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
Aug 18, 2024 • 28min
Why Trump is struggling against Harris
Josh Glancy, News Review Editor at The Sunday Times, offers keen insights into the political race as Kamala Harris gains momentum against Donald Trump. They discuss Trump's struggles to counter Harris's narrative and the challenges posed by shifting voter sentiments. The conversation delves into the bizarre tactics of modern campaigning, including outrageous rumors, and highlights key polling shifts that could impact the election. As the Democratic National Convention unfolds, the dynamics of the upcoming debates emerge as critical for both candidates.
Aug 16, 2024 • 26min
What 50 years of best-selling books says about us
In this engaging discussion, Johanna Thomas-Corr, Chief Literary Critic for The Times, and Laura Hackett, Deputy Literary Editor, explore the 50th anniversary of the Sunday Times Best Sellers list. They delve into how this prestigious list reflects Britain's cultural landscape and reading preferences. The guests analyze shifting trends in self-improvement literature, the influence of social media on cooking books, and champion iconic authors like Bill Bryson and Stephen Hawking. Their insights reveal how best-selling titles shape societal interests and cultural contexts.
Aug 14, 2024 • 32min
The political transformation of Elon Musk
James Ball, a tech journalist and author, delves into the political evolution of Elon Musk, once a political liberal turned controversial supporter of conservative causes. They discuss Musk's influential role on social media, particularly his $44 billion acquisition of Twitter and the implications for free speech. The conversation also uncovers the paradox of his advocacy versus operational realities on the platform, the onset of paid verification, and the challenges of misinformation. Ball highlights the crucial need for responsible governance in the digital age.
Aug 13, 2024 • 28min
The gambling addicts hooked on crypto
The discussion dives into the pressing issue of crypto addiction, spotlighting personal stories from those struggling with it. Listeners hear about a treatment center in Scotland that addresses this emerging crisis. There's a stark comparison between traditional gambling and the psychological toll of cryptocurrency trading. The challenges of identifying crypto addiction are examined, revealing broader public health implications. Finally, one individual’s emotional journey of recovery underscores hope and the importance of family connection.
Aug 12, 2024 • 28min
The incursion humiliating Putin
Tom Ball, a reporter for The Times, dives into Ukraine's surprising military push into Russian territory, marking a potential turning point in the conflict. He captures the mixed feelings of hope and anxiety among Ukrainians in light of recent victories. The discussion also reveals the impact on Russian politics, with increased scrutiny of Putin's leadership and military readiness. Moreover, Ball highlights the chaotic public reactions in Moscow and examines the Kremlin's escalating propaganda efforts in response to this audacious incursion.
Aug 11, 2024 • 30min
The social media Ozempic pushers
Poppy Koronka, a health correspondent for The Times, and Eleanor Hayward, the health editor, delve into the controversial rise of weight loss medications like Ozempic. They discuss how social media influencers market these drugs, often targeting vulnerable audiences. The duo reveals ethical concerns surrounding unregulated prescriptions and the serious health risks faced by those misusing these medications. The podcast highlights the urgent need for regulatory interventions to tackle the alarming accessibility of these drugs for individuals who may not even need them.
Aug 8, 2024 • 32min
The high school class that found a serial killer
In this fascinating conversation, Alex Campbell, a high school teacher passionate about sociology, shares how he turned his classroom into a detective agency. His students tackled a 40-year-old cold case, leading to the identification of a serial killer and the exoneration of an innocent woman. They employed innovative investigative methods, working alongside an FBI agent to profile their suspect. This inspiring journey not only brought justice but also transformed the students' lives, enhancing their critical thinking and advocacy skills.
Aug 7, 2024 • 31min
Why Kamala Harris picked Tim Walz
Hugh Tomlinson, a Washington reporter for The Times, dives into Kamala Harris’s pick of Tim Walz as her running mate. He highlights Walz's qualities as a relatable leader with strong appeal among rural and swing state voters. The discussion covers the strategic importance of vice-presidential choices in shaping election outcomes, addressing challenges Harris faces in appealing to diverse voter demographics. Tomlinson also touches on the political implications of recent protests and how these events could influence campaign strategies.
Aug 6, 2024 • 36min
Inside Britain’s far right
Dominic Kennedy, Investigations Editor at The Times, delves into the recent surge of violence in Britain linked to far-right movements after a tragic event involving three girls. He discusses the historical evolution of these groups, from the National Front to the English Defence League, and highlights how social media has fueled unrest. Kennedy emphasizes the dangerous dynamics of radicalization, especially during the COVID-19 lockdown, and the urgent need for a societal response to combat rising extremism and hate.
Aug 5, 2024 • 28min
How Putin played the West in the prisoner swap
Grainne McCarthy, Chief Digital Editor International at The Wall Street Journal, and Mark Galeotti, director of Mayak Intelligence, dive into the recent major prisoner swap involving 24 individuals across seven countries. They debate whether this was a diplomatic success or a tactical win for Putin. The discussion reveals the complex dynamics of modern diplomacy, the risks it poses to Western security, and how Russia's actions could reshape power balances in Europe. They also touch on the emotional impact of journalist Evan Gershkovich's release amid broader implications for dissidents in Russia.
