Stories of our times

When Kristie De Garis moved two male companions into her house in rural Scotland, her neighbours assumed they were a throuple. The truth was even more unusual: she was setting up home with her exes.This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times.Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestory.Photo: Courtesy of Kristie De Garis.Drystone: A Life Rebuilt by Kristie De Garis (Polygon, £14.99) is published on August 7. To order, go to timesbookshop.co.uk or call 020 3176 2935. Free UK P&P on online orders over £25. Discount for Times+ members. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week the political masterminds consider what's happening on the populist left and right, with more Tories defecting to Reform UK and talk of a new party led by Jeremy Corbyn. How small has the Conservative coalition become, do the voters expect Keir Starmer to wield a 'magic wand', and what would a new party be called?Send your comments and questions to howtowin@thetimes.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, the FBI investigation that Trump promised would reveal all about Jeffrey Epstein concluded there was no evidence to implicate anyone else in his abuse. But diaries from Epstein's most prominent victim, Virginia Giuffre, released exclusively to The Times, tell a different story.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.Host: Luke Jones.Producer: Anna Dowell.Further reading: Jeffrey Epstein victim's diary ‘contradicts' FBI blackmail claims.Clips: MSNBC, Sky News Australia, The Dan Bongino Show, The Washington Examiner, ABC News, Tucker Carlson, Breaking Points.Photo: Getty Images.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With people around the world calling for a lasting peace in Gaza, Israeli PM Binyamin Netanyahu has been schmoozing US President Donald Trump. What chance is there that the two will bring an end to the bloody conflict? And what hope that any peace will hold?This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestory.Guest: Gabrielle Weiniger, Israel Correspondent, The Times.Host: Luke Jones.Producer: Shabnam Grewal.Further reading: IDF defies Netanyahu's plan for ‘humanitarian city' in GazaClips: AP, Reuters, Fox News.Photo: Getty Images.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Over 100 people, including dozens of children, are dead after flash flooding in Texas. Could this have been avoided given a nearly identical tragedy took place in 1987? Did Trump's cuts contribute? And what went wrong with the flood warning system?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: Lara Spirit, Washington Correspondent, The Times.Host: Luke Jones.Producer: Olivia Case.Further reading: Where is it flooding in Texas? The devastation in maps and video.Clips: NewsNation, France 24, KPRC 2, CBS, YouTube / History Corner, KVUE, FOX, YouTube / Camp Mystic, YouTube / Allie Coates, Democracy Now!, YouTube / Meidas Touch, Bloomberg, WOAI, Sky, WUSA9. Photo: Getty Images.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Erin Patterson has been found guilty of murdering three relatives by lacing their beef wellington with death cap mushrooms. She was also found guilty of attempting to murder a fourth person. The prosecution said she did it on purpose; she says it was an accident. It took a jury in Australia six days to reach a verdict after listening to 40 days of extraordinary evidence. 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: Bernard Lagan, Australia Correspondent, The Times.Host: Manveen Rana.Producer: Edith Rousselot.Further reading: How Erin Patterson became the mushroom murdererErin Patterson found guilty of murder in death cap mushroom trialClips: 9 News Australia, The Australian. Photo: Getty Images.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Twenty years after the 7/7 London bombings killed 52 people, what's changed since the deadly suicide attack? Thelma Stober suffered life-changing injuries that morning and former police officer David Skiffins spent the weeks after working underground to recover the bodies of those murdered. They describe what happened and how it changed their lives. 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: Fiona Hamilton, Chief Reporter, The Times Thelma Stober, 7/7 survivorDavid Skiffins, former Metropolitan Police counter terror Detective ConstableHost: Manveen Rana.Producer: Edward Drummond. Further reading: 7/7: ‘There was a white light. I looked around and saw bodies'‘I spoke to victims of 7/7 as I retrieved their bodies'Photo: Getty Images. Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Poison is the podcast series behind the new two-part TV documentary 'Poisoned', which airs on Channel 4 this Wednesday, 9 July and Thursday, 10 July.This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestory.Part One: In October 2021, David Parfett's 22-year-old son, Tom, took his own life.Listen to the full series: Poison.Further reading: The moment I confronted the poison poster who is accused of 14 murdersWarning, this episode contains discussions about suicide.If you or someone you know has been affected by suicide or needs to talk to someone, please get in contact with the Samaritans online or call them for free on their 24-hour helpline 116 123.Host: James Beal, Deputy Investigations Editor, The Times. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Patrick and Tom unpack a troubling question - are we entering a third nuclear age? With Iran's nuclear programme back in the headlines and countries like Poland and South Korea considering building nuclear weapons of their own, the old global order is clearly shifting. Patrick and Tom explore what this means for global security, and whether nuclear proliferation is set to become the new normal. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Donald Trump and Elon Musk are trading blows again after Musk criticised the President's ‘big, beautiful' tax and spending bill. Trump has threatened to deport the world's richest man and set his Doge 'monster' on him. So why does Musk hate the bill, and could this push him to set up a political party to challenge his new rival?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: Lara Spirit, Washington Correspondent, The Times. Host: Manveen Rana.Producer: Olivia Case.Further reading: Tesla sales go into reverse in fresh blow for Elon MuskClips: Fox, New York Post, MSNBC, BBC, United States Senate, CNN, ABC, AP, WCNC. Photo: Getty ImagesGet in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“I'll just go and get some fresh seed” - we reveal growing concerns about mass sperm donation. One man found his father ran a corrupt fertility clinic, providing patients with samples of his own sperm. Another man discovered he has 50 children all over Europe. There has been at least one case of accidental incest. The growing scandal has provoked widespread horror in the Netherlands.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: Senay BoztasHost: Manveen Rana Producer: Shabnam Grewal Further reading: I am a father of 50 children, a new one gets in touch almost every weekClips: WSJ.com, Times Radio, The Immaculate Deception - Somethin' Else/ Sony Music Entertainment, Bloomberg, Youtube.com/@masteringknowledge Photo: Getty imagesGet in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From dynamic pricing and VIP packages to ‘priority entry', there seem to be more ways than ever to squeeze money out of music fans - and that's not even to mention the sky-rocketing cost of a basic standing ticket. The Times' Jonathan Dean has been investigating why the cost of seeing some of our favourite artists has gone stratospheric, and whether the company Live Nation is to blame. 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: Jonathan Dean Host: Luke JonesProducer: Hannah VarrallFurther reading: How did Beyoncé tour tickets go from a small fortune to $25 each?Johnny Depp: ‘I was a crash test dummy for MeToo'Further listening: The making of Beyoncé – by friends, family and Team Bey insidersMusic:Bad Guy by Billie Eilish (written by Finneas O'Connell, Billie Eilish O'Connell, published by Darkroom/Interscope Records, Kobalt Music Publishing) Sweet Child O' Mine by Guns N' Roses (written by Duff McKagan, Jeffrey Isbell, Saul Hudson, Steven Adler, W. Axl Rose, published by Guns N Roses P&D)505 by The Arctic Monkeys (written by Alex Turner, Arctic Monkeys, published by Domino Recording Co)Clips: Sky News, This Morning (ITV), BBC News, Channel 4 News, Adam Webb from FanFair Alliance, Reg Walker, ABC News, CBS News, The Cure (YouTube), BBC Music (YouTube)Photo: Getty ImagesGet in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After the most contentious week of Keir Starmer's premiership so far, MPs will gather in the House of Commons later today to vote on the controversial benefits bill. Has the rebellion been effectively squashed? Or is this only the beginning?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: Patrick Maguire, Chief Political Commentator, The Times.Host: Manveen Rana.Producer: Taryn Siegel.Clips: Sky News, BBC Parliament, Guardian News, Sir Starmer and the Granny Harmers/Freezing this Christmas, The London Standard, TalkTV, ITV/This Morning, Channel 4 News, Times Radio.Photo: Getty Images.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tomorrow 33-year-old democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani will be officially confirmed as the Democratic Party candidate for New York mayor, putting him in pole position to land the role in November. His win caused a political earthquake in America, personifying questions over the future direction of the party.  So who is this fresh new face of the Democratic party, and what does his rise tell us about the increasing popularity of left-wing economics? This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestory Guest: Mehreen Khan, Economics Editor, The TimesHost: Manveen RanaProducer: Hannah VarrallFurther reading: What Zohran Mamdani's win means for the Democratic Party Further listening: Why the dollar is crashing – and why you should careClips: Pod Save America, Odd Lots (Bloomberg Podcasts), UNFTR Media, @HasanAbi (YouTube), @ZohranforNYC (YouTube), @mr.cardamom896 (YouTube), Eyewitness NewsABC7NY, CNN, MSNBC, PIX11 News, Fox 5 New York, @Zohran-k-Mamdani (TikTok), NBC News, C-Span2 Book tv, The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, @JVPAction (Instagram), @emrata (Instagram), @BloombergTV (X)Photo: Getty ImagesGet in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode was originally published in February.In 2016, 24-year-old Gypsy-Rose Blanchard was sentenced to 10 years in the US State of Missouri, for arranging the murder of her mother. Her mother, Clauddine “Dee Dee” Blanchard, had Munchausen syndrome by proxy - a rare form of abuse where she would convince doctors that her daughter was ill - leading to unnecessary treatment. The harrowing details of what Blanchard went through have made her a media sensation - but should we feel sympathy for her? 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: Manveen Rana.Producer: Samantha Chantarasak.Further reading: Read Katie's full interview with Gypsy-Rose Blanchard Clips: KY3 News, The Act/Hulu, The Prison Confessions of Gypsy Rose Blanchard/Lifetime, The Kardashians/Hulu.Photo: Getty Images.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Danny meets up with Alex Blania, the CEO and one of the co-founders, alongside Sam Altman, of Tools for Humanity. Their project Worldcoin, aims to help us weed out AI imitators by verifying humans online. All you have to do is scan your iris on one of their orbs to get a unique biometric ID and some cryptocurrency. Danny and Katie also take on Tesla's robotaxi rollout, and question whether it's right and proper for humans to fall in love with AI bots? Spoiler alert! The answer is probably not, for both your sakes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When Rob Burley started talking to an AI chatbot for feedback while writing his book, he had no idea where the conversation would lead, only 24 hours later.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: Rob Burley, writer.Host: Luke Jones.Producer: Taryn Siegel.Further reading: Help! I've fallen for my chatbot! Is this the future of AI?Clips: Neil Diamond/Forever in blue jeans, Sky News.Photo: Getty Images.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Trump's golfing buddy Steve Witkoff was a property developer before Trump came to power. Now he's the president's right-hand-man in all things diplomatic, including sorting the current crisis in Iran. Is he the right man for the job?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: Louise Callaghan, Senior US Correspondent, The Sunday Times.Host: Luke Jones.Producer: Olivia Case.Further reading: How Trump's team of rivals pulled him back from the brinkFurther listening: Trump family inc.Clips: Tucker Carlson / Fox / YouTube, BBC, YouTube / Professor Gerdes Explains, CBC News, CNBC, The Kremlin, FIIKSA, Kyiv Independent / Instagram, The Real Deal / YouTube, NBC, Channel 4. Photo: Getty Images.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Has the crisis over Iran driven its already weakened leader to the brink? Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is unpopular but do the people of Iran want regime change from outside? And if he falls, what then for Iran?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: Professor Mohsen Milani, Author, The Making of Iran's Islamic Revolution.Fatemeh Jamalpour, Iranian Journalist.Host: Manveen Rana, Producer: Shabnam Grewal. Further reading: Will Israel's strikes on Iran bring about a regime change?Iran needs regime change — I'd die for it, says Shah's sonIran's Rise and Rivalry with the US in the Middle East: Iran's Rise and its Geostrategic Rivalry with the US in the Middle East by Mohsen Milani Further listening: Iran strikes back: what next?Clips: BBC, ITN News, Coup53, MSNBC, ABC, Al Jazeera English, CBS, DW News.Photo: Getty Images.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Iran has launched missiles at US airbases in response to US strikes on its nuclear facilities. Donald Trump says US bombers obliterated Iran's three main nuclear sites at Natanz, Isfahan and Fordow. But the extent of the damage is still unclear. Is the situation escalating and will the US now push for regime change?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, The Times.Host: Manveen Rana.Producer: Edith Rousselot.Further reading: Can Iran block the Strait of Hormuz — and other key questionsClips: Fox News, NBC News, DW News, Forbes Breaking News.Photo: Getty Images.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jonathan Anderson, the Northern Irish designer who made Loewe a billion dollar brand, has just taken on the biggest job in fashion: the first sole creative director of Dior since the eponymous Christian Dior. Ahead of this fashion week there's been a chaotic reshuffle at the top of fashion as the industry copes with a challenging economic downturn. Who is the most important man in fashion, and can he rescue Dior from the chaos?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: Harriet Walker, Fashion Editor, The Times.Host: Luke Jones.Producer: Anna Dowell.Further reading:Jonathan Anderson: British designer to take the reins at DiorIs this fashion's most powerful man?Clips: New York Times, SHOWstudio via YouTube, Mashable via YouTube, LOEWE via YouTube Photo: Getty Images.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This podcast was originally published last August.Just hours before the sinking, the party aboard the yacht had been celebrating a spectacular legal victory - so what led to this moment?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 Prescott, Technology Business Editor, The Times. Host: Manveen Rana. Producers: Sam Chantarasak and Taryn Siegel.Further listening: Danny In The Valley: Mike Lynch's first post-acquittal interview Clips: Danny In The Valley, TalkTV, GB News, LeadersIn. Photo: Times Media Ltd / Jack Hill.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The government has held a meeting of the Cobra committee to discuss the Israel-Iran crisis - but how important is it really during a national emergency, and is it the UK's version of the White House Situation Room?The political masterminds also discuss the political impact of backing America during a conflict, and whether Keir Starmer can start ignoring Kemi Badenoch at prime minister's questions.Send your comments and questions to howtowin@thetimes.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The first woman to run MI6, the foreign branch of Britain's Secret Intelligence Services has been named. Blaise Metreweli takes over the role of ‘C,' as the head of the service has always been called, in the autumn. She will go from complete anonymity to becoming the public face of British foreign espionage. A long career in espionage means much is shrouded in mystery but we have some fascinating details about the new C and about the history of the job.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: Larisa Brown, Defence Editor, The Times.Dr Daniel Lomas - Assistant professor in International Relations. University of Nottingham.Host: Luke Jones. Producer: Shabnam Grewal. Further reading:Who really is the new MI6 chief? Here's everything we could findBlaise Metreweli to be first female chief of MI6Clips: Sky news, Eon Productions & MGM, @Legaseewarveterans, ITN archive, ABC, Politico.Photo: Getty Images.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Decca Aitkenhead was nine when a GP risked jail to help her mother to die. Years later she watched her best friend succumb to the slow torture of Huntington's disease, and for a few days she found herself confronting her own death. She tells Jane Mulkerrins how those experiences have shaped her views on assisted dying. 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: Decca Aitkenhead, Chief Interviewer, The Sunday Times.Host: Jane Mulkerrins.Producer: Edward Drummond.Further reading: I was 9 when a GP risked jail to help mum die. The law must changeFurther listening: The debate about death that split the countryClips: ITV/Concord Media, Parliament.Photo: Decca Aitkenhead. Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As thousands of Ukrainian soldiers struggle with debilitating PTSD since the Russian invasion, one unconventional therapy has proved surprisingly effective: ketamine. How did this become a treatment for mental illness? And does it really work? 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: Luke Jones.Producer: Taryn Siegel.Clips: Netflix/How to change your mind.Photo: Getty Images.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How did Israel pull off the most devastating attack on the Iranian regime in its 45 year history and did it achieve its aim of destroying the country's ability to produce a nuclear weapon? As Tehran retaliates for the deaths of its leading military and nuclear personnel, what is the path to de-escalation, and is there a path to something far worse?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-DunnHost: Luke Jones Producer: Hannah Varrall, Edith RousselotFurther reading: What weapons does Iran have and how long can it attack Israel?Further listening: The General & The Journalist, from The Times and The Sunday TimesClips: BBC News, France 24, Times News, Youtube @IsraeliPM, WTHR, Sky News, Associated Press, Al Jazeera English, CBS News, Bloomberg News, Guardian News, Fox 9 Minneapolis, Facebook @Firstpost. Photo: Getty ImagesGet in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Weight loss drugs like Mounjaro and Wegovy aren't just changing bodies - they're rewiring society. Half a million Britons have tried them and that number's soaring. So what will be different in this slim new world? Sunday Times science editor Ben Spencer explains how the drugs are fundamentally altering everything from alcohol to airlines. We also hear Harriet Walker's experience of taking the drugs, and why the expression "on the pen" is now firmly in the vernacular of fashion week. 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: Ben Spencer, Science Editor, The Sunday Times.Harriet Walker, Fashion Editor, The Times.Host: Manveen Rana.Producer: Olivia Case.Further reading:I tried Ozempic microdosing, the secret way the rich lose weightAll the ways Ozempic will change our world, from alcohol to airlinesClips: Times Radio, Doctor Mike / Youtube, Mark Lewis / YouTube, Fox, @Alexanderweightjourney / YouTube, @DoctorYoun / YouTube, Dr Emma Anders / YouTube, FatOldClimber / YouTube, @ChrisWilx / YouTube, SouthPark / Paramount Plus / Comedy Central, TikTok / Kasiedate, TikTok / @Gabysuecum, TikTok / sistershred. Photo: Romas Foord for The Times magazine. Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode was originally published in March.The word "unprecedented" is often used to describe Donald Trump's presidency. He's broken with convention repeatedly: from announcing tariffs on allies, to the suggestion that he wants to buy Greenland. But are these moves really without precedent? Or do Trump's politics echo that of 19th century US presidents, but with a more alarming twist?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: Nick BryantHost: Manveen Rana.Producer: Emily Webb.Clips: ABC News, CNBC, Niki Ashton Youtube, CBS News, New York Times, FOX, MSNBC, Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation & Institute, NBC, Washington Post, BBC.Photo: Getty Images. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A pattern is seemingly emerging with a series of high profile targeted killings taking place inside Russian territory, blamed on Ukrainian forces. This week, an in depth look at those stories, who may be responsible for them, why they may be happening and what are rules when it comes to assessing wether they are legally and ethically justified. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The protests in Los Angeles have created a political opportunity for California's Democrat governor, Gavin Newsom. He has called Donald Trump a “stone-cold liar” and said that democracy itself is under threat after the president ordered the National Guard and the Marines onto the streets of LA. Have the Democrats found a credible opponent who could take on Trump? 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: George Grylls, Washington Correspondent, The Times, Samuel Lovett, US Reporter, The Times.Host: Manveen Rana.Producer: Shabnam Grewal.Further reading:Does LA have a migrant problem? The history explained ,Is Trump's deployment of marines ‘un-American' or necessary? ,Trump calls for arrest of ‘grossly incompetent' Gavin Newsom ,How one LA protest spiraled outClips: Sky, Fox29philly, Fox news, CNN, MSNBC, Instagram, Tiktok, Facebook, therecount, Kare11, Photo: GettyGet in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For years, the Harrods owner Mohamed Al-Fayed used his power to abuse and rape women who worked for him. He was never prosecuted. In her new book The Monster of Harrods: Al-Fayed and the secret, shameful history of a British institution, Alison Kervin reveals the staggering scale of his abuse and the huge number of people who enabled it.This episode contains details of rape and sexual abuse. If you need support, go to www.247sexualabusesupport.org.uk or call 0808 500 2222.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: Alison Kervin, Author of The Monster of Harrod's: Al-Fayed and the secret, shameful history of a British Institution.Host: Manveen Rana.Producer: Edith Rousselot.Further reading: The monster of Harrods: ‘Mohamed Al Fayed raped me'Clips: BBC News, Sky News, 7News Australia. Photo: Getty Images.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On Monday a boat of twelve activists, including Greta Thunberg, was intercepted by Israel on its way to deliver a symbolic amount of aid to Gaza. More than a humanitarian mission, its aim was to keep the world's attention on what the UN calls "the hungriest place on earth". Israel dismissed the project as a “selfie yacht” guided by "instagram activism". Gabrielle Weiniger tells Manveen Rana how the incident became the latest battle in the war of messaging for both sides. This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestory Guest: Gabrielle Weiniger, Israel correspondent for The TimesHost: Manveen RanaProducer: Anna Dowell, Hannah VarrallFurther reading: Israel deports Greta Thunberg after seizing Madleen aid boatFurther listening: 'People are starving' - How Trump lost patience with IsraelClips: theipaper via YouTube, ‘The Left in the European Parliament' via Youtube, Office of the Israeli Prime Minister, CNN, Freedom Flotilla Coalition, Louise Callaghan, BBC, Al Jazeera, Daily Sabah via Facebook, Palestine Deep Dive via YouTube, France 24 English via YouTube, Israel MFA via X.com, The SunPhoto: Getty ImagesGet in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The closest of bromances devolved last week into a public cage fight. Where did this come from? And when the richest man in the world and the most powerful man in the world decide to do battle, what are the stakes?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 DC Editor, The Times and The Sunday Times.Host: Manveen Rana.Producer: Taryn Siegel.Further reading: Trump v Elon Musk may deliver one true winner: JD Vance.Further listening: Why the dollar is crashing -- and why you should care.Clips: ABC News, Sky News, NBC/Today, Bloomberg Television, CNN, The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Fox News, Spectrum News, CBS News.Photo: Getty Images.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The journalist James Bloodworth has been exploring the manosphere revealing a hidden world of modern masculinity and the anxieties driving it. Charting the history from pickup artists to incels and influencers, he tells Manveen about the attractions of this digital world to young men and his own experiences within 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: James Bloodworth, journalist and author of Lost Boys: A Personal Journey Through the ManosphereTo order a copy go to timesbookshop.co.uk. Free UK standard P&P on orders over £25. Special discount available for Times+ membersHost: Manveen RanaProducer: Shabnam GrewalFurther reading : My job at a £7,500 dating boot camp — toxic masculinity rules Clips: Youtube, Tiktok ,@rich_somers, @BrandonFromILET, @SpartanMomentum, @ChrisWillx, Jordan Peterson Fan Channel@PsycheMatters, ABC Photo: James BloodworthGet in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode was originally published two year ago.They are supposed to help adults quit smoking – so why is a Willy Wonka array of disposable vapes being mass marketed to children? The Chartered Trading Standards Institute wants tougher penalties for those selling to under-18s. Just how did vaping get so big in Britain?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: Luke Jones.Producer: Edward Drummond.Clips: BBC News, Sky News, Channel 4 News.Photo: Getty Images.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With tough choices facing the government, the political masterminds look at what goes on behind the scenes ahead of a spending review - and how reluctant ministers are brought into line.And as the Tories finally put the boot into the Liz Truss legacy, have they found a new strategy on the economy - and will anyone notice?Send your comments and questions to howtowin@thetimes.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As Beyoncé's Cowboy Carter tour comes to the UK, we chart the rise of a shy schoolgirl from Texas who became a record-breaking billionaire. 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.Host: Luke Jones.Producer: Hannah Varrall.Further reading: The making of Beyoncé — by friends, family and Team Bey insidersClips: CMA Awards 2016, The Howard Stern Show, YouTube/@bvconcerts, Youtube/@Kamala Harris. Thanks to Parkwood Entertainment/Columbia, Warner Chappell Music, Pulse Publishing Administration, Sony Music Publishing.Photo: Getty Images.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The government's Strategic Defence Review has set out a vision for Britain's defence for the next decade. One of its authors, General Sir Richard Barrons, spoke to Manveen Rana about the threat from Russia, the wars and weapons of the future and how quickly society can collapse.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: General Sir Richard Barrons, co-author of the Strategic Defence Review 2025. Host: Manveen Rana. Producer: Edward Drummond.Further listening: The rise of killer robots: The future of modern warfare? Clips: Times Radio, Sky News, BBC News, Rusi. Photo: Getty Images/Adobe Stock Images.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The dollar has been the global reserve currency nearly a century. But four months into the new Trump administration, could that be about to change?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: Luke Jones.Producer: Taryn Siegel.Further reading: Trump's ‘revenge taxes' are more dangerous than his trade warFurther listening: Why the price of gold is skyrocketingClips: CNBC, Soar Financially, Forbes Breaking News, MSNBC.Photo: Getty Images.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Anthony Loyd and the legendary photographer Don McCullin have been to Syria to chronicle the destruction of Palmyra by Islamic State and to see what is changing under the new Syrian regime. Manveen sat down with them at Don's house in Somerset to reflect on war, loss, friendship — and a remarkable career. 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: Anthony Loyd, Special Correspondent, The Times.Don McCullin, photographer.Host: Manveen Rana.Producers: Kizzy Bray and Edward Drummond.Further reading: Don McCullin, 89, returns to Palmyra: ‘This time will be my last'Clips: Reuters, NY Times.Photo: Anthony Loyd/The Times.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Giorgia Meloni has world leaders falling at her feet and the Trump administration in her thrall. But how did she reinvent herself from leader of a minor neo-fascist party to the new political queen of Europe?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 Kington, The Times correspondent in Rome. Host: Manveen Rana.Producer: Edith Rousselot.Further reading: Stop flirting with Giorgia Meloni! She's a serious leaderClips: AFP, Atlantic Council, AP News, EU Debates, PBS NewsHour, The Express Tribune.Photo: Getty Images.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.