The Global Story

In this gripping discussion, Sarah Rainsford, BBC's Eastern Europe correspondent, shares her on-the-ground insights from Ukraine. She reveals the poignant story of Lyudmila, a daughter searching for her parents who disappeared during the war. The conversation explores the emotional turmoil of families disrupted by conflict, the dangers of being labeled a traitor, and the harrowing realities faced by individuals in search of justice amidst chaos. Despite the heartache, themes of resilience and hope shine through in this deeply human narrative.

Farida Alghol, a Palestinian woman who returned to Gaza City after 15 months away, shares her powerful journey of rediscovery amidst devastation. Nick Beake, a BBC correspondent in Jerusalem, offers insights on the challenging conditions facing returning residents. They discuss the emotional turmoil of seeing ravaged homes and the struggles of rebuilding lives in a city filled with memories of loss. Together, they explore the hope, resilience, and complex political implications surrounding the future of Gaza.

In this discussion, Chris Miller, a Tufts University historian specializing in semiconductor technology and author of "Chip War," explores the sudden rise of the Chinese AI chatbot DeepSeek. He unpacks its potential to disrupt the tech landscape, especially in relation to American companies like Nvidia, which saw a shocking 17% drop in stock value. Miller delves into the geopolitical implications of this competition, highlighting how DeepSeek's success poses significant challenges to U.S. dominance in AI and semiconductor manufacturing.

Julie Green, a Professor of American Studies, and Michelle Fleury, BBC's North America business correspondent, dive deep into the Panama Canal's storied past and its recent resurgence in U.S. political discourse. They discuss Trump’s ambitions to reclaim the canal, viewed as a strategic move against China's growing influence. Green highlights the engineering marvel behind the canal, while Fleury analyzes the economic implications and rising transit fees that are reshaping U.S.-Panama relations.

Tova Friedman, an Auschwitz survivor, author, and therapist, reflects on her experiences as one of the youngest inmates at just five years old. She emphasizes the importance of remembering the Holocaust as a means to educate future generations. Tova shares her journey of survival and revisits Auschwitz to honor the victims. She also discusses her unique approach to connecting with young people through TikTok, utilizing personal storytelling to combat hatred and emphasize resilience. Her impactful narrative urges listeners to recognize the lessons of history.

Donald Trump is shaking things up in his second term with a flurry of executive orders, addressing issues from immigration to public health. The podcast dives into contrasting leadership styles from past administrations, highlighting the challenges faced in implementing new immigration policies. Legal battles loom over these reforms, showcasing the polarized responses from various states. The impact on federal workforce diversity and the cultural wars intertwining with economic struggles are also explored, revealing the complexities of governance in tumultuous times.

Jonathan Head, the BBC's Southeast Asia correspondent, discusses Thailand's groundbreaking same-sex marriage law, which makes it the first country in Asia to legally affirm equal marriage rights. He highlights the joy of couples celebrating their unions amidst a backdrop of political change. The conversation examines Thailand's unique position as a haven for LGBTQ+ individuals in a conservative region, the shifting societal attitudes, and the ongoing struggles for further progress in LGBTQ+ rights across Asia.

In this intriguing discussion, Dr. Andrew Steele, a scientist and the author of 'Ageless,' shares his expertise on the biology of aging. He explores groundbreaking research that could help slow or even reverse aging. With insights on lifestyle choices, he highlights how these can enhance both lifespan and healthspan. The conversation also delves into innovative treatments like senolytic drugs and cellular reprogramming, while raising ethical questions surrounding longevity and overall health, including the surprising impact of oral hygiene.

In this discussion, Frank Gardner, BBC's security correspondent with extensive knowledge of Middle Eastern affairs, delves into the evolving landscape of the region. He analyzes the vulnerabilities of Hamas and Hezbollah amid Trump's presidency and the implications for Iran's weakened influence. The conversation touches on the impact of the Abraham Accords, the potential for renewed conflict in Gaza, and the complexities surrounding U.S.-Iran negotiations. Gardner offers a compelling insight into what these dynamics might mean for peace and stability moving forward.

In this engaging discussion, BBC journalists Anthony Zurcher and Chris Mason dive into the implications of Donald Trump's return to the presidency. Zurcher provides sharp insights on the political climate in Washington, focusing on Trump's ambitious policies and strategies. Mason highlights the UK government's perspective on these changes, particularly regarding trade and foreign relations. They explore Trump's controversial inaugural speech and its global ramifications, including immigration enforcement and geopolitical tensions, all while reflecting on the evolving landscape of politics and social media.