The Audio Long Read

Samanth Subramanian, a Guardian journalist, uncovers the troubling story of Lafarge, a French cement giant, entangled in controversy during the Syrian civil war. He reveals how the company paid protection money to ISIS just to maintain its operations. The discussion dives into the ethical dilemmas placed upon corporations in conflict zones, the implications of their actions on local communities, and the overarching questions of corporate accountability and international law. The conversation sheds light on the dark side of business in crises.

Pablo González navigated the dangerous waters of Russian opposition journalism, charming those around him while covering Putin's conflicts. His arrest in 2022 sparked intense debate—was he a legitimate journalist or a spy in disguise? The podcast delves into his dual identity and the fallout of his alleged espionage, including how it affected his relationships, particularly with a Polish journalist. With tangled loyalties and the shadow of betrayal, the narrative unveils the costs of journalism in perilous political landscapes.

Dominic Van Allen, a resilient homeless man who constructed a hidden bunker beneath Hampstead Heath, shares his extraordinary story. He discusses the daily realities of living underground, the ingenuity required just to survive, and the profound struggles faced by those in similar situations. From humorous anecdotes about park rangers to the serious challenges of legal troubles, Dominic's experiences reveal the complex and often invisible world of homelessness in urban settings. His journey is a poignant reminder of resilience and the human spirit.

The podcast delves into the evolution of the poppy as a symbol of remembrance, tracing its journey from honoring veterans to becoming a source of public pressure and controversy. It discusses the commercialization of the poppy and the societal expectations tied to it, revealing how media influence has intensified the obsession. Personal reflections from the last surviving WWI veteran add depth, questioning the sincerity of Remembrance Sunday and emphasizing the importance of genuine commemoration over performative patriotism.

Alex Blasdel, author known for his incisive analysis of financial systems, discusses the vast and often troubling reach of private equity. He highlights the luxurious lifestyles of its leaders against the backdrop of communities facing neglect. The talk exposes the aggressive tactics that prioritize profits over people, leading to lower wages and job insecurity. Blasdel critiques the collusion with political leaders that thwarts necessary regulations, showcasing a system that enriches a few while leaving many struggling in its wake.

Saman Subramanian, author of "Hand Dryers vs. Paper Towels" from The Guardian, delves into the fierce competition between these two drying methods. He uncovers the history and marketing tactics that fuel their rivalry, revealing how consumer perceptions and hygiene concerns shape choices. Subramanian discusses the rise of Dyson's Airblade and the complexities of converting facilities to hand dryers, while also analyzing the environmental and financial impacts. The podcast highlights the surprising nuances behind something as seemingly simple as drying your hands.

In this intriguing discussion, Rachel Ossip, a skilled author at The Guardian, dives into the intersection of AI and human creativity. She explores how AI-generated images hold unexpected traces of human influence. Listen as she discusses the whimsical side of AI image creation, including generating playful cat visuals. Rachel also tackles the implications of biases in AI datasets and critiques the superficial solutions often proposed. This conversation reveals the fascinating challenges and ethical dilemmas of merging technology with art.

Explore how British terms have made their way into American English, from 'cheeky' to 'clever.' Discover how cultural exchanges and media figures like Mike Myers have popularized British slang across the pond. The discussion highlights historical influences and the emotional weight of language, revealing an ongoing linguistic transformation. Dive into the fascinating world of how two dialects evolve and shape societal attitudes, bridging the gap between the UK and the US.

Mark O'Connell, author of "Why Silicon Valley Billionaires Are Prepping for the Apocalypse in New Zealand" and "Notes from the Apocalypse," explores the bizarre trend of tech moguls like Peter Thiel buying property in New Zealand as a safe haven from global chaos. He discusses the societal fears fueling this obsession, contrasting stark visions of isolationist wealth with local Maori perspectives. O'Connell also shares his stunning impressions of New Zealand’s landscapes while critiquing the underlying dynamics of luxury and survivalism in an uncertain world.

Yvonne Jewkes, author of "An Architecture of Hope," dives into the pressing issue of prison design and its impact on rehabilitation. She discusses the physical and psychological toll of overcrowded facilities and harsh environments, revealing how these conditions thwart rehabilitation efforts. Jewkes presents examples of innovative designs that promote healing, like the Oasis Restore school for young offenders. She advocates for a reimagined approach to prison reform that prioritizes humane treatment and social infrastructure over punitive measures.