The Story

In this episode, Ben Hoyle, Foreign Ed, discusses the conspiracy theory involving Taylor Swift, the Super Bowl, and the US election. Topics include Taylor Swift's success in the music industry, her connection to the Super Bowl and American football, the wild theory of rigging the Super Bowl for Swift's endorsement, and the implications of her political involvement. The episode also explores the appeal of conspiracy theories and Taylor Swift's influence in public discourse.

Dr. Fiona Vera-Gray, deputy director at the Child and Women’s Abuse Studies Unit, discusses women's porn habits and the misconceptions surrounding it. Topics include the prevalence of porn consumption among women, the impact of pornography on young girls' perception of sex, and women's preferences and fantasies when it comes to porn.

Anshel Pfeffer discusses the Israeli hostage crisis and the potential downfall of Prime Minister Netanyahu. Topics include the families' protests, pressure for a ceasefire, political consequences, and implications of a government change amid the crisis.

War correspondent Anthony Loyd explores the Ukrainian war, including the desperate measures men take to avoid conscription and the ongoing debate on mobilizing new soldiers. The podcast also discusses the state of the war, potential peace talks, and the divisions within society and government regarding support for the war and the draft.

This podcast explores the normalization of tracking and surveillance in romantic relationships, featuring the story of a woman who was stalked by her ex-boyfriend. It discusses the reasons why young people are willing to track and be tracked, and the potential invasion of privacy and dangers associated with these technologies. The trend of spying on partners, especially among Gen Z, is also discussed, along with privacy protections and policies by Apple and Google.

A Palestinian journalist shares her firsthand account of living through the war in Gaza Strip, discussing the impact on living conditions, friendships, and the urgent need to raise awareness about the situation in Gaza.

Steven Swinford, Political Editor at The Times, discusses the plot within the UK Conservative party to remove Rishi Sunak as Prime Minister, including the meetings, personalities, and mystery money funding the scheme. Lord Frost's involvement in a cash funding scheme and concerns about political party reform are also explored. The chapter analyzes a prediction and mentions an alleged Tory plot against Rishi Sunak. Consequences of the ongoing plot, including migration and budget concerns, are discussed.

Discussion on the recent drone attack in Jordan, potential involvement of Iran, Iran's control of proxy forces, Iran's proxy warfare and escalation tactics, and the possibility of a broader conflict

Jonathan Calvert, Insight Editor from The Sunday Times, discusses the shocking revelation of secret routes for overseas students to enter top UK universities. Topics include the rise in overseas students, pathway programs for international students, recruitment agencies' involvement, and disparities in access for international and UK students.

OneTaste, the organisation behind the practice 'orgasmic meditation', was hailed as visionary at its peak. Since then, its leader, Nicole Daedone, has been arrested by the FBI on forced labour charges and her group has been branded a 'cult' – allegations they deny vehemently. But what is it? Sunday Times reporter Megan Agnew was invited to their California compound, The Land, to find out.This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: thetimes.co.uk/storiesofourtimes. Guest: Megan Agnew, News Features Writer, The Sunday Times.Host: Jane Mulkerrins.Clips: ABC7 News, YouTube/Rebecca Watson, Eros Platform @OneTaste, goop.Get in touch: storiesofourtimes@thetimes.co.ukFind out more about our bonus series for Times subscribers: 'Inside the newsroom'This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.