The Story
The Times
The Story: the flagship podcast from The Times and Sunday Times. One remarkable story, told in depth, each day. Hosts Manveen Rana and Luke Jones take you to the heart of the story you need to know with exclusive reports and investigations. Discover the story behind the story with world-class journalism from The Times and Sunday Times. The Story is available at the start of your day from Monday to Friday, with bonus ‘Inside the Newsroom’ episodes every Saturday for Times subscribers, available by connecting your subscription via Apple Podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jan 31, 2025 • 36min
'Don't make Putin make a point' a Russian warns the West
Nina Khrushcheva, a Professor of International Affairs and great-granddaughter of Nikita Khrushchev, shares compelling insights on the current geopolitical climate. She argues that the West's reactions to Putin have inadvertently fortified his position in Russia. Khrushcheva reflects on her family's history and challenges the common narratives about Russia and the West, touching on the complexities of identity and nationalism today. Her thoughts on U.S.-Russia relations, the Ukraine conflict, and the potential pitfalls of provoking Putin offer a nuanced understanding of modern diplomacy.
34 snips
Jan 30, 2025 • 31min
DeepSeek: AI’s ‘Sputnik moment’
Danny Fortson, the West Coast Correspondent for The Sunday Times, dives into the startling rise of DeepSeek, a Chinese AI that drastically impacted global tech values. He discusses how this development questions Silicon Valley's dominance and has been likened to a 'Sputnik moment' in the tech world. Fortson highlights the geopolitical tensions surrounding AI, including U.S.-China relations and chip wars. The conversation also touches on public concerns about censorship and the evolution of innovation amidst this shifting landscape.
Jan 29, 2025 • 30min
The momfluencers embracing ‘Make America Healthy Again’
Josie Ensor, a US correspondent for The Times with keen insights on health politics, delves into the fascinating intersection of Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s 'Make America Healthy Again' movement and the 'crunchy moms' phenomenon. They discuss the rising influence of momfluencers promoting natural health choices amidst vaccine skepticism. See how personal experiences and misinformation shape parenting decisions in America’s complex health landscape, and explore the political dynamics driving this unexpected alliance.
Jan 28, 2025 • 27min
The underwater war against Russian sabotage
George Grylls, Defence Correspondent for The Times, provides insights into the underwater conflict with Russian forces. He highlights alarming activities of Russian spy ships lurking near UK waters, raising national security concerns. The discussion covers the vulnerability of critical infrastructure like telecom cables and NATO's strategic responses. Grylls also delves into the covert operations of shadow fleets and oil tankers, emphasizing the rise of geopolitical tensions and the potential for sabotage in this new Cold War era.
10 snips
Jan 27, 2025 • 26min
The controversial money fuelling Britain
Robert Watts, a journalist at The Sunday Times and compiler of the annual Tax List, discusses the intriguing world of Britain’s top taxpayers. He reveals a surprising mix of sectors fueling the economy, from gambling families to culture icons. Explore the dark side of wealth disparities and the complexities of tax contributions. Watts delves into the impact of new inheritance tax changes on family businesses, and shares inspiring stories of self-made entrepreneurs transforming modest ventures into global successes.
Jan 26, 2025 • 34min
The Sunday Edition: 'This twisted lottery', two families' stories
Josh Glancy, News Review Editor at The Sunday Times, reports from Tel Aviv, capturing the tension of life under conflict. Michal Mayo shares her heartbreaking experience as a family member of a hostage during a fragile ceasefire, revealing deep emotional struggles. Elan Keshet expresses both his anxieties and hopes as they await the fate of loved ones. Together, they explore themes of hope amidst despair, the pain of uncertainty, and the profound empathy that emerges in times of crisis.
Jan 25, 2025 • 29min
How to become mortgage-free
Sarah Tucker, the founder of The Mortgage Mum, shares her expertise on achieving mortgage freedom while Leigh Macfarlane, known as Mortgage Free Lee, documents her personal journey toward that goal. They discuss practical strategies for overpaying mortgages and remortgaging. The importance of financial discipline and understanding mortgage structures is emphasized. They also reflect on generational attitudes and how personal finance decisions shaped by the pandemic can impact a mortgage-free lifestyle. Tune in for invaluable insights on achieving financial independence!
Jan 24, 2025 • 32min
Bannon vs Musk: The battle for the soul of Donald Trump
Oliver Bateman, a journalist and historian focused on intra-right U.S. politics, joins to discuss the intriguing feud between Steve Bannon and Elon Musk. The conversation unpacks how their rivalry reflects the ideological divides within the MAGA movement, particularly on immigration and loyalty to America. They also delve into the challenges Trump faces in reconciling far-right populists with tech leaders. Bateman highlights the implications of this struggle for Trump's political identity and the evolving nature of political alliances in today's landscape.
8 snips
Jan 23, 2025 • 31min
On the frontline of Sudan’s forgotten war
Anthony Loyd, Special Correspondent for The Times, shares gripping insights from his recent reporting in Sudan's civil war. He illustrates the harrowing realities faced by civilians, including the tragic loss of family and the chilling effects of urban warfare. Loyd discusses the geopolitical complexities fueling the conflict and reveals shocking statistics on displacement and loss of life. With vivid personal stories, he sheds light on the often-overlooked tragedies, amplifying urgent calls for awareness in the face of heartbreaking suffering.
Jan 22, 2025 • 31min
Why wasn't the Southport killer stopped?
Constance Kampfner, Northern Correspondent for The Times, and Matt Dathan, Home Affairs Editor at The Times, delve into the shocking Southport killings. They discuss Axel Rudakubana's trajectory from a troubled youth to a confessed killer at a Taylor Swift dance class. The conversation raises critical questions about the failures of the Prevent program and the need for reforms in counter-terrorism strategies. They also highlight the implications for Britain's approach to rising lone-actor terrorism and the urgent need for accountability in public safety.
