John Mooney, an investigative reporter for The Sunday Times in Dublin, reveals the chaos that erupted when a member of Ireland’s parliament was suspected of being a Russian agent. He discusses how this incident has positioned Ireland as a ‘Trojan horse’ for Russian influence in Europe. The episode uncovers espionage techniques, including the use of a ‘honeytrap.’ Mooney highlights the challenges faced by Irish security services and the broader implications for Ireland's political landscape amidst rising geopolitical tensions.

David Woode, crime correspondent for The Times, delves into the controversial case of Chris Kaba, an unarmed black man fatally shot by police. He reveals Kaba's alleged gang connections days before his death, sparking anger and protests within the community. Woode discusses the implications of the not guilty verdict for policing in the UK, highlighting emotional responses from Kaba's family. The conversation also touches on the complexities of justice and the societal issues surrounding race and community trust in London.

George Grylls, Defence and Political Correspondent for The Times, dives deep into the implications of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar's death. He discusses how Sinwar was tracked down and the contrasting narratives emerging from Israel and Palestine following his death. The complexity of Hamas's leadership transition is explored, along with the political landscape in Israel and Netanyahu's coalition challenges. Grylls highlights the importance of humanitarian measures and the potential paths to peace amidst ongoing violence.

Tom Newton Dunn, a seasoned broadcaster and journalist for The Times, dives into the fascinating dynamics of the American electoral process. He discusses the surprising potential for a tie influenced by a small 'blue dot' in Omaha, Nebraska. Dunn highlights how Nebraska’s unique voting system could tip the scales. The conversation reveals the critical role of swing states and the deep political divides within Omaha. He also reflects on historical precedents that could turn a close election into chaos, raising questions about America’s political future.

In this engaging discussion, Charlotte Ivers, a sharp Staff Writer for The Sunday Times, and Dr. Amir Khan, an NHS GP with expertise in obesity, explore the implications of weight-loss drugs like Mounjaro, Ozempic, and Wegovy. They dive into the societal impact of these treatments and the irony of a health-driven society depending on injections for weight loss. The conversation sheds light on the obesity crisis in the UK, emphasizing the need for comprehensive approaches and sustainable lifestyle changes alongside pharmaceutical solutions.

Al Gore, former US Vice President and Nobel Peace Prize recipient, dives into the urgent intersection of technology and climate change. He discusses the rising importance of AI in addressing environmental issues and the critical need for innovative solutions to combat climate challenges. Gore shares emotional stories of families impacted by climate disasters and critiques legislative failures surrounding fossil fuel policies. The conversation also highlights the role of public demand in driving systemic change and holding corporations accountable for their environmental impact.

Will Hodgkinson, the Chief rock and pop critic for The Times, shares poignant insights on the tragic loss of Liam Payne at just 31. He discusses the intense pressures of fame that Payne faced, from his dazzling rise with One Direction to his personal struggles as a solo artist. Hodgkinson highlights the emotional toll of celebrity life and the hidden battles that many artists endure. The conversation also reflects on the music industry's role in supporting young talent and the critical need for empathy in the face of such profound loss.

Lina Khatib, an expert on Middle Eastern politics and director at the SOAS Middle East Institute, dives into the escalating tensions between Israel and Hezbollah. She discusses the devastating humanitarian impact, with thousands dead and millions displaced amid recent attacks. Khatib traces the complex history from the Israeli invasions of Lebanon to Hezbollah's rise as a political force. She also evaluates the ongoing conflict, the struggle of Lebanese civilians, and the implications for peace in the region.

Peter Conradi, the Europe Editor of The Sunday Times, delves into the escalating drug wars gripping Marseille. He highlights the alarming rise in gang violence and how social media is disastrously recruiting young teens to join these deadly conflicts. Conradi paints a stark picture of the city's dual identity, where beauty coexists with a harsh criminal underbelly. He also discusses the troubling economics of the drug trade and the challenges faced by local communities battling insecurity and violence.

Dominic O’Connell, a Business presenter on Times Radio, sheds light on the thrilling antitrust case against Google. He discusses how the company went from a Stanford project to a dominating force in the digital world. O’Connell elaborates on the implications of the U.S. Justice Department's lawsuit and the potential breakup of the tech giant. He connects these legal battles to historical precedents and explores how modern antitrust standards may redefine competition. The candid insights spark a vital conversation about monopolistic power in technology.