The News Meeting
The Observer
Every Monday and Friday three journalists battle it out to try and convince the editor that their pitch should lead the news. Discover what goes on behind the scenes in a newsroom. Why do some stories dominate, while others fail to make the cut?Tell us if you agree with the final running order - email newsmeeting@tortoisemedia.com Book your place at a news meeting live in our newsroom - https://www.tortoisemedia.com/our-events Executive Producer: Rebecca MooreProducer: Casey MagloireTo 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 15, 2024 • 7min
Sensemaker: Ukraine advances into Russia
Why did Kyiv launch its surprise offensive and does it plan to hold onto the territory that it’s taken?To find out more about Tortoise:- Download the Tortoise app - for a listening experience curated by our journalists- Subscribe to Tortoise+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and exclusive content- Become 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.
Aug 14, 2024 • 8min
Sensemaker: Rupert Murdoch and the real ‘Succession’ battle
Rupert Murdoch’s vast media empire wields political power in the US and the UK. Now he’s locked in a bitter court case with his own children to ensure it remains right wing.To find out more about Tortoise:- Download the Tortoise app - for a listening experience curated by our journalists- Subscribe to Tortoise+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and exclusive content- Become 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.
Aug 13, 2024 • 7min
Sensemaker: Why GPs are taking industrial action
GPs in England are taking industrial action for the first time in 60 years. What are their demands and are they likely to be met?Correction: In a previous version of this podcast we said Wes Streeting had settled the pay dispute with junior doctors when in fact he made an offer, which is yet to be voted on by BMA members.To find out more about Tortoise:- Download the Tortoise app - for a listening experience curated by our journalists- Subscribe to Tortoise+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and exclusive content- Become 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.
Aug 12, 2024 • 40min
News Meeting: Kamala Harris leads in key states and a call for a fossil-fuel free Olympics
In this engaging discussion, Cat Neilan, a political editor, Stephen Armstrong, a seasoned reporter, and Caroline Lucas, former Green Party leader and author, dive into vital political shifts. They analyze Kamala Harris's rising prominence in key U.S. states and her appeal to independent voters. The trio debates the sustainability of the Olympics, advocating for a fossil-fuel-free event amidst corporate sponsorship issues. Lucas emphasizes a progressive vision for England, urging a reimagining of national identity to combat social division.
Aug 12, 2024 • 6min
Sensemaker: How do you solve a problem like Elon Musk?
The podcast dives into the rise of a far-right figure in the UK and the chaos that ensued after their return to social media. It highlights how Elon Musk's controversial post spread disinformation, fuelling societal unrest. The challenges faced by the government in countering this misinformation reveal deep concerns about public discourse. Additionally, there's scrutiny of the UK government's response to Musk's management of X, questioning the effectiveness of existing regulations. Ethical responsibilities of social media platforms take center stage in this unfolding drama.
Aug 9, 2024 • 46min
News Meeting: An Olympic star takes flight and Elon Musk spreads fake news
Simon Barnes, a seasoned sports writer covering the Paris Olympics, and Tom Heap, an author and presenter on Countryfile, join the discussion. The duo delves into Elon Musk's controversial social media remarks, emphasizing the risks of misinformation during civil unrest. They highlight Olympic moments that inspire, alongside challenges in balancing land use for energy versus agriculture. The conversation brings to light the need for innovative approaches to land management, showcasing how sports and environmental discussions intersect.
Aug 9, 2024 • 8min
Sensemaker: The mystery of Akon City
Akon, the renowned singer known for his ambitious vision to create a real-life Wakanda in Senegal, discusses his transformative project, Akon City. He outlines plans to integrate cutting-edge technology and cryptocurrency into this $6 billion development. However, delays and legal issues cast shadows over his vision. Akon confronts skepticism from the community and local leaders, raising questions about the project's sustainability and future. Can this dream city rise from its troubled beginnings?
Aug 8, 2024 • 32min
Trendy: Keir Starmer’s mission control
Jill Rutter, a senior fellow at the Institute for Government and former civil servant, joins the hosts to unpack the political maneuvers of Keir Starmer's leadership. They discuss how new prime ministers shift government operations and examine Starmer's mission-led approach. The conversation highlights the ongoing complexities between civil servants and ministers, especially in the context of housing and criminal justice reforms. Rutter also shares insights into the Labour Party's public safety strategies and the challenges that lie ahead for the UK government.
Aug 8, 2024 • 8min
Sensemaker: Kamala Harris’s ‘weird’ pick for vice president
Tim Walz, the newly selected running mate for Kamala Harris, shares his inspiring journey from humble beginnings to a prominent political figure. The conversation dives into how his candidacy could shift the dynamics of the presidential race, tackling identity politics and appealing to both moderate and progressive Democrats. They discuss the strategic importance of party unity and the potential impact of Walz's unique strategies on the campaign trail, aiming to engage diverse voter demographics.
Aug 7, 2024 • 8min
Sensemaker: How they pulled off an ‘impossible’ prisoner exchange
A landmark prisoner exchange saw 24 individuals released between Russia and the West, sparking debates about who truly benefits. The political ramifications for the Biden administration unfold as three former prisoners arrive at Andrews Air Force Base. The saga deepens with the controversial release of Vadim Krasikov, tied to a politically charged assassination in Germany. Analyzing these high-stakes negotiations sheds light on the intricate dynamics affecting U.S.-Russia relations and the ripple effects on Putin's regime.
