What in the World

Will Grant, BBC's Cuba correspondent, brings deep insights into contemporary Cuban life. He tackles misconceptions about homelessness, revealing the government's spin on poverty and housing shortages. The conversation highlights Cuba’s complex political system, shaped by decades of one-party rule. Grant also discusses the severe food shortages exacerbated by the U.S. embargo and internal mismanagement, which drive many young Cubans to seek opportunities abroad. He shares personal reflections on Cuba's cultural richness, inviting listeners to explore its realities.

In this engaging conversation, Caroline Steel, a BBC science journalist known for her documentaries, delves into the fascinating science of sleep. She shares her eye-opening experiences from a sleep lab, explaining the crucial roles of different sleep stages, particularly REM sleep. Alongside sleep expert Dr. Jonathan Tham, they discuss how genetics and environment shape our sleep patterns and provide practical tips to enhance sleep quality. From personal anecdotes to the impact of caffeine, they tackle the complexities and strategies for a restful night.

In this discussion, Georgina Rannard, BBC's Climate and Science correspondent, sheds light on the challenges of exploring the deep ocean. She reveals that less than 20% of the ocean has been mapped, making it tougher to reach than outer space. Rannard discusses groundbreaking discoveries, such as 'dark oxygen' and the bizarre adaptations of deep-sea creatures like blobfish and goblin sharks. The conversation highlights how new technologies are unveiling the mysteries of our planet's final frontier while emphasizing the ocean's vital role in climate regulation and oxygen production.

Wanqing Zhang, a journalist from the BBC's Global China Unit, explores the intriguing trend of 'marriage buddies' in China. Young people are forming these platonic partnerships to satisfy societal pressures while maintaining independence. They dress up, attend events, and let family believe they are in a relationship, all without legal ties. This phenomenon reflects a shift in how romance is perceived, with many seeking companionship over traditional love. Hear from Linda, who shares her reasons for joining this unique trend.

Amelia Jansson, a BBC journalist, joins Iqra to tackle the pressing issue of loneliness, particularly among young people. They explore how social media can be a powerful tool for forging genuine friendships, despite the challenges of superficial interactions. Amelia shares insights from her own friendship date, emphasizing the importance of meaningful connections over social media noise. Listeners also hear personal stories from teens worldwide and get practical tips from psychologist Dr. Laurie Santos on overcoming feelings of isolation. It's a heartfelt dive into building connections in a lonely world.

Anita Nkonge, a BBC reporter based in Nairobi, sheds light on the escalating anti-government protests in Kenya, driven by police brutality and corruption. She discusses the tragic loss of lives, including a blogger and a vendor, fueling public outrage. Young Kenyans are mobilizing through social media, demanding accountability and systemic change. Nkonge highlights the tense government response, including controversial remarks from President Ruto, and the economic struggles faced by the youth, underscoring a pivotal moment in Kenya's fight for justice.

Laura García, a BBC journalist, explores the rising tensions between residents and tourists, particularly in Barcelona. She discusses how locals are using water pistols as a playful protest against overtourism. García highlights the challenges posed by short-term rentals like Airbnb, which exacerbate housing shortages. Strategies from Spain and other nations to combat these issues, along with tips from travel influencer Joy Malonza on mindful tourism, provide insights into balancing exploration with community respect.

In this engaging discussion, Laura Bicker, a BBC China correspondent known for her keen insights into environmental issues, shares her firsthand experiences at China's rare earth mining sites. She reveals how these crucial minerals, found in everyday technology, pose severe environmental threats due to their extraction processes. Bicker delves into the alarming pollution levels, the toxic waste produced, and the health risks faced by local communities. Listeners gain a clearer understanding of how vital yet harmful these 'rare' resources can be.

Jordan Dunbar, a BBC journalist renowned for his documentaries on mental health, discusses the rise of AI chatbots as alternatives to traditional therapy. He examines their effectiveness, particularly for issues like money anxiety, and raises concerns about data privacy. The conversation delves into the cultural impact of apps like DeepSeek in China, especially among the youth. Experts highlight both the potential benefits of instant support and the significant risks of relying on AI for complex emotional issues.

In a fascinating discussion, BBC journalist Tamzin Kraftman reveals the story of Velvet Sundown, a viral AI band that has taken the music world by storm despite not actually existing. She dives into the intriguing questions surrounding AI's role in the industry, including ethical concerns and the authenticity of music. As reactions vary, Kraftman highlights the tensions between traditional artists and AI-generated creations. The conversation also touches on artist rights in the era of AI music, making it a must-listen for anyone curious about the future of music.