The Explanation

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Where the world is explained. Making sense of the big stories - looking behind the spin. Exploring the important questions about long-running stories and the latest global news. An honest, unvarnished, explanation of the world.

BBC World Service


    • Dec 5, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 24m AVG DURATION
    • 258 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from The Explanation

    The President's Path: The health of healthcare

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 5, 2025 25:33


    Caitríona Perry, Sumi Somaskanda and Bernd Debusmann look at how RFK Jr is shaping US health policy in President Trump's second term. Every weekend, The President's Path explores the state of US politics — in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what's on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: path@bbc.co.uk Senior producer: Jack Surfleet Editor: Gareth Bebb Executive producer: Anna Holford

    The Media Show: Manchester's YouTube problem

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 4, 2025 22:59


    The Mayor of Greater Manchester has accused vloggers of provoking vulnerable people to generate online views, with a particular focus on the city's Piccadilly Gardens. Sarah Lester, editor of the Manchester Evening News, and Charlotte Dewar, chief executive of the Independent Press Standards Organisation, discuss the issues.A new investigation suggests widespread use of illicit streaming devices and apps now threatens the financial viability of the Premier League's TV deals. Adam Leventhal, senior writer at The Athletic, and Minal Modha, head of sport media rights at Ampere Analysis, assess the scale of the trend.Netflix's expanding interest in podcast-style formats has led them to sign a deal with Gary Lineker's The Rest Is Football show. Nick Hilton, co-founder of Podot, explains why podcasts are becoming strategically important for the streamer.Plus, Ian Hislop reflects on another year as editor of Private Eye, and discusses his magazine's approach to journalism and satire.Presenter: Ros Atkins Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Content producer: Lucy Wai Sound engineer: Allyson Purcell-Davis Production co-ordinator: Ruth Waites Technical co-ordinator: Ozgur Cevik

    The President's Path: Trump v California

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 28, 2025 24:12


    Caitríona Perry, Courtney Subramanian, and Sumi Somaskanda look at how US President Donald Trump is challenging the state of California, and how its governor, Gavin Newsom, is returning the favour. Every weekend, The President's Path explores the state of US politics — in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what's on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: path@bbc.co.uk

    The Media Show: Another day, another BBC editing row?

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 27, 2025 22:58


    Pressure on the BBC has continued after a line about Donald Trump was removed from the Reith Lectures on legal advice. Dame Caroline Dineage, Chair of the Culture Media and Sport Committee, and Lionel Barber, Former Editor of The Financial Times discuss the implications. Also on the show, Dr Alice Enders of Enders Analysis explains why The Telegraph has been sold to the owners of the Daily Mail in a £500m deal. And CNN correspondent Donie O'Sullivan on his new documentary investigating why claims about white farmers in South Africa continue to circulate in US politicsProducer: Lisa Jenkinson Content producer: Lucy Wai Production Coordinator: Ruth Waites Technical Coordinator: Craig Johnson Sound: Robin Schroder

    The President's Path: Redistricting

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 21, 2025 25:18


    Caitríona Perry, Courtney Subramanian, and Sumi Somaskanda look at how the Republicans and Democrats are using redistricting as a tool, and how it could affect the political geography of the US. Every weekend, The President's Path explores the state of US politics — in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what's on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: path@bbc.co.uk Producer: Jack Surfleet Editor: Gareth Bebb Executive Producer: Anna Holford

    The Media Show: Ed Sheeran's one-shot film

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 20, 2025 22:58


    A new Netflix documentary captures Ed Sheeran performing live across New York in a single continuous take. Its executive producer, Ben Winston, reveals how the show – One Shot – was made, and discusses some of his company's other TV hits including Carpool Karaoke. Also on the show, as Donald Trump vows to take the BBC to court, where might the corporation go next as the crisis at the top continues. With Rosamund Urwin, Media Editor of The Sunday Times, Baroness Tina Stowell, Former Chair of the House of Lords Communications and Digital Committee, Phil Riley of Boom Radio and Jordan Schwarzenberger of Arcade Media.Presenters: Ros Atkins and Katie Razzall Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Assistant Producer: Martha Owen Researcher: Ruth Waites Technical Coordinator: Ozgur Cevik Sound: Dafydd Evans

    The President's Path: US-Venezuela boat strikes

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 14, 2025 25:29


    Caitríona Perry, Courtney Subramanian, and Sumi Somaskanda look at the latest US strikes on Venezuelan vessels and what it could mean for future relations between the two countries. Every weekend, The President's Path explores the state of US politics in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what's on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: path@bbc.co.uk Producer: Jack Surfleet Compliance editor: Anna Holford Executive Producer: Anna Holford

    Unspun World: Are Russian forces on the brink of seizing Pokrovsk?

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 14, 2025 26:28


    John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses why Russia is so keen to capture the Ukrainian city of Pokrovsk, explores how difficult it will be to rebuild Gaza, and looks at how quantum computing could change the way we solve some of the world's biggest challenges. Producer: Kate Cornell Executive producer: Benedick Watt Commissioning editor: Vara Szajkowski

    The Media Show: Trump's billion-dollar BBC threat

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 13, 2025 22:58


    A day of turmoil for the BBC as Director General Tim Davie and CEO of News Deborah Turness both resign, following a leaked memo alleging editorial bias and raising concerns over decision-making and governance. The Media Show is joined by a panel of insiders and commentators to assess where the BBC goes next. With former BBC communications chief John Shield, former BBC News executive Jamie Angus, journalist Jane Martinson, columnist Tim Montgomerie and Tina Brown, former editor of Vanity Fair.Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Assistant producer: Martha Owen Production co-ordinator: Ruth Waites Technical co-ordinator: James Cherry Sound engineer: Mike Campbell

    The President's Path: Elections fallout

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 7, 2025 26:31


    How Republicans and Democrats fared in this year's elections, and what it could mean for the midterms next year. On this episode, Caitríona Perry, Courtney Subramanian and Sumi Somaskanda look at the success of Zorhan Mamdani, Abigail Spanberger and Mikie Sherrill in the 2025 elections, and what it could mean for the future of the Democrats and Republicans in the midterms. Every weekend, The President's Path explores the state of US politics — in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what's on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: path@bbc.co.uk Producer: Jack Surfleet Editor: Silvia Costeloe Executive Producer: Anna Holford

    Unspun World: War-weariness in Russia

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 7, 2025 26:29


    John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, explores war-weariness in Russia and the problem it poses for the Kremlin, examines the government shutdown in the United States, and analyses whether there will be any effective action from the upcoming climate conference in Brazil.Producer: Kate Cornell Executive Producer: Benedick Watt Commissioning Editor: Vara Szajkowski

    The Media Show: Lessons from Top Gear

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 6, 2025 22:59


    Andy Wilman is the producer who turned Top Gear and The Grand Tour into global hits. As he publishes his autobiography - Mr Wilman's Motoring Adventure – he reflects on his career and working with the famous trio of Clarkson, Hammond and May. Mishal Husain has left the BBC after twenty-six years to start a new chapter at Bloomberg. She talks about her time on major stories and how moving to a new newsroom has changed her work. As Celebrity Traitors reaches its finale in the UK, the show's executive producer, Mike Cotton, reveals what goes on behind the scenes and how he's keeping the result a secret.Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Assistant Producer: Lucy Wai Production Coordinator: Lois Wheeler Technical Coordinator: Ozgur Cevik Sound: Chris Ablakwa

    The President's Path: Electoral battlegrounds 2025

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 31, 2025 25:11


    The first big elections of Trump's second term reveal how Americans are reacting to his presidency, and how Democrats are fighting to rebuild their brand. On this episode, Caitríona Perry, Courtney Subramanian and Sumi Somaskanda discuss the high-stakes gubernatorial races in Virginia and New Jersey, the Democrats' rebranding efforts, and the rise of a progressive candidate shaking up New York. Every weekend, The President's Path explores the state of US politics — in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what's on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: path@bbc.co.uk Producer: Gregory Zhygalov Editor: Adrian Chiculita Executive producer: Anna Holford

    Unspun World: Donald Trump's China strategy

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 31, 2025 26:29


    John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses President Trump's approach to dealing with China, examines the United States' rivalry with China in south-east Asia, and explores what the future holds for Benjamin Netanyahu and the Israeli government. Producer: Kate Cornell Executive producer: Benedick Watt Commissioning editor: Vara Szajkowski

    The Media Show: Advertising race row

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 30, 2025 22:58


    A row over comments by a British MP has reignited debate about who we see in adverts. Sara Denby from the University of Oxford and Dino Myers-Lamptey from The Barber Shop agency share their views on how the industry has changed. In the US, major streaming companies are merging as they compete for global audiences. Camilla Lewis, Chief Executive of Curve Media, explains what this could mean for both producers and viewers. Historian Bettany Hughes returns with Treasures of the World on Channel 4. She talks about filming around the globe, how history programmes are made today, and why stories from the past still attract big audiences.Presenter: Katie Razzall Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Assistant producer: Lucy Wai Production co-ordinator: Phil Hawkins Technical co-ordinator: Samuel Iyiola Sound engineer: Sarlota Hadroj Touzimska

    The President's Path: Shutdown and teardown

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 24, 2025 24:56


    Demolition work has begun on part of the White House to make way for President Trump's new ballroom, as US government remains shut down. On this episode, Caitríona Perry, Courtney Subramanian, and Sumi Somaskanda discuss Trump's decision to remodel the White House while the Senate remains deadlocked on funding the federal government. Every weekend, The President's Path explores the state of US politics, in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what's on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: path@bbc.co.uk Producer: Gregory Zhygalov Editor: Adrian Chiculita Executive producer: Anna Holford

    Unspun World: Will Hamas really give up control of Gaza?

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 24, 2025 26:29


    John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses whether Hamas will lay down its weapons in Gaza, looks at how other jihadist groups have responded to the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, and explores how Ukraine's approach to the war with Russia might change in the wake of the latest row with President Trump. Producer: Kate Cornell Executive producer: Benedick Watt Commissioning editor: Vara Szajkowski

    The Media Show: When the Royals lose control of the story

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 23, 2025 22:58


    New attention on Prince Andrew has reopened debate about how the Royal Family is covered by the media. Following confirmation that he will no longer use his titles and the release of Virginia Giuffre's memoir, journalists are reassessing the balance between scrutiny, access and tradition. Simon McCoy, journalist and broadcaster, Robert Hardman, royal biographer, and Emily Andrews, former royal correspondent for The Sun, share professional insight into how stories about the royals are shaped. Also, Pulitzer Prize-winning foreign correspondent Paul Salopek describes his 12-year “Out of Eden Walk,” a 16,000-mile reporting journey retracing humanity's ancient migration routes. Presenter: Ros Atkins Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Assistant Producer: Lucy Wai Researcher: Ruth Waites Technical co-ordinator: Chris Brown Sound engineer: Robin Schroder

    Weight loss jabs: A medical game changer?

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 18, 2025 49:29


    Medications such as Ozempic and Wegovy are proven to be highly effective for weight management. They are also increasingly being found to treat other conditions and reduce the risk of disease, promising health benefits far beyond the treatment of obesity. But these drugs generally need to be continued for weight loss to be maintained, so there are big questions to be answered about their use and significant challenges to overcome around access and availability. In front of a live audience at Wellcome Collection in London, Claudia and her guests explore the potential and negatives of weight loss injections and ask whether they really are the next wonder drug.

    The President's Path: How many wars has Donald Trump ended?

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 17, 2025 25:09


    Donald Trump claims to have ended eight wars in eight months. Caitríona Perry, Courtney Subramanian, and Sumi Somaskanda unpack President Trump's claims and look at what is happening on the ground. Every weekend, The President's Path explores the state of US politics in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what's on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: path@bbc.co.uk

    Unspun World: Who will run Gaza?

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 17, 2025 26:29


    John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses who will actually be running Gaza in the wake of the ceasefire there, examines the escalating trade war between China and the United States, and looks at the recent spate of cyber-attacks targeting western companies.Producer: Kate Cornell Executive Producer: Benedick Watt Commissioning Editor: Vara Szajkowski

    The Media Show: The Gaza Ceasefire

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 16, 2025 22:58


    As a ceasefire takes hold in Gaza, attention has turned to how the story itself is being covered and interpreted. From live reporting in Tel Aviv to verifying information from inside Gaza, journalists describe the pressures of working amid uncertainty and political tension. Channel 4 News presenter Krishnan Guru-Murthy reflects on the choices behind frontline coverage and the balance between speed and accuracy. Bel Trew, chief international correspondent at The Independent, outlines how she gathers and checks information when access to Gaza remains blocked. Professor Lee Edwards of the London School of Economics examines how global outlets have framed recent events and whether context and history are being lost in the headlines.Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Producer: Lucy Wai Assistant Producer: Martha Owen Production Coordinator: Ruth Waites Technical Coordinator: Chris Brown Sound: Chris Ablakwa

    The President's Path: Supreme Court shapes Trump's powers

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 10, 2025 24:42


    The US Supreme Court begins its new term with a docket full of potentially significant cases that could define the scope of Donald Trump's presidential authority - and the prospect of more to come. On this episode, Caitríona Perry, Courtney Subramanian, and Sumi Somaskanda analyse how the Supreme Court can reshape Trump's powers. Every weekend, The President's Path explores the state of US politics in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what is on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: path@bbc.co.uk

    Unspun World: Is peace in Gaza now possible?

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 10, 2025 26:29


    John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses whether two years on from the 7 October attacks peace in Gaza is now possible, looks at what it's like for western journalists to report from Russia, and examines the consequences of UN sanctions being reimposed on Iran.Producer: Kate Cornell Executive producer: Benedick Watt Commissioning editor: Vara Szajkowski

    The Media Show: Reporting from Inside Putin's Russia

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 9, 2025 22:59


    Steve Rosenberg, BBC News Russia editor, is one of the few Western reporters still based in Moscow. He talks about working under tight controls, renewing short visas and facing limits on access while trying to report facts from inside the country. His years of steady reporting have now earned him the Charles Wheeler Award for Broadcast Journalism. Also on the show, Zanny Minton Beddoes, Editor-in-Chief of The Economist, explains how the magazine is turning to video with its new series The Economist Insider. The project shows editors debating major issues and gives viewers a sense of how the publication works behind the scenes. And Victoria Beckham has a new series on Netflix. Public-relations specialist Farzana Baduel, founder of Curzon PR, assesses the strategy behind “authorised access” documentaries and how they can help celebrities manage their image.Presenters: Katie Razzall Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Assistant Producers: Lucy Wai and Elena Angelides Production Coordinator: Ruth Waites Technical Coordinator: James Cherry Sound: Robin Schroder

    The President's Path: Trump's power

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 3, 2025 24:57


    President Trump is expanding his powers over the federal workforce and flexing his muscles in front of generals. On this episode, Caitríona Perry, Courtney Subramanian, and Sumi Somaskanda analyse the consequences of the government shutdown, and what the new guidelines for the US Army could mean for America's military power. Every weekend, The President's Path explores the state of US politics — in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what's on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: path@bbc.co.uk Producer: Gregory Zhygalov Editor: Adrian Chiculita

    The Media Show: Is Larry Ellison the new Rupert Murdoch?

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 2, 2025 22:59


    Larry Ellison, the founder of Oracle and one of the world's richest men, is becoming a major force in media. His son David runs Skydance, which recently took over Paramount and is now interested in Warner Bros Discovery. Ellison is also linked to a bid for TikTok in the US. These moves raise questions about whether his wealth and political ties influence media ownership. James Warrington, Media and Telecoms Editor at The Telegraph, explains Ellison's growing role in global media and the concerns around it.Ellison's donations to Tony Blair's Institute for Global Change and Oracle's possible role in the UK's digital ID plans have also drawn attention. Some online groups have connected these facts to conspiracy theories about governments wanting more control over people's lives. Dr Matthew Sweet, broadcaster and cultural historian, explains how ideas like this can spread from small corners of the internet into mainstream news.US President Donald Trump recently posted and deleted an AI-generated video promoting “med beds,” a conspiracy theory claiming that secret technology can cure any illness. The idea started in QAnon groups during the pandemic and has spread across Facebook, YouTube and Telegram. Dr Robert Topinka, Senior Lecturer at Birkbeck University, describes how such claims grow online and why they sometimes reach powerful politicians.The Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race, a tradition in British sport since the 1800s, will no longer be shown on the BBC. Channel 4 has signed a five-year deal to broadcast the race starting in 2026. Siobhan Cassidy, Chair of the Boat Race Company, outlines why the deal was made, while Pete Andrews, Head of Sport at Channel 4, explains how the broadcaster hopes to develop the event.Presenter: Ros Atkins Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Assistant Producer: Lucy Wai Production Coordinator: Ruth Waites Technical Coordinator: Mark Dickins Sound: Callum McLean

    The President's Path: Silencing voices

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 26, 2025 24:31


    From late-night comedian Jimmy Kimmel's suspension to an unprecedented Pentagon memo - where is the line between criticism and censorship?On this episode, Caitríona Perry, Courtney Subramanian, and Sumi Somaskanda analyze how the Trump administration is taking on its critics and tries to control the narratives in the media. Every weekend, The President's Path explores the state of US politics in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what's on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: path@bbc.co.uk Producer: Gregory Zhygalov Editor: Adrian Chiculita

    Unspun World: World leaders formally recognise Palestinian statehood

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 26, 2025 26:30


    John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses what effect the recognition of Palestine as a state might have, examines whether Syria is back in the international fold, and looks at the latest restrictions that the Taliban have introduced in Afghanistan.Producer: Kate Cornell Executive producer: Benedick Watt Commissioning editor: Vara Szajkowski

    The Media Show: Jimmy Kimmel's suspension

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 25, 2025 22:58


    In the US, late-night host Jimmy Kimmel was taken off air after making remarks about conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The broadcasting regulator, the FCC, warned stations about continuing to air his show. Donald Trump supported the suspension, but Disney, which owns ABC, later decided to bring the show back. Brian Stelter, Chief Media Analyst at CNN, looks at what this means for the relationship between politicians, broadcasters and entertainers. A BBC investigation has revealed new details about how the government is using hotels to house migrants. The Home Secretary has ordered an urgent review after concerns were raised about taxis being used to move asylum seekers and the conditions inside the hotels, which are currently home to around 32,000 people. BBC journalist Sue Mitchell shares what she found while reporting inside the hotels and the difficulties of recording people's experiences. A new ITV drama called The Hack tells the story of phone hacking by the News of the World, Rupert Murdoch's tabloid newspaper, which subsequently shut down because of the scandal. Executive producer Patrick Spence explains the choices made when dramatising real events and his motivation.Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Producer: Lucy Wai Assistant Producer: Martha Owen Production Coordinator: Ruth Waites Technical Coordinator: Mark Dickins Sound: Chris Ablakwa

    The President's Path: Trump's diplomacy

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 19, 2025 25:05


    President Trump's visit to the UK tests Sir Keir Starmer's handling of the “special relationship” - but the bigger test comes next, at the UN General Assembly.On this episode, Caitríona Perry, Courtney Subramanian, and Bernd Debusmann Jr unpack Trump's foreign relations and relationships, and how the world adapts to his style.Every weekend, The President's Path explores the state of US politics — in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what's on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: path@bbc.co.ukProducer: Gregory Zhygalov Editor: Adrian Chiculita

    Unspun World: President Trump's second state visit to the UK

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 19, 2025 26:30


    John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, examines the relationship between Sir Keir Starmer and Donald Trump, analyses whether Israel's strike on Qatar has played into Iran's hands, and looks at the widening split between Europe and the United States over Israel and Gaza. Producer: Kate Cornell Executive producer: Benedick Watt Commissioning editor: Vara Szajkowski

    The Media Show: Reporting Charlie Kirk's killing

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 18, 2025 22:59


    The killing of US conservative commentator Charlie Kirk has raised questions about how the media should report on controversial figures while still showing respect to victims and their families. Meanwhile in London, more than one hundred thousand people joined the Unite the Kingdom rally, where Elon Musk spoke by video link. The event has sparked fresh debate about whether using terms like “far right” helps explain what happened or risks pushing audiences away. LBC's James O'Brien, Talk TV's Isabel Oakeshott and political commentator Guto Harri give their views on the challenges facing journalism when reporting on divisive stories.Presenter: Ros Atkins Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Assistant Producer: Lucy Wai and Martha Owen Production Coordinator: Ruth Waites Technical Coordinator: Luke Sweeney Sound: Nathan Chamberlain

    The President's Path: The killing of Charlie Kirk

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 15, 2025 25:37


    The killing of Charlie Kirk triggers shockwaves through the US, sparking grief, anger, and debate over politics, political violence and America's future.On this live episode, Caitríona Perry, Courtney Subramanian, and Bernd Debusmann Jr discuss the killing of Charlie Kirk, reaction from across the political divide, and what it signals about the depth of polarization in the US.Every Friday, The President's Path explores the state of US politics — in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what's on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: path@bbc.co.ukProducer: Gregory Zhygalov Editor: Anna Holford

    Unspun World: Protests hit France as new PM takes office

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 12, 2025 26:29


    John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses whether the latest political crisis in France is a sign of long-term decline, examines the reasons for the simmering tensions between Cambodia and Thailand, and looks at the ways in which Russia is trying to win over opinion around the world.Producer: Kate Cornell Executive Producer: Benedick Watt Commissioning Editor: Vara Szajkowski

    The Media Show: Super Mario Bros at 40

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 11, 2025 22:59


    Super Mario Bros reaches its 40th anniversary. First released in 1985, the Nintendo title redefined video game design and propelled Mario from a supporting character into a global icon. Keza MacDonald, video games editor at The Guardian and author of a forthcoming book on Nintendo, outlines its creation and cultural significance. In Russia, a state-approved messaging service called Max has been made mandatory on all new devices, while WhatsApp and Telegram face restrictions. Eva Hartog, Russia reporter at Politico Europe, considers the impact on digital freedoms and journalism. In Nepal, a ban on 26 major social media platforms led to widespread protests and the resignation of the Prime Minister before the restrictions were reversed. Dr Nayana Prakash, Research Fellow at Chatham House, assesses what this reveals about state approaches to online platforms. A resolution has been reached in the Murdoch family's long-running succession dispute. Claire Atkinson, media reporter and founder of the The Media Mix newsletter, explains the background to the family trust and what the decision could mean for the company's future direction.Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Assistant Producer: Lucy Wai

    The President's Path: Trump's Troubles

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 5, 2025 25:07


    Trump enters a new political season as Congress returns from its summer recess. Sumi Somaskanda, Caitríona Perry, and Courtney Subramanian look at challenges to his agenda. Every Friday, The President's Path explores the state of US politics — in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what's on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: path@bbc.co.uk Producer: Gregory Zhygalov Editor: Adrian Chiculita

    The Media Show: France's political crisis

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 4, 2025 22:58


    France's Prime Minister, François Bayrou, has called a parliamentary confidence vote after his proposals to abolish two public holidays triggered widespread opposition. The unrest has coincided with the emergence of a grassroots movement, ‘Bloquons Tout', which began on messaging apps and is now pushing its message through social media. BBC News Paris Correspondent Hugh Schofield assesses how French media outlets are reporting the crisis, while Paola Sedda, associate professor of Information and Communication Sciences at the University of Lille, examines the protesters' tactics and their uneasy relationship with journalists.American Vogue has appointed Chloe Malle as its new head of editorial content, with Anna Wintour remaining in a senior role at Condé Nast. Michael Grynbaum, media correspondent at The New York Times, explains what the change signals for the future of glossy magazines.And a new book revisits the career of George Ward Price, the Daily Mail correspondent who became known for his extraordinary access to Adolf Hitler in the 1930s. Historian Richard Evans, author of Interviewing Hitler, tells his story.Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Assistant Producer: Lucy Wai Production Coordinator: Rosie Strawbridge Technical Coordinator: Craig Johnson Sound: Mike Campbell

    The President's Path: Trump's law and order

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 29, 2025 25:16


    Trump's decision to deploy the National Guard in Washington DC draws equal parts praise and concern. Caitríona Perry, Sumi Somaskanda, and Courtney Subramanian examine crime data, community reactions, and the politics behind the move. Every Friday, The President's Path explores the state of US politics — in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what's on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: path@bbc.co.ukProducer: Gregory Zhygalov Editor: Adrian Chiculita

    The Media Show: The mystery freelancer

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 28, 2025 22:58


    A number of publications, including Wired and Business Insider, have withdrawn articles initially attributed to a freelance journalist named Margaux Blanchard. Press Gazette first reported the concerns after an editor flagged a suspicious pitch. The true identity of the writer and whether AI authored the pieces remain unclear. Jacob Furedi, editor of Dispatch, and Dr Glenda Cooper, Head of Journalism at City St George's, University of London, discuss.The new football season arrives alongside changes in coverage. Two YouTube channels - The Overlap and That's Football - have secured live UK rights to show some Bundesliga matches. Minal Modha, Head of Sport Media Rights at Ampere Analysis, explains the strategy. Graham Scott, columnist at Telegraph Sport, on pivoting to journalism from his previous role as a Premier League referee. Parenthood is the latest BBC wildlife series narrated by David Attenborough. It was filmed across 23 countries and six continents, following how animals raise their young. Jeff Wilson, series producer and director at Silverback Films, reveals how it was made.Presenter: Ros Atkins Producer: Lucy Wai Assistant producer: Martha Owen Production co-ordinator: Ruth Waites Sound: Holly Palmer Technical co-ordinator: James Cherry

    The President's Path: Trump the peacemaker?

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 22, 2025 25:03


    Donald Trump has repeatedly claimed credit for ending several international conflicts and continues to present himself as a global peacemaker. Sumi Somaskanda, Courtney Subramanian, and Bernd Debusmann Jr examine the president's efforts to broker deals in Ukraine and Gaza, his broader foreign policy approach, and how these initiatives align with his stated ambition to receive a Nobel Peace Prize. Every Friday, The President's Path explores the state of US politics in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what is on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: path@bbc.co.uk

    The Media Show: Trump, Zelensky and the cameras

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 21, 2025 22:59


    Ukraine's president Volodymyr Zelensky visited Washington for talks with Donald Trump and other European leaders. The timing coincided with Anushka Asthana's first day as US editor for Channel 4 News, who describes her early impressions of covering the American political landscape. Meanwhile, independent Russian broadcaster TV Rain, operating in exile from Amsterdam, also reported intensively on the Washington meetings. Ekaterina Kotrikadze, news director and anchor, TV Rain, explains how the organisation continues to reach audiences under pressure of censorship and surveillance. The Edinburgh TV Festival has been taking place this week, and brings together industry voices to assess the future of television in the UK and beyond. Camilla Lewis, creative director, Curve Media, and Matt Belloni, co-founder, Puck, provide their perspectives on where money, audiences and creative opportunities are moving. Hedge fund Hunterbrook is experimenting with an unusual model for the news business: publishing investigative journalism while also using its findings to guide investment decisions. Sam Koppelman, co-founder, Hunterbrook, outlines how the company separates editorial and financial operations while aiming to sustain investigative reporting. Presenter: Ros Atkins Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Assistant Producers: Lucy Wai and Martha Owen

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