Sensemaker

Bec Sander, a Data and Graphics Reporter at The Observer, dives into the captivating world of 'AI slop'—those viral yet low-quality AI-generated visuals flooding social media. She defines AI slop and highlights its appeal, from anthropomorphized animals to quirky political memes. The discussion also covers the launch of new video tools like OpenAI's Sora and Meta's Vibes, as well as the rising risks associated with deepfakes and the monetization strategies driving AI video content. Buckle up for a fascinating exploration of AI creativity gone wild!

On Sunday rebel forces in Sudan captured the key city of el-Fasher. Reports suggest that tens of thousands of people were killed in a matter of days.Writer: Fred Harter.Producer: Casey MagloireHost: Tomini BabsEpisode photography: Joe MeeExecutive Producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Freddie Otto, a climate science professor at Imperial College London, dives into the alarming intensification of Hurricane Melissa. He explains how human-induced climate change has made such extreme storms four times more likely. With insights from climate models, Otto describes the critical factors—ocean heat and atmospheric stability—that fueled Melissa's power. He highlights the unequal impacts on Jamaica, emphasizing the need for better preparedness and efficient aid for the most vulnerable communities after the hurricane's devastation.

Daniel Levy, a former Israeli peace negotiator, offers insights into the controversial plans of a small group of Israeli settlers eager to move into Gaza. He discusses the implications of these settlements on peace efforts and the support from influential political movements. Levy highlights how settlers employ strategies like land confiscation and infrastructure development to secure their presence. He also warns that continued Israeli control could lead to permanent settlements, raising concerns for local Palestinians amid shifting political dynamics.

Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) make up more than half of all the food we eat in the UK and there are increasing fears about the implications for our health. Host: Ada BaruméWriter & Producer: Amalie SortlandEpisode Photography: Sofia FentonExecutive producer: Katie Gunning Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When Donald Trump tried to buy Greenland, he forced Denmark to tackle longstanding grievances. Reporter: Isabel Coles Writer: Casey MagloireProducer: Amalie SortlandHost: Casey MagloireEpisode photography: Joe MeeExecutive Producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In one of the most audacious art crimes in history, masked thieves raided the Louvre and escaped with France’s crown jewels.Host: Casey MagloireWriter & Producer: Amalie SortlandEpisode Photography: Joe MeeExecutive producer: Rebecca MooreTo 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 journalists Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

London has earned a reputation as Europe’s phone theft capital. A record 80,000 phones were stolen last year. Yet data shows a twist – while devices are at risk, people themselves are safer than they’ve been in decades.Host: Casey MagloireWriter & Producer: Amalie SortlandEpisode Photography: Joe MeeExecutive producer: Katie Gunning 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 journalists Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From Madagascar to Nepal, young people are leading protest movements that are shaking the foundations of power. What’s fuelling this global wave of unrest – and can it lead to lasting change?Writer: Jonathan LewisProducer: Poppy BullardHost: Andrew ButlerEpisode photography: Sofia FentonExecutive Producer: Matt Russell Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Last week, Prince Andrew announced he will no longer use his title or honours. But why has the prince lost his titles now?Writer: Madeleine ParrProducer: Madeleine ParrHost: Casey MagloireEpisode photography: Sofia FentonExecutive Producer: Matt Russell Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.