Stories of our times

Keir Starmer is visiting China, becoming the first UK prime minister to travel to Beijing in eight years. His trip comes amid a queue of world leaders seeking meetings with Xi Jinping, as some countries look for leverage in an increasingly volatile global order. But can China be trusted as a global partner? And as the US appears to be stepping back from its role as the world's policeman, what kind of power is China prepared to become?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: Cindy Yu, columnist and contributing editor at The Times & The Sunday Times.Isabel Hilton, journalist and China watcher.Host: Manveen Rana.Producers: Julia Webster, Harry Stott, and Sophie McNulty.We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.comRead more: What Keir Starmer and Xi Jinping said in China (and what they meant)Further listening: Is China's mega-embassy a mega-spy base?Clips: BBC, World Economic Forum, CBS, APT, DRM NewsPhoto: 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.

It's been a whirlwind start to the year. In just three weeks, tensions between Donald Trump and Iran have escalated, the U.S. captured Venezuela's President Maduro, while British politics has been rocked by defections and leadership challenges. And we're still only in January. To help cut through the chaos, we're taking a moment to answer your biggest questions about what's been happening.We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.comThis podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestoryHosts: Manveen Rana & Luke JonesProducer: Sophie McNultyFurther listening:Everything you need to know about the Iran protestsHas ICE become the US president's ‘private army'?Starmer v the ‘King of the North' - who really won?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.

This week, the Times is launching another new politics podcast – a sister show to our Westminster offering, but this time across the pond, taking you inside the White House… Subscribe to The State of It: USA, wherever you get your podcasts.Welcome to the first ever episode of The State of It: USA. An attack on Iran looks imminent: we reveal what senior military and political figures are saying about it. Also, is Donald Trump taking a softer line on immigration after the deaths of Renée Good and Alex Pretti in Minneapolis? And get ready for Melania, the movie.This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestoryHosts: Katy Balls, Washington editor and columnist at The Times and The Sunday Times.Gerard Baker, columnist at The Times and editor at large at The Wall Street Journal.Producer: Euan Dawtrey.Executive Producer: Molly Guiness.We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.comFurther listening: The State of ItThis 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 immigration rules have tightened in recent months, some migrants already working in the UK, whose visas have been cancelled, find themselves in a precarious position. Agents are selling a workaround, offering to arrange fake jobs which can be used to obtain real visas, in exchange for exorbitant fees. The Times went undercover, posing as a migrant facing deportation, to expose how this black market is operating.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: Shanti Das, senior investigations reporter, The Times.Host: Manveen Rana.Producer: Taryn Siegel.We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.comRead more: How migrants are buying fake jobs to stay in the UK illegallyPhoto: Times Media Ltd.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 Keir Starmer has seen off a potential leadership challenge by blocking his rival – Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham – from returning to Westminster. But many Labour MPs have been deeply critical of the move, accusing the PM of orchestrating a “stitch up”. So was it worth it? And might Starmer face a leadership challenge anyway? 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 for The Times.Host: Manveen Rana. Producers: Micaela Arneson, Harry Stott. We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.comRead more: What happens next for Labour and Keir Starmer?Further listening: Who will move first: Streeting or Burnham?Clips: Sky, Times Radio, BBC, Novara Media. 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.

When the new Archbishop of Canterbury is confirmed on Wednesday she'll become the first woman to lead the Church of England. But Dame Sarah Mullally's gender and views are already threatening to cause a schism in the global Anglican church. So who is she and can she unite the Church, which has been beset by scandals and shrinking congregations?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 and religious affairs correspondent, The TimesHost: Manveen Rana. Producer: Olivia Case.We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.comRead more: New archbishop: Slave ‘reparations' will not eat into parish fundsFurther listening: Monica Lewinsky: What happened nextClips: The Vicar of Dibley / BBC / Tiger Aspect Productions, Channel 4, The Archbishop of Canterbury / YouTube, BBC, WION, France 24, The Southwark Cathedral podcast, The Church of England, ITV. 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.

It's the debate of our time. How much is too much and what's the impact of screentime for children? With a proposed ban on social media for under 16s being debated in the UK, and children arriving at primary school swiping books like phones, we take a deep dive into the impact, and future, of screentime and AI in schools. Actress and campaigner Sophie Winkelman, a prominent voice of the dangers of increased screentime for children and Ben Gomes, Chief Technologist at Google, who is leading in the implementation of AI in schools, set out the arguments.Guests: Sophie Winkleman, actress, campaigner and trustee of charity School-Home Support.Ben Gomes, Chief Technologist, Learning and Sustainability, Google.Host: Manveen Rana. Producer: Dave Creasey.Clips: Times Radio.Photo: Getty Images, Christopher L Proctor for the Sunday Times.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.comThis 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.

Hadley Freeman was embedded with the Beckhams when she was asked to ghost write a book for Victoria Beckham back in the early 2000s. Now, a colossal family feud between Brooklyn Beckham and the rest of the clan has exploded into the headlines, culminating in a scathing six-page Instagram statement. Hadley tells us what's really going on here - and why we all can't stop watching.Guest: Hadley Freeman, writer for the Sunday Times.Host: Luke Jones.Producer: Dave Creasey.Clips: Sky News.Photo: Getty Images.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.comThis 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.

Since an ICE agent shot and killed US citizen Renee Good on January 7, Minneapolis has erupted in protests. Thousands have taken to the streets as federal authorities deployed thousands more immigration officers, resulting in more than 3,000 arrests. So how did we get here, how did ICE become so powerful, and why has the city become a flashpoint for the country?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: Will Pavia, New York correspondent, The TimesHost: Manveen RanaProducers: Sophie McNulty, Julia Webster, Olivia CaseWe want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.com Read more: What is ICE? A history from 9/11 to the fatal shooting of an AmericanFurther listening: Who is Stephen Miller? Trump's man behind ‘America First'Clips: The World Economic Forum, Fox News, CBS News, The Times, NBC, The Guardian, Forbes, CNN, The Joe Rogan Experience, WBTV Local News, Associated Press.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.

President Trump made his much anticipated speech at Davos on Wednesday, saying he was “seeking immediate negotiations to acquire Greenland” but would not use force. Late on Wednesday evening, he posted on Truth Social that he wouldn't impose tariffs either. So where does this all leave European relations with the United States?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: Mehreen Khan, economics editor, The Times. Sir Peter Westmacott, former British ambassador to the United States.Host: Manveen Rana.Producers: Micaela Arneson, Julia Webster. We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.com Read more: Trump's Davos speech: eight bizarre moments you may have missedFurther listening: Tariffs, Trump and Greenland: ‘The end of the world as we know it'?Clips: The Guardian, World Economic Forum, New York Post, Associated Press. Photo: Getty Images.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.comThis 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.

In 1996, mother and daughter Lin and Megan Russell were brutally murdered in a picturesque village in Kent. It was a case that shocked 90s Britain, and after a year of searching for the killer, a man called Michael Stone was convicted for their murders. But nearly three decades later, he remains in prison, protesting his innocence. So did he really do it? New advancements in DNA testing may yet reopen the case, in a story which could become one of the UK's biggest ever miscarriages of justice.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: Emily Dugan, special correspondent, The Sunday Times.Mark McDonald, Michael Stone's barrister.Jim Fraser, forensic scientist who originally worked on the case.Barbara Stone, Michael Stone's sister.Host: Luke Jones.Producer: Harry Stott.We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.comRead more: Who killed Lin and Megan Russell? DNA advances may end doubtFurther listening: Seventeen Years - The Andrew Malkinson storyClips: BBC.Photo: Shaun Russell.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.

Keir Starmer has said that Donald Trump's plan to put tariffs on the UK and seven other countries which oppose his takeover of Greenland is ‘completely wrong.' Europe is considering its response, from counter tariffs to more radical options. So is this the start of a trade war or something even more serious?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 and The Sunday Times.Host: Manveen Rana. Producers: Olivia Case, Sophie McNulty.We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.comRead more: Trump-Greenland latest: US president not serious about invasion, says StarmerFurther listening: Can Nato survive a hostile takeover of Greenland?Clips: CBS, BBC, Al Jazeera, CBC.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.

China is on the cusp of constructing the biggest embassy in Europe– right in central London– despite a growing chorus of concern it could be used for a number of spying operations. So why is Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer expected to approve the project? And how worried should we really be?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: Cindy Yu, columnist and contributing editor, The Times and The Sunday Times. Geraldine Scott, assistant political editor, The Times.Host: Luke Jones. Producer: Micaela Arneson. Read more: It's a mega mistake to allow the new Chinese embassyWhy China's embassy plan should be approvedFurther listening: Will 2026 be the year of China?Clips: The Mirror, Daily Express, Sky News, Channel 4. Photo: Getty Images.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.comThis 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 forty years ago in a lab in Boston, biochemist Svetlana Mojsov made an astonishing discovery. She'd conjured up a mixture, GLP-1, that successfully increased insulin levels when blood sugars are high - a mammoth breakthrough for diabetes treatment. It's now the secret sauce in weight-loss drugs like Ozempic, which are taken by 1.6 million people. So why wasn't Mojsov recognised for her work? Why was she, like so many women before her, erased from the story?Guest: Aimee Donnellan, journalist and author 'Off the Scales: The Inside Story of Ozempic and the Race to Cure Obesity'.Host: Tom Whipple, science writer and special correspondent, The Times.Producer: Dave Creasey.Buy Aimee Donnellan's book from The Times BookshopClips: Sky NewsPhoto: Stephanie Diani for the Sunday Times Magazine.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.comThis 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.

A new study has revealed a surprising truth: men's sex drive peaks in their early forties. As a man hitting this milestone, Ben Machell explores what makes midlife libido so potent, from confidence and emotional stability, to life experience. We dive into why testosterone isn't everything, how stress affects younger men, and what makes fortysomething men the “libido elite.”Read by: Ben Machell, features writer, The Times, and Zak Asgard, contributor. The Times.Producer: Dave Creasey.Read more: I'm 43. Are men my age really having more sex than anyone else?Clips: Working Title/Universal.Photo: Getty.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.comThis 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 a whirlwind day in Westminster, Robert Jenrick announced that he was defecting to Reform UK after being sacked by the Conservatives. But how much trouble does his defection spell for the Tories? Can he work with Nigel Farage? And what does this mean for the future of the British right?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: Sophie McNulty, Harry Stott.Read more: Ambush of Robert Jenrick opens new front in war with ReformFurther listening: Will mounting scandals sink reform?Clips: Kemi Badenoch / X, BBC, Reform UK / Youtube.Photo: Getty Images.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.comThis 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 home secretary has said she has lost confidence in West Midlands Police Chief Constable Craig Guildford, after a "damning" report into the decision to ban Israeli football fans from a match with Aston Villa last year. Shabana Mahmood said the report from Sir Andy Cooke, the chief inspector of constabulary, identified widespread failings at the force. But how did we get here? What did this case teach us about the way policing and politics interact? And after yet another scandal, what next for the police?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: Gabirel Pogrund, Whitehall Editor, The Sunday Times.Host: Manveen Rana.Producers: Olivia Case and Taryn Siegel.Read more: Plot to attack Maccabi fans ‘should have been treated as hate crime'Clips: GB News, Sky, Parliamentlive.tv, Urban pictures. Photo: Getty Images.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.comThis 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.

US secretary of state Marco Rubio will meet the Danish and Greelandic foreign ministers later today amid rising tensions over America's desire to control the island. What would a US takeover mean for the future of Nato, and what do the people of Greenland make of being caught in a diplomatic tussle?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: Katie Gatens, Europe correspondent, The Sunday TimesOliver Moody, Berlin Correspondent, The Times & the Sunday TimesHost: Manveen Rana. Producers: Edward Drummond and Sophie McNulty.Read more: ‘We might leave Greenland for somewhere Trump can't occupy'What would a US takeover of Greenland look like? Four options examinedFurther listening: Greenland, Colombia, Mexico: where will Trump strike next?Clips: The Times, The New York Times, Sky News, The Associated Press, Nato News, CNN, Fox News, ReutersPhoto: Getty Images.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.comThis 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.

Anti-government protests in Iran have entered their third week, with observers saying that thousands may now have been killed in an ongoing crackdown against the demonstrations. But could these protests really bring down the Iranian regime? Who in the opposition could step in to take its place? And what could the US achieve by striking 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:Gabrielle Weiniger, Israel correspondent, The Times.Rana Rahimpour, Iranian-British journalist.Host: Manveen Rana.Producers: Harry Stott, Micaela Arneson.Read more: How Iran protesters are defying regime — secrets, lies and StarlinkClips: Radio Free Europe, The Guardian, The White House / Youtube.Photo: Getty Images.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.comThis 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 40-year-old adviser to the US president has been the frontman of Trump's recent Greenland grab threats and capture of Nicolas Maduro in Venezuela. How did a kid from liberal Santa Monica become a hardline conservative? And how is his worldview shaping American policy?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 Charter, assistant editor, The Times (US).Host: Rosie Wright.Producers: Taryn Siegel and Micaela Arneson.Read more: What is ICE? How the controversial agency was formedFurther listening: How Trump became America's most powerful presidentClips: The Washington Post, CNN, Forbes, Fox News, YouTube / @FiveFools, Univision, Instagram / Cultura Movement, Occupy HLN, YouTube / Clinton Milagro, EWTN.Photo: Getty Images.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.comThis 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.

Bestselling author Sathnam Sanghera was addicted to social media for a decade. Now, like millions of us, he's switching off. With figures showing the amount of time spent on social media peaking in 2022 and steadily declining ever since, could we be seeing the beginning of the end of social media? And, if so, how can you kick the habit for good?Read by: Sathnam Sanghera, author and Times writer.Producer: Dave Creasey.Read more: I was addicted to social media — it ruled my life for 10 yearsPhoto: Mark Harrison for Times Magazine.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.comThis 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 had it all: sex, lies, FBI stings, and the first presidential impeachment for over a century. Thirty years on from the most famous “office romance” in modern politics, Monica Lewinsky reflects, in her own words, on the impact of being 'that women'. With former president Bill Clinton's conduct once again being questioned amid the Epstein files, we revisit 1998: the power imbalance, the media feeding frenzy, and the question that still lingers - who really paid the price? From global slut-shaming, to a life derailed at 24, this is the story of what happened next.Guest: Jane Mulkerrins, Associate Editor, Times Magazine.Host: Manveen Rana.Producer: Dave Creasey.Read more: Monica Lewinsky: I was called a bimbo and abused on a world stageClips: CNN, ABC, Fox News.Photo: Aaron Richter for the Times Magazine.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.comThis 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.

In December, Elon Musk's AI chatbot ‘Grok' rolled out a new image-editing feature on his social media site, X. It didn't take long for users to exploit it, digitally undressing women and girls and spreading non-consensual deepfakes. But while a governmental backlash in the UK is growing, these photos are still flooding in. So how is this legal? And are we finally reaching a moment where the harms of AI can't be brushed aside?Update: As of this morning (9/1), X has disabled Grok's image generation tool for non-subscribers. Grok wrote in a reply that this was done “to ensure responsible use and address recent concerns about misuse for inappropriate content.”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:Emma Yeomans, news reporter, The Times.Chris Stokel-Walker, tech journalist and author. Samantha Smith, columnist at The Catholic Herald.Host: Manveen Rana.Producers: Sophie McNulty, Harry Stott. Read more: Elon Musk's AI undressing tool on Grok could be bannedFurther listening: Is 2026 the year of the AI backlash?Clips: NBC News, Fox News.Photo: Getty Images.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.comThis 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 hitting Venezuela last week and capturing the country's president, Donald Trump turned his attention to Greenland - the US says it'll discuss ownership with Denmark next week. Trump's also talked about getting involved in Cuba, Mexico, and Colombia. So which country might be next? What is the ‘Donroe Doctrine?' And could this be the end of NATO?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: Michael Evans, contributor, The Times.Mogens Lykketoft, former Danish foreign minister and former president of the United Nations General Assembly.Host: Manveen Rana. Producers: Olivia Case, Micaela Arneson. Read more: What would a US takeover of Greenland look like? Four options examinedFurther listening: Is Trump's attack on Venezuela about drugs, politics or oil? Clips: Palm Beach Post, The White House, Forbes, Sky, Global News, CNN, Bloomberg. Photo: Getty Images.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.comThis 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.

2025 was a year of tumult for an increasingly unpopular Labour government, while insurgent parties to their right and left shot up in the polls. But what will 2026 have in store? Will Keir Starmer's political downfall continue? And can the Greens and Reform continue their upward trajectories in the crucial local elections this May?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.Geraldine Scott, assistant political editor, The Times.Host: Manveen Rana.Producer: Harry Stott.Read more: Here's what lies ahead for Keir Starmer and Labour in 2026Clips: Bloomberg, LBC, Sky, BBC, GB News, Reform / Youtube, Daily Mail / Youtube, Manchester Evening News / Youtube, The Independent / Youtube, Daily Express / Youtube, DRM News, The Mirror / Youtube, Conservatives / Youtube, Bold Politics with Zack.Photo: Getty Images.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.comThis 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.

Today marks five years since the Jan 6 storming of the Capitol, and nearly one year of Trump 2.0. How has the US president already changed American democracy?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 Charter, assistant editor (US), The Times.Host: Manveen Rana.Producer: Taryn Siegel.Read more: What has Trump done? Executive orders that matter — and one you missedClips: The Daily Mail, The Telegraph, CBS, Reuters, The Associated Press, The White House, Fox News, ITV News.Photo: Getty Images.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.comThis 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 has bombed Venezuela and abducted its President, Nicolás Maduro. But why did Donald Trump do it? And with Maduro now in New York awaiting trial, what's next for his country?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, US correspondent, The Times.Host: Manveen Rana.Producer: Harry Stott.Read more: Why has Trump attacked Venezuela now? A history of US interventionFurther listening: Are Trump's strikes in Venezuela a 'war on drugs' - or a grab for oil?Clips: The White House / X, Guardian News / Youtube. Photo: Getty Images.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.comThis 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.

Longevity science has been trying to unlock the mysteries of ageing for years; it's spawned a multi-billion dollar global industry of supplements, anti-ageing regimens, exercise, and more. But what actually works and what's just hokum? 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: Peta Bee, health and wellbeing writer for The Times and The Sunday Times.Host: Luke Jones. Producer: Micaela Arneson. Read more: 15 easy ways to live longer (and four things you should stop now)Clips: PioneerWorksVideo, Jay Shetty Podcast, @waywemove / YouTube, ABC Science, WCNC, Bodybuilding.com, KTLA 5, Jessica Carroll / YouTube. Photo: Getty Images.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.comThis 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.

In 2025 China continued to flourish. Despite the tariffs, it hit a record trade surplus of over $1 trillion, Chinese companies like DeepSeek took on the US tech giants and the country leveraged its soft power on social media sites like RedNote. With economic, technological and diplomatic might, will China try to take on America as the foremost global superpower in 2026? Or does its ruling party have another plan in mind?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: Cindy Yu, columnist and contributing editor, The Times and The Sunday Times.Host: Manveen Rana.Producer: Olivia Case. Clips: AP, @TheHumnitarian-gph / YouTube, CNBC, CGTN, Bloomberg, @ChemOutsourcingOfficial, @ChinaUncensored / YouTube, NBC, BBC, @CBC News, @TinaSourcing / YouTube, RedNote / Anzu Baibai. Photo: Getty Images.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.comThis 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.

Millions of us now use AI daily, asking the likes of ChatGPT and Gemini to help with tasks like writing emails or designing logos. But as AI increasingly becomes part of our lives, our Silicon Valley expert predicts this year will see a significant push back against its influence. 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: Luke Jones. Producer: Edward Drummond. Read more: Why Sam Altman declared ‘code red' at OpenAI — and how to fix it Further listening: The Times Tech Podcast Clips: Global News, WXYZ-TV, WHAS11, 11 Alive, CBS News, More Perfect Union, Times Tech Summit. Photo: Getty Images.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.comThis 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.

In the week between Christmas and New Year, we're listening back to some of our favourite episodes of 2025, this episode was first published in September.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.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.comThis 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.

In the week between Christmas and New Year, we're listening back to some of our favourite episodes of 2025, this episode was first published in September.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.comThis 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.

In the week between Christmas and New Year, we're listening back to some of our favourite episodes of 2025, this episode was first published in September.Was there another man involved in plotting the 9/11 terrorist attacks that killed thousands in 2001? And why 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.comThis 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.

In the week between Christmas and New Year, we're listening back to some of our favourite episodes of 2025, this episode was first published in April.Romance fraud is at an all time high, low-hanging fruit in the growing world of online scams. But what are the methods? Who falls for it? And are there ways we can all avoid 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/thestoryGuests: Mary Chater, romance fraud victimAlexis Conran, TV and radio presenterHost: Luke Jones.Producer: Edith Rousselot.Further reading: The Times's Crime and Justice Commission - The justice system is in crisis. We spent a year finding solutionsClips: The Real Hustle Youtube channel, Still Watching Netflix Youtube channel. Photo: Getty Images.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.comThis 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.

In the week between Christmas and New Year, we're listening back to some of our favourite episodes of 2025, this episode was first published in March.Japanese ‘kidults' revolutionised pop culture in the 90s and 00s, turning to their inner children to cope with economic crisis and post-industrial societal ills, despite being ridiculed. As the milestones of adulthood - property, marriage and careers - become increasingly difficult for millennials and Gen Z to achieve - are westerners now turning to ‘kidulting' to find answers? 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: Matt Alt, author of Pure Invention: How Japan Made the Modern World.Host: Manveen Rana.Producer: Sam Chantarasak.Further listening: Studio Ghibli: Is this the end for the Japanese studio that inspired Pixar?The South Korean culture machine that conquered the worldClips: SEGA, Pokémon Theme/POKEMON, MSNBC, CNN, AJ+, Sony, PlayStation, CBS, SXSW, TikTok/@otakuintokyo, TikTok/@kaitlyneats, Your Name/dir. Makoto Shinkai/CoMix Wave Films/Toho.Photo: Getty Images.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com.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.

In the week between Christmas and New Year, we're revisiting some of our favourite episodes of 2025. This episode was first published in February.A year ago Times columnist James Marriott ditched his smartphone to escape the endless notifications from his apps. How has he managed without a device many of us feel is indispensable? And could it be a more desirable future?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 Marriott, Columnist, The Times. Host: Luke Jones. Producer: Edward Drummond.Further reading: I'm a digital native — can I survive without my smartphone?Photo: Jude Edginton for The Times Magazine.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com 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 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.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.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. 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.

On this special Christmas Day episode we have an exclusive, brand-new story from acclaimed author, and former CIA analyst, David McCloskey. Commissioned for The Sunday Times Review, it's read for us by the author.Before she met Painter, before the CIA came calling, Natalie Perkins had no secrets, only followers, likes, and a hope of online fame. But now, 'retired' from the spotlight and living quietly in Nebraska, Natalie holds a secret that could change everything. When Painter reappears, Natalie is thrust back into a world of espionage and deception. Read by: David McCloskey.Producer: Dave Creasey.Photo: Tom Barnes for Sunday Times Magazine.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.

In the week between Christmas and New Year, we're revisiting some of our favourite episodes of 2025. This episode was first published in February.When James Coney's son Charlie missed milestone after milestone, he knew something wasn't right. It would take 12 years before one phone call would change their lives. They learned that, not only was there finally an answer, but Charlie's DNA had been used as part of a huge scientific breakthrough.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 Coney, News Projects Editor, The Sunday Times.Host: Manveen Rana.Producer: Taryn Siegel.Photo: Times Media Ltd.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com 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.

In the week between Christmas and New Year, we're revisiting some of our favourite episodes of 2025. This episode was first published in April.Recreational use of the Class B drug ketamine doubled in 2024. A Sunday Times investigation has looked into where it's coming from and why it's so hard to police.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, Commissioning Editor, The Sunday Times News Review.Host: Manveen Rana.Producer: Olivia Case.Further reading: One gram of ketamine and its 4,000-mile journey to the UK. Further listening: The truth behind the drama AdolescenceIf you or someone you know needs drugs help or advice, visit talktofrank.comPhoto: Getty Images. Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.comThis 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.

You probably don't need reminding how much of a mess our prisons are at the moment - run-down, overcrowded and sometimes with a revolving door for prisoners who reoffend. One of the charities supported by this year's Times and Sunday Times Christmas appeal is Switchback, who've had great success at helping ex-offenders to ‘go straight' when they leave prison.For more information on this year's Christmas Appeal and to donate, visit https://times.ctdonate.org/ 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: Hamza - Former prisoner helped by SwitchbackDaisy Eastlake, reporter, The Times. Host: Luke Jones.Producer: Shabnam Grewal.Read more: Switchback is a lifeline for young prisonersAfter jail, yoga helped me realise I was not in danger any more Photo: Getty Images. Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.comThis 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.

In this emotionally resonant end of year episode, we take a deep dive into some of most iconic figures we lost in 2025. From the beloved British actress Dame Patricia Routledge, famed for her incredible performance as Hyacinth Bucket in Keeping Up Appearances, to the pioneering primatologist, Jane Goodall, whose groundbreaking research at Gombe Stream transformed our understanding of chimpanzees and inspired generations of scientists and environmentalists. Host: Anna Temkin, deputy obituaries editor of The Times.Producer: Dave Creasey.Clips: BBC, National Geographic, CNN, Josefa`s Thoughts, TPM TV, Fox, ABC, CBS, BritBox.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.