The Global Story

Rupert Murdoch, a titan of global media, joins his son Lachlan, who is poised to influence the future of their vast empire. They delve into the legal wranglings over family trusts and the battle for control amidst a backdrop of personal conflicts. The discussion sheds light on the twins of media power and familial ties, with parallels drawn to the dramatic narrative of 'Succession.' The podcast also questions the public's right to transparency in these clandestine proceedings that could reshape major news outlets like Fox News and The Wall Street Journal.

Cassie Cornish-Trestrail, a BBC contributor, and Keaton Stone engage in a gripping discussion about the serious allegations against Mohamed Al Fayed, a former billionaire and owner of Harrods. They unveil shocking testimonies from women who faced abuse in a toxic workplace culture. The conversation exposes the alarming power dynamics at play and the systemic failures that silenced victims for years. They highlight the ongoing struggle for justice and accountability, painting a vivid picture of the urgent need for change in such high-powered environments.

Recent explosions in Lebanon have sparked a security frenzy, targeting Hezbollah's communication systems. The group blames Israel, with Mossad as a potential culprit behind the chaos. Hezbollah's shift to pagers for secure communication has revealed vulnerabilities. The podcast dives into the implications of espionage and cyber warfare, highlighting Israel's dominance in these arenas. Escalating tensions between Hezbollah and Israel are analyzed, particularly in light of airstrikes and looming threats of retaliation.

Ana Faguy, a BBC reporter from the Washington Bureau, and Ashley Spillane, a former president of Rock the Vote, dive into the influence of celebrity endorsements on U.S. elections. They discuss whether stars like Taylor Swift and Elon Musk can sway voters, especially the youth. From the dynamics of social media to the historical impact of celebrity appeal, the conversation reveals how endorsements can energize campaigns but also carry risks. They explore the fine line between engaging fans and alienating diverse audiences in the political arena.

Yogita Limaye, a South Asia Correspondent for the BBC, discusses the severe restrictions faced by women and girls in Afghanistan under Taliban rule. She shares heartbreaking stories of hopelessness, mental distress, and the backlash against protests. Limaye explores the Taliban's promises versus reality, detailing their oppressive measures impacting education and employment. The conversation emphasizes the urgent need for global awareness and support as Afghan women navigate this climate of fear, revealing both despair and resilience in their struggle for rights.

Ireland is facing an unexpected surge in far-right sentiments driven by rising anti-immigrant feelings. Recent violent incidents, like the Dublin riots, highlight the chaos fueled by social media misinformation. The podcast delves into the country's complex immigration history, contrasting it with the current political climate. Protests over asylum seeker housing reveal community tensions, while addressing false narratives becomes vital for social cohesion. As Ireland approaches elections, the challenge of racism and immigration remains a pressing societal concern.

Caitríona Perry, a prominent journalist, Sumi Somaskanda, an experienced reporter, and Katty Kay, a seasoned broadcaster, dive deep into the aftermath of the Harris-Trump debate. They discuss whether it swayed undecided voters, especially in swing states. The trio examines the candidates' strategies to engage with working-class voters, focusing on issues like affordability. They highlight the complex dynamics of voter turnout in battleground areas and share insights on how demographic shifts are impacting local politics as the election date nears.

Katya Adler, a savvy journalist focused on Russian geopolitics, joins seasoned Russia editor Steve Rosenberg to discuss a troubling trend of citizens reporting anti-war views post-Ukraine invasion. They delve into the historical context of denunciations, drawing chilling parallels to the Soviet era. Personal stories highlight the culture of fear and repression, exemplified by individuals facing harsh consequences for dissent. The conversation also touches on resilient voices like 87-year-old Dimitri, who continues to fight for free speech against immense societal pressure.

Journalist and filmmaker Amitab sheds light on the dark issue of female infanticide in India, revealing how midwives in Bihar have historically participated in this tragic practice. He discusses the deep-rooted cultural biases and socio-economic pressures that lead families to reject baby girls. Amitab also highlights initiatives by NGOs to shift societal attitudes and the critical role of midwives in raising awareness. The conversation touches on personal stories of adoption, as well as the ongoing fight for gender equality amidst these distressing realities.

Courtney Subramanian, a BBC political journalist, and Bernd Debusmann, a seasoned BBC reporter, dissect the fiery first debate between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris. They delve into the heated exchanges over immigration, abortion rights, and economic policies. Personal attacks added spice to their clash, raising questions about voter impact as election day approaches. They also explore the candidates' contrasting international views, particularly on the Ukraine war and the Israel-Hamas situation, highlighting the stakes for national security.