The Slow Newscast

In this engaging discussion, Andrew Boswell, a scientist and climate activist, joins Sam Dimitriou, head of Britain Remade. They dive into the heated conflict between environmental preservation and necessary infrastructure, exploring legal battles over projects that impact local communities. The duo discusses the emotional toll of NIMBYism, the financial challenges of climate litigation, and the transformative projects aimed at rejuvenating the Thames Estuary. They also highlight the critical need for infrastructure to support the UK's green energy transition.

Donald Trump has ordered the federal government to scrap its diversity, equity and inclusion policies, and corporate America has supposedly followed suit. But this has someone else's fingerprints all over it. This is the story of how one man tried to kill an idea.Reporter: Stephen ArmstrongProducer: Ada BaruméSound design: Karla PatellaArtwork: Lola WilliamsEditor: Jasper CorbettTo find out more about Tortoise:Download the Tortoise app – for a listening experience curated by our journalistsSubscribe to Tortoise+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free contentBecome a member and get access to all of Tortoise's premium audio offerings and moreIf you want to get in touch with us directly about a story, or tell us more about the stories you want to hear about contact hello@tortoisemedia.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stephen Fendison, known as CoffeeZilla, is an investigative YouTuber who exposes the wild world of cryptocurrency. He dives into the explosive launch of Donald Trump's meme coin, $TRUMP, and its dramatic rise and fall, examining how speculation and celebrity influence collide. Fendison also highlights a chaotic crypto scene in Argentina with Hayden Davis at its center, facing legal woes over a similar venture. The discussion raises critical questions about the unregulated crypto market and its potential impact on the economy.

Surfing’s ultimate barrier is the 100 foot wave. In Dec 23-year-old Alo Slebir is rumoured to have surfed a 108 foot wave. The problem is no one can agree how big the wave actually was.  Reporter: Claudia Williams Producer: Ada Barumé  Sound design: Karla Patella Artwork: Lola Williams Executive Producer: Matt Russell Editor: Jasper Corbett To find out more about Tortoise: Download the Tortoise app – for a listening experience curated by our journalists Subscribe to Tortoise+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free content Become a member and get access to all of Tortoise's premium audio offerings and more If you want to get in touch with us directly about a story, or tell us more about the stories you want to hear about contact hello@tortoisemedia.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Donald Trump promised to release classified files about extraterrestrials. But even if they disappoint the millions of people hoping to find proof of existence of aliens, there is a growing belief in the scientific community that it is only a matter of time before proof of life outside our solar system is found.Reporter: Giles WhittellProducer: Matt RussellSound design: Dominic DelargyArtwork: Lola WilliamsEditor: Jasper CorbettTo find out more about Tortoise:Download the Tortoise app – for a listening experience curated by our journalistsSubscribe to Tortoise+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free contentBecome a member and get access to all of Tortoise's premium audio offerings and moreIf you want to get in touch with us directly about a story, or tell us more about the stories you want to hear about contact hello@tortoisemedia.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Steve Witkoff, a real estate mogul pivotal in Gaza ceasefire negotiations, reflects on his unexpected role in diplomatic tensions. He recounts his crucial meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu just before Trump’s inauguration. The conversation dives into Witkoff's unique negotiation style, shaped by personal loss and real estate savvy. Listeners gain insight into the complexities of hostages, Israeli politics, and the humanitarian fallout in Gaza, leaving a thought-provoking take on peace prospects and reconstruction efforts.

A man reflects on his teenage years, believing he was a 'lucky boy' for attracting his teacher's attention. The narrative uncovers the complexities of abuse and the lasting trauma it causes. It blends nostalgic accounts of growing up goth in the 1980s with serious themes of power dynamics and consent. As he revisits his turbulent childhood marked by family struggles, listeners hear candid insights into adolescent confusion and the emotional fallout from a significant incident. The story challenges perceptions of victim and abuser.

Amanda Palmer, Neil Gaiman's estranged wife and co-defendant in a significant lawsuit, shares her perspective on the allegations against him. She denies any complicity in the claims of sexual assault made by Scarlett Pavlovich. The discussion highlights the complexities of consent, emotional toll, and the importance of support among women. Palmer also addresses the shift in her role within the narrative, moving from the periphery to a central figure. The conversation reflects on the broader societal implications of these serious allegations for the literary community.

Kat Nealon, a Reporter for Tortoise Media, dives into the controversial Rwanda plan, which saw a staggering £715 million spent with little to show for it. She uncovers the political motivations and implications of this policy on asylum seekers, revealing financial burdens and delays. The discussion highlights internal struggles within the Home Office and the ethical dilemmas faced by civil servants. With legal challenges and public skepticism looming, the bleak reality of this immigration strategy raises pressing questions about its future.

Ilya Merritts, a journalist with experience at the Boston Globe and NPR, dives into the aftermath of the January 6th Capitol insurrection. He discusses the complexities of prosecuting Trump and the implications of his actions on American democracy. Merritts reveals insights into Special Counsel Jack Smith's investigation and the challenges of pursuing accountability amid political turmoil. The conversation explores the societal consequences of disregarded justice and the ongoing impact of those chaotic events on individuals and the nation.