The Story

In this engaging narrative, Olivia Case, a producer and reader for The Story, shares Gail Rice's bold journey into the world of hiring a male escort for her 70th birthday. Gail reflects on her struggles with aging and the disillusionment of dating apps, ultimately inspired by the film 'Good Luck to You, Leo Grande.' She candidly describes the awkwardness of her first experience, the disconnect, and her pursuit of vulnerability and fulfillment. After disappointment, she bravely attempts again, discovering a newfound sense of intimacy and empowerment.

Grégoire Courtine, a pioneering neuroscientist, and Jocelyne Bloch, an innovative neurosurgeon, discuss their groundbreaking NeuroRestore project, which uses brain signals to stimulate the spinal cord and restore movement after paralysis. They unravel the science behind the 'digital bridge' technology, the challenges of voluntary control, and inspiring patient stories. Suzanne Edwards shares her emotional journey from complete spinal injury to regaining movement, offering hope for new possibilities in recovery and highlighting the project's vision for widespread accessibility.

Joining the discussion are George Greenwood, an investigations reporter for The Times with expertise on royal finances, and Aubrey Allegretti, the chief political correspondent specializing in Westminster politics. They dissect the King’s controversial decision to strip Prince Andrew of his titles and evict him from Royal Lodge. The conversation highlights unprecedented parliamentary pressure, public outrage over lease revelations, and potential calls for greater transparency in royal finances, igniting debates on accountability within the monarchy.

Roisin Kelly, commissioning editor at The Sunday Times, dives into the controversial prescribing of Wegovy to teenagers, driven by rising obesity and parental desperation. She shares compelling stories, like 'Emma's,' illustrating how bullying and previous failed interventions lead families to seek medical help. Roisin also discusses the potential long-term impacts, the importance of evidence-based guidance, and the challenges of forming healthy relationships with food. With the clinic treating around 70 teens, she raises questions about the future of weight-loss drugs and their societal implications.

Cindy Yu, a columnist at The Times, dives into the heated US-China trade tensions. She explores how the distinct negotiation styles of Trump and Xi shape outcomes. Listeners hear insights on how supply chains adapted post-2018 tariffs and the economic impacts on households in both nations. Yu explains China's strategic control over rare earth minerals and what 100% tariffs could mean for US consumers. With uncertainty looming, she reflects on both countries' goals and the broader global influence of China.

Matt Dathan, Home Affairs editor at The Times, explores the UK government’s controversial shift to house asylum seekers in military barracks, a move previously opposed by Labour. He discusses the staggering number of migrants currently in hotels, potential capacity issues at barracks, and the financial implications, including past contract failures. Dathan also delves into political motives behind this change, the expected public reaction, and how costs will be managed in this new approach to asylum accommodation.

Join Charles Bremner, seasoned Paris correspondent for The Times, as he unpacks the bizarre conspiracy surrounding Brigitte Macron's identity. Discover how false allegations emerged and gained traction through social media and right-wing influencers like Candace Owens. Charles explores the ten people on trial for cyberbullying and the Macrons' legal battle against the spread of lies. Dive into the political implications of these rumors and the challenges of combating fake news in today's world.

Matilda Davies, a data journalist at The Times, and tech journalist Chris Stokel-Walker dive into a wave of cyberattacks affecting major UK businesses. They discuss the staggering £1.9 billion cost of the Jaguar Land Rover hack, orchestrated by teenage hackers. The duo explores the motivations behind these hackers, their organization on dark-web forums, and the devastating impacts of their actions on industries. Insights into recruitment tactics from gaming and the challenges faced in restoring hacked systems paint a compelling picture of this alarming trend.

David Chazan, Paris correspondent for The Times, unpacks the stunning Louvre heist where thieves brazenly stole the French crown jewels in just seven minutes. He reveals public outrage and the feelings of humiliation that the crime sparked across France. Chazan shares details about the audacious methods used by the robbers, the rapid execution of the theft, and theories on where the jewels might be now. He also discusses the implications for national security and cultural pride amidst rising political tensions.

In this enlightening discussion, Andrew Bastawrous, an eye surgeon and founder of Peek Vision, shares how his personal journey shaped his mission to combat preventable vision loss. He highlights the innovative use of smartphones for eye testing, enabling easier access to care in underserved areas. Andrew recounts impactful stories, including a woman's life transformed by cataract surgery, while emphasizing the importance of vision as a development issue. With a goal of reaching a million people a week by 2028, his optimism and groundbreaking work are truly inspiring.