The Story

In a thought-provoking discussion, Lord William Hague, former foreign secretary and historian, shares his insights on Trump's disruptive presidency. He analyzes how Trump's actions since his election have destabilized the post-war international order. Hague emphasizes the urgent need for renewed American support in European defense amid rising tensions. He reflects on the complexities of U.S.-UK relations and the importance of strong negotiations with autocratic leaders, all while navigating a new and perilous global landscape.

Katie Tarrant, a news reporter for The Sunday Times, dives into the shocking Gisèle Pelicot case, where 50 men, including her husband, were convicted of rape. Tarrant discusses the public outcry for reform in French rape laws and how many rapists are now appealing their sentences, with some already released. She explores the emotional complexities faced by families of the convicted and critiques the effectiveness of the legal system. The conversation highlights cultural challenges surrounding consent and the need for societal change regarding sexual violence.

Helen Rumbelow, a Times Feature Writer and Columnist, dives into the impact of smartphone addiction on today's youth. She uncovers alarming statistics linking screen time to mental health issues, as parents struggle to keep up. Rumbelow shares innovative school strategies like smartphone bans and high-tech pouches that have improved student interactions, despite some pushback. The conversation emphasizes the need for collective action and policy changes to help rewild the smartphone generation, fostering healthier social environments.

Kat Denham, consumer champion for The Times, joins the hosts to tackle common banking nightmares. She offers invaluable advice on unfreezing accounts and reclaiming dormant funds. The conversation highlights the stress of missing payments and the importance of effective communication with banks. Denham also shares insights on the risks of unexpected funds and the nuances of switching bank accounts. With practical tips and real-life examples, listeners learn to safeguard their finances and navigate the tricky banking landscape.

In this engaging discussion, Patrick Maguire, a political columnist for The Times and expert on the Labour Party, delves into the intriguing figure of Lord Maurice Glasman. Glasman, notable for being the only Labour politician at Trump's inauguration, champions the Blue Labour movement, aiming to reconnect the party with disenchanted working-class voters. Maguire highlights the resurgence of Blue Labour amidst the rise of Reform UK, underscoring the urgent need for Labour to adapt its strategies to prevent losing crucial voter support.

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.