her family's evacuation, life in refugee tents, and coping with famine while reporting on the crisis. Malak reflects on returning home to find her childhood memories reduced to rubble and the emotional weight of documenting suffering under constant danger. Her determination to tell the story of her homeland highlights both the resilience of Gazans and the profound impact of her work.
11 snips
Sep 24, 2025 • 24min
Russia’s high-risk game in Nato skies
Dan Sabbagh, The Guardian's security and defence editor, dives into the recent surge of Russian drones and jets violating NATO airspace. He discusses the troubling implications of these incursions, including a specific drone attack on Poland and responses from NATO. Sabbagh explains the rapid decision-making process for pilots intercepting these threats. He also assesses the broader political and military dynamics at play, highlighting European allies' unwavering support for Ukraine and increased military readiness despite Russia’s provocations.
24 snips
Sep 23, 2025 • 29min
Does Labour’s new home secretary signal a harder line on immigration?
Peter Walker, Senior political correspondent at The Guardian, dives into Shabana Mahmood's impactful rise as Home Secretary. He explores her immigrant roots and how her Oxford background shapes her political identity. The discussion highlights her vocal pro-Palestine stance and her challenges in tackling prison reform. Walker also examines her priorities, including migration and modern slavery, and considers the potential implications of her appointment for Labour’s immigration policies. Tune in for a nuanced analysis!
47 snips
Sep 22, 2025 • 27min
What happens when you stop weight loss jabs?
Ian Sample, Science editor at The Guardian, breaks down how GLP-1 drugs function and the alarming rise in their costs. He shares insights on their origins and the implications for those reliant on them. Amy Young, a career coach from Kent, recounts her personal journey with the weight-loss drug Mounjaro, detailing the effects on her appetite and the challenges of stopping it. Both emphasize the need for better support systems for individuals facing the abrupt discontinuation of these medications.
12 snips
Sep 19, 2025 • 34min
Why Britain recognising Palestine matters
Arab Barghouti, a passionate Palestinian activist from Ramallah, shares insights on his father Marwan Barghouti's political journey and the significance of Palestinian statehood. He highlights the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and critiques Western policies. Patrick Wintour, The Guardian's diplomatic editor, discusses the UK's timely recognition of Palestine, its implications at the UN, and the reaction from global players. Both guests emphasize that mere recognition must be coupled with genuine pressure for lasting change.
Sep 18, 2025 • 32min
The downfall of Jair Bolsonaro
Tom Phillips, The Guardian's Latin America correspondent, dives into the dramatic downfall of former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, who was sentenced to 27 years for an attempted coup. Phillips uncovers the intricate 13-stage conspiracy that aimed to retain power, highlighting Bolsonaro supporters' fierce reactions and the pivotal role of Judge Alexandre de Moraes. The discussion explores the broader implications for Bolsonaro's political future, potential successors, and the ongoing cultural battle in Brazil over democracy and authoritarianism.
26 snips
Sep 17, 2025 • 33min
The US on the edge after Charlie Kirk’s killing
Ed Pilkington, Chief reporter for The Guardian US, offers an incisive look into the shocking assassination of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk. He discusses the chaotic fallout and escalating political violence gripping the nation. The conversation dives into the implications for conservative rhetoric and society's polarization. Pilkington highlights fears over declining trust in institutions and the troubling legacy Kirk leaves behind, fueling intense debates on free speech and censorship in today's America.
29 snips
Sep 16, 2025 • 38min
On the ground with Tommy Robinson’s new supporters
Ben Quinn, The Guardian's analyst on the far-right in Britain, dives deep into the recent massive rally that drew intense attention. He examines the motivations of attendees, who express strong emotions regarding immigration and community identity. There’s a vivid discussion about local protests spurred by safety concerns linked to asylum seekers. Quinn also sheds light on the complexities of defining far-right beliefs and the impact of these sentiments on national debates, illustrating a divided landscape in contemporary Britain.
Sep 15, 2025 • 25min
Rupert Murdoch picks a son in the real-life succession battle
Emily Bell, a Guardian contributor and professor at Columbia Journalism School, dives into the complexities of the Murdoch family dynamics and the succession battle for Rupert Murdoch's media empire. She discusses Lachlan Murdoch as the chosen heir, his political evolution, and how he plans to navigate his father's vast legacy. The episode explores the contentious legal battles over the family trust and the implications of their real-life saga compared to the hit series 'Succession.' Tune in for insights into the future of a media dynasty.
