The Audio Long Read

In this gripping discussion, narrator Serena Manteghi brings to life a powerful long-read about the tumultuous evacuation in Afghanistan as the Taliban took control. She dives into the harrowing emotions faced by civilians, especially women, fighting to reclaim their rights amidst chaos. The podcast reflects on personal stories of resilience, the dire plight of Afghan allies, and the overwhelming sense of helplessness felt both on the ground and abroad. Manteghi's narration underscores the psychological toll of watching a nation collapse.

The Black Swan follows a repentant master criminal as she sets up corrupt clients in front of hidden cameras. But is she really reformed – and is the director up to his own tricks? By Samanth Subramanian. Read by David Bateson. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/longreadpod

In this engaging discourse, Kerry Shale reads Joshua Leifer's article on the chilling legacy of Meir Kahane, an extremist rabbi who, despite dying 35 years ago, still influences Israeli politics. They discuss how Kahane's violent ideologies resonate with contemporary political movements and the normalization of radical beliefs. The conversation highlights the persistent threat of extremism in Israeli society, the unsettling proposals regarding Gaza, and the impact of Kahanism on political alliances, showcasing a dangerous shift in rhetoric and policy.

The podcast delves into the relentless pursuit of justice by the Hillsborough families, highlighting their 32-year struggle against systemic failures and emotional turmoil. It explores the transformative power of family narratives in legal proceedings and the societal implications of the tragedy. The heart-wrenching personal toll on the victims' families is poignantly examined, alongside their fights against a seemingly indifferent judicial system. The ongoing quest for accountability and reform remains a central theme.

In this thought-provoking conversation, Mark Noble narrates Didier Eribon's exploration of a complex relationship shaped by prejudice. He delves into the narrator's struggles to reconcile familial love with a mother's deeply ingrained racism. Mark discusses the shifts in her political beliefs, highlighting tensions and disillusionment. Listeners are taken through labor struggles of the past, revealing the emotional weight of working-class legacies. The podcast shines a light on how personal narratives intersect with broader societal issues.

A young man's harrowing transformation from aspiring actor to reluctant regime soldier amid Syria's civil war highlights moral dilemmas. The brutal struggle for survival unveils corruption and exploitation within military ranks. As rebel forces gain momentum, soldiers face new perils and defections. The aftermath paints a dire picture of life post-war, marked by inflation and loss. Communities grapple with their painful past, showcasing resilience in a society still haunted by conflict.

Imagine a world where six-year-olds can vote! This thought-provoking discussion dives into the radical idea of lowering the voting age. It challenges conventional wisdom on children's roles in democracy and highlights the deep generational divides affecting today's political landscape. The conversation critiques outdated competence standards and argues for the importance of including young voices in decision-making. Could empowering children with voting rights reshape democracy for the better? Tune in to explore this intriguing possibility!

In East London, a shocking story unfolds as an 11-year-old boy suffers severe burns from a neglected crater at Arnold's Field. Residents live in constant fear of toxic fires and pollution from illegally dumped waste that poisons their air and health. The site’s grim transformation from gravel pit to hazardous dump highlights failures in waste management and accountability. Community efforts intensify to demand action against illegal dumping and to combat the troubling health effects impacting their lives.

In a remarkable tale, a meteorite crash-lands in a Cotswold neighborhood, igniting excitement among both scientists and locals. The collaborative recovery effort unveils insights into our planet's origins. As stories unfold, the podcast delves into how such celestial events resonate with communities, blending the extraordinary with everyday life. Personal anecdotes highlight the wonder and shared memories inspired by these rare occurrences, revealing how humanity connects with the cosmos through shared experiences.

Explore how climate change is transforming the Arctic landscape, with trees encroaching on ancient tundra. Discover the impact on indigenous Sami culture, especially their traditional reindeer herding practices. A personal narrative highlights the urgent struggles faced by the Sami against rising temperatures and industrial pressures. The vivid imagery of life in Cauticeno contrasts serene herding with modern challenges. Dive into the emotional and cultural significance of these shifts, revealing the delicate balance between tradition and environmental change.