Sensemaker

Rachel Sylvester, a political editor and reporter, explores the surprising connection between gaming and military recruitment. She discusses how the army is tapping into the skills of gamers for drone operations, highlighting the direct-entry scheme that values gaming expertise. The conversation delves into the implications of mock drone strikes and the risks of AI in warfare. Additionally, Rachel raises concerns about the gamification of conflict, emphasizing how it may dehumanize military actions. Tune in for a thought-provoking look at the intersection of technology and modern warfare.

Tim Leunig, an economist and former economic advisor to the UK government, dives deep into Chancellor Rachel Reeves's budget aimed at reducing living costs. He explains the delicate balance of funding through increased taxes and the impact on inflation, energy bills, and other essentials. Tim highlights the significance of raising minimum wages and the potential removal of the two-child benefit cap to alleviate child poverty. He also discusses the uncertainties of projected economic improvements and how external shocks could affect the plan's success.

In this discussion, Ruth Michelson, a Middle East correspondent at The Observer, shares her deep insights into the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. She reveals sharply rising casualties following the ceasefire and highlights the dire challenges of food shortages and aid access. Michelson explains the impact of local gangs filling power vacuums and the worsening conditions for displaced Palestinians due to flooding. She also addresses the complexities of Trump's Gaza peace plan and the significant gaps in ongoing diplomacy, underscoring the necessity of U.S. involvement for lasting peace.

In this insightful discussion, Bernard Gray, a national security expert and contributing editor for The Observer, delves into the contentious peace plan proposed by President Trump for Ukraine. He highlights how the plan aligns with Putin's objectives, presenting territory gains and NATO exclusions. Bernard critiques the skewed benefits, pointing out that while Russia emerges stronger, Ukraine faces a perilous choice. The conversation also sheds light on the challenges Zelensky encounters with a looming deadline and how European leaders are scrambling to regain influence amidst these negotiations.

Phoebe Davis, a reporter at The Observer, dives into the UK COVID inquiry findings. She discusses the timeline leading to the March 2020 lockdown, revealing key moments of inaction in February. Phoebe explains how earlier distancing measures could have significantly reduced deaths. She critiques the government’s delay in mandating restrictions despite urgent warnings from SAGE. The conversation highlights critical lessons for handling future pandemics, emphasizing the need for better communication and preparedness.

Michael Jackson has become the first artist to achieve a top 10 hit single in six different decades, right as the trailer for his new biopic has been released. How do fans of the star reconcile the allegations when interacting with his work?’To listen to Liv and Miranda on We Have Notes visit: lnk.to/wehavenotesWriter: Casey MagloireProducer: Casey MagloireHost: Casey MagloireEpisode photography: Joe MeeExecutive Producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As COP30 wraps up in Brazil, climate change experts warn that not only have we missed the 1.5 degree target for global average temperature increase, but we are now on a path to 2.6 degrees.Writer: Casey MagloireProducer: Poppy BullardHost: Tomini BabsEpisode photography: Joe MeeExecutive Producer: Rebecca Moore  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Qian Zhimin has been dubbed the cryptoqueen after UK Police discovered she had approximately £5 billion of stolen investments. But how was she caught? Host: Ada BaruméWriter: Casey MagloireProducer: Amalie Sortland Reporters: Poppy Sebag-Montefiore and Phoebe Davis Episode photography: Joe MeeExecutive Producer: Matt Russell Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On Sunday, America announced that it had moved the world’s biggest aircraft carrier within striking distance of Venezuela. Its addition to an already sizable fleet marks the biggest US military build up in the Caribbean since the Cold War.Writer: Jonathan LewisProducer: Jonathan LewisHost: Ada BaruméEpisode photography: Sofia FentonExecutive Producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nicotine pouches are flying off the shelves across the UK – and increasingly, it’s teenagers buying them.Host: Tomini BabsWriter & Producer: Amalie SortlandEpisode Photography: Sofia FentonExecutive producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.