The Audio Long Read
The Guardian
Three times a week, The Audio Long Read podcast brings you the Guardian’s exceptional longform journalism in audio form. Covering topics from politics and culture to philosophy and sport, as well as investigations and current affairs.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jun 26, 2024 • 42min
From the archive: Brazilian butt lift: behind the world’s most dangerous cosmetic surgery
The podcast delves into the rising trend of Brazilian butt lifts, highlighting the dangers and high mortality rates associated with the procedure. It explores the historical context of cosmetic surgery in Brazil, touching on societal beauty standards and the unattainable expectations imposed by interventions. The risks and realities of Brazilian butt lift surgeries are discussed, including post-operative challenges and irresponsible marketing practices by clinics. The podcast also explores the commercial advantages of these surgeries, emphasizing the cycle of striving for perfection and the effects of aging on the body.
Jun 24, 2024 • 33min
Two poems, four years in detention: the Chinese dissident who smuggled his writing out of prison
Chinese dissident Liao Yiwu shares his experience of writing and smuggling poems out of prison, highlighting the challenges faced in detention. He reflects on the importance of documenting history through his writings and the struggles of life after prison, including multiple confiscations of his works. The podcast explores his journey of surviving detention, escaping to freedom, and continuing his writing journey despite the Communist regime's attempts to silence him.
Jun 21, 2024 • 41min
As a teenager, John was jailed for assaulting someone and stealing their bike. That was 17 years ago – will he ever be released?
Former inmate John's tumultuous journey through incarceration and struggles with mental health, highlighted by the challenges of disproving rehabilitation for potential release. The podcast explores the devastating impacts of indefinite sentences on vulnerable inmates, delving into the heartbreaking toll on John's mental well-being and his family's hope for his eventual freedom.
Jun 19, 2024 • 38min
From the archive: Can computers ever replace the classroom?
The podcast delves into the role of AI in online learning post-pandemic, emphasizing critical assessment of educational tools. It follows the journey of individuals benefiting from AI-driven education and explores the revolutionary impact of AI on education. The debate over adaptive learning platforms in China and contrasting views on AI's potential in education are discussed.
Jun 17, 2024 • 32min
The man who turned his home into a homeless shelter
Stuart Potts, a former crack addict, opens his small flat to hundreds of homeless people, providing shelter and support. His journey showcases the transformative power of compassion amidst the UK homelessness crisis.
Jun 14, 2024 • 38min
From low-level drug dealer to human trafficker: are modern slavery laws catching the wrong people?
Explore the journey of a former drug dealer convicted of trafficking, the challenges of modern slavery laws, and the personal transformation post-prison. Learn about the complexities of identifying victims in county lines operations and the dual victim-perpetrator treatment of youth.
Jun 12, 2024 • 40min
From the archive: How globalisation has transformed the fight for LGBTQ+ rights
Exploring the evolution of LGBTQ+ rights amidst globalization, the podcast delves into the impact of globalization on LGBTQ+ rights movements worldwide. It highlights challenges faced by activists in regions like Senegal, contrasts progress in the US with ongoing criminalization in other areas, and explores the complex dynamics of right-wing European parties' approaches to LGBTQ+ rights. The podcast also analyzes the evolving perceptions of queer individuals globally, the acceptance of sexual orientation and gender identity as human rights, and the role of media in shaping attitudes towards same-sex relationships.
Jun 10, 2024 • 45min
‘Ryan Reynolds never had to deal with this’: the slow death and (possible) rebirth of Southend United
A deep dive into Southend United FC's struggles under Ron Martin's leadership, including financial woes, stadium relocation plans, and fan protests. The community's resilience amid financial turmoil, missed payments, and infrastructure issues. The ongoing battle for survival and potential closure of the club, sparking fear and uncertainty among fans and stakeholders.
Jun 7, 2024 • 35min
César Aira’s unreal magic: how the eccentric author took over Latin American literature
Join the podcast as César Aira, the eccentric author known for publishing over 100 surrealist novels, discusses his unique writing style and the obstacles he faced as a writer. Explore his literary universe, self-consciousness, and resistance to editorial capitalism. Dive into his unconventional writing style, personal insights, and relationships inspired by Jorge Luis Borges.
Jun 5, 2024 • 35min
From the archive: ‘The Silicon Valley of turf’: how the UK’s pursuit of the perfect pitch changed football
Exploring the evolution of football pitches from quagmires to pristine fields, the podcast delves into the importance of skilled groundskeepers in maintaining top-quality pitches. It highlights the strategic significance of pitch quality for player performance and major events, showcasing transfers of groundsmen to top clubs like Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain. The narrative emphasizes the meticulous preparations and passion of groundskeepers in meeting UEFA standards for player safety and optimal playing conditions, including innovative turf care techniques for grass growth.
