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.

In this gripping discussion, reporters Louise Tickle, who focuses on family courts, and Hannah Summers, an investigative journalism expert, dive into the complexities of child custody battles. They explore the chilling effects of parental alienation and question the objectivity of expert testimonies. They share poignant stories of families navigating the court system, unveiling biases that can warp outcomes. The conversation highlights the urgent need for bias-free assessments to truly prioritize children's best interests in tumultuous custody disputes.

In October 2022, a critical juncture in the Ukraine conflict revealed alarming nuclear threats from Russia. As Ukraine gained ground, fears escalated within Russia about potential defeat, raising the stakes dramatically. Diplomatic conversations emphasized the dire consequences of using nuclear weapons. Additionally, the podcast delves into the historical context of nuclear strategies and the propagation of misinformation that swirls around these threats. The complexities of international responses and the geopolitical landscape are laid bare, highlighting the delicate balance of power.

Alexei Mostrous, a seasoned reporter investigating the GRU, and Gary Marshall, the episode's producer, delve into the tumultuous world of Russian intelligence. They reveal shocking acts of aggression by the GRU across Europe, including a violent attack in Latvia. The discussion highlights the complexity of hybrid threats, focusing on Estonia's cyber vulnerabilities and recruitment via Telegram. Their insights expose ongoing intelligence challenges and the strategic responses needed to address this formidable adversary.

Jordan Peterson, a controversial psychologist and author known for his views on masculinity, dives into the crisis facing young men today. He discusses the importance of responsibility and community, linking traditional values of manhood to modern challenges. The conversation also touches on personality traits that define successful entrepreneurs and the impact of social media on masculinity. Additionally, Peterson reflects on identity in today's society, highlighting a rising interest in religious affiliation among young men as a search for meaning.