The Story

Charlotte Wace, Special Projects Correspondent at The Times, dives into the alarming rise of British citizens traveling to Turkey for cosmetic surgery. She unveils the risks of surgical tourism, including tragic personal stories and fatal statistics. The role of social media in promoting these clinics is explored, highlighting influencer endorsements and aggressive marketing tactics. Wace also contrasts the less rigorous practices of Turkish clinics with the thorough assessments typical in the UK, emphasizing the urgent need for caution when considering overseas procedures.

Catherine Philp, World Affairs Editor for The Times and a seasoned journalist covering global conflicts, shares insights on the shifting dynamics in Ukraine following Donald Trump’s election. She discusses the mixed emotions in Kyiv, oscillating between despair and cautious optimism. The conversation dives into the intricate relationship between Trump and Putin, the emotional toll on Ukrainian troops, and the complex implications for U.S. military support. Philp also highlights the predictions for the conflict as winter approaches, emphasizing 2025 as a pivotal year for negotiations.

Kaya Burgess, Religious Affairs Correspondent at The Times, dives deep into the scandal surrounding the resignation of the Archbishop of Canterbury. She reveals the shocking mishandling of abuse allegations against notorious child abuser John Smythe. What did the Archbishop know, and how did his leadership choices contribute to this crisis? Kaya sheds light on the church's struggle for accountability and the impact on victims seeking justice. The conversation also explores the future of the Anglican Church in the wake of this scandal.

Louise Callaghan, Senior US Correspondent for The Sunday Times, shares her insights on the implications of Trump's aggressive mass deportation plan. She discusses the appointment of Tom Homan as the new ‘border tsar’ and the economic fallout tied to potential deportations. Callaghan critically examines misconceptions about illegal immigrants and highlights how Trump's narrative positions them as threats, contrasting it with the economic realities of undocumented labor in America. The podcast dives into the political maneuvering surrounding these policies.

Tom Whipple, Science Editor at The Times, dives into the perplexing decline in our sleep quality despite modern conveniences. He discusses the impact of sleep influencers on platforms like TikTok and critiques the effectiveness of sleep trackers, revealing how anxiety about sleep may be counterproductive. Whipple also highlights the clash between our natural circadian rhythms and contemporary lifestyles, and the stark differences in sleep habits across cultures. His insights offer a fresh perspective on improving rest in our sleep-deprived world.

Christopher Hale, a Democratic consultant and strategist, and Nick Hanauer, a tech entrepreneur focusing on political economy, delve into the disconnect between the Democratic Party and middle America. They analyze the fallout from Kamala Harris's campaign, highlighting frustrations over inflation and voter perceptions of elitism. The conversation shifts to the economic struggles facing American workers and the need for the party to authentically reconnect with these communities. Insights on electoral outcomes and the importance of addressing everyday issues provide a roadmap for the party's future.

Prince William opens up about the past year, labeling it the "hardest" of his life, marked by personal and family health struggles. The emotional weight of royal duties is explored during the Earthshot Prize awards ceremony in Cape Town. Heartfelt memories of family connections bring a deeper understanding of his bond with his brother. Furthermore, tensions with political figures, particularly Donald Trump, add layers to the royal family's complex public interactions. The conversation also touches on upcoming wellness initiatives that promote health and remembrance.

In this insightful discussion, tech journalist James Ball explores the radical political shift of Elon Musk, who has become an unexpected supporter of Donald Trump. Ball dissects Musk's political maneuvering, especially his strategic use of social media in the current landscape. The conversation highlights the impact of misinformation and deepfake technology on public discourse. They also tackle the contradictions in Musk's approach to free speech following his Twitter takeover, including the controversial reinstatement of divisive figures and the implications for society.

Tom Whipple, the Science Editor at The Times, dives into the intriguing world of pulchronomics—the economics of beauty. He discusses how physical attractiveness impacts both love lives and career paths, revealing that our fortunes can indeed be swayed by looks. Whipple examines historical studies linking beauty to economic mobility, and the societal biases that affect perceptions of attractiveness from a young age. The conversation also critiques our changing standards around beauty and the emotional toll on those considered 'unattractive,' showcasing a broader narrative on self-perception.

Josh Glancy, News Review Editor at The Sunday Times and former Washington bureau chief, dives into the implications of Donald Trump's surprising election victory. He discusses Trump's vision for the U.S., the reshaping of the Republican Party, and potential cabinet members, including controversial figures like Elon Musk. The conversation shifts to foreign policy impacts, particularly concerning NATO and the Middle East, and an exploration of Project 2025, aimed at dismantling liberal governance. Glancy captures the unpredictable future of a second Trump presidency amid increased polarization.