The Story

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.

Dipesh Gadher, Home Affairs Correspondent at The Sunday Times, and Louise Eccles, Journalist focusing on consumer affairs, delve into the shocking rise of mobile phone theft in the UK. They explore the alarming tactics used by organized crime groups and the unsettling reality of stolen phones ending up in markets like Shenzhen, China. The discussion highlights troubling implications for victims and the inadequacies in law enforcement responses. Both guests stress the urgent need for improved collaboration to deter this epidemic and protect consumers.

In a gripping discussion, Stephen Gibbs, a seasoned Latin America correspondent, and Keiran Southern, the insightful West Coast correspondent, explore the fentanyl trade's dark journey from China to Mexico and into American streets. They reveal startling statistics about fentanyl's lethal grasp, claiming it now leads as the top cause of death for adults aged 18 to 49. The guests examine the political implications of this crisis, including President Trump's tariffs and the escalating corruption that hampers law enforcement efforts, all while shedding light on the devastating human cost of addiction.

In this engaging discussion, Theo Bertram, a former Downing Street advisor under Tony Blair and Gordon Brown, shares insights on political dynamics. He explores the real power players, questioning whether chief of staff Morgan McSweeney truly wields authority. The conversation also touches on a polling shake-up, with Reform UK surpassing Labour, raising alarms about public sentiment. Bertram's anecdotes reveal the challenges of leadership and the art of political storytelling, shedding light on the intricate relationship between politicians and their advisors.

Caroline Wheeler, Political Editor of The Sunday Times, teams up with Dr. Shu Lee, a retired neonatologist who questioned the research used in Lucy Letby's trial. They discuss stunning new findings from a panel of experts who attribute the deaths of the infants in question to medical conditions instead of murder. The conversation highlights major flaws in the original investigation and raises concerns about systemic healthcare failures. Listeners are invited to reflect on the implications of these revelations for justice and medical accountability.

In this insightful discussion, Dr. Linda Yueh, an esteemed economist from Oxford University and London Business School, delves into the escalating trade war between the U.S. and China. She unpacks the historical parallels of tariffs and economic strategies, shedding light on political motivations tied to issues like the opioid crisis. The conversation explores the complexities of global trade, from protectionism's effects to the rivalry's implications on consumers and companies. It’s a deep dive into how power struggles shape the future of international relations.