The Story

Tom Witherow, a News and special projects reporter for The Times, discusses the alarming repercussions of a leaked list of Afghan allies who assisted British forces. He reveals the horrifying impact on safety, including tragic cases of targeted violence. The conversation dives into the political ramifications and accountability following the leak, as well as the dire situation of stranded Afghans left vulnerable and unprotected. With each revelation, the need for transparency and support for those affected becomes ever more urgent.

Emily Dugan, a special correspondent for The Sunday Times, investigates the harrowing experiences of families falsely accused of fabricating their children's illnesses. Elly Chapple shares her heart-wrenching story as a mother fighting against false abuse allegations while caring for her ill daughter. The discussion reveals the emotional turmoil these families endure, the systemic flaws in child protection, and the urgent need for reform. They highlight the damaging consequences of unfounded accusations and advocate for greater awareness and support in the healthcare system.

Join Josh Glancy, Editor of News Review at the Sunday Times, as he unpacks the scandal shaking Singapore's elite. With a fierce feud erupting between the sons of founder Lee Kwan Yew over their childhood bungalow, the rivalry reflects deeper family dynamics and political implications. One brother's asylum in London adds intrigue, while discussions of personal legacy versus national sentiment play out in the media. Glancy's insights reveal how this drama intertwines with Singapore’s delicate balance between global powers.

David Brown, Chief News Correspondent for The Times, and Helen Rumbelow, a feature writer for Times 2, delve into the harrowing tale of Constance Marten and Mark Gordon. They discuss Marten's tragic fall from privilege into chaos, the chilling manhunt for the couple and their missing baby, and the courtroom dynamics that highlighted their defiance. The conversation also touches on the psychological struggles they faced, their sense of victimization, and the alarming societal implications of their story amid rising conspiracy theories.

Professor Niall Ferguson, a senior fellow at the Hoover Institution and co-founder of the University of Austin, discusses the alarming impact of AI on students' critical thinking abilities and academic integrity. He explores how tools like ChatGPT are reshaping education and complicating the detection of AI-generated work. Ferguson emphasizes the need for universities to adapt, maintaining the importance of human skills that AI cannot replicate. He advocates for a balanced approach to technology and a return to traditional assessments to truly prepare students for an AI-dominated future.

Daniel Sanderson, Scottish Political Editor for The Times, delves into the explosive NHS Fife tribunal case. He analyzes the conflict sparked by nurse Sandie Peggie's objection to sharing a changing room with transgender doctor Beth Upton. Discussions reveal the legal complexities surrounding gender identity, safety, and workplace policies while highlighting intense public interest and the broader societal implications. The conversation also addresses the recent Supreme Court ruling and its potential impact on trans rights and institutional responsibilities.

In this engaging discussion, Larisa Brown, Defence Editor at The Times and author of The Gardener of Lashkar Ghar, shares her decade of reporting on Afghanistan. She reveals the shocking data breach that endangered 33,000 Afghan allies, leading to a government cover-up. Larisa discusses the ethical dilemmas of transparency versus security and the intense fear faced by those who supported British troops. With the UK government investing £7 billion to relocate at-risk Afghans, she highlights the urgent need for accountability amid political maneuvering.

In this engaging discussion, Alex Farber, Media Correspondent for The Times, unpacks the shocking downfall of TV presenter Gregg Wallace, known for his cheeky demeanor and MasterChef fame. The conversation dives into serious allegations of inappropriate behavior spanning nearly two decades, and the BBC's handling of these complaints. Farber highlights the challenges of accountability within broadcasting and the evolving standards of workplace behavior. Listeners gain insights into the impact on public trust and Wallace's determination to remain in the spotlight amidst controversy.

Anna Murphy, Fashion Director at The Times and author of 'Destination Fabulous', dives into today's beauty landscape defined by cosmetic enhancements. With the beauty industry booming, she discusses how fillers and Botox are now mainstream, especially among younger generations. The conversation examines the influence of social media and celebrity culture on beauty standards, highlighting the risks and realities of these procedures. Murphy encourages a thoughtful look at how these trends shape self-perception and societal interactions.

A woman shares her intriguing journey of living with both of her ex-husbands in rural Scotland. What seems like a throuple is actually a unique family unit navigating co-parenting challenges. Delving into emotional complexities, she reveals how this unconventional setup has fostered personal growth and shared responsibilities. The balance of personal space with cohesive teamwork forms the heart of their harmonious lifestyle, showcasing the evolving nature of family dynamics in modern times.