The Slow Newscast
The Observer
The Slow Newscast from The Observer takes the news slowly. We investigate, and every week we focus on stories that really matter in the UK and around the world. From wars in Ukraine and Gaza through to true crime and injustice and real life mysteries, The Slow Newscast team is devoted to narrative investigations covering some of the biggest topics of the day.Who are the people biohacking themselves in a quest for immortality? Or the man taking on an entire nation in the high seas to protect whales? And what happened when humanity's most distant messenger fell silent? From a newsroom with a different approach to journalism these are the stories we tell.To find out more about The Observer:Subscribe to TheObserver+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free contentHead to our website observer.co.uk Download the Tortoise app – for a listening experience curated by our journalistsIf 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.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Oct 6, 2025 • 39min
Gaza's Deadly Aid
Ruth Michaelson, an investigative reporter focused on aid distribution in Gaza, joins Anthony Aguilar, a former U.S. Army Special Operations serviceman, to discuss harrowing realities at aid checkpoints. They delve into the chaos, including gunfire incidents and the challenges faced by civilians like Safa trying to access vital aid. Aguilar shares insights on the recruitment of ex-military contractors and the troubling militarization of humanitarian efforts. The conversation highlights the dire choices Palestinians face as they navigate threats and scarcity.
Sep 30, 2025 • 32min
An uncivil war inside Unite
Jon Ungoed-Thomas, an investigative reporter for The Observer, dives into the tumultuous waters of Unite the Union and its internal struggles. He unveils the contentious Hoborn protest over alleged bullying and dives into confidential settlements shrouded in secrecy. The conversation highlights the impact of former leader Len McCluskey's legacy and the ongoing controversies from the 2023 Executive Council elections. Jon also discusses the financial ramifications of recent strikes under new leader Sharon Graham and what disaffiliation from Labour could mean for the union's future.
Sep 25, 2025 • 5min
Introducing ... We Have Notes
Join Liv Little and Miranda Sawyer as they explore the vibrant world of culture, discussing everything from reality TV drama to thought-provoking art house films. Their witty banter covers the latest TikTok trends and gallery openings. Each week, they share personal insights on nightlife and media, inviting listeners to join the conversation through voice notes. With strong opinions and sharp observations, this show promises to keep you entertained and informed about the cultural landscape.
Sep 23, 2025 • 41min
Contagion: RFK Jr’s war on public health
Insiders tell the story of how the US Health Secretary, Robert F Kennedy Jr, has hollowed out the Center for Disease Control putting the whole world at risk in the event of another pandemic. Reporter: Stephen ArmstrongProducer: Ada BaruméSound design: Dominic DelargyArt work: Lola WilliamsEditor: Jasper Corbett To find out more about The Observer:Subscribe to TheObserver+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free content head to our website observer.co.uk Download the Tortoise app – for a listening experience curated by our journalists Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Sep 16, 2025 • 41min
The match: My sister and her new DNA
Brett Ratner, an American stem cell donor, shares his powerful journey of connecting with Nadia, a sister battling leukemia. He discusses the challenges of joining the donor registry and the intense emotional landscape of the donation process. The podcast highlights how receiving new DNA can alter personal identity, the unique experience of meeting Nadia and her family, and the bond formed through altruism. Ratner reflects on the significance of hope and connection amidst the complexities of illness and recovery.
26 snips
Sep 9, 2025 • 42min
The immortality bros: the new frontiers of health
In a city in Honduras, a start-up is selling experimental gene therapies for $25,000 a dose, sparking discussions on the future of healthcare. The intriguing mix of radical health treatments and libertarian ideals is making its way to the U.S. The conversation dives into Jim O'Neill's vision for patient empowerment and controversial reforms to the FDA. Listeners hear about thrilling seasteading escapades and legal battles, alongside the ethical dilemmas surrounding unproven longevity treatments and expanding right-to-try laws in Montana.
Sep 2, 2025 • 29min
The diva and the dictator: opera at war
The podcast dives into the controversial life of opera star Anna Netrebko, whose past support for Putin has led to widespread boycotts, yet she's set to perform at the Royal Opera House. Tensions arise as protests and open letters from fellow artists challenge her return. The discussion reflects on the complex ties between art and politics, showcasing the struggles of Russian artists and the efforts of Ukrainian orchestras to preserve cultural identity amidst conflict. Anecdotes of vibrant friendships and stage memories add a rich layer to the artistic narrative.
11 snips
Aug 26, 2025 • 36min
The great British honey scandal
Sarah Wyndham Lewis is a trained honey sommelier and innovative beekeeper allergic to bees, bringing a unique perspective to the honey industry. She highlights the unsettling rise of honey fraud, revealing how sugar syrup often masquerades as real honey. The podcast dives into the environmental factors that influence honey's taste and the urgent challenges urban beekeepers face. Listeners learn about a significant honey adulteration scandal and the crucial need for regulatory reform to protect authentic honey amid a flooded market.
9 snips
Aug 19, 2025 • 40min
The mother and the gangs
Jodi-Ann Taylor, a devoted mother and advocate, shares her heartbreaking journey following the murder of her son, Dejan Campbell, at just 15 years old. She discusses the systemic failures that leave families vulnerable to gang violence and the emotional turmoil of navigating her son's troubling teenage years. With her fierce resolve, Jodi-Ann highlights the urgent need for collective action against the rising tide of youth violence, calling for a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by families in distressed communities.
10 snips
Aug 12, 2025 • 37min
Signal failure: Who killed HS2?
Paul Stevenson, former special advisor in the Department for Transport, shares insights on the catastrophic unraveling of the HS2 project. He discusses how it transformed from a beacon of engineering ambition into the UK's largest infrastructure scandal. Stevenson delves into the project's budget overruns, legislative hurdles, and the consequences of a speed-obsessed strategy. He highlights whistleblower incidents, financial mismanagement, and the political turmoil that led to lost promises for affected communities, sparking a broader conversation about accountability in infrastructure planning.
