The Standard

Thousands of patients across London will now have access to urgent dental appointments as the Government begins efforts to rebuild NHS dentistry.However, leaders in the profession insist ministers should have “fired the starting gun” last summer.To learn more, we’re joined by Len D’Cruz from the British Dental Association, a practice owner and dentist in Woodford Green, East London. He explains the harrowing situations he has witnessed, including cases of DIY dentistry.In part two, The London Standard’s food and drink writer, Josh Barrie, visits Forty Hall Vineyard, a hidden gem just a few miles from the heart of the capital. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why do Koreans live longer than the rest of us? According to research from Imperial College London, South Korea is on track to lead the world in longevity, with average life expectancy set to exceed 90 years. So what’s their secret? In today’s episode, Nicola Barron is joined by Michelle Jungmin Bang, author of Sun and Ssukgat: The Korean Art of Self-Care, Wellness, and Longevity. Michelle shares insights into the Korean approach to well-being, from the role of tradition and sustainability to the mindful self-care rituals that contribute to a longer, healthier life.Watch Michelle’s MasterclassMichelle’s session is available on demand as part of The Bigger Life Festival. Get access at standard.co.uk/masterclasses.Pre-order Michelle’s bookSun and Ssukgat is out on 25th February. Pre-order your copy here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rachelle Abbott joins The London Standard’s business editor Jonathan Prynn as the rate of UK inflation jumped to 3% in January, in a blow to hopes of early further interest rate cuts. The rise on Wednesday exceeded expectations, with City forecasters predicting inflation to be 2.8%. The Conservatives have accused Chancellor Rachel Reeves of being 'out of her depth'. So why have we seen such a rise? Who will feel the hit most, what does this mean for interest rates, and when do we expect inflation to fall? For all the latest news head to standard.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Talks today in Saudi Arabia saw the US and Russia discussing a peace deal to end Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine. Helena Wadia is joined by The London Standard’s Political Editor Nicholas Cecil, to discuss the aims of the talks and what we can expect going forward. The meeting was the first face-to-face discussion between the two countries since the war began in 2022. But who was involved in the peace talks? Crucially, not Ukraine.In part two, Rachelle Abbott and The London Standard’s Defence Editor, Robert Fox, discuss how a dramatic shift in US policy impacts UK defence spending and military reform. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mayor Sadiq Khan has announced he'll raise penalty charge notices meaning some fines could hit £160. But why the hike? How will the money be used? And where do the fines apply?Rachelle Abbott's joined by The London Standard's City Hall and Transport Editor Ross Lydall, to break down all you need to know.In part two, we explore the scents of ancient Egypt. Researchers from University College London and University of Ljubljana have uncovered the smells of nine mummified bodies. Dr Cecilia Bembibre, co-author and lecturer at UCL’s Bartlett School of Environment, Energy & Resources, joins us to explain how they extracted and analysed the ancient aromas. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Birth rates are falling faster in London than the rest of the UK since the 2000s. To find out why, whether it’s a concern, and what can be done, Rachelle Abbott sits down with Kate Wills, who has been investigating the topic for The London Standard. Plus, we continue to celebrate some of the capital’s hidden gems. This week we turn to The Hill Garden and Pergola in Hampstead with John Darlington, director of projects for the World Monuments Fund. Is this the perfect spot for a Valentine's weekend stroll? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In today’s episode, Nicola Barron is joined by Will Storr—an acclaimed journalist, bestselling author, and storytelling guru. Will is widely regarded as one of the leading experts on how stories shape human behaviour, decisions, and relationships.In his latest book, A Story is a Deal, Will uncovers the hidden psychological contract between storytellers and their audiences. He explains why stories are so powerful, not just for entertainment, but for persuasion and connection. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who wants to understand how storytelling can change the way people think and act.He’ll also be hosting a live online masterclass where he’ll share the storytelling techniques that can make your business messaging, presentations, and content stand out.Don’t miss Will’s Masterclass:Join Will for The Science of Storytelling for Business and Persuasion on February 20th—the same day A Story is a Deal is released! For more details, head to standard.co.uk/masterclasses. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Heathrow boss Thomas Woldbye has announced the airport’s multi-billion pound investment to accelerate plans for a controversial new runway that began two decades ago.The privately-funded plan would see the airfield’s layout reconfigured, Terminals 2 and 5 enlarged, plus increased bus and coach capacity.The Labour government backed commencement of digging by 2029 to drive economic growth - but major environmental concerns over pollution, noise and quality of life remain, with fresh planning and legal battles on the horizon.The Standard podcast's Mark Blunden is joined by Paul Beckford, policy director at Hacan (the Heathrow Association for the Control of Aircraft Noise) which represents communities living under the airport’s flight paths.In part two, University College London professor of neuroscience ​Sonja Hofer discusses with Rachelle Abbott new research showing how the brain beats fear, with hopes the findings can one day support PTSD and anxiety treatments. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Are you ready for next generation agentic artificial intelligence?The Standard podcast's Mark Blunden is joined from the AI Action Summit in Paris by Andrew Strait, associate director at the Ada Lovelace Institute and former ethics researcher at Google’s DeepMind AI spin-off.We look at the self-thinking technology’s latest developments, concerns over replacement of human workers, quantum computing and AI’s impact on our cognitive ability. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Labour party officials are investigating alleged racist and sexist comments in leaked WhatsApp group chat messages that culminated in the sacking of health minister Andrew Gwynne.Following the latest messaging-based scandal to hit the authorities, The Standard podcast's Mark Blunden is joined by Maurice Frankel, director of the Campaign for Freedom of Information, to discuss the public’s right to know.In part two, World Monuments Fund’s UK chief executive John Darlington tells Rachelle Abbott how heritage campaigners are helping boost their local economies. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hospital admissions data suggests a growing proportion of patients admitted to wards in England after being stabbed are under 18 years old.It comes amid growing calls to finally crack down on online blade sales and London actor Idris Elba backing the blunting of sharp tips on kitchen knives.The Standard podcast's Mark Blunden is joined by Patrick Green, chief executive of the Ben Kinsella Trust, which was founded in honour of a 16-year-old Londoner stabbed to death in an unprovoked attack in 2008 after celebrating finishing his GCSEs with friends.The charity and Elba are working with the government’s Coalition To Tackle Knife Crime initiative, which aims to halve Britain’s blades menace within a decade.In part two, Network Rail has sparked a commuter backlash over train times ‘vanishing’ from information boards three minutes before departure - but could the nudge tactic improve disabled access and service punctuality?We speak with Michael Solomon Williams, head of campaigns at the Campaign for Better Transport. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What is London’s heartbeat? Rachelle Abbott joins Emma Strain, customer director at Transport for London, to discuss how important diverse communities are to the capital. Emma also reveals their award-winning animated moquette design, titled ‘Fabric of London’, which tells real stories shared by Londoners, reflecting the vital role TfL plays in bringing people from all backgrounds together. Transport for London, VCCP and Wavemaker UK’s design is now available to view at Outernet, in this week’s edition of our newspaper, and online at standard.co.uk. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Research by the London Cycling Campaign has found more than half of the capital’s official cycleways include sections that are unsafe for women to use at night.The London Standard’s transport editor Ross Lydall joins Mark Blunden to discuss his report on the LCC’s Women’s Network study, which found 52 of the 89 cycleways had at least one “socially unsafe” section after dark - and that seven cycleways were considered risky along the entire route.In part two, we speak with the charity’s senior campaigns officer Clare Rogers, about the LCC’s data-gathering process for the research, titled Women’s Freedom After Dark, and the shocking experiences of female cyclists in London after sunset.Transport for London said its “working to better understand how our schemes affect the safety, and feeling of safety, for women and girls”, including a “new women’s safety auditing process” to improve cycling infrastructure. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Half a dozen cash-strapped local authorities in England have been told they will be allowed to raise council tax by more than five per cent this year in a bid to stave off bankruptcy.The London Standard’s chief political correspondent Rachael Burford reports the government signed off its final funding settlements for town halls and announced six authorities have been given permission to increase bills by larger than normal amounts - without holding a referendum.She joins us to discuss councils’ financial outlook for the year ahead as London boroughs say they still face a £500 million shortfall.In part two, The London Standard’s business editor Jonathan Prynn on reasons behind an exodus of millionaires from the capital - and how countries including Abu Dhabi want a slice of the financial action. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Britain rejects Donald Trump’s claim that trade between the US and UK is “out of line”. The president has hit several other countries with hefty tariffs.It comes as Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer travelled to Brussels to meet with EU leaders on Monday - a first for a British leader since Brexit.Has Trump sparked a trade war? We're joined by The London Standard's political editor, Nicholas Cecil, for the latest.In part two, Beyoncé extends run as most Grammy-awarded artist - wins include best album and best country album - plus, singer Chappell Roan’s success and tributes to late One Direction star Liam Payne.Awards and ceremony news with The London Standard culture and lifestyle writer India Block. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join host Nicola Barron in conversation with Hayley Quinn, the London-based dating coach who has helped thousands of singles break out of dating ruts, build confidence, and enjoy meeting new people again. In this insightful episode, Hayley shares expert advice on how to approach dating in real life, avoid common first-date mistakes, and create genuine connections beyond the apps.Don't miss Hayley’s live online masterclass, How to Find the Love of Your Life – In Real Life, on Wednesday, 5th February 2025. Book now at standard.co.uk/masterclasses.Part of The Bigger Life Festival, brought to you by Masterclasses from The Standard. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It has been half a decade since the United Kingdom exited the European Union.But now, on Brexit’s fifth anniversary, a YouGov survey suggests 53 per cent of adults in Britain support going back into the European Union, with 36 per cent opposed - which in London grows to 64 per cent of respondents backing rejoining versus 25 per cent opposed.To discuss the UK’s national circumstances five years on, we’re joined by The London Standard’s political editor, Nicholas Cecil.In part two, scientists discover salt fragments in Nasa’s Bennu asteroid sample that will add to our understanding of how the universe formed - with Dr Ashley King, from the London Natural History Museum’s department of earth sciences. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Officials say there are no survivors after a plane carrying 60 passengers and four crew members collided mid-air with a US Army helicopter over Washington DC.American Airlines flight 5342 from Wichita, Kansas, crashed into the Potomac River following the collision.The plane, a Bombardier CRJ700, was approaching Reagan Washington National Airport 9pm local time on Wednesday (2am GMT), when the collision occurred with a Black Hawk helicopter on a training exercise.Among the dead on board the commercial flight were members of the American figure skating team, and three soldiers in the helicopter.Investigators are trying to piece together moments leading up to the disaster.The Standard podcast is joined by Graham Braithwaite, professor of safety and accident investigation at Cranfield UniversityIn part two, The London Standard’s transport editor Ross Lydall discusses his interview with Lime boss Wayne Ting and the pay-as-you-ride firm’s investment blitz on borough councils to turn more car bays into e-bike drop zones - could it help create “another Amsterdam” cycling haven in the capital? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rachel Reeves confirmed the government will support building a third runway at Heathrow in a major speech aimed to boost economic growth and jobs.But she is expected to face fierce opposition to expanding the west London airport from senior Labour colleagues, including Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan who posted immediately on X after the chancellor’s speech in Oxfordshire he remains against the plan.Also among the chancellor’s announcements in a “dash for growth” was government backing for the £9 billion Lower Thames Crossing linking Kent and Essex under a PFI deal, an Oxbridge rail link and reiterating plans to limit judicial reviews by campaigners fighting mega-projects.The London Standard’s chief political correspondent, Rachael Burford joins us to examine the detail.In part two, TfL signals the end of the Wild West End for ‘rip-off’ pedicabs in a licencing crackdown - our City Hall and transport editor, Ross Lydall has the latest. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The emergence of Chinese artificial intelligence firm DeepSeek has rocked US tech giants’ stocks over concerns the new low-cost generative AI model could topple their dominance.Tech shares plunged and chip maker Nvidia suffered falls of nearly 17 per cent as trading opened on Monday - and just a week after launch, DeepSeek became the most downloaded free app in the US.The twist is this huge language AI model made at a fraction of the cost of its rivals, reportedly around £5 million, including the use of much cheaper processor chips to train its chatbot software.Are the likes of Google and OpenAI preparing to be disrupted?The Standard podcast's Mark Blunden asked Dr Cecila Rikap, associate professor in economics and head of research at UCL’s Institute of Innovation and Public Purpose.In part two, ahead of a major speech on Wednesday, Chancellor Rachel Reeves is expected to give news on airport expansion plans - The Standard podcast examines changing political language around environmental concerns about a Heathrow third runway.We’re joined by Alethea Warrington, head of aviation, energy & heat at climate action charity Possible. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

London’s black cab drivers are famous for having a very active part of the brain that’s critical for mapping thousands of streets.By the time taxi students hop off their training moped and pass The Knowledge licence exam, a driver will have memorised over 26,000 of the capital’s roads thanks to how their posterior hippocampus region develops as a result.The international study, led by UCL neuroscientists, included quizzing London cabbies to examine how long it takes humans to compute the capital’s A to Z and, crucially, to contextualise routes without the help of artificial intelligence-powered maps.It’s hoped better insights, described as showing “insights into the genius of the human mind”, could help develop better navigation tools.The Standard’s Rachelle Abbott is joined by Hugo Spiers, professor of cognitive neuroscience at UCL’s department of psychology & language sciences, to discuss the study published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.In part two, latest developments in multiple lawsuits between Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni centring on behaviour on-set during filming of It Ends with Us - we speak with The London Standard culture and lifestyle writer India Block. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Scientists at London’s Natural History Museum have discovered mysterious giant mounds on Mars that are believed to be billions of years old.Examining high-resolution images and compositional data snapped by Martian orbiters and surface rovers, the team analysed over 15,000 of the geological features - many as big as Australia’s Uluru.We speak with Dr Joe McNeil, who led the study for his Open University PhD with results published in the journal Nature Geoscience.In part two, the best skincare products 2025 and the ingredients to look out for to soothe your city-weathered epidermis, with The London Standard’s beauty and wellness editor, Madeleine Spencer. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Storm Eowyn smashed into the British Isles bringing record gusts of up to 100mph with millions of Britons urged not to travel and northern regions issued a rare ‘red’ risk-to-life warning.Tree toppled, causing road closures and more than 1,000 flights were cancelled at airports across the UK, with rail operators halting services and hundreds of schools closed in Northern Ireland, Scotland and northern England.The Standard podcast hears about the super-storm’s causes from Met Office meteorologist Alex Deakin.In part two, The London Standard’s political editor Nicholas Cecil discusses his exclusive report revealing how transport secretary Heidi Alexander opposed a third runway at Heathrow in 2020 during her tenure as Sir Sadiq Khan’s deputy mayor for transport.It comes amid suggestion Heathrow expansion is back on the table as chancellor Rachel Reeves hunts for economic growth, likely setting her up for a clash with cabinet colleagues - and potentially Sir Sadiq over environmental concerns.We’re also joined by Paul Beckford, policy director at Hacan - the Heathrow Association for the Control of Aircraft Noise - which represents communities living under the airport’s flight paths to discuss air quality, noise and financial impact. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The British cousin of an Israeli hostage held by Hamas in Gaza has described his family’s ongoing anguish ahead of a milestone update on the fate of the remaining captives this weekend. Adam Ma’anit, who’s from Brighton and is digital communication officer at the Board of Deputies of British Jews, told The Standard podcast they are hoping for news very soon about Tsachi Idan, who is among 94 remaining hostages.Idan, a 50-year-old IT worker, was dragged away from his kibbutz home after his 18-year-old daughter, Maayan, was shot dead by a Hamas gunman in the October 7 terror attacks over 15 months ago.A phased ceasefire deal has seen the first three hostages released, in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails.Idan is listed among 33 captives set to be freed, but the family say they are “living day to day” awaiting firm news.It comes amid a spike in antisemitic attacks and shortly before Holocaust Memorial Day. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

UK chancellor Rachel Reeves will bid for more investment in Britain as she travels to the World Economic Forum’s annual meeting in Davos this week.Reeves is expected to meet the heads of major international banks during her two-day Swiss visit to promote Britain’s fiscal credentials for the future.But it comes amid record government borrowing, government department cuts ahead and minuscule growth of just 0.1 per cent.The Standard podcast is joined by Ashwin Kumar, director of research and policy at the Institute of Public Policy Research, professor of social policy at Manchester Metropolitan University and former advisor to ex-PM Gordon Brown.In part two, The London Standard’s chief political correspondent Rachael Burford on why some residents of two boroughs are being warned their council tax bills will double, but there’s - slightly - better news for fellow Londoners in the most cash-strapped authorities. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join host Nicola Barron in conversation with David Larbi, the poet, writer, and musician who has built a million-strong community through his authentic takes on mindfulness across TikTok and Instagram. In this illuminating episode, David shares insights from his debut book Frequently Happy: 52 Mindful Moments to Bring Hope and Joy, exploring how we can find joy in everyday moments and use creativity to reconnect with ourselves.Don't miss David's live online workshop Frequently Happy: Exploring Creativity, Mindfulness, and the Power of Wordson Tuesday, January 28, 2025 (6-7pm GMT). Book at standard.co.uk/masterclasses.Part of The Bigger Life Festival, brought to you by Masterclasses from The Standard. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Donald Trump made an astonishing return to the White House on Monday when he was sworn in as the 47th president of the United States.The inauguration, which took place at the US Capitol Rotunda building due -3C temperatures, follows four tumultuous years out of office which saw the 78-year-old Republican businessman and ex-reality star survive assassination attempts and face a series of legal cases.We asked Mike Rogers, chief security analyst west at US-based International SOS, about heightened security arrangements around the ceremony.In part two. University College London’s Dr Thomas Gift, associate professor of political science and director of the Centre on US Politics, discusses Big Tech’s influence and direction of policy for Trump’s White House 2.0.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Israeli security cabinet has ratified an initial six-week deal with Hamas for a ceasefire in the war that will see some of the hostages held in Gaza being released.The breakthrough marks the cessation of 15 months of fighting since the Hamas terror attacks in Israel on 7 October 2023, and also brings hope of border crossings being reopened for aid to ease the Palestinian humanitarian crisis.The US-brokered ceasefire on Sunday will see the exchange for Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails and comes a day before president-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration. The Standard podcast is joined by Dr Rob Geist Pinfold, lecturer in international security in the Defence Studies department at King’s College London.In part two, amid food shortages, toxic air and price-gouging, how Angelenos are supporting each other in the aftermath the deadly LA wildfires.We're joined by Kenia Alcocer, an organiser with Union de Vecinos, part of the Los Angeles Tenants Union. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A damning report into the state of the NHS has revealed patients are dying in corridors and can go undiscovered for hours.The Royal College of Nursing published findings, based on the experiences of more than 5,000 UK nurses, into the state of care in England’s hospitals as staff try to manage the number of people needing care.The “harrowing” report comes amid soaring ambulance waiting times and tells of patients sitting for days in chairs due to a lack of beds, patients lying in corridors and treatment delays.The Standard podcast is joined by Mathew Hulbert, a volunteer patient leader at Just Treatment, which campaigns for public health investment, fair pay for NHS staff and an end to outsourcing of NHS services.His 78-year-old mother, Jackie, died in July 2022 from sepsis in hospital - after waiting 11 hours for paramedics following a fall at home in Leicestershire.In part two, the deputy of Chancellor Rachel Reeves has signalled cutbacks in some public spending to channel more funds into the Labour government’s dash for growth.It comes as Office for National Statistics data released on Wednesday showed GDP increased by just 0.1 per cent.The London Standard’s political editor, Nicholas Cecil, examines what’s to come in the months ahead for government departments. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The UK inflation rate unexpectedly fell slightly to 2.5 per cent in December in a surprise boost to embattled Chancellor Rachel Reeves.Figures from the Office for National Statistics revealed a slight drop from 2.6 per cent in November and fell below City forecasts.It comes amid record government borrowing and falls in the pound over the past week.How does this all fit into the wider economic outlook, what might it signal for our shopping baskets - and what about the spectre of ‘stagflation’?The Standard podcast is joined by Jo Michell, professor of economics at the University of the West of England in Bristol.In part two, influencer Adam McIntyre on concerns about the financial impact of a TikTok ban on digital creators and small business ahead of a US supreme court decision on the Chinese ByteDance-owned app’s future in the States mid data security concerns. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Local councils nationwide are preparing to reveal the bad news to residents about this year’s council tax rises.So, why are our rates rocketing, how much more can we expect to pay - and which authorities are impose the biggest hikes?The London Standard’s chief political correspondent Rachael Burford discusses local government finances and policy for the year ahead.In part two, as millions of Britons reach the halfway mark for Dry January, we look at the benefits and challenges of quitting alcohol for a month.We’re joined by Dr Richard Piper, chief executive of the London charity Alcohol Change UK, and The London Standard culture and lifestyle writer Vicky Jessop, who’s now on her third booze-free new year. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Prime Minister has unveiled the government’s AI Opportunity Action Plan in a bid to make Britain a world leader in the artificial intelligence sector.Sir Keir Starmer’s will take forward all 50 recommendations made by tech entrepreneur Matt Clifford, who was commissioned by Science Secretary Peter Kyle to identify AI opportunities.It will see the creation of AI “growth zones” to accelerate planning approvals for data centres, build a new supercomputer and - controversially - allow tech firms to train AI on anonymised health data. So far, £14 billion has been committed by tech firms and its forecast the new data centres will create 12,000 jobs - amid growing concerns about the march of AI on roles in many other sectors.In a speech at UCL, Sir Keir claimed productivity could be doubled through using the technology in less than five years as Britain becomes as “AI superpower”.The Standard podcast is joined by Dr Mark Kennedy, associate professor of strategy and organisational behaviour at Imperial College Business School.In part two, The London Standard’s political editor Nicholas Cecil examines why the pound has fallen again as UK borrowing costs hit high - and what its means for the future of Chancellor Rachel Reeves. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to The Standard podcast’s round-up special edition.In this episode:How does Sir Keir Starmer plan to cut NHS waiting lists?Golden Globes 2025: Demi Moore, Zoe Saldana & Adrien Brody among winnersChild grooming gangs: government plans new safeguarding law but no public inquiryWhat must be done about London knife crime after boy, 14, killed in stabbingHMPV: what we know about virus risk, symptoms & spreadLA wildfires: future risks of climate changeWhy did the pound hit a 14-month low & how will it impact me?The London Question: Will the Silvertown tunnel be bad for London?Duchess of Sussex’s new Netflix cookery & lifestyle show With Love, Meghan set for release Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

London’s £2.2 billion Silvertown Tunnel beneath the Thames is set to open in the spring - but how will this impact traffic flow on the capital’s roads?There are concerns the crossing, set to impose a toll along with the Blackwall Tunnel, could push vehicles to other points along the river as drivers seek to avoid the charge.And what about cyclists? It’s this week’s ‘The London Question’ posed by the Standard in a comment piece by our transport editor and City Hall editor Ross Lydall, who joins us to discuss the mega-project.In part two, we examine what’s known so far about the Duchess of Sussex’s new cookery and lifestyle show titled With Love, Meghan - with The London Standard’s culture and lifestyle writer India Block. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A state of emergency and a toxic air alert have been declared in Los Angeles after huge wildfires killed at least five people and swept through hillsides that are home to many celebrities.Now, 130,000 Angelenos have been forced to evacuate their homes as the city became blanketed in a thick cloud of smoke and ash.Thousands of firefighters are battling to contain the original LA fire in Pacific Palisades, which spread to destroy more than 20 square miles in just two days and is believed to have started in a back garden.The Standard podcast is joined by climate scientist Dr Ella Gilbert, of the British Antarctic Survey and an expert on mountain winds, to discuss the environmental factors fuelling the devastation.In part two, why has the pound slumped to a 14-month low against the dollar - and how will the current financial outlook impact you?We’re joined by Jo Michell, professor of economics at the University of the West of England in Bristol. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The mother of a 14-year-old boy stabbed to death on a London bus fears her son had been groomed by gangs and exposed to drugs before he was killed.Kelyan Bokassa was attacked on a Route 472 double-decker on Woolwich Church Road just before 2.30pm on Tuesday.His mother, Mary, 50, fought back tears as paid tribute to her “polite” and “caring” son, telling MailOnline he had spent time in care and lived rough on the streets for a year, where she feared criminals took advantage of him.Kelyan is thought to have been an aspiring rapper making music on YouTube under the name “Grippa”, releasing a drill track, “Bangers & Mash”, on Christmas Day.Police have launched a murder investigation, however, a motive for the killing has yet to be revealed. We’re joined by The London Standard’s crime editor, Anthony France, to discuss the tragic incident and what more must be done to stop youth violence.In part two, Dr Jahangir Alom, an NHS emergency medicine doctor in north east London, on what we know about human metapneumovirus (HMPV), its risk and precautions to take this winter.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The government has announced new safeguarding legal guidelines as part of a crackdown on child exploitation in the wake of the grooming gangs scandal.Measures revealed by Home Secretary Yvette Cooper include criminal sanctions for professionals working with children if they don’t report sexual abuse claims.The recommendation is among those within Professor Alexis Jay’s 2015 child sexual abuse inquiry - she also told Radio 4’s Today programme “enough of inquiries” and that instead victims need action.  Authorities face allegations that they ignored horrific abuse of thousands of vulnerable, mostly white girls trafficked, groomed and raped by groups of men predominantly of Pakistani heritage - in towns including Rotherham, Oldham, Telford and Rochdale - amid fears of being labelled racist.The government has refused to relent to calls for a public inquiry, despite calls from opposition the Conservatives and an online firestorm fomented on X by the platform’s boss Elon Musk.We’re joined by The London Standard’s courts correspondent Tristan Kirk, who covered many of the scandal’s criminal trials and argues a new inquiry is not the answer to the urgent action needed. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sir Keir Starmer aims to cut the number of patients waiting more than 18 weeks for NHS treatment by 450,000 within two years.Amid his hopes of a New Year government reboot, the Prime Minister said by the end of 2026 two thirds of patients would be getting treatment in that timeframe.Latest figures show 59 per cent of patients are currently having to wait longer than 18 weeks.Labour’s Elective Reform Plan, published by NHS England, aims to deliver half a million more appointments a year through greater use of community diagnostic centres, 14 new surgical hubs in hospitals, “freeing up” around a million “non-essential” follow-up appointments by asking patients whether they want them, as well as seeing some people in group appointments.So, how workable is the PM’s plan - and what more resources are needed?The Standard podcast's Mark Blunden is joined by north London GP Sonia Adesara.In part two, we’re off to Hollywood for the Golden Globes 2025, where there stars were out at the ceremony was dominated by first-time winners, including gongs for The Substance star Demi Moore, Zoe Saldana of Emilia Perez, I’m Still Here’s Fernanda Torres, and the stars of Shogun.Post-awards analysis with The London Standard’s culture and lifestyle writer India Block. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The UK Health Security Agency has issued an amber ‘cold-health alert’ warning for London amid plunging temperatures and a forecast for snow at the weekend.London plunged below zero overnight, with a ”feels-like” temperature of -4C on Friday morning - and more low single-digit chills forecast next week.Nationally, the cold weather blast has seen temperatures drop to -5C overnight with warning of -8C next week.It comes just weeks after devastating floods caused by Storm Darragh. The Standard podcast is joined by Met Office meteorologist Alex Deakin and Mhairi Sharp, chief executive of the National Emergencies Trust.In part two, could a new type of DNA analysis technique on crushed-up ancient bone fragments rewrite of some of Britain’s key moments in ancient history?We’re joined by King’s College London professor of medieval history Peter Heather to discuss the joint research with the Francis Crick Institute. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does the future hold for the evolution of artificial intelligence in 2025? Professor David Shrier, an futurist and artificial intelligence expert at Imperial College Business School, discusses what’s to come.You can hear the full version of this interview on The London Standard’s Tech & Science Daily podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to The Standard podcast’s pop culture review of 2024.In this episode, Mark Blunden is joined by The London Standard’s culture and lifestyle writer India Block to muse on moments that, maybe, drifted across our shared consciousness in the past 12 months.You’ll hear about Euro 2024, Kate Middleton conspiracies, the Molly-Mae Hague and Tommy Fury split, Taylor Swift’s Eras tour, Megan Boni’s ‘Looking for a man in finance’, Willy’s Chocolate Experience debacle and Brat summer.Plus, Olympic breakdancer Raygun and the 'cancelled musical', Oasis reunited, and a tricky sequel for Joker: Folie à Deux. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As part of The Bigger Life Festival, brought to you by Masterclasses from The London Standard, host Nicola Barron is joined by life and career coach Selina Barker. In this special Twixmas episode, Selina shares practical tips for reflecting on the past year, recharging your energy, and redesigning your life with purpose. From asking the right questions to turning dreams into reality, it’s the perfect conversation to inspire your 2025 plans.The Bigger Life Festival kicks off on January 27th with three weeks of live, interactive workshops designed to help you start the new year with purpose, energy, and clarity. From wellbeing to career inspiration, there’s something for everyone. Get your early bird pass while they're still available! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to The Standard podcast transport news highlights of 2024In this episode, you’ll hear some of the best bits from our news podcast that's focussed on transport - from four to two wheels, rail and Tube.There’s been plenty of passenger news and a steady stream of news scoops, courtesy of The London Standard’s transport and City Hall editor, Ross Lydall, who you’ll hear through this special edition. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this preview edition of our Brave New World series, Evgeny meets Wim Hof to learn more about the Dutch athlete’s ‘Method’; a combination of breathing and cold-water immersion that he claims can have health and psychological benefits. Rita Ora also joins the show and talks about her own experience using Wim’s techniques as part of her wellness routines.To hear the whole show, and listen to previous episodes, search 'Brave New World Evening Standard' in your podcast provider. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rachelle Abbott joins acclaimed British author and comedy writer John O’Farrell. From his favourite Christmas tales to the art of storytelling, John shares insights from his illustrious career, including the inspiration behind his witty novel, Family Politics.As an award-winning author, lead writer for Spitting Image, scriptwriter for Have I Got News For You, and co-author of Chicken Run and its sequel, he’s also the co-host of the hit podcast We Are History and the creative mind behind musicals like Mrs. Doubtfire and Just for One Day. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As part of The Bigger Life Festival, brought to you by Masterclasses from The London Standard, host Nicola Barron is joined by Josh Smith—celebrity interviewer, podcast host of Reign, and author of Great Chat: Seven Lessons for Better Conversations. With the festive season in full swing, Josh shares his expert tips on navigating tricky family dynamics, handling small talk at parties, and making meaningful connections during holiday gatherings.The Bigger Life Festival kicks off in January with a series of live, interactive workshops designed to help you start the new year with purpose. From wellness to career advice, there’s something to inspire every part of your life. Early bird passes are available now—don’t miss out! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The London Standard’s crime editor Anthony France reports a phone is now stolen in the capital every six minutes amid a 150 per cent increase in device snatches.As part of an investigation into this crime epidemic, he interviewed phone theft victims and spent time with a City of London Police team to examine the work of the force’s anti-phone theft squad. Anthony joins The Standard podcast to discuss his findings.In part two, writer and director Susie McKenna on how a new pantomime production of the classic fairy tale Sleeping Beauty has been given a "modern remix".Sleeping Beauty is on at Broadway Theatre in Catford until 31 December. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Thames Water bills will rise by more than a third to an average of £588 over the next five years despite its dismal record on pollution and leaks.Water regulator Ofwat said the UK’s biggest water company, which supplies London and was recently fined £18 million for breaking share dividends rules, will be allowed to hike its bills by an inflation-busting £152, or 35 per cent - that’s an average £31 a year.The charges are being hiked to fund a £104 billion spending plan, with other water companies in England and Wales following suit increasing customer bills.The Standard podcast is joined by Matthew Topham, lead campaigner at We Own It, a pressure group for public ownership.In part two, patients with sleep apnoea are receiving a choice of two nerve stimulators from University College London Hospitals to combat the condition, and it’s the first UK healthcare provider to offer both therapies without needing bulky equipment.We’re joined by Mr Ryan Chin Taw Cheong, consultant ENT and sleep surgeon at UCLH’s Royal National ENT and Eastman Dental Hospitals. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The government has confirmed London’s new HS2 station at Euston will have just six platforms.The London Standard’s transport editor Ross Lydall reports rail commentators fear this could result in a lack of capacity should HS2 ever be extended north of Birmingham.Ross joins us to discuss what the reduced number of platforms could mean for passenger journeys and also an update on the mega-project’s price tag.In part two, Dr Enrico Amico, assistant professor in applied mathematics at the University of Birmingham, on methods behind research that uses neuroimaging to reveal new ways of mapping the brain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ukraine has claimed responsibility for an e-scooter bomb that killed a top Russian general in Moscow on Tuesday.Lieutenant General Igor Kirillov, chief of Russia’s nuclear, biological and chemical protection troops, and his assistant were killed by an explosive hidden inside the electric transport device outside Kirillov's apartment as they exited the building.We’re joined for analysis of this developing story with The London Standard’s defence editor, Robert Fox.In part two, a High Court judge has ruled that the alleged Chinese spy at the heart of a scandal about access to Prince Andrew can now be named as Yang Tengbo, a 50-year-old “close confidant” of the Duke of York who denies the claim.The businessman, named in an immigration tribunal appeal hearing, was banned from the UK over national security fears that he could compromise the royal amid Yang's access to the heart government. We’re joined for insight into the case by The London Standard’s courts correspondent, Tristan Kirk. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.