The Slow Newscast

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.

Lou Lancaster, a former special needs teacher turned climate activist, shares her journey after serving prison time for protests. Sophie Caron, an ex-advertising professional, discusses her radical actions with Extinction Rebellion. They dive into the emotional impacts of activism, illustrating the joy of reunion after prison and the severe legal repercussions they faced. The conversation also explores the current landscape of climate activism, the government's crackdown on dissent, and the moral complexities of civil disobedience in the fight for climate justice.

In this gripping exploration, Lucy Reed Casey, a family barrister and chair of The Transparency Project, unpacks the tragic tale of Sara Sharif. She delves into the chilling judicial decisions that granted parental responsibility to those who ultimately caused Sara’s suffering. The discussion reveals systemic failures in protecting vulnerable children, the complexities surrounding custody battles in abusive environments, and the tough dilemmas faced by judges. Lucy emphasizes the urgent need for reform in family courts to prevent such tragedies in the future.

John Simpson, the Home Affairs Editor for The Observer, shares insights into the troubled history of the Police Federation. He discusses how this powerful organization, which represents police officers, has strayed from its mission. Key topics include the dysfunctional internal culture marked by fear and reluctance to address misconduct, the diminishing influence of the Federation, and the disconnection between leadership and officers. Simpson dives into the challenges police face today and the urgent need for reform within this crucial institution.

Dive into the startling role of North Korean troops in the Ukraine war. Discover the psychological struggles they face and their unexpected deployment in combat. Explore their challenges in adapting to modern warfare during the Battle of Kursk, leading to heavy casualties. Uncover the growing military alliance between North Korea and Russia, driven by arms trade and strategic ties. Through their stories, gain insight into the harsh realities of life under Kim Jong-un's regime and the hopes of those seeking freedom.