The Audio Long Read

Christopher de Bellaigue dives into the controversial topic of euthanasia, examining its implications across various countries. He shares his personal journey through loss, shedding light on the evolving laws in the Netherlands. The discussion reveals the ethical dilemmas faced by healthcare providers, particularly regarding consent in mental health cases. De Bellaigue raises critical questions about patient autonomy and the broader societal impacts of liberalizing assisted dying, urging a careful and reflective approach to this sensitive issue.

Jack Goulder, a seasoned doctor specializing in ADHD diagnoses for children, shares insights on the complicated journey families face. He emphasizes how a proper diagnosis can ease the emotional burden of guilt linked to attention challenges. The discussion highlights the nuances in diagnosing ADHD, particularly distinguishing between overt and subtle symptoms. Goulder also reflects on how social media influences self-diagnosis among teenagers, especially post-pandemic, revealing the significant impact of mental health language on young identities.

Explore the harrowing details behind the Grenfell Tower tragedy, where systemic failures and a culture of buck-passing led to devastating consequences. Hear emotional testimonies from victims' families and insights into the construction industry's profit-driven decisions. Discover the chilling role of corporate negligence and inadequate oversight in the tragedy. The inquiry sheds light on the importance of accountability in preventing future disasters and highlights the troubling disconnect within modern supply chains that fosters evasion of responsibility.

David Duke, a former grand wizard of the Ku Klux Klan, reflects on his controversial rise to political power in Louisiana during the 1980s. The discussion highlights how his extremist ideologies managed to gain traction in mainstream politics. Duke shares insights on his identity struggles and attempts at respectability, including questionable publications. The conversation also examines the socio-political landscape of Louisiana during his ascent and the racial dynamics that shaped his unexpected success and the legacy of division he left behind.

Partha Banerjee, a former senior member of the RSS, shares his incredible journey from staunch Hindu nationalist to a critical observer of the movement. He discusses the emotional turmoil and family conflicts that led to his departure from the organization. Partha reflects on the growing political tensions in India under Modi's leadership, warning about the rise of fascism. He highlights the public's ignorance regarding the RSS's history and urges awareness of the potential erosion of freedoms in contemporary India.

Jacob Mikanowski, a contributor delving into advancements in the science of history, discusses groundbreaking techniques reshaping our understanding of the past. He highlights paleoproteomics and ancient genomics in uncovering human migrations and historical diseases. The conversation also reveals how environmental crises influenced societal beliefs during the Byzantine Empire. Additionally, Mikanowski sheds light on the overlooked contributions of women, particularly nuns, in crafting illuminated manuscripts, enriching our narrative of history with their personal stories.

Michael Aylwin, an author, shares his deeply moving experience of caring for his wife as she battled early-onset Alzheimer's. He candidly recounts the tragic transformation of a vibrant woman into someone unrecognizable. The podcast explores his emotional journey, grappling with love, loss, and the complex decisions required when home care becomes unmanageable. Aylwin's reflections highlight the toll of the illness on both partners, blending heartache with moments of profound connection.

Ghaith Abdul-Ahad, an insightful journalist focused on Palestinian struggles, shares poignant stories from the Shatila refugee camp in Beirut. He discusses the emotional hurdles families face, like a father's determination to secure a brighter future for his son amid despair. The talk dives into the impact of historical injustices on Palestinian identities, the ongoing violence, and the resilience of the community. Abdul-Ahad vividly portrays life in a camp where hope is intertwined with daily struggles, echoing the larger plight of displaced Palestinians.

Jean-Martin Bauer, an expert in food aid delivery, discusses the integration of technology in humanitarian efforts. He introduces the Pouncer, an innovative edible drone for food delivery in conflict zones, sparking debates on practicality and ethics. Bauer highlights the role of mobile money and blockchain in evolving food supply chains and emphasizes community collaboration. He also addresses food insecurity in the U.S. and the importance of digital connectivity for refugees, stressing that technology must work hand-in-hand with human efforts to address these complex challenges.

Samira Shackle, an accomplished journalist known for her insightful reporting on social issues, delves into Britain's multibillion-pound equal pay scandal. She discusses the historical injustices faced by female care workers in Glasgow who fought for fair wages. The podcast explores personal stories of these women, the challenges of outsourcing, and the significant legal battles that ensued. Shackle highlights the ongoing legacy of advocacy amidst financial strains on local councils, emphasizing the importance of achieving true gender equality.