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


    • May 22, 2026 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
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    • 320 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from The Explanation

    Unspun World: Are US-China relations at a turning point?

    Play Episode Listen Later May 22, 2026 26:28


    John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses whether there has been a significant shift in the relationship between the United States and China, examines the long-term political turmoil in the United Kingdom, and looks at the psychological impact of artificial intelligence.Producer: Kate Cornell Executive producer: Benedick Watt Commissioning editors: Silvia Costeloe and Paul Royall

    The Media Show: Filming inside El Salvador's mega-prison

    Play Episode Listen Later May 21, 2026 22:58


    A Channel 5 documentary filmed inside El Salvador's Cecot prison has drawn attention to the country's tough approach to gang crime and the questions around filming in tightly controlled places. The prison holds thousands of suspected gang members and has become a powerful symbol of President Nayib Bukele's security policies. Richard Madeley describes the strict conditions faced by the first British production team allowed inside, when filming Inside the World's Mega Prison.Matt Brittin has this week started work as BBC Director General. He joins the corporation at a time of financial pressure, changing viewing habits and growing debate about the power of technology companies. Matt Brittin joins The Media Show to set out his early priorities. Rosamund Urwin, Media Editor at The Sunday Times, gives her assessment.Allegations linked to Channel 4's Married at First Sight have raised new concerns about welfare standards in reality television after a BBC Panorama investigation reported claims from former participants. Channel 4 has ordered an external review and removed all ten series from streaming while political and regulatory questions continue. Noor Nanji, Culture Correspondent at the BBC, outlines her reporting behind the investigation.Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Content producer: Lucy Wai Sound engineer: Volodymyr Muzyczka

    The President's Path: Trump in China

    Play Episode Listen Later May 15, 2026 25:06


    Caitriona Perry, Sumi Somaskanda and Bernd Debusmann look at President Trump's trip to China. A lot of people in both the Republican and Democratic parties don't want a deal with China. Many see China as a danger to America's national security. But for President Trump, a deal with China could mean a boost to the US economy and a chance to Make America Great Again. Can he pull it off and keep his supporters happy?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: Clare Casey Editor: James Kraft Executive producer: Anna Holford

    Unspun World: Why can't the US and Iran reach a peace deal?

    Play Episode Listen Later May 15, 2026 26:28


    John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses what is preventing the United States and Iran from reaching an agreement to end their conflict, examines the global economic impact of the confrontation, and looks at the growing threat from jihadists in West Africa. Producer: Kate Cornell Executive producer: Benedick Watt Commissioning editors: Silvia Costeloe and Paul Royall

    The Media Show: Wrestling with Trump

    Play Episode Listen Later May 14, 2026 22:58


    Munya Chawawa found viral fame during the lockdown for his satirical videos on social media. Now he has a new Channel 4 documentary, Wrestling with Trump, which looks at the links between professional wrestling and the MAGA movement.Restrictions on prisoners in the UK speaking to journalists are in focus after The Guardian was told Jeremy Bamber can no longer exchange letters or phone calls with journalists. Bamber was convicted in 1986 of murdering his adoptive family and is serving life in prison. Simon Hattenstone, feature writer at The Guardian, and Emily Bolton, defence lawyer and founder of Objection, set out the issues.The top parenting influencers, often dubbed as “momfluencers”, can earn millions. The phenomena is the subject of a new book, Like, Follow, Subscribe: Influencer Kids and the Cost of a Childhood Online. Author, Fortesa Latifi, and Jasmine McInnes, family and travel influencer, discuss the world of “sharenting”. Presenter: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Content producer: Lucy Wai Sound engineer: Syd Dundon

    The President's Path: Trump's midterm messaging

    Play Episode Listen Later May 8, 2026 24:49


    Sumi Somaskanda, Bernd Debusmann and Fin Gomez talk about the ongoing war in Iran and the upcoming midterm elections. Trump's presidential approval rating has been steadily declining in recent months, with polls hitting some of his lowest numbers of the term this week. With concerns over the ongoing war in Iran and rising costs at home, will the president hit the campaign trail to boost support - and will it be enough? 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: Clare Casey Editor: James Kraft Executive producer: Anna Holford

    Unspun World: What's at stake for Iran's regime?

    Play Episode Listen Later May 8, 2026 26:29


    John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses the Iranian position in its confrontation with the United States in the Gulf, examines the state of play in Russia's war with Ukraine, and looks at the chances of Benjamin Netanyahu surviving as Israeli Prime Minister after elections later this year.Producer: Kate Cornell Executive producer: Benedick Watt Commissioning editors: Silvia Costeloe and Paul Royall

    The Media Show: The accidental BBC News star

    Play Episode Listen Later May 7, 2026 22:58


    Twenty years ago a man arriving for a job interview at BBC Television Centre was taken into a live TV studio and asked to comment on a legal story. The clip quickly spread on early video-sharing sites and became a meme. Guy Goma reflects on what happened, alongside Elliott Gotkine, the journalist involved in the original error. Saudi Arabia has spent large sums on sport and media in recent years, aiming to build influence as well as make financial returns. New developments, including changes to sports funding and involvement in major media deals, suggest a shift in approach. Claire Enders, founder of Enders Analysis, and Claire Atkinson, contributing editor at The Ankler and founder of Media Mix, outline how the strategy is changing. Climate change remains one of the most complex stories for news organisations to cover. It involves long-term change, scientific detail and questions about how to keep audiences engaged. David Shukman, journalist and former BBC Science editor, sets out his view on how climate reporting has developed and the issues it faces. Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Producer: Dan Hardoon Content Producer: Laura Cain Sound engineer: Jack Wilfan

    The President's Path: Is Trump safe?

    Play Episode Listen Later May 1, 2026 25:11


    Caitriona Perry, Sumi Somaskanda and Bernd Debusmann look at the safety of President Donald Trump following the attempted attack at the White House Correspondents' Dinner. They also discuss the King's visit and relations between the UK and the US. Has this trip rekindled their special relationship? 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: Trump's exit strategy from Iran

    Play Episode Listen Later May 1, 2026 26:28


    John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, looks at the pressure on President Trump to find an end to the confrontation with Iran, examines the way in which the war in the Middle East has affected China, and analyses the first elections in Gaza for twenty years.Producer: Kate Cornell Executive producer: Benedick Watt Commissioning editors: Silvia Costeloe and Paul Royall

    The Media Show: I'm a Celebrity… get me a lawyer!

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 30, 2026 22:58


    A dispute around the latest series of I'm a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here has drawn attention to how reality television is edited. Some contestants have said that footage was cut in a misleading way, affecting how they were shown on screen. The broadcaster ITV has said the programme reflects events fairly and accurately. Lauren Morris, culture news editor at The Independent, alongside reality television producers Donald Clarke and Rob Davis, discuss the processes and standards used in production.King Charles' state visit to the US has taken place at a time of diplomatic tension, following criticism from President Trump over the UK's position on the war with Iran. The visit, the first by a British monarch in nearly two decades, involved a series of carefully planned public events and took place under heightened security. Sean Coughlan, Royal correspondent at BBC News, and Jack Blanchard, author of Politico's Playbook newsletter, outline their reporting approaches and editorial context. Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Producer: Dan Hardoon Content producer: Lucy Wai Researcher: Ruth Waites Sound engineer: Syd Dundon

    The President's Path: Trump goes quiet

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 24, 2026 24:33


    Caitriona Perry, Sumi Somaskanda and Bernd Debusmann talk peace. They discuss the differences between the JCPOA agreement and today's peace talks. It seems unlikely a peace deal will happen in a week, or even a month. And what about Ukraine? The White House has suggested that when the war in Iran is over - they might turn their attention to Cuba instead. 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: Clare Casey Editor: Gareth Bebb Executive producer: Anna Holford

    Unspun World: US-Iran standoff over Strait of Hormuz escalates

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 24, 2026 26:29


    John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses the confrontation between Iran and the United States in the Gulf, looks at the humanitarian situation in Lebanon, and examines the effect of the downfall of the Hungarian Prime Minister, Viktor Orbán, on the European Union. Producer: Kate Cornell Executive producer: Benedick Watt Commissioning editors: Silvia Costeloe and Paul Royall

    The Media Show: Building the Uncanny empire

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 23, 2026 22:59


    Uncanny, the BBC podcast about paranormal stories, has grown way beyond radio. There's a live theatre tour, a fan convention, it's on YouTube and now a new series called Uncanny Cold Cases. Danny Robbins, the creator of Uncanny, talks about where the idea came from and why he thinks audiences keep coming back.QVC has filed for debt restructuring in the US, as it tries to shrink a debt pile of around $6.6bn. The shopping channel, once a giant of tele-shopping, is up against a new generation of buyers who would rather scroll than sit on the sofa with the remote. TikTok Shop alone has around 30 million users in the UK and is now the fourth biggest beauty retailer in the country. Katie Linsell, UK retail reporter at Bloomberg News, lays out what's gone wrong in the US. Rob Locke, presenter on ITV's Shop on TV, talks about what it's really like to sell live in the middle of the night. Hungary has a new Prime Minister. Péter Magyar's win has ended Viktor Orbán's 16 years in power, and he's promised big changes to the media. That includes rewriting Orbán-era media laws, pausing public broadcasting until it can be proven impartial, and shaking up the way the state hands out advertising money. Amrit Singh, Professor of Practice at NYU School of Law, and Iván Nagy, Hungarian political journalist and fellow at the Columbia Journalism Review, discuss what it's been like to work as a journalist in Hungary.Presenter: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Content Producer: Lucy Wai Researcher: Ruth Waites Technical Coordinator: Chris Brown

    The President's Path: Trump's legacy

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 17, 2026 24:57


    Sumi Somaskanda, Bernd Debusmann and Courtney Subramanian discuss the ongoing war in Iran and look at what it means for President Trump's legacy - balancing the 'win' of the assassination of the Ayatollah Ali Khamenei with the economic fallout of the war. They also look at the president's attack on the Pope, and consider the impact that will have on his Catholic supporters. . 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.

    The Media Show: Artemis II and Nasa's media machine

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 16, 2026 22:59


    The Artemis II mission has been presented as a major milestone in human spaceflight, with global audiences following live coverage and access provided by NASA. Questions have been raised about how official feeds, astronaut storytelling and media partnerships shaped reporting. Rebecca Morelle, BBC News science editor, describes the reporting environment she experienced.The BBC has announced plans to cut around 2,000 jobs and save £500 million, citing financial pressures including declining licence fee income and rising production costs. The changes come ahead of charter renewal negotiations and increased competition. Rhodri Talfan Davies, the BBC's acting director general, outlines the scale of the challenge.A Kuwaiti-American journalist is reportedly being held by authorities in Kuwait after posting footage of a US Air Force jet crash near Kuwait City. The case has drawn attention to press freedom in the region. Jodie Ginsberg, CEO of the Committee to Protect Journalists, sets out the known details.Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Content producer: Lucy Wai Sound engineer: Callum McLean

    The President's Path: The political consequences of war and peace for Trump

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 10, 2026 24:48


    Sumi Somaskanda, Caitriona Perry and Bernd Debusmann discuss how The president's attitude towards the people of Iran has changed - from saying he would help them to threatening to destroy Iranian civilisation. They also look at how his actions are being viewed at home and the political consequences of this war for President Trump. 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.

    The Media Show: Investigating Sam Altman

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 9, 2026 22:59


    Ronan Farrow, perhaps the world's most prominent investigative journalist, has turned his attention to Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI. The investigation, published by The New Yorker, draws on more than a year of reporting. Farrow outlines how it was conducted and the questions it raises about power and influence in AI. Madhumita Murgia, AI Editor at the Financial Times, gives her analysis of the issues at the heart of the report, including how the media covers leading figures in Silicon Valley. Also on the show, Misha Glenny discusses his podcast The Race to Control the World, as well as his role as the new presenter of In Our Time.Presenter: Katie Razzall Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Content producer: Lucy Wai Sound engineer: Pat Sissons

    The President's Path: Trump's address over the Iran war

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 3, 2026 22:45


    Sumi Somaskanda, Caitriona Perry and Bernd Debusmann discuss the impact the US-Israel war with Iran is having on the US and President Trump's relationship with his allies. With no end date in sight - and an escalation of oil prices - where does this leave President Trump at home in the US and in the world?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.ukSenior Producer: Clare Casey Executive Producer: Anna Holford

    The Media Show: How far should reporters go with AI?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 2, 2026 22:59


    Artificial intelligence is starting to change how some journalists work, as newsrooms test whether it can help produce more content. One reporter says AI is now helping him write more than 600 articles a year. Nick Lichtenberg, Business Editor at Fortune, Jane Martinson, Professor of Financial Journalism, City, University of London, and Max Goldbart, International TV Co-Editor, Deadline, discuss the pros and cons of letting AI into the newsroom. Two major court cases in the United States have put fresh attention on social media and its impact on young users. In Los Angeles, a jury found Meta and Google liable after deciding their platforms were intentionally designed to be addictive. In New Mexico, Meta was ordered to pay damages over claims it misled users about child safety. Lily Jamali, BBC North America Technology Correspondent, outlines developments from Silicon Valley, and Aza Raskin, co-founder of the Centre for Humane Technology, reflects on the design of features such as infinite scroll. In the UK, new research is being developed to understand how social media affects teenagers. A large study involving thousands of students will test limits on usage, alongside a government-backed pilot looking at restrictions for under-16s. Professor Amy Orben, psychologist at the University of Cambridge, explains how the research will work and what it aims to measure.Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Content producer: Lucy Wai Sound engineer: Mark Pickett

    The President's Path: Is the US fighting two wars against Iran?

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 27, 2026 24:53


    Sumi Somaskanda, Caitriona Perry and Bernd Debusmann discuss how US-Israel strikes on Iran have developed into an economic conflict, too – a battle over energy, with a small body of water right at the centre. 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: US pauses strikes on Iran's energy infrastructure

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 27, 2026 26:29


    John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses Donald Trump's decision to call a halt to US attacks against Iran's power plants, examines what the future might hold for the Iranian people, and explores the significance of the first manned journey to the Moon in half a century.Producer: Kate Cornell Executive producer: Benedick Watt Commissioning editor: Vara Szajkowski

    The Media Show: Cold-calling Trump

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 26, 2026 22:58


    Donald Trump's phone number is apparently not impossible to come by – but there's also a strategy as to what time of day to call. Edward Luce of the Financial Times and Max Tani, media editor at Semafor, discuss tactics. Matt Brittin has been appointed as the BBC's new Director General, following a long career at Google where he led operations across Europe, the Middle East and Africa. Alex Farber, Media Correspondent at The Times, gives his assessment. A new BBC podcast, Everything is Fake (and Nobody Cares), addresses questions around misinformation and shifting audience trust in the world around us. Presenter Jamie Bartlett outlines the themes behind the project.Presenters: Ros Atkins and Katie Razzall Producer: Lucy Wai Assistant Producer: Emily Channon Researcher: Ruth Waites Technical Coordinator: Mark Dickins Sound: Sarah Kimberley

    The President's Path: Trump slams allies over Iran war help

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 20, 2026 25:15


    Sumi Somaskanda, Caitriona Perry and Bernd Debusmann discuss the impact the US-Israel war with Iran is having on ties with some of Washington's closest global allies. Nato countries say it's not their war – and some Gulf states are dealing with the realities of being dragged into a conflict they did not start. With no sign of fighting easing, where does this leave President Trump in the world? 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: Ellyn Duncan Editor: Silvia Costeloe Executive producer: Anna Holford

    Unspun World: How is the Iran war impacting the global economy?

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 20, 2026 26:29


    John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses the economic effects of the war in the Middle East, explores how the conflict is actually helping Russia, and looks at how the escalating tensions between Hungary and Ukraine might affect the upcoming elections in Hungary. Producer: Kate Cornell Executive producer: Benedick Watt Commissioning editor: Vara Szajkowski

    The Media Show: Reporting from Inside Iran

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 19, 2026 22:58


    A small number of international journalists have been allowed into Iran following the start of conflict involving the US and Israel. CNN's Frederik Pleitgen describes his experience.The 98th Academy Awards took place as viewing figures continue to fall and the film industry faces wider change. Tom Brook, Correspondent, BBC News, and Katey Rich, Awards Editor, The Ankler, outline changes in awards coverage and the relationship between Hollywood and the media.Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Assistant Producer: Laura Cain Researcher: Ruth Waites Sound: Jack Wilfan Technical Coordinator: Margot Campanaro

    The President's Path: Trump's mixed messages over war on Iran

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 13, 2026 25:06


    Sumi Somaskanda, Caitriona Perry and Bernd Debusmann discuss the latest on the US-Israel war with Iran. They take stock of the Trump administration's changing messaging on timelines, and unpack the broader consequences we're seeing - with the Gulf region brought into the conflict, and the knock-on effects on energy with the disruption to a key shipping route: the Strait of Hormuz. 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: Ellyn Duncan Editor: Anna Holford Executive producer: Anna Holford

    Unspun World: What do people in Iran think about the war?

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 13, 2026 26:27


    Caroline Hawley, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, explores what life in Iran is like as the war intensifies, analyses what the US objectives are for the war and whether they are obtainable, and examines the possibility of a new war in Ethiopia and its implications for the region. Producer: Kate Cornell Executive producer: Benedick Watt Commissioning editor: Vara Szajkowski

    The Media Show: Who's shaping American media?

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 12, 2026 22:57


    Ros Atkins is in Washington DC speaking to some of the most influential voices in American journalism. Together, they reveal how very different media organisations are covering President Trump's war with Iran and how they see the US media landscape at this moment.Jeffrey Goldberg, editor-in-chief of The Atlantic, discusses the magazine's growth strategy and reflects on ‘Signalgate' one year on.Mehdi Hasan, editor-in-chief and CEO of Zeteo, explains how setting up his own media company has given him new editorial freedom.The Trump administration's approach to communication is reshaping reporting rhythms in Washington. The BBC's North America editor Sarah Smith reflects on President Trump's media strategy.And the YouTuber Johnny Harris, who specialises in news explainers, takes Ros behind the scenes of his creator-led media company Newpress.

    The Strait of Hormuz

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 6, 2026 8:58


    The Strait of Hormuz — the narrow waterway that carries 20% of the world's oil — is now an active war zone. What in the World tracks the disruption and explains who's feeling the impact. To hear more, search What in the World wherever you get your BBC podcasts

    Unspun World: Can Iran hold out against US-Israeli strikes?

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 6, 2026 26:29


    John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses whether the Iranian regime will survive, looks at what Israel and the United States are aiming to achieve in their war with Iran, and examines whether Iran's attacks on countries in the Gulf will change the balance of power in the region. Producer: Kate Cornell Executive producer: Benedick Watt Commissioning editor: Vara Szajkowski

    The Media Show: Iran and the bigger story

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 5, 2026 22:58


    Events in Iran have led news bulletins, alongside ongoing wars in Ukraine and Sudan. As crises compete for attention, questions are being raised about whether reporting captures a wider shift in global power or centres on immediate developments. Christina Lamb, Chief International Correspondent at The Sunday Times, Aaron Bastani, co-founder of Novara Media, and Sir John Tusa, former Managing Director of the BBC World Service, discuss the media's role in uncertain times. The Green Party's victory in the Gorton and Denton by-election in the north of England, overturning a previously safe Labour seat, has prompted debate about political reporting in the UK. Rachel Cunliffe, Associate Editor at The New Statesman, explains her approach. At the age of 90, Sir John Tusa has launched a new interview podcast, The Best is Yet to Come, featuring conversations with public figures in their nineties. The series enters a crowded podcast market and raises questions about how older voices are represented in the media. Production credits Presenters: Katie Razzall Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Content Producer: Lucy Wai Researcher: Ruth Waites Technical Coordinator: Margot Campanaro Sound: Pat Sissons

    Trump's Texas showdown

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 27, 2026 25:04


    Sumi Somaskanda, Courtney Subramanian and Fin Gomez look at one of the most talked-about Senate races - the Texas primaries. For Republicans, it is about who can win the President's endorsement. For Democrats, success here could shape party strategy for months and years to come. 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: Ellyn Duncan Editor: Silvia Costeloe Executive producer: Anna Holford

    Unspun World: Russia-Ukraine war enters its fifth year

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 27, 2026 26:28


    John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, explores the mood in Ukraine after four years of war, examines how the war has changed Russia, and looks at whether Russia's long sporting isolation is coming to an end.Producer: Kate Cornell Executive producer: Benedick Watt Commissioning editor: Vara Szajkowski

    The Media Show: The Andrew photo

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 26, 2026 22:59


    An image of Andrew Mountbatten Windsor leaving police custody made front pages around the world. It quickly became the defining picture of the latest stage in the crisis linked to Jeffrey Epstein. Suzanne Plunkett, Chief Photographer at Reuters, outlines how her colleague Phil Noble secured the shot, and Arthur Edwards, Royal Photographer at The Sun, reflects on how single images can frame the narrative around the Royal Family. Four years after Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the war has settled into a long and grinding conflict. Fighting has spread across a wide front, with drone warfare and repeated strikes on infrastructure. As the anniversary is marked, questions remain about how western media attention has shifted. Anthony Loyd, Special Correspondent at The Times, reflects on reporting from the region, and Olga Malchevska, Correspondent at BBC News, considers how the war is being covered across Eastern Europe.Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Assistant Producer: Lucy Wai Production Coordinator: Ruth Waites Technical Coordinator: Ozgur Cevik Sound: Allyson Purcell-Davis

    The President's Path: Inside Trump's State of the Union

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 24, 2026 25:06


    On this episode: Sumi Somaskanda, Bernd Debusmann and Fin Gomez look ahead to next week's State of the Union address. It's a chance for President Trump to talk up his achievements one year back in office - and lay out his vision for the year ahead. What do we expect to see – and what surprises could pop up? 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: Ellyn Duncan Editor: Amrit Cheema Executive Producer: Anna Holford

    Unspun World: What's the future of US-Europe relations?

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 20, 2026 26:28


    John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses the state of the transatlantic alliance, explores whether the Iranian regime can survive, and looks at the consequences of the repeal of key environmental regulations in the United States.Producer: Kate Cornell Executive producer: Benedick Watt Commissioning editor: Vara Szajkowski

    The Media Show: MTV's co‑founder on reshaping pop culture

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 19, 2026 22:58


    Ros Atkins sits down with MTV co‑founder Tom Freston to explore how the channel became a global cultural force, the turning points of his career, and the themes of his new book. Freston reflects on MTV's early days, creative risk‑taking, and what he has learned from decades shaping the media industry. Presenter Ros Atkins Producer: Lisa Jenkinson

    The President's Path: Is Trump facing a Republican rebellion in Congress?

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 13, 2026 25:18


    Can President Trump keep Republican lawmakers on side? Caitríona Perry, Sumi Somaskanda and Bernd Debusmann look back at a week where we saw Congress push back against President Trump on key issues like the Epstein files, ICE presence in Minneapolis - and his tariffs. It wasn't just from Democrats - some Republicans are speaking out against the President. 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: Ellyn Duncan Editor: Joe O'Brien Executive producer: Anna Holford

    Unspun World: Who is in control of Gaza now?

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 13, 2026 26:28


    John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC's unparalleled range of experts across the world, explores who is actually governing Gaza at the moment, analyses the landslide election victory for Japan's prime minister Sanae Takaichi, and looks at a landmark trial in the US that will determine whether social media giants are responsible for harming children.Producer: Kate Cornell Executive producer: Benedick Watt Commissioning editor: Vara Szajkowski

    The Media Show: Bonfire of the Murdochs

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 12, 2026 22:58


    A new book focuses on the future of Rupert Murdoch's media empire after a legal dispute within his family. The case has renewed attention on Murdoch's long-standing influence in British newspapers and the role of Fox News in American politics. Gabriel Sherman, author of Bonfire of the Murdochs, sets out the background to the succession battle and the company's direction under Lachlan Murdoch.A week of intense reporting on Sir Keir Starmer has led to debate about the role of political journalism in the UK. Some commentators have argued that reporting may have fuelled the sense of crisis which followed further revelations in the Epstein files. Simon Nixon, author of the Wealth of Nations newsletter, and Catherine Neilan, Whitehall editor at The Observer, debate how political reporting works.The Washington Post has announced around 300 job losses, cutting roughly a third of its newsroom. Some sections, including sport, have closed and foreign reporting has been reduced. The changes have prompted concern about the paper's future and about pressures facing major news organisations. Marissa Lang, former Enterprise reporter at The Washington Post and member of The Washington Post Guild bargaining committee, and Cameron Barr, former senior managing editor of the paper and now Investigations editor at Mill Media, describe the impact of the cuts and the wider challenges for the industry.Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Content producer: Dan Hardoon Researcher: Ruth Waites Sound engineer: Jack Wilfan Technical co-ordinator: Akik Rahman

    The Media Show: The Epstein files

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 6, 2026 22:58


    The latest batch of documents linked to the convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein has been released by the US Department of Justice. There are millions of files for journalists to go through, and coverage has focused on what they reveal and how responsibly they can be reported, particularly when powerful figures are named. Journalists Tina Brown and Jim Pickard talk about how the material is being handled and the pressures on newsrooms.NASA has postponed its planned Artemis II mission to the Moon at the last minute after a technical issue during rehearsals. For space journalists, major launches are among the biggest stories of the year, but delays are common and difficult to plan for. BBC Science Editor Rebecca Morelle and astrophysicist Professor Chris Lintott reflect on the challenges of covering space missions when plans change.This programme was edited on 05/02/2026.Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Content Producer: Emily Channon Production Coordinator: Ruth Waites Technical Coordinator: Ozgur Cevik Sound: Allyson Purcell-Davis

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