What in the World

Luke Wolstenholme, a BBC journalist and cricket fan, dives into the legacy of Virat Kohli following his recent retirement announcement. He discusses how Kohli transformed Indian cricket with his impressive career stats and dedication to fitness. The conversation touches on the emotional fan reactions to his retirement and his status as a global cricketing icon. Additionally, fellow cricketers Anwaya Mane and Tanisha Crasto share their perspectives, while a crash course on cricket history highlights the sport's evolution and cultural significance.

In a groundbreaking discussion, Big Ocean, the world's first K-Pop boy band with hearing loss, shares their unique journey. Members PJ, Jiseok, and Chanyeon speak about their innovative use of hearing aids, lip reading, and technology like metronomes and AI for pitch correction. They reveal how their performances blend Korean Sign Language and dance, fostering inclusivity. Fan Jade Dunne talks about her inspiration from the band, highlighting the impact they have on the deaf community. This is a heartening tale of resilience and creativity in the music world.

The historical rivalry between India and Pakistan over Kashmir heats up with military strikes and a fragile ceasefire. Discussions reveal the deep emotional roots of this conflict, tracing back to the 1947 partition. Experts analyze the significant military capabilities and the impact of misinformation shaping public perception. Meanwhile, the human side emerges as Kashmiris express their desire for peace and normalcy amidst ongoing violence. Insights into the complex political dynamics and the struggles of the Kashmiri people offer a thought-provoking exploration of the region.

A historic moment unfolds with the election of Robert Prevost as the first American pope, Pope Leo XIV. His appointment stirs excitement among young Catholics and raises questions about the significance of an American leader in the Vatican. Listeners discover the multifaceted role of the new pope, balancing spiritual guidance with global influence. Young voices from around the world express their hopes for unity and change, revealing a generational shift in expectations from the Church. This moment has sparked both intrigue and optimism.

Jacqui Wakefield from the BBC’s Global Disinformation Unit joins to discuss our obsession with true crime. She unpacks the psychological allure of the genre, particularly how it resonates with women’s interests in vulnerability and survival. The conversation delves into the evolution of true crime from its print origins to today’s podcast frenzy, including its impact on cold cases. Jacqui also highlights the delicate balance of storytelling that honors victims while navigating the darker sides of crime and media influence.

In this engaging conversation, Shane Singh, an Assistant Professor at the University of Georgia who specializes in compulsory voting, discusses the fascinating intricacies of mandatory voting systems. He explores how compulsory voting influences voter turnout and the socio-economic factors at play. The conversation touches on the enforcement of voting obligations in Australia, contrasting it with practices in Latin America, and delves into the pros and cons of such laws. Discover how these systems impact civic engagement and the overall electoral landscape.

Hanna Samosir, a BBC reporter based in Jakarta, sheds light on Bali's pressing waste management crisis. She discusses the ambitious goal set by the governor to make the island waste-free by 2027 amidst overwhelming plastic pollution. Tourists generate far more waste than locals, complicating efforts to go green. Challenges include managing organic waste and the stronghold of single-use plastics. Yet, regulatory changes for businesses and innovative solutions are on the horizon in Bali's fight against waste.

Anne Okumu, a BBC Africa journalist, dives into the alarming decline of shea butter production in Uganda. She reveals how the once-lush Mount Kei Central Forest Reserve has fallen prey to deforestation, driven largely by charcoal production. The conversation highlights the deep impact on local women's livelihoods and the wider implications of climate change on this vital resource. Okumu also sheds light on conservation efforts aimed at protecting the precious shea trees and ensuring that this 'women's gold' doesn't disappear.

Victoria Gill, a BBC science correspondent, discusses the endangered axolotl, a unique amphibian famed for its ability to regenerate body parts and maintain a juvenile appearance. The conversation covers the successful reintroduction of captive-bred axolotls into the wild, highlighting promising survival rates and growth. Gill also shares insights into the ongoing conservation efforts in their native habitats and the potential implications of their regenerative capabilities for human medicine. Listeners will fall in love with these fascinating creatures!

Anoushka Mutanda-Dougherty, host of the BBC podcast Diddy on Trial, delves into the serious allegations against Sean 'Diddy' Combs, including sex trafficking and racketeering. She discusses the gravity of the charges and how they could impact the upcoming trial. The podcast tackles Diddy's response to the allegations and the implications of potential victim testimonies. Anoushka also shares insights into the legal complexities involved, as well as plans for extensive coverage of the trial, ensuring listeners stay informed about this high-profile case.