The Story

As LA continues to battle its worst fires in history, the political blame game has started, with Donald Trump accusing California’s governor, Gavin Newsom, of caring more about fish than people. We’ll explain.This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestoryGuests:Megan Agnew, senior features writer (US), The Times.Jamie Hartman, songwriter and producer based in Los Angeles, CAHosts: Luke Jones and Edith RousselotProducer: Edith RousselotClips: NBC News, NewsNation, CBS News, ABC 10, KTLA 5, The Tonight Show Photo: Getty Images.Get in touch: [email protected] podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Having made a multi-million dollar film together, Hollywood stars Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni are now trading muti-million dollar lawsuits over what did (or didn’t) happen on set and during the promotional tour for It Ends With Us. But what do court documents and private texts allege about Hollywood's dark arts? And like MeToo, could this be the start of another watershed moment triggered by Tinseltown?This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestoryGuests: Keiran Southern, West Coast Correspondent (US), The Times.Andrew Billen, Features Writer, The Times. Host: Manveen Rana.Producer: Olivia Case.Clips: It Ends With Us / Justin Baldoni / Sony / Columbia Pictures / Wayfarer Studios / Blake Lively, Entertainment Tonight, MsMojo, YouTube / @TheAmalaEkpunobi, YouTube / Megyn Kelly, The Hollywood Reporter, TikTok / @lovingsingle, YouTube / TED / Justin Baldoni, TikTok / justinbaldoni. Photo: Getty Images.Get in touch: [email protected] podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Sunday Times’ investigative team, Insight, has combed through 6,000 top secret documents to piece together the story of multiple military and government cover ups into the murder of civilians during the Afghan conflict. Today, in part two, we hear about the methods used to stymie, block and obstruct the course of justice. This episode was originally published on 10 May 2024.This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.co.uk/thestoryGuests: Jonathan Calvert, Insight investigative team editor, The Sunday TimesGeorge Arbuthnott, Insight investigative team deputy editor, The Sunday Times. Read the full Insight investigationHost: Manveen Rana.Producer: Edward Drummond. Get in touch: [email protected] podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week the Times revealed that ministers are considering bringing back a retired military chief to lead the armed forces amid concerns the likely frontrunner, General Sir Gwyn Jenkins, has been tainted by an independent inquiry into alleged unlawful activity by UK Special Forces in Afghanistan. Government sources stress that Jenkins has supported the inquiry.Last year, The Sunday Times’ investigative team, Insight, combed through 6,000 top secret documents to piece together the story of multiple military and government cover ups into the murder of civilians during the Afghan conflict. Today, in part one, we hear about the senior special forces commander, codename N1466, who blew the whistle. This episode was originally published on 9 May 2024.This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.co.uk/thestoryGuests:Jonathan Calvert, Insight investigative team editor, The Sunday Times, andGeorge Arbuthnott, Insight investigative team deputy editor, The Sunday Times. Read the full Insight investigationHost: Manveen Rana.Producer: Edward Drummond. Clips: Military.com.Get in touch: [email protected] podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The US president-elect has sparked a series of diplomatic rows after saying he was willing to use military or economic force to take control of Greenland, the Panama Canal and Canada. How seriously should we take Donald Trump’s claims and where did they come from? This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestoryGuest: Josh Glancy, News Review Editor, The Sunday Times. Host: Manveen Rana. Producer: Samantha Chantarasak.Clips: NBC News, Fox News, ABC News, Reuters/TV2, France Inter Radio. Photo: Getty Images Further listening: Why Donald Trump courted the wrestling worldGet in touch: [email protected] podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Elon Musk has unleashed a huge political row in the UK over whether there should be a national inquiry into the gangs that groomed young girls for rape in a number of Britain's northern towns. But whilst the world's richest man accused the 'legacy media' of a cover-up, the scandal was actually exposed by Times journalist Andrew Norfolk. So how did he uncover the shocking story? And has enough been done to make sure it never happens again?This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestoryGuest: Andrew Norfolk, former Chief Investigations Reporter, The Times.Host: Manveen Rana.Producer: Emily Webb.Get in touch: [email protected]: The Times.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Scroll through his latest posts on X and Elon Musk has a laser focus on UK politics. His main targets? Keir Starmer and Jess Phillips MP and their response to the country’s grooming scandal. He’s also blowing hot and cold on Reform UK. So what influence is the world’s richest man having on British politics? And why is he doing it?This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestoryGuest: Aubrey Allegretti, Chief Political Correspondent, The Times.Host: Manveen Rana.Producer: Edward Drummond and Emily Webb. Clips: Sky News, Times Radio, Parliament, BBC, France 24.Photo: Getty Images. Further listening: The political transformation of Elon MuskGet in touch: [email protected] podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Official figures show that for the first time, people are leaving dating apps. So why the exodus? And could future apps - with AI and augmented reality - be any better at matchmaking?This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: thetimes.com/thestoryGuests:Hannah Skelley, Fashion Writer and Stylist, The Times. Dr Liesel Sharabi, Associate Professor of Human Communication and Director of the Relationships and Technology Lab at Arizona State University.Host: Luke Jones.Producer: Olivia Case. Clips: TikTok / aidenheaney, TikTok / hopeyoufindyourdad, TikTok / gaelaitor, TikTok / zoecsheehan, TikTok / drcatpsych, TikTok / louisohno.Photo: Getty Images. Get in touch: [email protected] podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Linda McMahon, the wife of WWE’s founder Vince McMahon has just been nominated to be Donald Trump’s secretary for education. What’s behind Trump’s love affair with this staged ‘sport’?The episode contains discussion of rape and sexual assault.This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestoryGuests: Josh Glancy, News Review Editor, The Sunday Times.Host: Luke Jones.Producer: Edith Rousselot.Clips: WWE Youtube channel, PowerfulJRE Youtube channel.Image credit: Getty Images.Get in touch: [email protected] podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stephen Drill talks to Richard McColl about living and working at the centre of the global cocaine trade.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Cocaine Inc. hosts Fiona, David and Stephen answer your questions about how they made the series. This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stephen Mee, a former cocaine trafficker who worked with the Cali Cartel, sits down to discuss how he built an illicit empire.David Collins and executive producer Will Roe meet Stephen in his artist’s studio. This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The investigation takes us to a $10 million home in a leafy city suburb.Back home in Melbourne, Stephen Drill picks up a money trail leading right past his front door. This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Undercover in a gleaming world where nobody asks questions. David Collins follows the money trail through Dubai’s crowded gold souk to its luxurious office blocks.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Drug money is carried out of the UK in suitcases carried by passengers travelling in luxury.A cash mule tells David Collins about the brazen operation used to smuggle millions to Dubai.This episode contains descriptions of suicidal thoughts. If you or someone you know has been affected by the issues raised, the following organisations can help:Samaritans in the UK  - 24-hour helpline - 116 123Lifeline in Australia - 24-hour helpline 13 11 14This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On the streets of northern England where chaos reigns among those doing the selling. David Collins spends time in Merseyside, speaking to people working in the retail arm of the cocaine business.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Europe’s vast ports act as logistic hubs in a worldwide operation that relies on corruption and torture. In the Netherlands, Fiona Hamilton reveals the industrial scale of the cocaine business - and how it always leads to violence.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As cocaine is smuggled out of South America it multiplies in value, driving people to extremes. Stephen Drill follows the trail to Mexico and uncovers how the numbers used by law enforcement do not add up.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Where people fight and die in the coca plantations. In Colombia, Stephen Drill discovers how the international cocaine business starts, and the cost paid by everyone it touches. This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Between now and January 6th we will be playing the 2024 award-winning series, Cocaine Inc., from The Times, The Sunday Times and News Corp Australia. A brutal attack on an innocent young woman sends the reporters on a global investigation. David Collins visits Merseyside in northern England, where 26-year-old Elle Edwards was shot while celebrating Christmas Eve.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The number of people with food allergies in the UK has more than doubled since 2008, with more than 5,000 people a year hospitalised in England with anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction. So what’s behind the increase and are we close to a cure? Find out more about The Times and The Sunday Times Christmas Appeal 2024Donate by calling 0151 286 1594 or by following this link.This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestoryGuests:Tom Whipple, Science Editor, The Times. Professor Sir Stephen Holgate, Professor of Immunopharmacology at the University of Southampton. Host: Manveen Rana.Producer: Samantha Chantarasak.Read more:What to do if someone has an anaphylactic reactionNatasha died from her allergies — we do not want others to sufferPhoto: Getty images. Get in touch: [email protected] podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On Christmas Day, The Times' Investigations Editor, Dominic Kennedy, will spend his last working day at the paper having started back in 1993. To mark this, Dominic sits down with Luke to talk about his career in journalism and revisits three very unique and very different stories that he’s investigated over the past 31 years. This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.co.uk/thestoryIf you've been affected by issues in this podcast:Victim Support provides emotional and practical help to victims or witnesses of any crime, whether or not it has been reported to the police. Phone: 0808 16 89 111 (24/7) Visit the Victim Support websiteIf you or someone you know has been affected by suicide or needs to talk to someone, please get in contact with the Samaritans online https://www.samaritans.org/ or call them for free on their 24-hour helpline 116 123.Further reading: How the UK became ‘western capital’ for sharia courts‘I feel like I have to pay ransom to get out of my marriage’Guest: Dominic Kennedy, Investigations Editor, The Times.Producer: Will Roe. Host: Luke Jones.Clips: Parliament TV, Times Radio.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From Pennsylvania to New Jersey to Tennessee, The Times’ Megan Agnew spent three weeks on the Taylor Swift trail, discovering the origins of the supersonic star. How does someone go from teenage guitarist to pop phenomenon? Was her fame just luck and talent, or was there a master plan behind it all?This episode was first broadcast on June 10th 2024.This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestoryGuest: Megan Agnew, Senior Features Writer, The Times and The Sunday Times.Host: Jane Mulkerrins.Producer: Taryn Siegel.Get in touch: [email protected] podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As a bonus episode, we’re bringing listeners of The Story the first episode of our series Last Man Standing - the story of British photojournalist John Cantlie who was kidnapped in Syria by Islamic State in 2012. While his fellow hostages were released or murdered, he remained captive. Then, a series of Isis propaganda videos emerged, fronted by Cantlie. He hasn’t been seen since. Times War Correspondent Anthony Loyd begins his investigation into John Cantlie's disappearance and explores the events of a prior kidnap asking what compelled John to return to Syria after his first escape.Want more? Listen to the full series of Last Man Standing here. This episode was first published on 24 June 2022.This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today and get one month free at: thetimes.co.uk/storiesofourtimes.Hosts: Manveen Rana and Anthony Loyd, War Correspondent, The Times.Clips: BBC, 5Live, CNN, NBC, Broadcasting House (BBC Radio 4).Listen to the whole series: Last Man Standing This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Maher al-Assad is the youngest sibling of the deposed Syrian dictator. He’s also known as the ‘enforcer’, renowned for his brutal crackdowns on protesters, and his role in Syria’s murky drugs empire. Reporter Oliver Marsden visits his abandoned house on the outskirts of Damascus and uncovers a strange lair, complete with an underground funicular, an escape tunnel, and a Jennifer Lopez DVD.This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.co.uk/thestoryHost: Manveen Rana.Producer: Emily Webb. Guest: Oliver Marsden, foreign correspondent, The Times and The Sunday Times.Clips: Sky News, France 24, 72 Films.Photo: Getty Images.Get in touch: [email protected] podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Donald Trump’s pick for Director of National Intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard, has caused widespread alarm in defence and security circles, not only in the US but amongst America’s allies. But what are her views, and why are they proving so controversial?This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestoryGuest: Tom Newton Dunn, political journalist and presenter.Host: Manveen Rana.Producer: Chris Wade.Clips: ABC News; Forbes; Tulsi Gabbard YouTube; Fox News; CNN; NBC News; The View (ABC); Nikki Haley YouTube.Photo: Getty Images. Get in touch: [email protected] podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The rap mogul’s, whose real name is Shawn Carter, billion dollar empire is at risk after he was named in a civil lawsuit accusing him of raping a 13-year-old in 2000. Jay-Z was named alongside Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs. Both men strongly deny the claims. So how did Jay-Z become a giant of American culture?If you've been affected by issues in this podcast:Victim Support provides emotional and practical help to victims or witnesses of any crime, whether or not it has been reported to the police. Phone: 0808 16 89 111 (24/7) Visit the Victim Support websiteRape Crisis England & Wales offers confidential support and information to women in England and Wales who have survived any form of sexual violence, no matter how long ago. Also provides immediate support to friends and family on how to support female survivors of sexual violence. Phone: 0808 802 9999 (12–2:30pm & 7–9:30pm daily) Visit the Rape Crisis websiteThis podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestoryGuest: Craig McLean, freelance arts journalist and contributor to The Times. Host: Luke Jones.Producer: Samantha Chantarasak.Further listening: The P Diddy lawsuits: The downfall of a rap legend Read more: Jay-Z, Beyoncé and a billion-dollar hip-hop empire in jeopardy Get in touch: [email protected]: On The Red Carpet, Forbes, CBS, NBC News, CNN, UNICEF, MTV, BBC News, BBC Glastonbury. Music clips: Brooklyn’s Finest, JAY-Z, ℗ 1996 S. Carter Enterprises, LLC., Distributed by Equity Distribution, Roc-A-Fella.Izzo (H.O.V.A.), JAY-Z, ℗ 2001 S. Carter Enterprises, LLC., Universal Music Group.Dead Presidents II, JAY-Z, ℗ 1996 S. Carter Enterprises, LLC., Distributed by Equity Distribution, Roc-A-Fella.Empire State Of Mind, JAY-Z ft. Alicia Keys, © 2014 S. Carter Enterprises, LLC., Distributed by Roc Nation Records, LLC. Sorry, Beyoncé, ℗ 2016 Parkwood Entertainment LLC, under exclusive license to Columbia Records, a Division of Sony Music Entertainment, Parkwood Entertainment/Columbia. Photo: Getty Images This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Prince Andrew has now "ceased all contact" with an alleged spy working on behalf of China's shadowy United Front Work Department. But their relationship has raised questions about how the 'desperate' prince pays for his lifestyle and whether he inadvertently enabled the Chinese state to infiltrate the British royal family.This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestoryGuest: Kate Mansey, Assistant Editor & Royal Editor, The Times.Host: Manveen Rana.Producers: Chris Wade.Edward Drummond.Clips: BBC; Sky News Australia.Photo: Pitch@Palace. Get in touch: [email protected] podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Security services have issued an unprecedented warning about a shadowy Russian military unit accused of carrying out assassinations and cyberattacks on the streets of Britain. So as the government ramps up its defence against the threat from the Kremlin, what exactly is Unit 29155? And why is it targeting the West?This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestoryGuest: Fiona Hamilton, Chief Correspondent, The Times.Host: Manveen Rana.Producer: Edward Drummond. Clips: Reuters, OnDemand News, Sky News, BBC News, Channel 4 News, RT, CBS News, Independent.Photo: Getty Images/Times IllustrationGet in touch: [email protected] podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We’re listening back to some of our favourite episodes of 2024.Millions of social media users are flocking to follow the Trad Wives: stay-at-home mothers who champion a life making meals from scratch and serving their husband’s and children’s every need. Our reporter goes to meet the woman behind the most popular account: Hannah Neeleman of Ballerina Farm. Is she selling a feminist dream or an unattainable lifestyle?This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestoryGuest: Megan Agnew, Senior Features Writer, The Sunday Times.Host: Manveen Rana. Producer: Samantha Chantarasak.Clips: TikTok/esteecwilliams, TikTok/naraazizasmith, TikTok/ballerinafarm, ABC News. Get in touch: [email protected] podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After nearly a week on the run, Luigi Mangione was arrested in Pennsylvania for the murder of health insurance CEO, Brian Thompson. But in a macabre twist, Mangione has found widespread support on social media, which has dubbed him the ‘hot assassin’. Why?This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestoryHost: Luke Jones.Producer: Taryn Siegel.Guest: Sam Lovett, US reporter, The Times.Clips: The Daily Show, ABC7 News, Fox11 News, TikTok/xyathanchekass, TikTok/dpshw, TikTok/imcodyjacob, other TikToks, Edith finding sourcesFurther reading: ‘The hot assassin’: how the internet became obsessed with Luigi MangioneGet in touch: [email protected]: Benjamin B. Braun/Pittsburgh Post-Gazette/AP.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sir Kim Darroch is the former UK ambassador to the USA and worked with Trump for two years during the President’s first term. So how should the UK deal with Trump 2.0? And as our former National Security Advisor - before his Washington post - how will the UK government be reducing the terrorism threat from Syria, and balancing trade opportunities versus security issues when it comes to China.This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.co.uk/thestoryGuest: Sir Kim Darroch, former UK Ambassador to the USA and former National Security Advisor.Host: William Hague.Producer: Olivia Case.Image credit: The Times / Tom Jackson.Further listening: Putin’s ‘nuclear blackmail’Get in touch: [email protected] podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Healthier, eco-friendly, altogether virtuous. This may be how we think of milk alternatives but new research is calling into question the ‘plant-based milk myth’. So what’s the truth? How good for you - and the environment - is your oat milk flat white?This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestoryGuest: Libby Galvin, writer, The Times.Host: Manveen Rana.Producer: Taryn Siegel.Further reading: How good is your milk (for you and for the environment)?Get in touch: [email protected]: Getty Images.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As a new leadership emerges in Syria, disparate groups remain in control of different parts of the country. In the midst of the fluctuating situation, what dangers might return?This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestoryGuest: Mark Urban, Writer and Columnist, The Sunday Times.Host: Luke Jones.Producers: Edith Rousselot.Edward Drummond.Clips: BBC News, AP, Al Jazeera, Bloomberg, CNN.Photo: Getty Images. Get in touch: [email protected] podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gisèle Pelicot waived her right to anonymity when her husband - and dozens of other men - were charged with raping and sexually assaulting her. Her decision allowed journalists to cover the trial in full and made her a feminist icon in France. But as we await the final verdicts and sentencing, what does the case tell us about French attitudes to rape? And with the French government promising change, will this be a watershed moment? The episode contains discussion of rape and sexual assault. This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.co.uk/thestoryIf you've been affected by anything you've heard in this episode or need help or support around issues involving sexual assault, you can contact womensaid.org.uk or malesurvivor.co.uk. You can also call Refuge's 24-hour freephone National Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0808 2000 247.Host: Manveen Rana.Producer: Olivia Case.Guests:Constance Kampfner, Northern Correspondent, The Times.Katie Tarrant, News Reporter, The Sunday Times.Clips: Euronews, The Times, France24, Paris Match, Channel 4, BBC, Forbes.Image credit: Getty Images.Further reading: A disturbing encounter with one of Gisèle Pelicot’s 50 alleged rapists.I sat in court at the Gisèle Pelicot rape trial. This is what I sawGet in touch: [email protected] podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, No 10 confirmed it wouldn’t stand in the way of a deal to return the Elgin Marbles to their original home in Athens. The comments came after a meeting between Keir Starmer and his Greek counterpart, Kyriakos Mitsotakis. Our former host David Aaronovitch spoke to classicist and British Museum trustee Dame Mary Beard about how the Parthenon sculptures ended up in the UK 200 years ago.This episode was first broadcast on 5 December 2022.This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: thetimes.co.uk/storiesofourtimes. Guests:- Dame Mary Beard, classicist.- David Sanderson, Arts Correspondent, The Times.With thanks to The British Museum.Host: David Aaronovitch.Producer: Samantha Chantarasak.Clips: Channel 4 News, Times Radio, Reuters, CBC News, BBC World Service, Al Jazeera, ITV Good Morning Britain, LBC, UK Parliament, LSE.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As a bonus episode, we’re bringing listeners of The Story an episode of our fellow Times podcast How To Win An Election.The prime minister wants to blame the last government for leaving the economy in a mess, just like David Cameron did in 2010 - but is the strategy working, and for how long?The political masterminds - and Hugo - discuss the whether voters will reward Starmer for being sensible, whether he should be more like Harold Wilson, and whether any Western government can get to grips with migration.This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestoryThis podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nightclubs are closing their doors at an alarming rate. Research by The Night Time Industries Association shows that as many as three clubs a week have closed since 2020. Our journalist went to Manchester to find out why they’re struggling - but is the underground clubbing scene really as threatened as it might seem? This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestoryGuest: Katie Gatens, Deputy Editor of News Review, The Sunday Times.Host: Luke Jones.Clips: Saturday Night Live/NBC.Photo: Joel Goodman for The Sunday TimesGet in touch: [email protected] podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With wars raging in Israel and Lebanon, no one was watching neighbouring Syria. Until an alliance of rebel forces launched an astonishing offensive a week ago, sweeping the north and taking the prized city of Aleppo. But who are they, who backs them, and why now?This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.co.uk/thestoryGuest: Mark Urban, Writer and Columnist, The Sunday Times.Host: Manveen Rana.Producer: Edith Rousselot.Clips: Channel 4 News, SkyNews, ABC News, The Telegraph.Image credit: Getty Images.Get in touch: [email protected] podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Last week, Australia became the first country to block under 16s from social media. Age verification AI could be a crucial tool in the ban, so we spoke to our journalist who has been to the industry-leader’s HQ to find out if the technology actually works. And we ask, could the UK follow suit? This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestoryGuests:Mark Sellman, Technology Correspondent, The Times.Helen Rumbelow, Feature Writer, The Times. Host: Manveen Rana.Producer: Samantha Chantarasak.Clips: ABC News, 10 News First Australia, BBC Radio 4. Photo: Getty ImagesRead Helen’s report: Can AI tell if a teen lies about their age?Further listening: The myth of the X exodus The Times and The Sunday Times starter pack on BlueskyGet in touch: [email protected] podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gregg Wallace, the presenter of one of the BBC's most popular programmes 'MasterChef' has stepped back from the show while allegations of historical misconduct are investigated. Over the weekend, he said complaints came from “a handful of middle-class women of a certain age” - a comment he has now apologised for. His lawyers say he denies behaviour of a sexually harassing nature but as the BBC faces pressure to pull the programme from the schedules, and even Downing Street has waded in, what now for the presenter - and for the BBC?This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestoryGuest: Rosamund Urwin, Media Editor, The Sunday Times. Host: Manveen Rana.Producers: Edward Drummond.Samantha Chantarasak.Clips: BBC, Gregg Wallace, Times Radio.Photo: Getty Images. Get in touch: [email protected] podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It started two years ago, when Elon Musk bought Twitter, now X. People fled the social media platform, citing a change in the algorithm and concerns over the unchecked spread of misinformation, conspiracy theories and hate speech. Following the US election and Musk's appointment to Donald Trump's team, millions more have departed - including The Guardian newspaper. So, does this signal a sea change in our social media habits? Or is this just a momentary tiff?  This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestoryGuest: Danny Fortson, US West Coast Correspondent, The Sunday Times.Host: Manveen Rana.Producer: Edith Rousselot.Clips: CNN, MSNBC, NBC News, TalkTV.Photo: Getty Images.Get in touch: [email protected] podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week Ireland went to the polls in a general election where for the first time in the history of the republic, immigration was among the leading issues in voters’ minds as they cast their ballots. In August we looked at the rise of a new political movement in Ireland, inspired by American far-right groups and fuelled by anger over immigration.This episode was first broadcast on 20 August 2024.This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestoryGuest: John Mooney, Investigative Reporter, The Sunday Times.Host: Manveen Rana.Producer: Edward Drummond. Further listening: Inside the Kinahan crime cartel and their €1 billion empireClips: Gript Media, Irish Mirror, Cllr Gavin Pepper, RTE News, Irish Times, Euronews, The National Party — An Páirtí Náisiúnta, Tucker Carlson, , Get in touch: [email protected] podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As a bonus episode, we’re bringing listeners of The Story an episode from Off Air with Jane & Fi podcast from The Times.General David Petraeus, former director of the CIA, discusses global security, amongst many other things...If you want to contact the show to ask a question and get involved in the conversation then please email us: [email protected] us on Instagram! @janeandfiPodcast Producer: Eve SalusburyExecutive Producer: Rosie CutlerThis podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestoryThis podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Observers of Britain today might think of it as a more meritocratic and socially equal society than ever before. But, while the narratives have certainly moved on, the elites who run the political, economic and cultural life of the country remain much the same.This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestoryGuest: Sam Friedman, sociologist and co-author of “Born To Rule: The Making and Remaking of the British Elite.”Host: Luke Jones.Producer: Chris Wade.Clips: BBC.Photo: Getty Images.Get in touch: [email protected] podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tomorrow, MPs will vote on a Bill that, if passed, would allow terminally ill people with less than six months to live the right to take their own lives - a radical departure from the status quo. The debate has split parliament and the public. So, is it a kindness or the beginning of a dangerous and slippery slope?If you or someone you know has been affected by suicide, support and advice can be found with the Samaritans or SANE. This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestoryGuests: Mark Mardell, broadcaster and writer, Movers and Shakers podcast and assisted dying correspondent, Prospect.Kaya Burgess, science reporter and religious affairs correspondent, The Times.Host: Manveen Rana.Producer: Edward Drummond. Clips: Times Radio, ITV News, Two Women Chatting. Photo: Getty Images/Times illustration Get in touch: [email protected] podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With six backpackers dead from suspected methanol poisoning, how did the remote town of Vang Vieng become the go-to destination for gap year hedonism, and will anything be done to close down the bars selling mushrooms, moonshine and opium?This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestoryGuests:Richard Lloyd Parry, Asia Editor, The Times and the Sunday TimesAlasdair Gill, chef and journalist.Host: Manveen Rana.Producer: Chris Wade.Clips: Lucy Davidson/TikTok; 10 News First.Photo: Getty Images Get in touch: [email protected] podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On Sept 12, 2001, Blerim Skoro was approached by a man and a woman while he was in prison. They turned out to be CIA agents. That one meeting would change the course of his life and lead him on a journey across countries, inside terrorist groups, as he tried to make it home to his family.This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestoryGuest: Josie Ensor, US Correspondent, The Times and The Sunday Times.Host: Luke Jones.Producer: Taryn Siegel.Clips: Video filmed by Blerim Skoro, provided by ‘The Accidental Spy’, directed by Anthony Wonke.Photo: John Beck for The Times.Further reading: I gave my life to the CIA. They betrayed meGet in touch: [email protected] podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Over the past eight years, Sunday Times chief political commentator, Tim Shipman has written the story of British politics. From Brexit to backstops, deals to no deals, political self-harm to prorogation, economic meltdowns to an election. He takes us on a quick tour of the last part of his quartet which has covered our mad political life. This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestoryGuest: Tim Shipman, Chief Political Commentator, The Sunday Times and author of OutHost: Luke JonesProducer: Edward Drummond. Photo: Illustration by Morten Morland. Further listening: Tim Shipman on the tears, plots and mating porcupines of Brexit  Get in touch: [email protected] podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, over four years later, a report from the Charity commission concluded that Captain Sir Tom Moore's daughter and her husband had committed “serious” misconduct and had gained “significant” financial benefit from links to that charity. The report said that it had not seen evidence of a crime committed by the couple. The family say "that there has never been any misappropriation of funds or unauthorised payments from the charity’s bank account, by any member of our family.Last year, Manveen spoke to Times social affairs editor James Beal about the whole affair. This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: thetimes.co.uk/storiesofourtimes. Guest: James Beal, Social Affairs Editor, The Times. Host: Manveen Rana.Producer: Samantha Chantarasak.Clips: TalkTV, Times Radio, BBC News, ITV News, 5 News, You’ll Never Walk Alone/Captain Tom Moore, Michael Ball, and The NHS Voices of Care Choir/UMG. This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.