
The Take
The Take is a daily interview-driven international news podcast hosted by award-winning journalist Malika Bilal. Each episode focuses on conversations with journalists and people directly impacted by the news of the day, offering our listeners the context necessary to understand what's in the headlines.
With millions of global listens, it's clear the conversations we're having on The Take are worth hearing. And critics think so too. The show has won the Online Journalism Awards, the Signal Awards, Lovie Awards, and Anthem Awards, among others.
Latest episodes

Jun 23, 2025 • 23min
After Donald Trump bombs Iran, what comes next?
Senior Diplomatic Correspondent for HuffPost, Akbar Shahid Ahmed, sheds light on the U.S. military strikes on Iranian nuclear sites and the ensuing geopolitical turmoil. He dives into the breakdown of the 2015 nuclear deal and the rising tensions between the U.S. and Iran, raising alarms about the risk of a regional war. The discussion also tackles the legal implications of Trump's actions, contrasting isolationist and interventionist views, and the potential shifts in power dynamics as younger lawmakers challenge traditional military authority.

Jun 22, 2025 • 7min
Brief: US strikes Iran, Palestinian activist Mahmoud Khalil released
The podcast dives into the escalating conflict in Gaza, revealing staggering casualties and the impact of military actions. It discusses recent U.S. airstrikes targeting Iran's nuclear sites and the regional fallout, including missile exchanges. The dire humanitarian situation for Palestinians searching for food amidst chaos is highlighted. Additionally, the release of activist Mahmoud Khalil, facing legal hurdles after protests, showcases the struggles for activism amid escalating violence. Eyewitness accounts paint a vivid picture of despair in affected areas.

Jun 21, 2025 • 18min
Another Take: Revisiting the Boeing 737 Max
In this engaging discussion, aviation analyst Alex Macheras, who hosts the podcast On Air, dives into the controversies surrounding Boeing’s 737 MAX. He highlights a recent emergency landing of an Alaska Airlines flight, drawing attention to its troubled history. Macheras examines the safety culture at Boeing and the scrutiny from the FAA, revealing how past incidents continue to taint the company’s reputation. The conversation also touches on public confidence issues and potential industry repercussions stemming from these ongoing safety concerns.

Jun 19, 2025 • 24min
MAGA is split over Israel and Iran. Which way will Trump go?
Ali Harb, a Washington-based journalist for Al Jazeera, dives into the notable split within the MAGA movement regarding U.S. intervention in the Israeli-Iranian conflict. He discusses how figures like Tucker Carlson oppose Trump's potential military action, challenging the 'America First' ideology. Harb explores the implications of a possible U.S. strike on Iran for Trump’s legacy, emphasizing the shifting perspectives among supporters. The episode also highlights the grim humanitarian crises in Iran and Gaza, urging a deeper acknowledgment of the ongoing suffering.

Jun 19, 2025 • 21min
What led to the attempted assassination of a Colombian politician?
Juanita Goebertus Estrada, the Americas division director for Human Rights Watch, dives into the shocking attempted assassination of Colombian politician Miguel Uribe Turbay by a 15-year-old. She highlights the unsettling resurgence of political violence in Colombia and the implications for future elections. Goebertus discusses societal issues surrounding child recruitment by armed groups and stresses the urgent need for peace and protective measures to ensure democracy amid growing political polarization.

Jun 18, 2025 • 22min
Why US troops are concerned about Trump’s deployment
In this discussion, Steve Woolford, a Counselor with the GI Rights Hotline, explores the controversial deployment of troops to Los Angeles amid protests. He highlights the legal and moral dilemmas faced by service members ordered to confront citizens they’re meant to protect. Woolford shares insights on the rising concerns from veterans about the implications for democracy and civil rights. He also addresses the challenges of communication within the military, emphasizing empathy and understanding between troops and the public.

Jun 16, 2025 • 22min
How close are Iran and Israel to full-scale war?
Narges Bajoghli, a Professor of Middle East Studies at Johns Hopkins University, dives into the escalating conflict between Iran and Israel. She discusses Iran's military advancements and retaliatory strikes, highlighting the reactions within Tehran amid growing panic. The conversation explores Iran's geopolitical strategies, including potential disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, and how the media narratives are shifting around the conflict. Additionally, Bajoghli sheds light on the complex relationships and diplomatic challenges influencing regional stability.

12 snips
Jun 16, 2025 • 25min
How ICE raids echo US wars abroad, with Viet Thanh Nguyen
Viet Thanh Nguyen, a South Vietnamese-born American author known for his work "To Save and to Destroy: Writing as an Other," joins the discussion to explore the concept of being the 'other.' He draws connections between ICE raids, protests, and the war on Gaza to highlight the shared experiences of marginalized communities. Nguyen reflects on the fragility of citizenship and the complexities of solidarity, urging listeners to embrace shared grief and advocate for collective action against injustice.

Jun 15, 2025 • 6min
Brief: Israel attacks Iran, Palestinians attacked at aid site
Tensions escalate as Israel launches attacks on Iranian nuclear sites, raising concerns for regional stability. Meanwhile, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza deepens, with many Palestinians suffering at aid locations due to ongoing airstrikes. The international community reacts, imposing sanctions on Israeli ministers in response to these events. The conflict is marked by a cycle of hostility, as Iran retaliates with missile strikes while Israel targets critical infrastructure. The devastating impact of the conflict continues to take a heavy toll on civilians.

16 snips
Jun 14, 2025 • 24min
Why is Israel attacking Iran now?
Dorsa Jabbari, an Al Jazeera Correspondent with nearly two decades of experience reporting on the Middle East, discusses the recent attacks by Israel on Iran and the ensuing conflict. She delves into the fear and chaos felt by Iranian civilians and the geopolitical ripples of U.S. involvement. The conversation also covers Iran's missile response, the complexities of Iran's nuclear policy, and the urgent need for diplomatic solutions amid escalating tensions. Jabbari sheds light on the multi-layered dynamics at play in this volatile region.