The Story

Eleanor Hayward, Health Editor at The Times, shares her insights on the recent COVID inquiry findings, revealing stark criticisms of Boris Johnson's government. She discusses how a one-week lockdown delay led to approximately 23,000 additional deaths and the chaotic decision-making during early 2020. Hayward highlights the clash between scientific advice and political indecision, the toxic culture within Downing Street, and the impact of confusing policies. She also acknowledges the rapid vaccine rollout as a rare success amid early failures.

George Grylls, the Washington correspondent for The Times, dives into the political storm surrounding President Trump's release of the Epstein files. He highlights how this issue has become a rallying cry for MAGA supporters and the divisions emerging within the movement. Grylls discusses Marjorie Taylor Greene's unexpected alliance with Democrats to push for the files, and how her rise shows fractures in Trump's base. The conversation also touches on Trump's past connections to Epstein and the emotional weight this topic carries for many.

In this conversation, Anthony Loyd, a Special Correspondent for The Times with deep experience in Syria, and Takir Sharif, a British aid worker stripped of his citizenship, dive into the complexities of Syria’s shifting political landscape. They discuss the implications of the West’s new stance on former terrorist groups, Takir’s harrowing experiences, and his struggle to operate independently in a war zone. Takir shares his emotional response to losing his citizenship and the broader repercussions for others caught in legal limbo due to changing policies.

Ben Clatworthy, Whitehall editor at The Times, and Fraser Nelson, Times columnist, dive into the UK Home Secretary's recent sweeping asylum reforms, the most significant since WWII. They dissect Denmark's strict asylum policies that inspired these changes, weighing their necessity against criticisms labeling them 'repugnant.' Discussion includes the introduction of temporary refugee status, tightened family rights, and controversial asset recovery plans. The duo debates whether these measures signify a permanent shift in European leftist policies toward tougher immigration stances.

Katie Gatens, commissioning editor at The Sunday Times, sheds light on Denmark's new conscription rules for women. She shares insights from her conversations with teens like Signe, who fear the potential disruption to their lives. Gatens discusses the reasoning behind the policy shift, linked to heightened security concerns from Russia. She contrasts the motivations of young recruits—adventurers versus the reluctant—and touches on how national pride intertwines with equality in public opinion. A thought-provoking look at a significant policy change and its impact on the next generation.

Jack Blackburn, History Correspondent for The Times, explores the groundbreaking genetic analysis of Adolf Hitler's DNA, derived from a bloodstain in his bunker. This analysis unveils that Hitler had Kallmann syndrome, explaining the truth behind his infamous wartime song. The discovery also eliminates rumors of Jewish ancestry and raises important questions about how genetic traits might connect to his behavior and political focus. Blackburn discusses the ethical implications of these findings and urges caution against misinterpreting the results.

In this engaging discussion, conservationist Andreia Pawel, co-founder of the Orange River-Karoo Conservation Area, highlights her ambitious plan for a million-hectare rewilding project in Namibia. She shares insights into restoring biodiversity, addressing historical extinctions, and collaborating with the local Nama community. Andreia explains the practical steps being taken, such as removing fences and reintroducing species like cheetahs, while weaving in her personal journey from primatology to conservation leadership. Nature's resilience and community involvement shine as key sources of hope.

In this insightful conversation, Professor Rachel Kyte, the UK’s Special Representative for Climate, sheds light on the critical discussions happening at COP30 in Amazonia. She emphasizes the importance of protecting the Amazon for global stability and weather patterns. Kyte discusses the impact of absent world leaders and maintains that the 1.5°C goal is still within reach but requires urgent action. Her insights on the UK's role in fostering international climate cooperation and the challenges of achieving net-zero targets offer a hopeful yet pragmatic vision for the future.

Josie Ensor, Chief US reporter at The Times with extensive experience covering the Epstein case, dives into newly released emails linking Donald Trump to Jeffrey Epstein. She explains the implications of these documents, including allegations that Trump 'knew about the girls.' The conversation covers their history from the 1990s and the mixed reactions from the White House. Josie also discusses how the political narrative is shaped around these leaks and what it means for Trump's supporters. Intriguing insights shed light on a complex web of relationships.

Martyn Ziegler, Chief Sports Reporter for The Times, dives into the contentious issue of transgender athletes in the Olympics. He explores the IOC's potential ban on transgender women competing in female events and sheds light on the pressure for action stemming from recent controversies. Ziegler discusses the historical context of the eligibility debate, the nuanced differences between transgender and DSD athletes, and the varied reactions from the sports community. He also examines how political influences, including US leadership, have shaped this ongoing conversation.