

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 MagloireSubscribe to The Observer today and get access to:Our podcasts before anyone elseA daily edition, curated by our editors 7 days a weekPuzzles from the inventors of the cryptic crosswordRecipes for every occasionFree tickets to join Observer events in our newsroom or onlineClick here to subscribe today for just £1 for your first month. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jul 30, 2024 • 9min
Sensemaker: FlowGPT vs Bad Bunny and the rise of AI-generated music
Bad Bunny, a leading reggaeton artist, discusses the rise of AI-generated music and its implications for the music industry. He shares insights on how his voice has been used in unauthorized tracks and the legal challenges that accompany this new trend. The conversation dives into the innovative project Flow GPT, which explores the fusion of AI and music creation. Bad Bunny also highlights the ethical dilemmas of originality versus plagiarism in a world where machines can replicate iconic artists, raising vital questions about consent and copyright.

Jul 29, 2024 • 35min
News Meeting: An unusual start to the Paris Olympics and Just Stop Oil protesters jailed
Lauren Frayer, an NPR international correspondent, discusses the quirky surprises unfolding at the Paris Olympics, like Snoop Dogg torching and logistical hurdles. Stephen Armstrong examines the harsh sentencing of Just Stop Oil protesters, highlighting tensions between protest rights and government crackdowns. Chloe Hadjimatheou offers insights into the shifting UK stance on Israel, exploring the intricate balance of domestic politics and international relations. The trio weaves humor and serious commentary as they tackle pressing global issues.

Jul 29, 2024 • 7min
Sensemaker: Historic jail terms for Just Stop Oil protestors
This discussion dives into the record sentencing of Just Stop Oil activists, raising questions about civil liberties and the future of climate activism. The severe penalties reflect escalating tensions around UK oil policies and provoke public outcry. It highlights the alarming disparity in sentences between environmental protesters and violent offenders. Various public figures are calling attention to these draconian measures, evoking a deep examination of justice in relation to climate advocacy.

Jul 27, 2024 • 6min
Editor's Voicemail: Why the anti-woke backlash presents an opportunity
The podcast explores the growing backlash against corporate commitments to diversity, equity, and inclusion. It highlights how businesses are retreating from ESG principles and the potential consequences. The discussion reveals that companies that maintain their values during turbulent times might find greater long-term success. The host argues this moment presents a unique opportunity for the brave to thrive in the shifting landscape of corporate ethics.

Jul 26, 2024 • 42min
News Meeting: Kamala Harris brat memes and Keir Starmer suspends Labour rebels
Giles Whittell hosts a lively discussion with Hashi Mohamed, Yasmin Alibhai-Brown, and Stephen Armstrong, tackling hot political topics. They dive into the viral memes of Kamala Harris, exploring their cultural significance and impact on young voters. The group analyzes Keir Starmer's suspension of Labour MPs for rebellion, questioning party unity versus open debate. The conversation then shifts to the urgent crisis of violence against women, emphasizing the need for societal change and collective responses to this pressing issue.

Jul 26, 2024 • 8min
Sensemaker: Strictly Come Dancing loses its shine
Exploring allegations of misconduct in Strictly Come Dancing, impact on reputation, toxic environment claims, professional consequences, and measures taken to ensure a safe environment for contestants.

Jul 25, 2024 • 36min
Trendy: From Butlins to Barcelona: how Brits holiday
The podcast discusses the evolution of British holiday trends, the impact of increased tourism on popular destinations, changing holiday habits of Brits, environmental effects of holidays like air travel emissions, societal impact of holiday trends, and the shift in support from right-wing to progressive parties in Britain's recent election.

Jul 25, 2024 • 7min
Sensemaker: Simone Biles seeks redemption at the Paris Olympics
US gymnast Simone Biles discusses her journey from Olympic triumph to mental health challenges, including the twisties during Tokyo Olympics. She shares her comeback story for redemption at the Paris Olympics.

Jul 24, 2024 • 6min
Sensemaker: What we can learn from the CrowdStrike outage
Discover the aftermath of a global IT failure affecting millions of devices. Dive into the cybersecurity crisis triggered by CrowdStrike's software update, leading to widespread industry impacts and PR challenges. Uncover the details of the recent software outage and the implications for Windows devices worldwide.

Jul 23, 2024 • 7min
Sensemaker: Joe Biden drops out
US President Joe Biden drops out of the 2024 presidential election, shaking up the political landscape. Kamala Harris rises as the Democratic nominee amidst fundraising boosts. Exploring the repercussions and challenges for both Democrats and Republicans in the upcoming election.


