

The Audio Long Read
The Guardian
The Audio Long Read podcast is a selection of the Guardian’s long reads, giving you the opportunity to get on with your day while listening to some of the finest longform journalism the Guardian has to offer, including in-depth writing from around the world on current affairs, climate change, global warming, immigration, crime, business, the arts and much more. The podcast explores a range of subjects and news across business, global politics (including Trump, Israel, Palestine and Gaza), money, philosophy, science, internet culture, modern life, war, climate change, current affairs, music and trends, and seeks to answer key questions around them through in depth interviews explainers, and analysis with quality Guardian reporting. Through first person accounts, narrative audio storytelling and investigative reporting, the Audio Long Read seeks to dive deep, debunk myths and uncover hidden histories. In previous episodes we have asked questions like: do we need a new theory of evolution? Whether Trump can win the US presidency or not? Why can't we stop quantifying our lives? Why have our nuclear fears faded? Why do so many bikes end up underwater? How did Germany get hooked on Russian energy? Are we all prisoners of geography? How was London's Olympic legacy sold out? Who owns Einstein? Is free will an illusion? What lies beghind the Arctic's Indigenous suicide crisis? What is the mystery of India's deadly exam scam? Who is the man who built his own cathedral? And, how did the world get hooked on palm oil? Other topics range from: history including empire to politics, conflict, Ukraine, Russia, Israel, Gaza, philosophy, science, psychology, health and finance. Audio Long Read journalists include Samira Shackle, Tom Lamont, Sophie Elmhirst, Samanth Subramanian, Imogen West-Knights, Sirin Kale, Daniel Trilling and Giles Tremlett.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 27, 2024 • 36min
From the archive: ‘Is anybody in there?’ Life on the inside as a locked-in patient
Guest, Jake Haendel, shares his experience of being trapped in his body with locked-in syndrome. The podcast explores his struggles with addiction, health deterioration, and the challenges of trapped consciousness. It delves into his journey of recovery, showcasing the power of the mind in overcoming obstacles.

Mar 25, 2024 • 44min
‘It was so wrong’: why were so many people imprisoned over one protest in Bristol?
A deep dive into the alarming number of imprisonments over a protest in Bristol, examining the harsh legal actions taken against protesters, including self-defense claims. The podcast explores the aftermath of a police altercation, legal proceedings, guilty verdicts, and the lasting impact on individuals' lives. Additionally, there are chapters on short-term insurance plans and budget-friendly wireless services.

Mar 22, 2024 • 28min
What we talk about when we talk about giving up
Exploring the intricacies of giving up, desire, and appetite, this podcast delves into the transformative nature of letting go and the complexities of wanting. It navigates through personal sacrifices, societal pressures, and the blurred lines between certainty and uncertainty in desires, offering a fresh perspective on the concept of giving up.

Mar 20, 2024 • 44min
From the archive – Operation Condor: the cold war conspiracy that terrorised South America
Exploring the dark history of Operation Condor, the podcast reveals the traumatic journey of survivors and the unveiling of secret documents. It delves into the collapse of the network, pursuit of justice, and the emotional journey of victims seeking truth and memory.

25 snips
Mar 18, 2024 • 29min
The tyranny of the algorithm: why every coffee shop looks the same
Exploring the global uniformity of hipster cafes influenced by digital platforms and algorithms, from aesthetics to experiential design. The rise of 'Instagram walls' and the pressure on businesses to create visually appealing spaces for social media documentation. Insights into algorithmic conformity in business and the challenges of maintaining engagement and revenue amidst digital pressures.

Mar 15, 2024 • 24min
Electric mountain: the power station that shows the beauty of infrastructure
Explore the beauty and functionality of the monumental Electric Mountain power station hidden in Wales. Discover the importance of infrastructural projects like Electric Mountain in shaping society, culture, and the transition from fossil fuels to sustainable energy sources for the future.

Mar 13, 2024 • 48min
From the archive: How western travel influencers got tangled up in Pakistan’s politics
Discover how Western travel influencers are reshaping Pakistan's image, the controversies surrounding their portrayal, and the complex relationships with the military. Explore the shift from terrorism to tourism, challenges in Balochistan, and uncover legal battles and political involvement.

Mar 11, 2024 • 32min
‘Can I now send the funds?’: secrets of the Conservative money machine
Explore the world of political fundraising and the power of money in politics as wealthy individuals like Mohamed Amersi seek influence within the Conservative party. Delve into the intricacies of donations, favors, and elite connections, revealing a web of privilege and power dynamics. Uncover predictions of political power shifts and funding sources, hinting at potential changes in the political landscape.

Mar 8, 2024 • 26min
‘Good times and dances might last for ever’: the sound of London’s Black gay scene
Exploring the vibrant history of London's Black gay scene in the 80s and 90s, focusing on DJ Biggie C's legacy in creating safe spaces. Delving into time management and therapy in personal growth. Reflecting on loss and community in the face of challenges like HIV/AIDS.

Mar 6, 2024 • 40min
From the archive: ‘A chain of stupidity’: the Skripal case and the decline of Russia’s spy agencies
Exploring the Salisbury poisoning case, the podcast reveals the decline of Russia's spy agencies and the embarrassing exposure of Russian assassins. It delves into the meticulous investigative work, the unusual assassin with ties to Putin, and the unraveling of disguises. The spies' comedic excuses, lack of sympathy, and the decline of Russia's military intelligence agency under Igor Korobov's leadership are also discussed.