The Audio Long Read

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.

In this thought-provoking discussion, Isabel Thompson, a journalist and author, explores the harrowing crisis at HMP Nottingham, where staffing cuts led to chaos and increasing violence. Simon Darwen narrates Thompson’s powerful account, detailing systemic failures, tragic stories of suicide, and the devastating impact of austerity measures. They delve into the rise of drug use and mental health crises among inmates, alongside the alarming consequences of overcrowding and inexperienced staff. Hear how families are affected and the urgent need for reform in the penal system.

Explore how Jamtara, a remote district in India, transformed into a hub for digital scams. The rise of mobile technology fueled a new profession, where villagers, once farmers, became skilled scammers. Meet a local 'chief scammer' who reveals the intricate methods behind stealing banking information. The tensions between caste and crime emerge as poverty drives people to become cyber fraudsters, while urban victims are seen as fair game. Discover the social dynamics that sustain this illicit economy and the implications for community structures.

Bee Wilson, a food writer and founder of the Taste Ed initiative, discusses our disconnection from the sensory experience of food. She explores how modern eating habits often ignore our sense of touch and smell, favoring labels over genuine sensory engagement. Wilson highlights the impact of COVID-related smell loss on enjoyment and mental health, and advocates for reconnecting with food through sensory education. Practical tips for enhancing our culinary experience are sprinkled throughout, encouraging listeners to embrace a more mindful relationship with what they eat.

A daring international heist saw 170 rare Russian classics vanish from libraries across Europe. Researchers posing as academics swapped stolen books for facsimiles in a calculated operation. Arrests revealed a web of thieves using fake identities and potentially connected to larger criminal networks. The investigation unveiled geopolitical implications tied to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. With ongoing trials and theories of competing gangs, the saga of missing Pushkin titles continues to unfold, raising questions about cultural legacy and criminal intent.

Explore the passionate journey of Claude McKay, a pioneering Black journalist navigating 1920s London. Uncover his powerful response to racial violence in the U.S. and his brave critiques against xenophobia in the UK. Delve into his partnerships with radical figures like Sylvia Pankhurst and his influential role in the Workers' Dreadnought. Hear about his struggles, prolific writings, and tenacious fight for workers’ rights, culminating in a bold call for the jobless to rise up. McKay's story resonates through time, shedding light on ongoing issues of race and labor.

Explore how China extends its influence and control over Tibetan communities abroad, sparked by the arrest of a Tibetan NYPD officer linked to espionage. Discover the pervasive fears and suspicions that create divides within the diaspora. Hear personal accounts of how invasive visa processes and surveillance affect daily lives and community cohesion. Delve into the United Front Work Department's tactics targeting cultural exchanges and diaspora activism, revealing the complex interplay of trust, identity, and fear in exile.

Charlotte Higgins, Chief culture writer at The Guardian, discusses her deep dive into the British Museum, exploring its complex role in cultural restitution. Hettie O'Brien, an assistant opinion editor and investigative writer, shares her thrilling journey from a brief news item to a detailed examination of a solicitor's fraud case. They both highlight the unique insight long-form journalism offers—something AI can't replicate. Their collaborative approach and focus on narrative structure bring stories to life, touching on the lasting impact of their work.

Peter Betts reflects on his journey through high-stakes climate negotiations and the personal impact of his glioblastoma diagnosis. He shares insights on the pivotal role of relationships in diplomacy, revealing how negotiating strategies shaped the outcome of Paris 2015. Betts unveils the behind-the-scenes drama, from debates over the critical 1.5°C target to last-minute negotiations, emphasizing the balance between ambition and practicality. Ultimately, he critiques the effectiveness of the agreements made and highlights ongoing financial and transparency challenges.

A powerful volcanic eruption devastated Tonga's internet connection, revealing our reliance on fragile underwater cables. Residents faced historical isolation as communication cut off. Ingenious workarounds emerged: banks used thumb drives, while a sailor sent crucial messages via sat-text. The rebuilding efforts took weeks, highlighting the need for more resilient infrastructure. Discussions on the geopolitical implications of cable security emphasize the fragility of global connectivity in modern life.