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
Aug 20, 2024 • 48min
The Clooney intervention
George Clooney, a celebrated actor and activist, discusses his pivotal role in reshaping the Democratic narrative during a tense election period. He reflects on the fallout from Biden's shaky debate performance and the party's urgent need for renewed hope. Clooney shares insights on the political turmoil in Georgia and how his own advocacy influenced discussions around Biden's campaign. He highlights the rise of Kamala Harris and the essential dynamics of celebrity activism in contemporary politics, offering a fascinating glimpse into election strategy and leadership.
Aug 14, 2024 • 32min
Taylor Swift's London
Taylor Swift, one of the world's biggest stars, shares her unique connection to London, where her journey from small venues to global fame began. She reflects on personal experiences that shaped her music, including her relationship with Joe Alwyn and the balance between celebrity life and normalcy. The discussion highlights how London's vibrant culture influences her performances and the emotional bond she shares with fans, revealing a complex interplay of nostalgia and connection in her artistry.
Aug 6, 2024 • 45min
Palestine's forgotten leader
Marwan Barghouti has long been touted as the next leader for Palestinians. The only problem is he's locked away in an Israeli jail for the rest of his life. Now it is being whispered he could be released, but after twenty years behind bars, what leadership could he really offer?To 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 more Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Aug 1, 2024 • 40min
Master: the allegations against Neil Gaiman - episode 5
Neil Gaiman, a celebrated author, faces serious allegations of sexual assault from multiple women, including accounts silenced by non-disclosure agreements. The conversation dives deep into the emotional toll on victims and the chilling effects NDAs impose on their pursuit of justice. Gaiman's public stances on free speech and women's rights are analyzed against these painful narratives. Additionally, themes of manipulation, consent, and the complex relationships entangling caretakers reveal the gripping emotional landscape surrounding these allegations.
Jul 31, 2024 • 42min
Master: the allegations against Neil Gaiman - episode 4
Author Neil Gaiman faces serious allegations of non-consensual sex and abuse. The podcast explores the complexities of consent, power dynamics in relationships, and the challenges survivors face in seeking justice. It also delves into the legal nuances of sexual misconduct and the evolving societal perspectives on consent.
Jul 31, 2024 • 35min
Master: the allegations against Neil Gaiman - episode 3
Episode three: The pond New Zealand police tell the former nanny there isn’t enough evidence to actively pursue her sexual assault complaint against Neil Gaiman. He says he offered himself up for an interview with the police. But the facts may indicate otherwise.Clip: 1968 interview with Neil Gaiman - BBC Clip: Big Bang Theory, series 11, episode 21 - CBS/Warner BrosClip: Newsnight - BBC Clip: William Morrow 2014Clip: Politics and Prose bookstore 2013To 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 more Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jul 31, 2024 • 49min
Master: the allegations against Neil Gaiman - episode 2
Episode two: The Whatsapps The former nanny who alleges Neil Gaiman sexually assaulted her shares her WhatsApp messages with him. The messages appear friendly and affectionate. He says they’re evidence that she consented to sex with him. But is there another way of reading them?To 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 more Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jul 31, 2024 • 56min
Master: the allegations against Neil Gaiman - episode 1
Episode one: The bath Neil Gaiman is one of the world’s most successful authors. And one of the most loved. His works have been adapted for film, TV and the stage. Now two women, a former nanny and a fan, allege he sexually assaulted and abused them while they were in consensual relationships with him. He strenuously denies all the allegations.Clip: The Sandman trailer - DC Comics/NetflixClip: The Ocean at the End of the Lane trailer - National TheatreClip: The Simpsons - DisneyTo 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 more Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jul 30, 2024 • 46min
Lost glacier: the climate pioneers
A 70-year-old Swiss woman defies retirement to fight for social justice, leading a group of women to take their government to court over climate negligence. They win a significant ruling, only to face backlash as their activism gains traction. Personal stories intertwine with glacial memories, stressing the emotional connection to the shrinking Alps. The struggles of these women, combined with reflections on resilience and climate justice, highlight the challenges of advocacy in a changing world and the urgent need for effective climate policies.
Jul 23, 2024 • 37min
The Greatest: Simone Biles
Featuring the legendary Simone Biles, the podcast explores her journey from dominating the Rio Olympics to facing mental health issues in Tokyo. It delves into the pressures faced by female gymnasts like Biles and her courage in standing up against the system. The episode also looks forward to her comeback in Paris and the anticipation surrounding her last 15 minutes at the Olympics.
