The Story

Will Pavia, New York correspondent for The Times, and Robbie Millen, literary editor at The Times, dive into the chilling ramifications of the trial surrounding Salman Rushdie's brutal attack. They discuss the chaos of the incident and its impact on Rushdie's literary journey, revealing the ongoing threats to freedom of expression. The conversation also touches on the trial's implications for modern publishing and the voices rising against authoritarianism in literature. This critical dialogue examines how such events reshape our understanding of free speech today.

Catherine Philp, World Affairs Editor at The Times, dissects a pivotal week in global politics. She analyzes European leaders’ extraordinary summit in Paris regarding the Ukraine crisis and the evident fractures in unity. The conversation explores how recent US-Russia negotiations might shift alliances, questioning America's commitment to Europe. Philp highlights the urgent need for Europe to bolster its military capabilities amid geopolitical tensions, and raises concerns about the implications of personality-driven politics on traditional foreign policy.

James Marriott, a Times columnist who spent a year without a smartphone, shares his enlightening journey. He discusses the surprising simplicity and benefits of ditching constant notifications, advocating for a more intentional tech relationship. Marriott explores the societal implications of smartphone dependency, revealing its detrimental effects on mental health and personal relationships. He reflects on personal identity challenges and the return to deeper thought processes, highlighting the isolation and introspection that accompanied his choice.

Hugh Tomlinson, a seasoned Washington reporter for The Times and The Sunday Times, delves into Elon Musk's unexpected role in government under Trump. They discuss Musk's aggressive cost-cutting moves, including massive layoffs and a chilling halt to international aid. The podcast reveals how Musk's unregulated authority might trigger a constitutional crisis. Tomlinson also highlights tensions between the executive branch and judiciary, especially regarding education reforms and the precarious state of civil servant job security.

Hannah Skelly, a fashion writer and stylist at The Times, shares her disillusionment with dating apps, revealing her personal struggles and the concept of 'dating app burnout.' Dr. Liesel Sharabi, an expert in human communication, discusses the decline in user engagement, especially among younger generations. The duo explores alternatives to digital matchmaking, such as the importance of genuine, in-person connections. They envision a future where AI and augmented reality could redefine dating, but raise concerns about emotional disconnect and unrealistic expectations.

Sam Altman, Co-founder and CEO of OpenAI, dives into the transformative potential of AI, especially after the launch of ChatGPT. He discusses the challenges and benefits of artificial general intelligence and the competitive landscape shaping the future. Altman also addresses the US-China AI rivalry and the need for effective regulation to ensure safety standards. He reflects on global investment disparities and emphasizes the importance of collaboration in navigating the evolving tech environment. It's a thought-provoking conversation about the future of work and life in an AI-driven world.

Ceci Browning, Assistant Literary Editor at The Times and The Sunday Times, brings her insights on the surprising appeal of Bridget Jones to Gen Z. They explore how her relatable imperfections resonate with young audiences today. The discussion touches on nostalgic ties to the 90s, evolving views on romance in the age of apps, and the shifting perceptions of body image and smoking. Listeners gain a deeper understanding of how Bridget's journey reflects the complexities of modern womanhood, connecting generations through shared experiences.

In this discussion, Josie Ensor, US correspondent for The Times and a former Middle East reporter, unpacks Donald Trump's startling proposal for Gaza, envisioning it as the next luxurious resort. The conversation navigates the controversial implications of treating Gaza’s reconstruction as a business opportunity amid longstanding tensions. Legal complexities of territorial claims are also examined, alongside the geopolitical repercussions for regional stability and the delicate balance of rights for the Palestinian population.

Lara Spirit, a political correspondent at The Times, and Tanya Marwaha, a passionate mental health campaigner, delve into the striking survey on Generation Z's mental health and employment. They discuss the alarming rise in long-term sickness among young adults and the unique challenges faced by Gen Z in the workforce. Personal experiences of mental health struggles and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on their lives provide deep insights. The importance of better support systems and addressing misconceptions about work ethic emerges as a vital theme.

Rosamund Urwin, Media Editor at The Times, dives into the heartbreaking story of mothers in Corby fighting for justice for their children affected by environmental poisoning. She highlights the decades-long struggle against local authorities and the emotional toll on families dealing with severe birth defects. Their fight has gained renewed attention, especially with the Netflix drama 'Toxic Town.' Urwin emphasizes the crucial role of journalism in uncovering these tragic tales and advocating for better environmental protections.