The Take

Sam McAlister, a former TV producer renowned for her high-stakes interview with Prince Andrew, shares her inspiring journey from behind the scenes to the forefront of media. She discusses the challenges she faced, including skepticism and navigating a male-dominated industry. McAlister highlights the transformative power of her groundbreaking interview and the meticulous 13-month process to secure it. Themes of resilience, self-belief, and the importance of amplifying women's voices are at the heart of her story, culminating in her recent autobiography and its Netflix adaptation.

Recent airstrikes have devastated al-Mawasi, a supposed safe zone, leaving deep craters and chaos. Eyewitness accounts expose the emotional toll and dire conditions faced by displaced families. The use of heavy munitions raises concerns about civilian casualties and accountability. Discussions also center on the transformation of this agricultural area into a humanitarian crisis. The implications of U.S. arms supply and international responses to civilian safety underscore the urgent need for change.

Rokhaya Diallo, a writer and journalist known for her insights on politics and social justice, joins the discussion on Emmanuel Macron's controversial presidency. The conversation delves into Macron's snap election strategy and its fallout, highlighting public unrest and rising far-right sentiments. Diallo reflects on the transformation of Macron from a symbol of hope to a figure accused of authoritarianism, examining the increasing polarization in France and the challenges ahead for the country's political landscape.

A surge in mpox cases is wreaking havoc in the Democratic Republic of Congo, particularly among children in crowded shelters. Despite the arrival of vaccines, the supply is drastically insufficient. The ongoing armed conflict complicates healthcare efforts, leaving clinics overwhelmed. Distrust in authorities hampers vaccine distribution efforts. The podcast highlights the dire need for proactive measures and international support to prepare for future health crises, emphasizing the struggle against both disease and scarcity in a challenging environment.

In this discussion, Kimberly Halkett, Al Jazeera's White House Correspondent, dives into the upcoming high-stakes debate between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris. She highlights the critical challenges Harris faces against a seasoned opponent and the importance of her establishing a strong identity. Topics like immigration and abortion rights take center stage, along with the impact of candidates' demeanor on public perception. Halkett also touches on the delicate balance candidates must achieve between authority and relatability in a polarized political landscape.

Afrah Nasser, a Non-Resident Fellow at the Arab Center Washington DC, discusses the dire humanitarian situation in Yemen with 18 million in need of aid. She highlights the Houthis' dual image as supporters of Palestine while oppressing Yemeni citizens. Nasser shares the journey of a journalist fleeing Yemen's unrest and the challenges faced. The podcast also examines the impact of Houthi propaganda, urging listeners to explore the complex narratives behind the conflict and its repercussions on ordinary lives.

Tareq Abu Azzoum, an Al Jazeera Correspondent from Gaza, joins Nida Ibrahim and Kristen Saloomey, both also with Al Jazeera, to discuss the harrowing situation in Gaza as schools remain closed amidst ongoing military conflict. They explore the staggering death toll, particularly among children, and the stark contrast between the global school year and the devastation faced by Palestinians. Additionally, they highlight the impact of the recent Israeli withdrawal from Jenin and the activism of U.S. students advocating for justice in light of the crisis.

In this gripping discussion, Damaris Muthee Mutua, a celebrated athlete whose murder exposed dire issues of gender violence, and Agnes Tirop, a distinguished Kenyan runner tragically killed, share their stories. They delve into the harsh realities female athletes face in Kenya, highlighting systemic issues while celebrating their resilience. The conversation reveals the urgent need for safety and recognition in sports, and features powerful testimonials from women fighting against domestic violence in their community.

The UK is suspending 30 of 350 arms export licenses to Israel, citing a "clear risk" of violating international law. However, campaigners say it’s not enough. With massive protests and resignations over Gaza, does this signal a real shift in UK-Israel relations, or is it just a token gesture?  In this episode: Nick Dearden (@nickdearden75), Director of Global Justice Now Episode credits: This episode was produced by Sarí el-Khalili, Amy Walters, and Tamara Khandaker, with Shraddha Joshi, Hagir Saleh, Duha Mosaad, Phillip Lanos, Hisham Abu Salah, and our host Malika Bilal. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Joe Plourde mixed this episode. Our lead of audience development and engagement is Aya Elmileik. Munera Al Dosari and Adam Abou-Gad are our engagement producers. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Ney Alvarez is Al Jazeera's head of audio. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads and YouTube

Oren Ziv, an Israeli journalist for +972 Magazine, dives into the massive protests erupting in Tel Aviv following the discovery of captives' bodies. He explores the public's growing frustration with the government's handling of the hostage crisis and the shift towards a demand for peace amid violence. Ziv highlights the emotional weight carried by demonstrators, the confrontations with police, and the societal divisions that define these movements. He discusses how these protests may signal a pivotal change in the relationship between the populace and their leaders.