The Audio Long Read

Meet Terry Ball, a shoe salesman turned mastermind of a bizarre tax-avoidance scheme involving snails! Discover how he exploits loopholes in UK business rates and creates a covert snail empire while battling legal setbacks. Learn about his connections to the mafia and his adventurous past, including how he sheltered a notorious fugitive. As Ball continues his antics at eighty, he shares his motivations: sheer devilment, boredom, and an undeniably unique legacy.

Nicole Garrison, a New Jersey mother, shares her harrowing experience with the Free Birth Society, an organization promoting a no-care childbirth ideology. She recounts her journey of isolation, the allure of FBS’s radical teachings, and how they led her to nearly lose her life due to severe complications after birth. The discussion highlights the dangerous mindset of self-blame and the suppression of medical discourse within the community. Garrison's story challenges the promise of empowerment offered by FBS and reveals the dire consequences of such beliefs.

A mother turns to a chatbot for kidney disease advice after facing exhausting doctor commutes. She finds DeepSeek more compassionate than rushed doctors, leading to lifestyle changes based on its recommendations. However, concerns arise about AI’s reliability, including risks of biased advice and critical errors. The episode explores how chatbots are filling gaps in strained health systems, and the nuanced trust between technology and human caregivers, as the family navigates this new medical landscape.

Explore the complexities of the IMF's role in today's debt crisis as Jamie Martin highlights Pakistan's struggles with bailout conditions. Delve into how the IMF evolved from its non-interventionist origins to wielding tremendous power, especially during the 1990s. Uncover the backlash it faced during the Asian financial crisis and the geopolitical implications of dollar dominance. As China rises as a less conditional lender, questions arise about the IMF's necessary reforms and its potential to provide unconditional support.

As public trust in police wanes, individuals are turning to private prosecutions as an alternative route to justice. This trend is fueled by austerity cuts, leaving victims feeling ignored by law enforcement. Some cases reveal that private investigations can trigger broader police actions, but critics warn this system favors the wealthy. Scandals have exposed risks, highlighting wrongful convictions and corporate abuse. While private prosecutions seem to provide quick relief, they may ultimately undermine the integrity of the public justice system.

A deeply moving story unfolds as Pamela Gordon reflects on her encounter with 13-year-old Craig, a runaway swallowed by the system. His struggle with care homes, homelessness, and the grim realities of life on the streets is heartbreakingly detailed. Despite occasional glimmers of hope, such as brief refuge and praiseworthy achievements, Craig's descent into crime and prison reveals systemic failures. The tragic conclusion raises questions about support systems and the devastating impact of societal neglect on vulnerable youth.

Explore the intricate ties between Saudi Arabia and Twitter's fate. Discover how Saudi investments reached Silicon Valley to stifle dissent at home. Hear gripping stories of banned accounts and the recruitment of Twitter employees for surveillance. Uncover the controversial financial dealings surrounding Musk's takeover, and the implications of a spy ring embedded within the platform. Delve into allegations of foreign influence and legal battles, raising questions about accountability and national security. A fascinating look at power dynamics in the tech world.

Explore the intriguing world of vending machines, from midnight snack cravings to unique offerings around the globe. Discover the history of these iconic machines and their evolution, including modern tech like contactless payments. Meet owners like Johnny Broderick, who innovate to keep their businesses thriving post-pandemic, and hear stories about Japan's vibrant vending culture. Delve into how machines have created emotional connections and shaped our purchasing habits, all while providing quirky surprises.

The discussions delve into the impact of USAID cuts under Trump, highlighting reactions in Sierra Leone. Locals express resignation, viewing aid cessation as an ongoing issue rather than a sudden crisis. Personal stories reveal the complexities of foreign aid, from early encounters with Peace Corps volunteers to the chaotic aftermath of Sierra Leone's civil war. The tension between the need for aid reform and the harsh reality of abrupt cuts raises critical questions about dependency and effective support.

A fishing boat sets sail from Alaska just before a brutal storm hits. The crew faces dangerous conditions amplified by the instability of their load and icing risks. As chaos unfolds, a mayday call is sent out, leading to panic and an emergency evacuation. Survivors recall the struggle for survival in life rafts with inadequate supplies. The podcast explores the fishing industry's high fatality rates and critical gaps in safety regulations, shedding light on a profession fraught with peril.