Stories of our times

What's the future for an unpopular party governed by an unpopular leader? That's the question no one will be asking quite so bluntly at the Conservative Party conference this week in Manchester– except possibly The Times political editor Steven Swinford. He discusses whether leader Kemi Badenoch's days are numbered and explains how the Tories could beat Reform at their own game. 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: Steven Swinford, Political Editor, The Times. Host: Luke Jones.Producer: Micaela Arneson, Olivia Case. Clips: GB News, Kookydave via YouTube. Photo: Getty ImagesGet in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine, thousands of children have disappeared from their homes. Separated from their families, many were sent to ‘re-education' camps in Crimea, others, deep into the heart of Russia. So just what is it like for those children?This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: thetimes.co.uk/thestoryWARNING: This episode contains reference to sexual violence, torture, and suicide. Listener discretion is advised. Written and read by: Jane Mulkerrins, Associate Editor of The Times Magazine.Producer: Dave Creasey.Clips: ITV News, France24, Sky News, DRM News, BBC News, Russian National Anthem. Photo: Eva Pentel for The Times Magazine.Read more: I was kidnapped by Russia at 16 — like so many Ukrainian kids Watch the film.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Planet Hope, a podcast from The Times and The Sunday Times in paid partnership with Rolex and its Perpetual Planet Initiative. Each episode is hosted by The Story released as a bonus weekly series on Saturdays.High in the Arctic, beneath Greenland's ancient ice, lie caves that hold clues to our planet's past and its future. Climate researcher and Rolex Awards Laureate Gina Moseley leads daring expeditions into these hidden worlds to uncover how our climate has changed over hundreds of thousands of years. She tells Adam Vaughan why exploring these frozen frontiers matters to us all.Planet Hope is brought to you in paid partnership with Rolex and its Perpetual Planet Initiative. Host: Adam Vaughan, environment editor, The TimesGuest: Gina Moseley, climate researcher and Rolex Awards LaureateSeries Producer: Priyanka DeladiaSound Designer: David CracklesThis podcast is advertiser funded. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On Thursday morning, a suspected Islamist terrorist, Jihad al-Shamie, was confronted by police outside Heaton Park synagogue in Crumpsall on Yom Kippur. He had with him a knife and a fake suicide bomb. Two people, Adrian Daulby and Melvin Cravitz, were killed. One of the victims was shot and killed by police, as they opened fire on al-Shamie.This is a special episode of The Story to bring you the latest on this attack.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: Ali Mitib, News Reporter, The Times.Host: Luke Jones.Producer: Olivia Case and Micaela Arneson.Read more: Manchester synagogue attack — follow live.Clips: Sky, BBC, Times Radio, PA, X / @chiefrabbi, The Independent.Photo: Getty Images.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Doctors who've been disciplined or had their licence revoked for misconduct or incompetence have been able to work in the NHS. A Times investigation has found more than 20 doctors, who are banned in various countries, but have somehow acquired the right to treat patients here – sometimes with devastating consequences. 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: George Greenwood, Investigations Reporter, The TimesHost: Manveen RanaProducer: Shabnam Grewal Read more: The doctors banned from practising abroad cleared to treat in NHSFurther listening: Dubai Unlocked: The convicts secretly investing millions in the EmiratesGet in touch: thestory@thetimes.comThis episode includes references to sexual abuse. If you or someone you know has been affected by sexual abuse, help is available. The Survivors Trust provides support and signposting for women, men and children who are survivors of rape, sexual violence or childhood sexual abuse. Phone: 0808 801 0818 or visit the Survivors Trust website Survivors UK provides support for men and non-binary survivors of sexual abuse Survivors UK website Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week The Times is launching a new politics podcast. We're dropping the first episode here -- subscribe to The State of It for free, wherever you get your podcasts, to tune in every week.Welcome to The State of It, coming to you from Liverpool where the Labour Party is finishing its annual conference. Keir Starmer's team seem happy after his leader's speech, but what are his MPs really saying about him? Was he wise to call Nigel Farage a racist? How will Rachel Reeves balance the books in November's budget? Oh, and which cabinet ministers excelled at last night's karaoke?This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times.Featuring:Steven Swinford, political editor, The TimesCaroline Wheeler, political editor, The Sunday TimesPatrick Maguire, chief political commentator, The TimesGabriel Pogrund, Whitehall editor, The Sunday TimesProducer: Euan DawtreyExecutive producer: Molly Guinness Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Donald Trump have agreed to a 20-point peace plan to end the war in Gaza. But hardliners on both sides are already condemning it. So what chance does it have? And how does Tony Blair fit in?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: Gabrielle Weiniger, Israel Correspondent, The Times. Host: Manveen Rana.Producer: Olivia Case.Clips: AP, Twitter / @netanyahu.Photo: Getty Images.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Off the coast of Venezuela, a small armada of US navy warships and a fleet of fighter jets have struck several small boats, killing 17 people. The Trump administration says the boats were carrying drugs to the US; Venezuela says they were fishing vessels. But does President Trump really care about winning the war on drugs? Or is there another motive?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: Jon Bonfiglio, journalist in Latin America. Host: Luke Jones.Producer: Micaela Arneson. Read more: Trump has Maduro in his sights. Will it mean war in the Caribbean?Clips: NBC News, Bloomberg News, Forbes Breaking News, Republic World, US Justice Department, Diario AS.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As the Labour conference ramps up in Liverpool, we bring together three of The Times' keenest political minds to discuss the three biggest problems facing the government. Are the scandals which have beset ministers, the sluggish growth of the economy, and stubbornly high levels of small boat crossings Labour's fault, and could they prove terminal for Keir Starmer?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: Aubrey Allegretti, Chief Political Correspondent, The Times, Mehreen Khan, Economics Editor, The Times, Gabriel Pogrund, Whitehall Editor, The Sunday Times. Host: Luke Jones.Producers: Olivia Case, Micaela Arneson.Clips: Sky, BBC, 5 News, Youtube / @Farage Reform, The Times. Photo: Getty Images.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Alpha School in Austin, Texas is hoping to revolutionise education forever, swapping teachers for laptop lessons and AI, and motivating pupils with cold, hard cash. Is this the future of education?Guest: Danny Fortson, Co-host of The Times Tech Podcast and The Sunday Times' West Coast Correspondent.Host: Manveen Rana.Producer: Dave Creasey.Read more: This primary school got rid of teachers — and the parents approveHear more: Open AI's Sam Altman: ‘We're about to empower people more than ever before' .Clips: Modern Wisdom, NBC News.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Planet Hope, a podcast from The Times and The Sunday Times in paid partnership with Rolex and its Perpetual Planet Initiative. Each episode is hosted by The Story released as a bonus weekly series on Saturdays.In the remote Himalayan valley of Humla, Rinzin Phunjok Lama is protecting endangered species like the snow leopard and wild yak. Using Buddhist principles, local knowledge, and community-led conservation, he is tackling climate change in one of the world's harshest landscapes. He tells Adam Vaughan why saving one Himalayan valley matters to the world.Host: Adam Vaughan, Environment Editor, The TimesGuest: Rinzin Phunjok Lama, Conservation Biologist and Rolex Award LaureateSeries Producer: Priyanka DeladiaSound Designer: David CracklesThis podcast is advertiser funded. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As England's Red Roses head into the World Cup final tomorrow, it might be the largest audience that women's rugby has ever seen. With its TikTok superstars and crocheting players, it's creating new fans and connecting with people in ways the men's teams can only dream of. So why has it taken so long to get here?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: Elgan Alderman, Co-host, The Times' Rugby podcast, The Ruck.Host: Manveen Rana.Producer: Shabnam Grewal.Read more: Rugby World Cup: how Canada ‘crowdfunded' way to finalFurther listening: The Ruck: Women's Rugby World Cup final preview!Clips: @worldrugby, BBCSport, ITN News, @mandabed, @rugbyworldcup, @nwsirensgirlsrfu, @ilonamaher, Whistledown Productions, BBC Radio4, englandrugby.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A geopolitical battle between Russia and the EU will unfold this Sunday as Moldovans vote in a pivotal parliamentary election. The result could steer the country closer to the EU, or back towards Moscow. With Russia accused of bribery and vote rigging to sway the outcome in its favour, which path will Moldova choose?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: Jack Clover, assistant foreign editor, The Times.Host: Manveen RanaProducer: Edith Rousselot and Dave CreaseyRead more: Inside Putin's propaganda playground — cash, clicks and clergyClips: European Parliament Youtube channel, DW News, AP News. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

An undercover Times investigation reveals how US-inspired Christian activists are running services across the UK, offering pro-life advice to those looking for impartial support. They also recommend exploring an ‘abortion reversal pill', against national guidelines. So who are these groups, and what is their real mission?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: Constance Kampfner, Northern Correspondent, The Times.Host: Luke Jones.Producer: Rosie Stopher.Photo: YouTube/March for Life UK / Composite design by Cecilia Tombesi.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

President Trump has publicly linked the use of Tylenol, or paracetamol, during pregnancy to an increased risk of autism, despite experts saying the connection is unproven. The extraordinary announcement came after months of dramatic changes at US public health bodies, spearheaded by the health secretary and vaccine sceptic Robert F Kennedy Jr. So, how did health become politicised in America? And could the same thing happen in the UK? 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: David Charter, assistant editor (US), The Times, Tom Whipple, science writer and special correspondent, The Times.Host: Rosie Wright. Producers: Micaela Arneson and Shabnam Grewal. Read more: Trump to claim taking Tylenol in pregnancy is linked to autismFurther listening: The momfluencers embracing ‘Make America Healthy Again Clips: Forbes Breaking News, NBC News, WHAS11, PBS Newshour,New York Post, Joe Rogan Experience, Lex Fridman, Club Random with Bill Maher, MSNBC, ABC News, ITV News.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The UK, Australia and Canada have formally recognised Palestine as a state ahead of high level meetings at the 80th session of the UN General Assembly this week. But as the votes and debates continue, little seems to change outside the diplomatic bubble. We discuss with a former Deputy Secretary-General of the UN what relevance the organisation still holds. 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 Malloch-Brown, former Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations.Host: Luke Jones.Producer: Taryn Siegel.Read more: https://www.thetimes.com/uk/politics/article/britain-recognise-palestine-state-9fz0pvq87 Clips: United Nations, ABC, Getty, Clinton Presidential Library, The Economic Times, Sky News, Al Jazeera, Global News.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With his looks, charisma and string of hits, Robert Redford, who died this week, was the face of Hollywood cinema in the 1970's. But he was so much more than a pretty face, and quickly moved into directing and producing awards winning films, before pivoting to focus on what really mattered to him: the Sundance Film Festival, to support independent film. Despite his huge public profile, Robert Redford remained an elusive, unknowable and very private man. 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: Anna Temkin, deputy obituaries editor for The Times, Ed Potton, arts commissioning editor for The Times.Host: Rosie Wright Producer: Shabnam GrewalRead more: Robert Redford obituary: elusive legend of the big screenFurther listening:Clips: @SAGAFTRAFoundation, CBS SUNDAY MORNING, BUTCH CASSIDY AND THE SUN DANCE KID CLIPP TM & © Fox (1969)Courtesy of Twentieth Century Fox Film CorporationRAINDROPS KEEP FALLING ON MY HEAD (B.J. Thomas version):Songwriters: Burt Bacharach and Hal David. Original Publishers: BMG Gold Songs, Songs of Fujimusic, New Hidden Valley Music, Pw Arrangements, and Universal Music Corp. Photo: Getty PicturesGet in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Planet Hope, a podcast from The Times and The Sunday Times in paid partnership with Rolex and its Perpetual Planet Initiative. Each episode is hosted by The Story released as a bonus weekly series on Saturdays. Deep in the Amazon, the mysterious pink river dolphins are under threat from pollution, mining, and habitat loss. Marine biologist Fernando Trujillo, known locally as Omacha, has dedicated more than 30 years to protecting them. From satellite-tagging dolphins to training fishermen and lobbying governments, he tells Adam Vaughan what it takes to safeguard one of the most biodiverse regions on Earth.Host: Adam Vaughan, Environment Editor, The Times. Guest: Fernando Trujillo, Founder of the Omacha Foundation and Rolex Award Laureate. Series Producer: Priyanka DeladiaSound Designer: David CracklesThis podcast is advertiser funded. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Thirteen years after her body was discovered floating in the septic tank of a hotel in Kenya, an arrest warrant has been issued for a former British soldier over the alleged murder of 21-year-old Agnes Wanjiru. If extradited, it would be the first time a British soldier is sent to face such a charge on foreign soil - and follows years of dogged investigation by The Sunday Times. We speak to reporter involved, and ask whether the culture of the British army has changed over the years.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: David Collins, northern editor, The Sunday Times.Host: Manveen Rana.Producer: Micaela Arneson.Read more: https://www.thetimes.com/uk/crime/article/agnes-wanjiru-british-soldier-murder-xr0bv2qwg Clips: NTV Kenya, Citizen TV Kenya.Photo: Getty Images.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The US President's state visit to the UK is marked by royal pageantry, political tension, and public protest. But what could the UK gain from it? And what are the potential pitfalls lurking for Keir Starmer?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: Katy Balls, Washington editor and columnist, The Times and The Sunday Times and Oliver Wright, Policy editor, The Times. Host: Manveen Rana.Producer: Edith Rousselot and Shabnam Grewal.Clips: Sky News, Reuters, The White House. Photo: Getty ImagesGet in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the years since Omar al-Bayoumi was released by British police, new evidence has come to light which was not shared with the officers carrying out his interrogation. Today, he stands accused of being a Saudi agent who helped the terrorists who carried out 9/11, something he has always denied.This is part three of a three-part special investigative series.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: Amardeep Bassey, journalist, The Sunday Times.Host: Taryn Siegel. Producer: Taryn Siegel.Sound designer: Tiffany Dimmack.Read more: Revealed after 24 years, how UK was forced to free 9/11 ‘plotter'Clips: Metropolitan Police Services.Photo: Tony Bell. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On September 21, 2001, Omar al-Bayoumi was arrested in Birmingham on suspicion of the preparation, instigation or commission of acts of terrorism. Police would have seven days before they would need to charge, extradite, or release him. Over the next week of questioning, there would be extraordinary revelations -- but also leads not followed, and crucial information not shared. So what went wrong? This is part two of a three-part special investigative series.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: Amardeep Bassey, journalist, The Sunday Times.Host: Taryn Siegel. Producer: Taryn Siegel.Read more: Revealed after 24 years, how UK was forced to free 9/11 ‘plotter'Clips: Metropolitan Police Services.Photo: Tony Bell.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Was there another man involved in plotting the 9/11 terrorist attacks that killed thousands in 2001? And did British police, acting on the instructions of American law enforcement, let him go?This is part one of a three-part special investigative series.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: Amardeep Bassey, journalist, The Sunday Times.Host: Taryn Siegel. Producer: Taryn Siegel.Read more: Revealed after 24 years, how UK was forced to free 9/11 ‘plotter'Clips: Metropolitan Police Services, CBS News, NBC News.Photo: Tony Bell.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

He appeared at a Russian film festival, wants to work with Trump and still says Jeffrey Epstein was “charming and personable”. Does the film director Woody Allen not care what people think? Hadley Freeman meets him and his wife, Soon-Yi, at home in New York.This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: thetimes.co.uk/thestoryWritten by: Hadley Freeman, columnist and features writer for The Sunday Times.Read by: Micaela Arneson.Producers: Shabnam Grewal and Micaela Arneson.Photo: Guerin Blask/The Sunday Times.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Planet Hope, a podcast from The Times and The Sunday Times in paid partnership with Rolex and its Perpetual Planet Initiative. Each episode is hosted by The Story released as a bonus weekly series on Saturdays. From oil spills to climate change, penguins are on the frontline of environmental change. Pablo García Borboroglu has spent more than three decades rescuing colonies, moving shipping lanes, and protecting over 32 million acres of penguin habitat. He joins Adam Vaughan to share what it takes to keep these charismatic seabirds alive in a rapidly changing world.Host: Adam Vaughan, Environment Editor, The Times. Guest: Pablo García Borboroglu, Founder of the Global Penguin Society and Rolex Award Laureate. Series Producer: Priyanka Deladia Sound Designer: David CracklesThis podcast is advertiser funded. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A sunny afternoon at Utah Valley University suddenly became a scene of terror when the right-wing political activist Charlie Kirk was shot and killed during a campus event on Wednesday, 10 September. His death was quickly described as an “assassination” by President Trump, and it is the latest in a worrying spate of politically-motivated attacks in the US. So what's behind this trend? Is political violence becoming normalised? 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: Katy Balls, Washington Editor and Columnist for The Times and The Sunday Times. Host: Manveen Rana.Producer: Shabnam Grewal and Micaela Arneson.Read more:Search for Utah Valley University shooter after two suspects releasedWho was Charlie Kirk? TikTok wizard who conjured up Trump youth voteClips: New York Post, Republic TV, CNN, KTLA 5, Fox News, Charlie Kirk via Instagram, President Trump via Truth Social Photo: Getty ImagesGet in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As people continue to starve in Gaza, the war once again spread beyond its borders this week when Israel bombed Hamas fighters in Qatar - a country that's involved in the peace negotiations. Meanwhile, Israel's President Isaac Herzog met Keir Starmer in London yesterday. So what does this all mean for the peace process - and for Gazans?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: Catherine Philp, World Affairs Editor, The Times.Host: Manveen Rana.Producers: Edith Rousselot and Olivia Case.Clips: The Times, Reuters, The White House, Sky, Al Jazeera, The Sun, BBC. Photo: Getty Images.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Exclusive research for The Times reveals a huge increase in the number of people who believe the dangers of climate change have been exaggerated. Why is this happening and what does it mean for our future - and that of our children?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: Oliver Wright Host: Manveen RanaProducer: Shabnam Grewal Read more: We're ready to become net-zero heroes by 2050 (but only if the price is right)Clips: Channel 4, Sky News, ITV News, BBC, Guardian News, UN Climate Change, @downingstreet, Photo: Getty images.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Last Friday, deputy prime minister Angela Rayner resigned after a report said she broke the ministerial code by not paying enough stamp duty on her second home. But how serious is this latest loss for Labour, who could replace her, and can Keir Starmer's reshuffle reboot a struggling premiership and party? 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: Geraldine Scott, assistant political editor, The Times.Host: Luke Jones.Producers:Olivia Case.Shabnam Grewal.Clips: BBC, Sky, Channel 4.Photo: Getty Images. Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As French Prime Minister François Bayrou faces a motion of no confidence in the National Assembly, a grassroots protest movement is gathering steam with its rallying cry to "Block everything" on September 10. Organisers hope to bring the country to a standstill to protest against Bayrou's national budget plan ­– even though the current government is likely to fall before the demonstrations begin. So is the French government on the brink of collapse 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: Peter Conradi, Europe Editor, The Sunday Times Host: Luke JonesProducers: Edith Rousselot and Hannah Varrall Read more: France heading for ‘Liz Truss-style catastrophe', warns PMClips: DW News, Sky News, France 24, BBC News. Photo: Getty Images.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

15-year-old Carlo Acutis will become the first millennial saint today, after the Catholic Church posthumously attributed two miracles to him. So who was this extraordinary boy and how does the church 'fact' check a miracle?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: Kaya Burgess, science reporter and religious affairs correspondent, The Times.Host: Manveen Rana.Producer: Olivia Case.Further reading: London-born teenager to become the first millennial saintClips: YouTube / Miles Christi Religious Order, YouTube / Shalom world. Photo: Getty Images.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Polyamory is on the rise — especially in one US city where romantic partners have organised themselves into ever expanding networks. Yes, it can get complicated, they tell Megan Agnew.Written and read by: Megan Agnew, Senior Features Writer, The Sunday Times.Producer: Shabnam Grewal.Read more: Forget love triangles. Meet the ‘polycule' with 80 people in itPhoto: GettyGet in touch: thestory@thetimes.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As Reform's conference begins today, the party leads the opinion polls. Nigel Farage is attempting to portray himself as the next Prime Minister, but in places they already hold power - ten councils and two mayoral authorities - there have been hints of serious problems, from failed cost cutting measures to infighting and resignations. So is Reform ready for power?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.Producers: Olivia Case.Maeve Gallagher.Clips: TalkTV, Sky, The Telegraph, Tiktok / Nigel_Farage, Channel 5, LBC, BBC, ITV, Channel 4, Nottinghamshire Live, EU Debates / YouTube, Reform UK, ZiaYusufOfficial / Youtube. Photo: Getty Images.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ten years ago, the United States Supreme Court voted to make same-sex marriage legal by five votes to four. Since then the court has reversed one landmark ruling by overturning Roe v Wade, the 1973 decision that established a right to abortion under federal law. With divisions in attitudes to gay marriages and relationships increasing - could the court rethink its decision on gay marriage?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: Matilda Davies, data journalist, The Times and Sunday Times. Host: Luke Jones. Producer: Shabnam Grewal.Read more: Why is gay marriage losing US support — and are bans looming?Clips: @hrcmedia, Retroreport.org, CBS, USA TODAY, NBC,ABC, NOW THIS IMPACT, ALLSHEWROTESBOOKS.COM.Photo: Gettyimages.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Political figures from the right and left have suggested that leaving a European convention could reduce the number of people seeking asylum in Britain. So what is the ECHR? And would leaving it actually make a difference? 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:Fraser Nelson, Columnist, The Times. Jonathan Ames, Legal Editor, The Times. Host: Manveen RanaProducer: Hannah Varrall Read more: What would actually happen if we left the ECHR?Leaving the ECHR won't fix the asylum crisisFurther listening: Hard borders, harder politics: Europe's migration crisisClips: GB News, Parliamentlive.tvPhoto: Getty ImagesGet in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

World leaders have gathered in China ahead of tomorrow's military parade to mark the end of the Second World War. Xi Jinping, Vladimir Putin and Narenda Modi were among the 20 other leaders welcomed to what's been dubbed the 'anti-NATO' summit to discuss global security and economic matters ahead of the event. What can we learn from the relationships between the attendees and how should the West react?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: Richard Spencer, China Correspondent, The Times, andCatherine Philp, World Affairs Editor, The Times. Host: Manveen Rana. Producer: Edward Drummond. Clips: APT, Reuters, SCMP.Photo: Getty Images. Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tomorrow, the Greens announce their new leader, and one contender has been borrowing from the Farage playbook in his campaign. Meanwhile, Jeremy Corbyn's new populist party is getting hundreds of thousands of sign-ups since its launch. Are the days of gradualism - and our two-party system dominance - over?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: Aubrey Allegretti, Chief Political Correspondent, The Times.Josh Glancy, Associate Editor, The Sunday Times.Host: Manveen Rana.Producer: Olivia Case.Clips: YouTube / Break Through News, Sky, YouTube / @zakpolanskigreen, Novara Media, The Telegraph, ITV, YouTube / Ellie and Adrian 2025.Photo: Getty Images.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Caribbean nation of Haiti is now at the mercy of gangs bent on kidnap, rape and murder. Louise Callaghan meets their victims — and confronts a warlord.Written and read by: Louise Callaghan, US correspondent, The Sunday Times.Producer: Edith Rousselot. Photo: Giles Clarke/ Getty Images.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In his new book, Power and the Palace, the former Times royal correspondent Valentine Low uncovers the secretive relationship between the monarchy and government. Speaking to Palace aides, politicians and civil servants, he reveals the private side of Queen Elizabeth II.© Valentine Low 2025 Extracted from “Power and the Palace” by Valentine Low, to be published by Headline Press on September 11 at £25 Available to buy from The Times Bookshop.This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestoryWritten and read by: Valentine Low.Producer: Euan Dawtrey.Photo: Ian Gavan / Stringer.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Taylor Swift announced her engagement to boyfriend of two years, NFL tight end Travis Kelce. So what can we expect at America's version of a royal wedding? Will there be hints or Easter eggs about it in her new album? And what could a stable love life mean for an artist who's built a career on heartbreak?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: Sarah Ditum, writer, The Times and The Sunday Times. Host: Manveen Rana.Producer: Olivia Case.Read more: Taylor Swift's engagement to Travis Kelce is an all-American love storyHappily ever after? The Disneyfication of America's ‘royal couple'Taylor Swift's $1m ring is so huge she'll get a six-pack on her fingerClips: Fix, iHollywoodTV, ABC, New Heights podcast, CDC / Pfizer, E! Entertainment. Music: All Too Well / Taylor Swift / Republic Records, Bejewelled / Taylor Swift / Republic Records, You Belong With Me / Taylor Swift / Republic Records, So High School / Taylor Swift / Republic Records.Photo: Instagram / @TaylorSwift. Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

President Trump announced on Truth Social this week that he had fired Federal Reserve board member Lisa Cook. While most people had no idea who she was, her sacking could have a massive impact. The move is seen as part of the continued politicisation of the Fed, the US's independent central bank and some economists fear it could be the start of a journey towards economic meltdown in America with global repercussions. 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: Mehreen Khan,  Economics Editor, The Times.Host: Manveen Rana.Producer: Shabnam Grewal.Read more: Trump is rapidly tightening his grip on US central bankDollar weakens after Trump ‘sacks' Fed governor Lisa CookClips: CNN, Bloomberg, The Legal Defence Fund.Photo: Getty Images.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Yesterday Nigel Farage unveiled Reform UK's plans to tackle the issue of small boats and illegal migration. It's a problem that's driven European politics for almost a decade, we look to the continent for lessons they've learned on how it could be solved.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: Oliver Moody, Berlin correspondent, The Times. Host: Manveen Rana. Producer: Edith Rousselot. Read more: Look to Sweden for bold policies on migrantsClips: Times Radio.Photo: Getty Images. Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.