The Story

Janice Turner, a Times columnist known for her incisive interviews, joins the discussion to share her insights on Kemi Badenoch. They explore Badenoch's challenging upbringing in Nigeria and how it shaped her political identity. Topics include Badenoch's unique leadership style, her communication strengths, and the potential for her to reinvigorate the Conservative Party amidst rising competition from Labour and Reform. The conversation addresses both the challenges she faces and her vision for the party's future.

Chris Etherington, a leading tax analyst at RSM, and Tom McPhail, a seasoned pensions expert at the Lang Cat, join to break down the recent budget's impact on personal finances. They discuss the tax increases and implications for employment and property owners, including higher stamp duty and challenges for first-time buyers. The duo also highlights new retirement savings strategies, emphasizing early planning for younger workers. Expect insightful analysis on the complexities of fiscal policies and how to navigate these financial changes.

In this discussion, Sarah Baxter, former Deputy Editor of The Sunday Times and director of the Marie Colvin Center for International Reporting, offers sharp insights on the gender dynamics shaping the U.S. election. She explores how the overturning of Roe v. Wade is energizing women voters and altering traditional voting patterns. Baxter highlights Kamala Harris's appeal through reproductive rights and the symbolic importance of female empowerment, while addressing Donald Trump's reliance on male support and the challenge of courting both demographics in a tight race.

Tom Newton Dunn, US election correspondent for The Times, dives into the escalating fears surrounding the upcoming election. He discusses the potential for violence fueled by deep political divisions and parallels with the January 6th insurrection. The conversation covers the rise of local militant groups despite a drop in national organization, heightened gun sales, and intense security preparations. With the stakes this high, the implications for American democracy—and the world—are dire.

David Smith, the Economics Editor of The Sunday Times, lends his expertise to dissect the historic Labour budget from Chancellor Rachel Reeves. He dives into the controversial £40 billion tax increase, questioning if it will lay solid foundations or burden working-class families. The discussion highlights the impact of national insurance hikes on small businesses and employment, and whether the budget can genuinely stimulate economic growth or just uphold the status quo amidst fiscal pressures.

Kate Spicer, a seasoned writer for The Times and an expert on drug culture, dives into the haunting implications of 'pink cocaine.' She explores its origins, unpredictable composition, and alarming rise in popularity among youth. Personal accounts reveal the drug's dual nature, from euphoric highs to devastating lows, emphasizing the mental health crises tied to polysubstance abuse. Spicer discusses the broader societal shifts in substance use and the dangers posed by synthetic drugs, urging discussion on the pressing realities of today's drug culture.

In this insightful discussion, Tom Newton Dunn, a US election correspondent for The Times, unpacks the surprising trend of Black and Latino voters leaning towards Donald Trump. He explores how economic concerns and shifting political loyalties are reshaping the electoral landscape. With Kamala Harris targeting these communities, the talk highlights the evolving dynamics of voter sentiment and the potential implications for the upcoming election. Dunn's analysis sheds light on the complexities of modern politics and the critical importance of addressing diverse voter needs.

Sean O’Neill, Senior Writer at The Times and father of Maeve Boothby O’Neill, shares a poignant narrative about his daughter's battle with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) and the ensuing grief after her death. He reveals the systemic failures of the NHS in treating ME, highlighting the urgent need for reform and better awareness. O’Neill also discusses the emotional toll on families faced with such illnesses, advocating for increased research and support for those suffering. His journey sheds light on the complexities of grief and the fight for justice.

Satya Nadella, the Chairman and CEO of Microsoft, discusses the profound impact of AI on business and society. He highlights Microsoft's strategic investment in OpenAI and the innovative AI tools driving productivity. The conversation delves into the importance of safety and public trust in AI deployment. Nadella emphasizes the need for ethical frameworks as AI becomes democratized. He also tackles the balance between profit and safety, addressing challenges in copyright and creativity in the age of generative AI, making it a pivotal moment for technology.

The former first lady’s new ‘tell all’ memoir addresses everything from her nude modelling and her husband’s policies to her surprising stance on abortion. But why is she doing it now — and will it help or hinder Donald Trump’s presidential campaign?This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: thetimes.com/subscribeGuest: Josie Ensor, US Correspondent, The Times.  Host: Luke Jones. Producer: Priyanka Deladia.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.comClips: Fox News, CBS, ABC, CNN, X.com/@melaniatrump. Photo: Getty Images. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.