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A controversial claim suggests that 79% of asylum seekers in Sweden vacation in their home countries. This statistic raises questions about the authenticity of their asylum claims. Interviews reveal the complexities of the survey behind the figure, highlighting demographic factors and travel motivations. The discussion also uncovers challenges in accurately surveying recent arrivals and the misinterpretations of their travel habits. Misunderstandings about asylum seekers' rights and experiences are emphasized, showcasing the need for a more nuanced understanding.

Listeners contributed intriguing numbers that highlight the current state of the world. Discover the alarming rise in global temperatures, reaching 1.62 degrees above pre-industrial levels. Delve into demographic trends predicting 1.7 billion people over 65 by 2054 and how older individuals are vital to society. There's also a humorous look at the outdated use of fax machines in Germany. Plus, explore the darker side of the wellness industry, revealing troubling issues within yoga and transformation practices.

Explore the fascinating decline of India's fertility rate and its ripple effects on global population dynamics. Discover how vaccination has dramatically saved 150 million children from preventable deaths, with a spotlight on the lifesaving measles vaccine. Unpack the troubling narratives surrounding the wellness industry, particularly in yoga, revealing shocking personal stories of manipulation. Each statistic and story paints a clearer picture of our world and its pressing challenges.

Ruth Ben-Ghiat, a history professor at NYU and author of the bestseller Strongman, dives into the myth behind Mussolini's famous claim that he made the trains run on time. She examines how this narrative shaped Italy's image during his dictatorship. Discover how Mussolini's regime manipulated the railway system and media to promote a façade of efficiency while often neglecting local services. Ben-Ghiat reveals the complex reality of Mussolini's propaganda, illustrating the stark contrast between elite train services and the actual state of public transport.

Are most Americans truly living paycheck to paycheck? A deep dive reveals that 60% of households face this reality, but what does it really mean? The podcast unpacks the financial pressures at various income levels, highlighting the emotional toll involved. It scrutinizes how politicians use these numbers and how the media often spreads them uncritically. Surprisingly, only 18.5% of Americans report actual financial distress, challenging the narrative of widespread economic hardship. Accurate data is essential for shaping effective policies.

Explore the harrowing impact of World War II on Greece, where battles led to immense human suffering and a devastating famine. Investigate the origins of the claim that one in ten Greeks died during this brutal period. Delve into the challenges of accurately assessing military and civilian casualties, and understand the struggles of the Jewish community. Uncover the consequences of British blockades and the actions of occupying forces, revealing the complexities of estimating a true death toll in occupied Greece.

A new government advisory group, led by Elon Musk, aims to tackle the daunting challenge of cutting $2 trillion from the U.S. budget. Experts discuss the intricate web of federal spending, emphasizing the hurdles posed by mandatory spending laws like Social Security and Medicare. Political maneuvering and the feasibility of substantial cuts are explored, raising questions about what could realistically be achieved. Could Musk's ambitious vision ignite a reform momentum or is it just a lofty dream?

Governments are promising action against climate change while simultaneously pouring trillions into fossil fuel subsidies. An IMF report reveals a staggering $7 trillion in global subsidies, but the implications are complex. Most of this money benefits consumers with lower fuel prices rather than directly aiding oil producers. The discussion dives deeper into how these numbers are calculated and the changing landscape of subsidies, highlighting the disconnect between financial practices and environmental commitments.

Did 20 million votes really vanish in the U.S. election? Delve into the chaos sparked by viral graphs and conspiracy theories. The discussion highlights the real woes of voter turnout, revealing a drop of about 4 million votes since 2020. Explore how misleading visuals fueled these claims and discover the straightforward reality behind the supposed discrepancies. This insightful analysis not only unpacks the myths surrounding missing votes but also emphasizes the importance of an informed electorate.

Sabina Lavrenouk, a researcher from Nottingham University specializing in data analysis in fashion, joins the discussion on clothing overproduction. She delves into the staggering environmental impact of global clothing waste, contrasting high-quality garments with cheap, disposable fashion. The guests also dissect the controversial claim that we have enough clothing for the next six generations, emphasizing the need for data verification and transparency in the industry. They reveal that industry narratives often lack solid evidence, raising critical questions about sustainability.