The Story

A concerning shift in global nuclear dynamics is on the horizon. With nations like Iran and Poland reconsidering their nuclear stances, the world may be entering a third nuclear age. The discussion highlights the urgent need for updated policies in the face of evolving threats and diminished arms control. Insights on strategic vs tactical weapons unveil their implications for modern military strategy. Amidst declining public support for NATO in the UK, the path to global security remains uncertain, sparking debate about responsibilities and future disarmament efforts.

Lara Spirit, Washington correspondent for The Times, dives into the escalating feud between Donald Trump and Elon Musk. She unpacks Musk's harsh critique of the President's 'big beautiful bill' and what it means for their once-amicable relationship. The discussion reveals Musk's shifting political ambitions and the potential formation of a new party in response to Trump's influence. Spirit illustrates the fiscal frictions over spending cuts, highlighting the broader implications for social programs and national debt.

Senay Boztas, a freelance journalist from the Netherlands, dives into the shocking world of sperm donation scandals. She unpacks a harrowing case of a man who unknowingly fathered 50 children, raising ethical dilemmas as siblings face the risk of accidental incest. Listeners will hear about the corrupt actions of a fertility doctor and the regulatory challenges surrounding donor anonymity. With a mix of personal stories and historical context, the discussion also reflects on the primal instincts driving human reproduction and its societal implications.

Jonathan Dean, executive editor at the Sunday Times Culture, dives deep into the soaring prices of concert tickets. He discusses the impact of dynamic pricing and VIP packages, making it harder for fans to afford live music. Dean also scrutinizes the monopolistic practices of Live Nation and how the online ticketing landscape contributes to audience segregation. The crucial discussion on accessibility highlights concerns that rising costs could undermine the communal joy of concerts, making the future of live music uncertain for many.

In this discussion, Patrick Maguire, Chief Political Commentator for The Times, delves into the intense turmoil surrounding a controversial benefits bill threatening Keir Starmer's leadership. He highlights divisions within the Labour Party and the backlash from members over proposed welfare reforms. With the government facing public discontent, he outlines the challenges Starmer experiences in balancing progressive principles with working-class priorities. Maguire also shares insights into the shifting political landscape and the implications of leadership U-turns.

Mehreen Khan, Economics Editor at The Times, discusses the rise of Zohran Mamdani, the young democratic socialist candidate for New York mayor. His charismatic style is captivating a broad audience and challenging traditional political norms. The conversation highlights Mamdani's progressive policies aimed at affordability and their resonance with voters disillusioned by conventional strategies. Khan explores the trend of economic populism and its significance in reshaping the Democratic Party landscape, particularly among younger constituents.

This week, Katie Gatens, Deputy Editor of News Review at The Sunday Times, talks about her exclusive interview with Gypsy-Rose Blanchard, who infamously arranged her mother's murder. Gypsy's shocking upbringing under Munchausen syndrome by proxy reveals deep psychological trauma. The conversation dives into her transformation from victim to perpetrator, as well as her efforts to raise awareness about mental health. Katie also discusses the complexity of Gypsy's fame, the media frenzy surrounding her story, and her quest for forgiveness and love.

Alex Blania, CEO and co-founder of Tools for Humanity and creator of Worldcoin, shares insights on revolutionizing digital identity verification using iris-scanning technology. He discusses the challenges of deploying this system in places like Kenya while emphasizing privacy and uniqueness. The conversation also shifts to the strange allure of AI, pondering the ethics of humans forming emotional attachments with bots. From cryptocurrency incentives to the future of dating apps, this discussion blurs the lines between technology and human connection.

Rob Burley, a TV and radio producer and author of 'Why Is This Lying, Bastard Lying to Me', shares his unexpected journey using the AI chatbot Claude for writing assistance. He explores the blend of creativity and solitude in writing, humor in human-AI interactions, and the emotional weight of music. The conversation dives into the identity of AI, pondering its consciousness and existential anxieties. Burley also reflects on the unsettling aspects of AI conversations, raising ethical questions on technology's role in our lives.

Louise Callaghan, Senior US Correspondent for The Sunday Times, delves into the controversial role of Steve Witkoff, a former property developer thrust into the diplomatic spotlight under Trump. The conversation reveals Witkoff's unique approach to diplomacy, prioritizing personal relationships. Callaghan discusses his involvement in complex negotiations concerning Iran, Ukraine, and Gaza, highlighting the ethical dilemmas of intertwining business interests with national security. The episode critiques the effectiveness of such an unconventional diplomatic strategy.