Follow the Money: The Podcast

Lise Witteman, a deputy editor at Follow the Money, and Hans Wetzels, an investigative journalist covering European environmental policies, dive into the European People's Party's contentious campaign against NGOs. They reveal how the EPP has scapegoated these organizations amid its retreat from the Green Deal. The discussion touches on rising populism, the challenges NGOs face in a hostile political landscape, and the importance of diverse voices in environmental policymaking. Their insights shed light on the fragile balance between politics and civic engagement in Europe.

Barnaby Eales, a journalist passionate about wine and experienced in business reporting, teams up with Dominique Mesmin to expose a shocking deception in the wine industry. They delve into the scheme where millions of litres of Spanish bulk wine were sold as upscale French varieties. With climate change intensifying, the duo discusses how fraud is likely to rise. They also reflect on the broader implications for consumers and ethical winemakers, exploring the historical roots and challenges confronting this cherished industry.

Journalist and physicist Thomas Goorden dives into the alarming presence of trifluoroacetic acid (TFA), a dangerous forever chemical found in our food and water. He reveals how the chemical industry has downplayed TFA's risks, leading to regulatory failures in the EU. Goorden discusses the lobbying tactics that influence decision-making and undermine public safety, exposing a troubling trend of negligence and misinformation. The conversation also touches on the urgent need for informed action against the environmental apathy surrounding PFAS and climate change.

Henk Willem Smits and Salsabil Fayed, both investigative journalists at Follow the Money, delve into the hidden takeover of major European music festivals by KKR, a U.S. investment firm. They discuss the ethical concerns of corporate ownership over cultural events and the backlash from artists and festival-goers who feel their community spirit is threatened. The podcast also explores KKR's controversial connections to military tech and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, raising important questions about accountability and transparency in private equity.

Birte Schohaus, Deputy Editor-in-chief at Follow the Money, dives into the shadow fleet of oil tankers aiding Russia’s war efforts. She reveals how Russia has generated over €900 billion from fossil fuel exports since the Ukraine conflict began. Schohaus highlights the paradox of Western shipowners profiting from sales to this fleet while circumventing sanctions. The discussion also examines the environmental risks posed by aging vessels and the moral complexities of European nations balancing economic interests with ethical considerations.

Simon Van Dorpe, an investigative journalist, dives deep into the sensational Huawei corruption scandal that has shaken Brussels. He discusses the shocking bribery schemes employed by Huawei to influence European Parliament members, raising serious concerns about corporate integrity. Van Dorpe sheds light on the controversial figure Valerio Ome and the severe repercussions Huawei now faces, including bans on lobbying. The conversation also touches on the complex challenges of investigating corruption, balancing the safety of sources with the pursuit of truth.

Join investigative journalist Yara van Heugten as she dives deep into the murky waters of Shein's business model. With a keen eye for ethics, she unravels the manipulative tactics that lure young consumers and discusses alarming labor practices. Yara exposes the illusion of sustainability behind Shein's rapid production and the company's struggles with rising regulatory scrutiny in Europe. This insightful conversation reveals the challenges facing ultra-fast fashion and the shifting dynamics in the industry.