The Global Story

JD Vance, Donald Trump's VP pick, is discussed in the aftermath of a failed assassination attempt on Trump. The podcast explores unity calls post-event, Vance's alignment with Trump on key issues like immigration, and his representation of the American dream in Hillbilly Elegy. Conspiracy theories following the incident and its impact on the presidential campaign are also examined.

Former Brazilian influencer Kat Torres, convicted of modern slavery, is discussed in this episode. Details of her rise to fame, exploitation of women, and revelations from a Brazilian prison are shared. Journalists share insights into the case and the realities of human trafficking, shedding light on the dark side of social media influence.

Jan Crawford, National Legal Correspondent for CBS, discusses the crisis of confidence in the US Supreme Court due to divisive rulings on abortion, gun rights, and presidential immunity. They also explore public disapproval, ideological divisions, Supreme Court dynamics, recent rulings, and the influence of upcoming US elections.

BBC Persian's senior reporter Parham Ghobadi and women's affairs reporter Faranak Amidi discuss Iran's new president, Masoud Pezeshkian, and the challenges he faces in bringing change, including healing divisions and opening talks with the West. They explore the limitations of his power, impact of sanctions, social unrest, Iran's involvement in regional conflicts, and challenges in opposition to a dysfunctional regime.

Exploring discussions within the Democratic party about Joe Biden's fitness for office post-debate, potential scenarios if he steps down, invoking the 25th Amendment, and considering alternative Democratic candidates like Kamala Harris, Gavin Newsom, Gretchen Whitmer, JB Pritzker, and Pete Buttigieg.

BBC’s Europe digital editor and Paris Bureau Chief for The Economist discuss the surprising left-wing win in the French election, causing political uncertainty. They explore the strategies used against the far-right party and the potential scenarios for France's political future.

Exploring the debate around lab-grown meat, guests Graihagh Jackson and Nick Marsh discuss the potential of this alternative to traditional meat production. They touch on topics like sustainability, taste comparisons to traditional meat, Singapore's pioneering role, environmental concerns, industry challenges, and the slow progress of the lab-grown meat industry.

Rob Watson, The BBC World Service's UK Political Correspondent, discusses Keir Starmer's stunning victory in the UK election, the Labour party's landslide win, and the Conservatives' historic defeat. They explore Starmer's background, approach to party discipline, and the challenges ahead. The podcast delves into the repercussions of the election, the shift in British politics, and the public reactions to the outcome.

Delving into the legacy of past summer blockbusters like Jaws and Jurassic Park, discussing the current success of films such as Top Gun Maverick and the anticipation around upcoming releases like Twisters and A Quiet Place Day One, exploring the trend of underperforming sequels in cinema, analyzing the dominance of franchises in Hollywood, and examining the strategies and challenges faced by the film industry in attracting audiences and staying relevant.

BBC Senior Africa Correspondent, Anne Soy, discusses how Gen Z in Kenya used social media to lead unprecedented protests against tax hikes, forcing President Ruto to backtrack. The episode explores the power of youth activism, government responsiveness, and the changing political landscape in Kenya.