The Slow Newscast

Discover how Hungary morphed into a hub for global conservatism under Viktor Orbán. The discussion dives into the strategic shifts from liberalism to nationalism, revealing the influence of government-funded think tanks. Explore the rise of far-right movements and the contentious battle for LGBTQ rights amid political unrest. The evolving narrative of Pride reflects resistance against the regime, hinting at potential political change. Delve into the manipulation of soft power and its subtle societal effects, including mental health issues like OCD.

In a fascinating conversation, Ted Onslow, a former Soho doorman and close associate of artist Francis Bacon, shares insights into his unusual friendship with the legendary painter. He recounts how a boxing match led to this unlikely bond, intertwining their lives amidst London's vibrant art scene. Ted reflects on the colorful underbelly of Soho, Bacon's chaotic lifestyle, and the artistic legacy they forged together. With anecdotes of camaraderie and intrigue, the discussion unveils how personal connections can immortalize a moment in art history.

Cody Hall, an Indigenous activist and spokesperson for the Red Warrior Camp, shares gripping insights from the Standing Rock protests. He discusses the staggering $666 million lawsuit against Greenpeace, a direct result of these activism efforts. The conversation delves into the bravery displayed by women leaders during protests and the intense confrontation with corporate interests. Hall uncovers the complex interplay of justice, community solidarity, and the environmental racism faced by the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe, all while revealing personal struggles amid systemic surveillance.

Liz Truss, the former UK Prime Minister known for her brief tenure, shares her post-office journey. She dives into her surprising engagement at a Bitcoin conference, signaling her shift towards the populist right. Truss discusses her controversial views on free trade and immigration, reflecting on her political strategies. She also explores the implications of recent legal decisions and offers a glimpse into her unique public endorsements. Throughout, Truss examines the evolving political landscape and her place within the Conservative Party amid uncertainty.

Paul Parsons, cousin of missing person Lloyd Walford, shares the heart-wrenching journey of searching for loved ones in a digital age that makes disappearing alarmingly easy. Kirsty Hillman, who runs the lost contact service at Missing People, discusses the emotional struggles and complexities families face. They explore the societal trends around missing persons, the connection breakdowns within families, and the resilience required in the face of uncertainty. This poignant conversation sheds light on hope, loss, and the human drive to reconnect.

This podcast delves into the harrowing realities faced by policewomen enduring domestic abuse. It highlights their struggles for support within a system meant to protect them, exposing institutional failures and toxic cultures. Personal testimonies reveal the emotional toll and manipulation by abusers who wield authority. The aftermath of high-profile cases like Sarah Everard's murder illustrates the chaotic responses from law enforcement. A call for systemic reform resonates throughout, advocating for better victim support and accountability.

Join Richard Barons, a former Joint Forces commander, and Mark Sedwell, ex-National Security Advisor, as they tackle a hypothetical Russian attack on the UK in a gripping war game simulation. Rob Johnson, leading the exercise, emphasizes the need for collaborative strategies amidst rising geopolitical tensions. Former Secretary Ben Wallace, stepping into the role of Prime Minister, faces the urgency of addressing vulnerabilities in national defense. The conversation dives into missile defense weaknesses, Russian aggression, and the complexities of navigating modern warfare.

Dive into the intriguing clash between wealth and power as Jeff Bezos' lavish wedding plans unfold against his past simpler life. Explore Bezos' ambitious leap into space and the political landscape shaped by figures like Donald Trump. Discover the controversial purchase of a major newspaper and its implications for democracy and free speech. Personal stories shed light on managing OCD amidst a high-stakes corporate environment. Finally, examine the evolving attitudes of tech moguls towards capitalism as they navigate their expanding influence in politics.

In this discussion, Matt Furness from Opta Analyst shares insights on Jamie Vardy's incredible journey from obscurity to becoming a football icon at Leicester City. They delve into the magic of underdog stories in sports and question their rarity in the current financial landscape of football. Vardy's pivotal moments, his inspirational role in Leicester's unforgettable title win, and the hopes of fans for future triumphs of smaller clubs are explored, painting a vivid picture of belief and perseverance in the face of adversity.

Steve Levine, Editor of The Electric, dives into the tumultuous world of Tesla and its enigmatic leader, Elon Musk. Levine analyzes the plummeting stock prices following a meteoric rise tied to political events. He discusses how Musk's controversial actions have sparked consumer backlash, threatening Tesla's image. The conversation also covers Tesla's innovative technology, the competition from new players in the EV market, and Musk's recent strategic choices like the Cybertruck, highlighting the delicate balance between bold risks and market reality.