Sensemaker

The price of eggs has skyrocketed. While Trump made them a central issue during his campaign, the problem runs deeper than inflation. Why could eggs spark a political crisis for the president? Writer: Phoebe Davis Producer: Gary MarshallHost: Claudia Williams Episode photography: Roisín SavageExecutive Producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Elon Musk has called the so-called Department of Government Efficiency, which he runs, “maximally transparent”. But it’s taking entire teams of reporters to piece together what is really happening inside The White House.Writer: Patricia ClarkeProducer: Patricia ClarkeHost: Tomini Babs Episode photography: Roisín Savage Executive Producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas has expired, and hopes for a second phase are fading fast. With hostages still held in Gaza and political tensions rising in Israel, is renewed war now inevitable?To listen to Chloe Hadjimatheou on The News Meeting click here: lnk.to/2JnIOkWriter: Xavier Greenwood with additional reporting from Lilly Cheslaw.Producer: Casey MagloireHost: Casey MagloirePhotography: Roisin SavageExecutive Producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Donald Trump’s explosive press conference with Volodymyr Zelensky didn’t just strain US-Ukraine relations, it upended the established post-WWII world order.Writer: Phoebe Davis Additional reporting: Cecily AtkinsonProducer: Ada Barumé Host: Tomini BabsEpisode photography: Roisín SavageExecutive Producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

More than 1,000 musicians have released a silent album in protest against new UK government proposals to change copyright law. Will the silence be too deafening for the government to ignore?Writer: Jess SwinburneProducer: Katie GunningExecutive Producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The risk of a large asteroid hitting Earth in 2032 has dropped to nearly zero – but it could still hit the moon. Nasa’s Acting Planetary Defense Officer explains how her team is assessing the risk.Reporter: Patricia ClarkeProducer: Patricia ClarkeHost: Claudia WilliamsExecutive Producer: Rebecca MoorePhotography: Joe Mee Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 This year’s Oscars are more political than ever, with Anora being the critics’ favorite for Best Picture. But could its portrayal of sex work signal a real shift in Hollywood’s attitude, or is it just another fleeting moment?Writer: Stephen ArmstrongProducer: Ada BaruméHost: Tomini BabsEpisode photography: Joe MeeExecutive Producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In a massive shake-up of the US armed forces, the Trump administration has fired the country’s most senior military officer, the admiral leading the navy and several other senior figures. Why? And what does that mean for the world’s most powerful military?Writer: Jasper CorbettProducer: Xavier Greenwood Host: Casey MagloireExecutive Producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Germany’s far-right party, Alternative für Deutschland, secured second place in the weekend’s election, doubling its previous vote share. With concerns that the long-standing “firewall” against the AfD is weakening, can incoming Chancellor Friedrich Merz navigate domestic and global challenges to stop its rise?Writer: Cat NeilanProducer: Casey Magloire Host: Claudia WilliamsExecutive Producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ukraine’s rare earth minerals have become a bargaining chip in high-stakes negotiations with the US. As President Trump pushes for access to half of Ukraine’s deposits, we explore what’s at stake—and why Kyiv is under pressure to strike a deal.Writer and producer: Katie GunningArt work: Joe MeeExecutive Producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The rebel group, M23 have taken control of a second city in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo. What do they want? And is there anything that can be done to bring peace to a country after three decades of conflict? Writer: Ada BaruméProducer: Ada BaruméHost: Tomini BabsExecutive Producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For the second time Vogue has broken with tradition and excluded the First Lady from the front cover. What does this snub tell us about the changing media and political landscape in the US? Writer and producer: Jess SwinburneHost: Claudia WilliamsEpisode Photography: Lola Williams Executive Producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tesla sales are plummeting across Europe. Elon Musk's political antics might have something to do with it. Writer: Patricia ClarkeProducer: Patricia ClarkeHost: Tomini BabsEpisode photography: Lola Williams Executive Producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Self-test rape kits are being promoted as a way to empower survivors, but experts warn they could undermine prosecutions. This debate raises a bigger question: how can we balance support for survivors with the need for justice?Writer: Phoebe Davis Producer: Casey MagloireHost: Casey MagloireEpisode photography: Lola WilliamsExecutive Producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 Donald Trump’s new defense secretary has signaled a dramatic shift in US policy on Ukraine, raising alarms across Europe. As fears of appeasement grow and Western alliances are tested, what does this mean for the future of European security?Writer: Cat NeilanProducer: Ada BaruméHost: Tomini BabsExecutive Producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After she died three of Joan Didion’s trustees found the writer’s 25-year-old diary and took the decision to publish her entries in full.Writer: Elaine McCalligProducer: Casey MagloirePhotography: Joe MeeExecutive Producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week the British government released footage of authorities arresting migrants who, it says, are in the UK illegally. With a new security-focused immigration bill currently under debate in Parliament, is Labour taking a page from the White House’s playbook on immigration?Writer: Serena CesareoProducer: Serena CasareoHost: Tomini BabsExecutive Producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the dead of night, thieves raid a Dutch museum, making off with priceless Romanian artefacts. As the hunt for the stolen treasures continues, what does this art heist tell us about the future of cultural heritage?Writer: Claudia WilliamsProducer: Casey MagloireHost: Tomini Babs Episode photography: Joe MeeExecutive Producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Elon Musk isn’t just advising Donald Trump, he’s reshaping the federal government in his image. From mass layoffs to deregulation, his influence is growing – but will it lead to efficiency or upheaval?Episode writer: Xavier Greenwood Producer: Casey MagloireExecutive producer: Rebecca Moore  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A groundbreaking film with record-breaking nominations, Emilia Perez seemed unstoppable - until one of its lead actors became the center of a media firestorm. Could the backlash cost the film its Oscar dreams?Episode writer: Aleena Augustine Additional reporting: Jess Swinburne and Bex Sander Producer: Ada BarumeExecutive Producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After Tortoise first reported on the allegations against Neil Gaiman last year, more women have shared their allegations of sexual abuse. Now, one woman has taken her story to the courts and filed a new lawsuit against Gaiman and his estranged wife, Amanda Palmer. Episode writer: Phoebe Davis. Producer: Casey MagloireExecutive Producer: Matt Russell Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Donald Trump has proposed a US takeover of Gaza, suggesting the permanent displacement of its palestinian population. While the plan is unlikely to happen, has he shifted the debate on the region’s future?This episode was written by Claudia Williams with additional reporting by Lilly Cheslaw. It was produced by Matt Russell. The Executive Producer was Rebecca Moore.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When police sealed off an abandoned gold mine in South Africa to crack down on illegal mining, dozens of men were left trapped underground. This deadly standoff reveals the harsh realities of the country’s illegal mining industry.Thank you for listening to the Sensemaker from Tortoise.This episode was written and mixed by Casey Magloire.Episode photography by Joe MeeThe executive producer is Rebecca Moore  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The UK chancellor Rachel Reeves has backed a third Heathrow runway, saying the airport expansion will meet the government’s climate targets because of ‘green aviation’. But is there such a thing?Reporter: Xavier GreenwoodProducer: Xavier GreenwoodExecutive Producer: Rebecca MoorePhotography: Joe Mee Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A new Chinese AI model sent shockwaves through the US financial markets last week. Will it transform the tech industry forever?Reporter: Patricia ClarkeProducer: Patricia ClarkeExecutive Producer: Rebecca MoorePhotography: Joe Mee Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Valerie Huber, a little-known but influential activist, has spent years shaping policies to restrict access to abortion. Now Donald Trump is back in the White House her influence will be felt globally. Writer: Phoebe Davis Producer: Casey MagloireHost: Claudia WilliamsEpisode photography: Joe MeeExecutive Producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What's behind an Israeli military operation and surging settler violence in the West Bank following the Gaza ceasefire?Writer: Lilly CheslawProducer: Katie GunningExecutive Producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Many young people saw the Lifetime ISA as their ticket onto the housing ladder. But with soaring property prices and a rigid price cap, thousands are now facing unexpected penalties - some are losing thousands in government withdrawal fees. Writer: Barney MacintyreProducer: Patricia ClarkeExecutive Producer: Jasper Corbett Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Donald Trump has pardoned Ross Ulbricht, the creator of the Silk Road, a dark web marketplace that facilitated drug sales using Bitcoin. What does his freedom tell us about the future of cryptocurrency?Writers: Xavier Greenwood Producer: Casey MagloirePhotography: Joe MeeHost: Claudia Williams Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the wake of the Southport murders, the UK Government is reviewing its terrorism strategy and considering adopting a broader definition. But will this stop lone wolf attacks in the future?Writer: Cat NeilanProducer: Ada BaruméHost: Claudia Williams Executive Producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For the first time since 2000, Syria has ushered in a new year without President Assad as their autocratic head of state. But what's next for the country? Two Syrians share their hopes and fears for the future. Writer: Ada Barumé Producer: Ada BaruméHost: Tomini BabsExecutive Producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Before last year’s election Donald Trump vowed to carry out the biggest mass deportations in American history, targeting millions of undocumented immigrants from day one of his presidency. Five days since his inauguration… does it look like he will succeed?Writer: Serena CesareoProducer: Serena CasareoHost: Tomini BabsExecutive Producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Yesterday Prince Harry settled his long-running legal battle with Rupert Murdoch’s newspaper group. It’s being hailed as a victory for the royal, but who has actually won?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 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 [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The England men’s cricket team faces calls to boycott an upcoming match against Afghanistan in protest of the Taliban’s oppressive policies, particularly their human rights abuses against women and girls. But should athletes be forced to take a stand?Writers: Phoebe Davis and Andrew ButlerProducer: Casey MagloirePhotography: Joe MeeHost: Tomini Babs Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Donald Trump is sworn in for his second term as President of the United States. What did his Inauguration Address tell us about the direction he is setting for America and the world – from immigration and climate change to the future of Ukraine?Writer: David TaylorProducer: Rebecca MooreHost: Tomini Babs Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This month, the UK government vowed to crack down on explicit AI deepfakes by going after the people who create them. But the story of a popular “nudify” app highlights why tackling the issue is so challenging.Writer: Patricia ClarkeProducer: Patricia ClarkePhotography: Joe MeeExecutive Producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After 15 months of conflict, could this week’s ceasefire deal mark the beginning of the end of one of the deadliest wars in modern history?Writers: Lilly Cheslaw and Rebecca Moore.Producer: Katie Gunning. Photographer: Joe Mee. Executive producer: Jasper Corbett.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Offshore windfarms are powerful generators of clean energy and are a key part of Labour’s green energy pledge. But these colossal turbines can blind the UK’s defence systems. What does this mean, and what can be done about it?This episode was written by Elaine McCallig Mixed by Casey Magloire.Photography by Jon Jones. Executive producer is Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The ongoing legal battle over TikTok’s future could see the app banned from Sunday. As political and legal pressures mount, TikTok's 170 million American users are left wondering if their beloved platform will survive.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 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 [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Silicon Valley is changing. Big tech executives are looking at  another term under Donald Trump and deciding its time for a shake-up. It’s out with the old and in with the new. Writer: Barney MacintyreProducer: Patricia ClarkePhotography: Jon JonesExecutive Producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Niantic, the company behind the game that took the world by storm in 2016, is building a massive geospatial AI model that could end up powering robots – all using player data. The company behind the wildly popular augmented reality game has been quietly helping to train a massive AI model by collecting user data to build a detailed 3D map of the world. While this geospatial model could power innovations like Augmented Reality glasses, there are concerns about privacy and potential uses for military applications.Writer and Producer: Patricia ClarkePhotography: Jon JonesExecutive Producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What are bond yields and why does their rise risk derailing the Labour government’s plans for the UK?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 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 [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

South Korea faced a major crisis when President Yoon imposed martial law late last year. Why do his supporters rally behind him with American ‘Stop the Steal’ flags?Writer: Eleanor BiggsMix: Casey MagloirePhotography: Jon JonesHost: Casey MagloireExecutive Producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Following the closure of the marine zoo they live in, France's last two captive orcas, Wikie and Keijo, face an uncertain future. Could relocating them to a proposed whale retirement home in Canada be their best option?Writer and producer: Claudia WilliamsExecutive producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

At the end of last year fifty one men went on trial in France in connection with the drugging, rape and assault of 72-year-old Gisele Pelicot. After a trial which lasted nearly four months, all were convicted and sentenced, including her ex-husband. What impact will the case have on French laws round consent?Writer: Serena CesareoProducer: Ada BarumeHost: Claudia WilliamsExecutive Producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Despite Silicon Valley promising Artificial Intelligence would revolutionise our daily lives, the reality has been slower to unfold. Writer: Patricia ClarkeProducer: Rebecca MooreHost: Casey Magloire Executive Producer: Matt Russell Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If 2023 was the year weight-loss injections such as Ozempic or WeGovy took over Hollywood, then 2024 was the year they went global. What does that mean for Novo Nordisk, the Danish company making them? And can it live up to the hype?Writer: Claudia WilliamsProducer: Claudia WilliamsPhotography: Joe MeeExecutive producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The King's first full year on the throne has been marked by his illness. Along with that of his daughter-in-law, Catherine, Princess of Wales. What does this year tell us about the state of the royal family?Writer: Xavier GreenwoodProducer: Xavier GreenwoodPhotography: Lola WilliamsExecutive producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How England cricket’s greatest batter got even better in 2024. Writer: Andrew Butler.Producer: Lola WilliamsPhotography: Lola Williams Executive producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The tradwife movement, led by influencers like Nara Smith, sparked intense online debate throughout 2024, particularly following Donald Trump's presidential election victory. What does it tell us about the year?Writer: Jess SwinburneProducer: Jess SwinburneHost: Casey Magloire Executive Producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.