

The Story
The Times
Drowning in news? Let The Story guide you. Each morning, hosts Manveen Rana and Luke Jones bring you today's most important story, told by the journalists who know what really happened. In depth, honest, and mixed in with exclusive reports and groundbreaking investigations.Discover the story behind the story with the flagship podcast from The Times and The Sunday Times. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Nov 10, 2023 • 28min
The culture war comes to the National Trust
The National Trust is facing a culture war with the protest faction 'Restore Trust', accusing them of playing politics. Controversy surrounds the restoration of Clanden Park House and the upcoming AGM. The National Trust's Quick Vote System is causing further controversy. The podcast also touches on cream teas, walking through gardens, and introducing new podcast hosts.

Nov 9, 2023 • 30min
Gaza protests: The new split in British politics?
This podcast explores how the Israel-Gaza conflict exposes divisions in the UK, including government clashes with protesters, a Labour frontbencher resigning, and the controversy surrounding the phrase 'Palestine will be free'. It also discusses the lack of political representation during protests, the changing social base of political parties, and concerns about potential disruption of Remembrance Sunday.

Nov 8, 2023 • 24min
The new Great Power Bloc: How China, Russia and Iran are rallying against the West
US Secretary of State's diplomatic efforts in Israel-Gaza crisis, China's bid as a neutral arbiter, concerns over the 'axis of evil', impact of Ukraine and Gaza wars on international relationships, China and Russia challenging US influence in the Middle East, Iran's role in Gaza and perception of US, examining the realignment of the new world order.

Nov 7, 2023 • 26min
Meet Robert Kennedy Jr: The US election wild card
Robert Kennedy Jr, scion of the Kennedy dynasty, declares his candidacy as an Independent in the 2024 US Presidential race. The podcast explores the fears of both Democrats and Republicans about his potential impact on the election. It delves into his charismatic speech in Philadelphia and his campaign against vaccines. It discusses the lack of family support for his independent run and the historical impact of independent candidates on US presidential elections. It also highlights his plans to disrupt political power centers and teach the parties a lesson.

Nov 6, 2023 • 25min
A Very British Scandal: How Captain Tom's charity got caught up in controversy
In this podcast, James Beal, Social Affairs Editor at The Times, discusses the controversies surrounding Captain Tom's charity. Topics include financial involvement, unauthorized spa, allocation of book funds, and the uncertain future of the Captain Tom Foundation.

Nov 4, 2023 • 41min
How to win an election
Political strategists, Peter Mandelson, Daniel Finkelstein, and Polly Mackenzie discuss the upcoming election, the power of party conferences, challenges faced by third parties, Kier Starma's response to the Middle East conflagration, and managing party stances on contentious issues.

Nov 3, 2023 • 29min
Is Israel’s war with Hamas winnable?
Exploring the feasibility of eliminating Hamas as a military objective in Israel's war with Hamas. Comparisons between Hamas and ISIS, focusing on their different roots and tactics. The challenges of urban warfare and the extensive tunnel network used by Hamas. The speaker's experience in Mosul and the dilemma of targeting hospitals. The different potential outcomes in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.

Nov 2, 2023 • 26min
How ‘ugly’ Birkenstocks conquered fashion and feminism
Learn how Birkenstock shoes went from orthopaedic footwear to a must-have fashion item, their rise to an $8 billion brand, internal family conflicts, their recent IPO, and whether they can be worn to the office. Find out if investing in Birkenstocks is worth it and discover alternative flat shoe options.

Nov 1, 2023 • 27min
After the blackout: What's happening in Gaza?
Exploring the aftermath of a blackout in Gaza, the podcast discusses the risks faced by the population and the ongoing military invasion by Israeli troops. It highlights the dire situation in Gaza and the universal emotions of grief and loss experienced by individuals and families. The podcast also delves into Israel's strategy, the international response to the conflict, and anticipates slow and technical operations in the war.

Oct 31, 2023 • 29min
WhatsApps, ‘f***wits’ and ‘Dr Death’: The Covid inquiry heats up
The podcast discusses Dominic Cummings giving evidence to the UK's Covid inquiry, revealing internecine grudges and factions. It explores the drama and intrigues of the inquiry, including decision-making processes and the introduction of 'Dr. Death'. Testimonies reveal flip-flopping, delayed decision-making, and media influence. The ongoing inquiry may potentially embarrass politicians and raise questions about credibility.