The Leader | Evening Standard daily

There will be no major clubs left at all in the UK by 2030 if venue closures continue at the current rate, according to the Night Time Industries Association. Will Sadiq Khan's London Nightlife Taskforce be able to preserve the capital's late-night scene?In this episode, host Tamara Kormornick speaks to Cameron Leslie, co-founder of Fabric and chair of the Independent Nightlife Taskforce. They discuss the recommendations from the taskforce's latest report, the city's evolving club culture, and Cameron's outlook for London's night-time economy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For this episode of Brave New World, Evgeny is joined by Dr Sabine Donnai, a physician specialising in precision medicine, preventive health, and is the founder of Viavi Healthcare. They explore brain health beyond standard scans, discussing how gut function, inflammation, environmental exposure, and stress interact over time. Drawing on Evgeny's own test results, Sabine explains why she believes long-term cognitive resilience starts not with extreme biohacks, but with fixing the basics - particularly the gut. The conversation concludes with practical takeaways: reduce inflammatory foods, increase dietary diversity and fermented foods, support cardiovascular health, and avoid turning longevity into another source of stress. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The upcoming Gorton and Denton by-election is set to be another major test of Keir Starmer's authority as leader of the Labour party, following the arrest of his selected former British Ambassador to the United States, Peter Mandelson.In this episode, host Tamara Kormornick speaks to The Standard's political editor, Nicolas Cecil, alongside chief political correspondent Rachel Burford, to lay out the possible outcomes of the by-election, and weigh up how catastrophic losing could be for Labour — and for Keir Starmer. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Since January, there have been close to one hundred cases of measles reported In North London. The UK managed to eliminate measles via mass vaccination just under ten years ago. How did we get here, and how serious is this latest epidemic?In this episode, host Tamara Kormornick speaks to child immunisation specialist Dr Helen Bedford, professor of Children's Health at UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health. They discuss how serious this latest epidemic is, the different factors that have led to the latest measles outbreak, as well as reality test potential solutions like keeping non-vaccinated children out of school. Plus, Tamara also speaks to the Standard's trainee journalist, Niva Yadav, about how parents in affected areas are coping with news of the outbreak. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The 2026 Winter Olympic Games has been historic for Team GB, with podium placements in snowboarding, skiing, skeleton and curling. So, what exactly is in the mountain air this year?In this episode, host Tamara Kormornick speaks to decorated British ski champion, coach and winter sports pundit, Chemmy Alcott, about her experience reporting from the Winter Games at Milano-Cortina. They discuss the highs and lows for Team GB, the legacy of the 2026 Winter Games for British athletes, Chemmy's recommendations for winter sports training facilities if you live in London, and of course, this year's biggest scandals - both on and off the ice. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Yesterday Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, the former Prince and Duke of York, was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office during his time as trade envoy to the UK. So, what's next for Andrew, and how will the royal family navigate this hurdle?In this episode, host Tamara Kormornick speaks to The Standard's crime correspondent, Anthony France, to dig into how the justice system deals with the crime of misconduct in public office, and how the royal family might cope with a potential trial.Disclaimer: Andrew has strenuously denied wrongdoing and has not accepted any of the allegations. This is a very early stage of the investigation and reporting is necessarily limited. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

London Fashion Week starts today, and the excitement is palpable. Julian MacDonald is back, Joseph are debuting a new runway collection for the first time in 8 years, and everyone is holding their breath for the Burberry finale.In this episode of The Standard, host Tamara Kormornick sits down with the Standard's fashion editor Joe Bromley and lifestyle editor Jessica Burrell for a conversation about their expectations for the week. They share trend predictions, a lot of love for London's designers, as well as recommendations for ways to enjoy fashion week - even if you aren't sitting in the front-row. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The takeover of Hampstead Heath's cafés has sparked bullying accusations, a legal battle, and impassioned petitioning from locals — with actor Benedict Cumberbatch weighing in. In today's episode, host Tamara Kormornick speaks to Standard journalist Niva Yadav about how the controversial café shakeup spiralled into much more than a storm in a teacup. Plus, Niva Yadav speaks to Hoxton Beach cafe co-owner Emma Fernandez, whose lease has been terminated by the City of London Corporation, and to Daisy Green's co-founder Prudence Freeman, who breaks her silence on the takeover. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

London is consistently ranked as one of the most expensive tourist destinations in the world. It's set to get even more pricey this year with the introduction of a tourist tax that is predicted to raise £350 million per year. Is implementing an overnight levy the right move for London?To understand why councillors are backing the idea, host Tamara Kormornick speaks to Councillor Claire Holland, leader of the London Borough of Lambeth and chair of London Councils. They discuss how much the overnight levy could generate, how the revenue might be distributed, and whether it's fair to ask tourists to help fund local infrastructure. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Social media is flooded with food influencers hyping up viral dishes and sharing ‘hidden gems'. But rave restaurant reviews come with a cost — often the experience for fellow diners.In this episode, Jeremy King tells The Standard about the behaviour of certain influencers in The Park, and the new policy he has put in place to thwart disruptive content creation. Plus, host Tamara Kormornick speaks to The Standard's Going Out editor and restaurant critic, David Ellis, for his take on whether influencers help or harm restaurants. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Many of the 5.8 million Brits who took out a Plan 2 student loan over the past decade are now facing astonishing levels of debt, and the government's latest salary threshold freeze will nudge more graduates into repaying more than ever. So, is it high time the system had a shake up?In this episode, host Tamara Kormornick speaks to The Standard's editor of the Londoner's Diary and features writer, Claudia Cockerell, to discuss recent controversies around the student loans system, and untangle the soaring interest rate levels on repayment plans. Plus, Tamara speaks to the founder of Rethink Repayment, Oliver Gardner, who is calling on the government to reform student loan repayment plans to make the system work better for graduates — and the economy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Liverpool Street Station has had a major redevelopment plan green-lit by the City Corporation this week. The scheme would be mostly funded by office space situated in a new 320ft tall tower block, much to the dismay of Victorian heritage enthusiasts. Was this the right call?In this episode of The Standard, host Tamara Kormornick sits down with the Standard's City Hall and Transport Editor, Ross Lydall, to unpick why the merits and downfalls of the application, and why the plans have caused such uproar. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Emerald Fennel's sizzling film adaptation of Emily Bronte's canonical novel has divided critics ahead of its public release on Saturday 14.In this episode of The Standard, host Tamara Kormornick speaks to the Standard's culture and lifestyle writer, India Block, about the gothic-inspired romance starring Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi, from Fennel's controversial creative choices to Charli XCX's unexpected soundtrack. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Valentine's Day is notoriously easy to get wrong — from forgettable restaurants to naff gifts. This year, the pressure is even more intense, as Valentine's Day falls on a Saturday. In this episode, host Tamara Kormornick speaks to The Standard's Going Out editor, David Ellis, and food and drink writer, Josh Barrie, to get their recommendations on where to eat — and not eat — on Valentine's Day. Plus, Tamara sits down with the Standard's shopping editor Abha Shah, to hear her take on elevated gifts that actually feel special. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Londoners are using cocaine more than ever, and men's usage tips the scales two-to-one. So, why is London the ‘cocaine capital' of Europe?In this episode, host Tamara Kormornick speaks to freelance journalist Jordan Page, who recently investigated the capital's latest Class A drug epidemic. They talk about how London's pub culture intersects with the city's cocaine habits, and why men in particular are using the drug more than ever. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's been a trying week for the Prime Minister. Allegations surrounding Lord Peter Mandelson have angered many within the party, and raised fresh questions about Keir Starmer's authority. Should Labour be panicking?In this episode, The Standard's political editor Nic Cecil speaks with Baroness Ayesha Hazarika, former advisor to senior Labour politicians, who worked closely with Peter Mandelson over the past couple of decades. She reflects on what it was like to work with him, the current mood inside the Labour Party, and the risks Labour could face if it triggers a leadership contest in the near future. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For this episode of Brave New World, Evgeny is joined by psychologist, author, and researcher Dr Jim Fadiman, a central figure in the modern understanding of psychedelics, who also goes by the “father of microdosing”.Drawing on decades of research and thousands of user reports, the conversation traces the history of psychedelics - from early scientific study in the 1950s and 60s, through prohibition, to today's renewed interest in clinical and psychiatric settings. Jim discusses why most formal research has focused on high doses, how observational reports have shaped microdosing research, where evidence is strongest and still emerging.Evgeny and Jim look ahead to the future of psychedelics in medicine, the balance between scientific caution and public interest, and what a first step might look like for someone curious but sceptical. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Over the weekend, suspicious photographs of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor with an unnamed woman surfaced among the latest batch of the Epstein files. While King Charles' decision to strip Andrew of his titles was met with widespread approval, it also sparked questions over the Royals' living arrangements - and inevitably, their finances. In this episode, host Tamara Kormornick speaks to Chris Blackhurst, strategic communications advisor and former editor of The Independent, who recently wrote a piece for the Standard on the staggering wealth of the crown. The conversation explores how the Royal Family might negotiate this tricky period from a PR perspective, and whether it's possible for them to rebuild the public's trust and admiration. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As Industry returns for its fourth series, the show continues to raise the stakes – and audience heart rates. But are its latest calamities a case of art imitating life?In this episode, host Tamara Kormornick speaks to Laura Martin, who recently wrote an article for The Standard about power dynamics in Industry, and culture writer for The Standard, Maddy Mussen. Together, they discuss what the show reveals about the relationship between power, privilege and wealth in London, and whether the show offers an accurate portrait of the City. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Over the weekend, the self-titled documentary Melania hit cinemas worldwide. Its release comes at a volatile moment, with political turmoil at home and Donald Trump once again making waves over foreign policy and America's global influence.In this episode, host Tamara Kormornick sits down with Standard columnist Melanie McDonagh, fresh from a screening to ask: who is Melania Trump telling the world she is? Was a cinematic release the right strategy for now? And, most importantly, is the documentary worth a watch?Clips: Amazon MGM Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Over the past few years, the UK government has promised a tougher stance on money laundering. With new challenges that include cryptocurrency and the soaring value of gold, how will Britain ever get clean from its dirty money reputation?In this episode, the Standard's chief political correspondent Rachael Burford speaks to Joe Powell, the Labour MP for Kensington and Bayswater, who founded the Kensington Against Dirty Money campaign in 2022 to tackle the issue of illicit finance in London. Together, they explore how sanctions are enforced, and the tax haven loopholes that let dirty money slip through the cracks. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Unemployment among young Londoners has hit a nine-year high, and the latest figures show the jobless rate in the capital disproportionately affects 16 to 24-year-olds. So, is the future for young Londoners truly bleak?In this episode, host Tamara Kormornick is joined by the Standard's business editor Jonathan Prynn to unpack the most recent figures from the Office of National Statistics. Together they explore why so many young people in the capital are facing a growing shortage of opportunities. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In their election manifesto, Labour promised to tackle unregulated and unaffordable ground rent charges. So, is a £250 pound cap on ground rent real progress for homeowners? In this episode, host Tamara Kormornick sits down with the Standard's deputy editor of homes and property Meghann Murdock to gauge the significance of the government's latest announcement. Plus, she speaks to Harry Scoffin, the founder of Free Leaseholders, a grassroots activist group fighting for the abolition of the leasehold system, who puts forward a case for universal commonholds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A £500m plan to redevelop East London's historic Truman Brewery has sparked a bitter row in Brick Lane. The proposed scheme features new retail and restaurant units, a cinema, private housing and, controversially, a data centre. The plans have divided residents, businesses and politicians ahead of a critical local council election.In this episode, host Tamara Kormornick speaks to The Standard's business editor Jonathan Prynn about what's at stake for the local area, and the borough of Tower Hamlets. She also heads to the Brick Lane institution to hear from business owners ahead of the crucial planning decision. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Iran is facing one of the most brutal waves of extreme violence in its recent history. Beyond protests outside the Iranian embassy in London, the reaction from the UK government, and Britain as a whole, has been subdued.In this episode, The Standard's chief political correspondent Rachael Burford speaks to former security minister Tom Tugendhat MP about the Iranian leadership crisis, the West's muted reaction to the atrocities, and ways the UK government can support a liberated Iran. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The UK has approved plans for China to build its largest European embassy in London, near the Tower of London – a controversial move that has triggered serious national security concerns.As Keir Starmer prepares to visit Beijing, has the government misjudged the risks? On this episode, host Tamara Kormornick speaks to former Conservative leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith MP, who is a vocal critic of the planning proposal. She also talks to Dr Tim Stevens, the co-director of the Cyber Security Research Group at King's College London, to assess the cyber and national security risks cited by opponents. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For episode five of Brave New World, Evgeny is joined by Ben Lamm, CEO and co-founder of Colossal Biosciences - the company working on de-extinction and species preservation, including its flagship woolly mammoth project. Together, they explore what “bringing back” an extinct species actually means in practice: rebuilding fragmented ancient DNA, comparing it to a close living relative (the Asian elephant), and using gene editing to reintroduce key traits like cold tolerance - before creating embryos that could one day be carried by a surrogate or, eventually, an artificial womb.Ben also explains why the mammoth has become Colossal's defining project - from public fascination and unusually strong samples preserved in permafrost, to the potential conservation upside. The conversation dives into how the same tools can support living species too: developing new reproductive technologies, using AI and drones to understand elephant behaviour, and tackling threats like EEHV, a disease that kills young elephants. Along the way, they discuss Colossal's viral moments - including the woolly mouse and the dire wolf - as well as the ethical lines the company says it won't cross.This episode was produced by Message Heard and The Standard. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Blue Monday is behind us – and January is often the best time of year to book a holiday.In this bumper travel episode, The Standard's lifestyle director Suzannah Ramsdale joins travel journalist Alicia Miller to unpack the trendiest destinations for 2026. From meadows in Cantabria to the sandy beaches of the new Maldives, the two select options for different budgets and trip lengths – and break down our current sauna obsession. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It has been one year since Donald Trump returned to the White House for a second term.So how much has he changed the US — and the world — in just twelve months? And what might the rest of his presidency look like?In this episode, The Standard's Political Editor Nicholas Cecil takes stock of Trump's first year back in office with Laurel Rapp, Director of the US and North America Programme at Chatham House. Laurel previously served as Deputy Director on the US Secretary of State's Policy Planning Staff, working on American grand strategy under Presidents Obama, Biden and Trump — twice. Together, they reflect on the key moments of Trump's first year back, what is different this time around, and what it all means for America's role on the world stage. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is the government doing enough to support the country's hospitality sector?In this episode, the London Standard's Going Out editor David Ellis sits down with Michelin-starred chef, restaurateur and publican Tom Kerridge to discuss the realities of running a hospitality business today. From soaring business rates to rising costs and shrinking margins, Kerridge explains why pubs are under unprecedented pressure and what the government could do to help the sector survive – and even grow Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It has been a busy start to the year for Laila Cunningham, the Westminster councillor newly selected as Reform UK's candidate for the London 2028 Mayoral election. In today's episode, The Standard's City Hall Editor Ross Lydall sits down with Laila Cunningham to discuss controversial remarks she made earlier this week about London not being a “Muslim city”. During this interview, Cunningham sets out plans to make wearing face coverings, including the burqa, grounds for police to stop and search Londoners. She also discloses that, despite leading Reform's campaign for the May borough elections, she will not be standing as a candidate herself. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A special preview from our sister podcast Brave New World, featuring a new episode from its latest series.For Episode Four, host Evgeny Lebedev is joined by human biologist, longevity science monolith and founder of The Ultimate Human, Gary Brecka. Together, they explore why so many people feel stuck at a “six out of ten,” what Gary believes to be the cause of fatigue, brain fog, poor sleep, soreness, low mood, and why poor exercise recovery is often driven by nutrient deficiencies.Listen to the full conversation on the Brave New World podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As protests continue across Iran amid a rising death toll and a record number of arrests, members of the Iranian diaspora in London, home to an estimated 40,000 Iranian-born residents, are gathering publicly to express support and show solidarity.In this episode of The Standard, host Tamara Kormornick is joined by Laila Jazayeri, Director of the Association of Anglo-Iranian Women in the UK. They discuss the unfolding situation in Iran, why so many are mobilising in London, and how international support could help usher in a new era for the country.Clip: Sky News Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Last year saw one of London's lowest rates of homicides, with less than 100 fatalities. How is the city tackling crime, and how safe is London?In this episode of The Standard, Tamara Kormornick is joined by the Director of The London Mayors Violent Crime Reduction Unit, to discuss the status of violent crime in London — and whether the city is as lawless as Donald Trump makes it out to be. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Every January, campaigns like Dry January and Veganuary encourage restraint and self-denial at the coldest, darkest point of the year. But what if we've misunderstood both health and the seasons?In this episode of The Standard, host Alan Leer is joined by journalist Melanie McDonagh as she makes the case for “Wet January” — arguing that winter is the worst possible time to give things up, and that our modern wellness habits have lost touch with how people have historically lived through the colder months.We discuss seasonality, comfort, self-denial, and what our obsession with restraint says about modern life. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is there anything better than a cultural escape as winter sets in?Today we're debunking one of the lesser-known art forms - opera - as the timelessly classical La Traviata show opens in the capital, which is the most performed opera in the world.We're joined by Netia Jones, the Associate Director of Opera at the Royal Opera, to discuss the origins of the art forum, how technology is changing it, tips for first-time opera attendees and much more.And if you're keen to experience some new culture this year, then read more about some of our top cultural picks for the year ahead. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Support for Labour in London has fallen to a new record low with the Tories pushed into fourth place behind the Greens and Reform UK, according to a new poll.Just 31 per cent of Londoners now say they would vote for Sir Keir Starmer's party, according to a Savanta survey, down from 43 per cent at the 2024 General Election. The broader picture is of a fracturing of political allegiances in London in a blow to Sir Keir as he fights to stay Prime Minister amid unrest among Labour MPs.The Standard's Political Editor Nic Cecil is here with the latest. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Overthrown Venezuelan president Nicolas Maduro is facing drug trafficking charges in New York after being seized by US forces in an early-morning raid on Caracas.But he was once instrumental in an extraordinary deal between London and the oil-rich South American nation that resulted in 250,000 low-income Londoners being able to claim half-price bus and tram fares for a year.As the world watches on, The Standard's City Hall and Transport Editor Ross Lydall is here with the latest. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's a new year and officially the first Monday back to work after the festive break…if that feels a little bleak, and you're looking to schedule some laughs in 2026, then stay tuned for today's episode. The live comedy scene seems to expand exponentially every year; from award nominees to TV stars to online sensations and podcast heroes, stand-ups are all getting back to their stage roots. The Standard's Comedy Critic Bruce Dessau is here with a bumper guide to the best of the bunch hitting the road in the coming months, from Josh Widdicombe and Michael Spicer, to Sam Nicoresti, Bridget Christie and plenty more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's a new year, and 2026 is set to be full of blockbuster and arthouse film releases to entice viewers to the cinema. Although we're only just entering Oscars season, a brand new slate of films will be hitting the big screen very soon. The Standard's Head of Culture, Martin Robinson, is here to discuss some of the most anticipated movies of 2026, including Wuthering Heights, Hamnet, Supergirl, The Odyssey, Avengers: Doomsday, The Moment, 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple, The Bride, The Testament of Ann Lee and The Drama. You can find the full list of 2026 releases here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A special preview from our sister podcast Brave New World, featuring a new episode from its latest series.Host Evgeny Lebedev is joined by Will Ahmed, founder and CEO of WHOOP, to explore recovery, sleep, and why “you can't manage what you don't measure.” Will shares how overtraining as a Harvard athlete led him to build a wearable focused not on steps, but on the missing piece of performance: how ready your body actually is.Listen to the full conversation on the Brave New World podcast here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Back in 2016, Netflix released a little show called Stranger Things, which went on to become the defining megahit for the streamer. But now, ahead of the finale on New Year's Day, the sheen appears to be wearing thin…Fans and critics alike have complained about overstuffed plots and too many characters - and more than 280,000 people have signed a petition, demanding to see alleged unseen footage from the latest volume. It's never simple to wrap up a hugely popular TV series, so we're joined by The Standard's Commissioning Editor and Culture Writer, Vicky Jessop, with the latest on the end of The Stranger Things era. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As another year draws to a close, we're taking a look back at the past twelve months and what it's meant for the world of video games. It's been a stellar year for indie games, with Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 raking in heaps of plaudits (and a fair few award nominations) for its take on the JRPG genre — while smaller titles like Wanderstop and Blue Prince have proved that you can do an awful lot without the massive budgets that AAA studios command.The Standard's Commissioning Editor and Culture Writer Vicky Jessop is here to discuss the highlights of the year, plus what to look forward to in 2026. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As we settle into the festive season, it's time for a round-up of all the best TV from 2025.It's been a jam-packed one, as ever, serving up lashings of humour, tragedy and a whole lot of sequels. Severance has returned for the first time in years, as has Stranger Things, and the Alien franchise has gotten its own TV spinoff for the first time ever.The Standard's Commissioning Editor and Culture Writer Vicky Jessop is here to discuss the highlights - and lowlights - of the year, plus what to look forward to in 2026. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's well-documented that our courts system is in crisis but following an investigation, The Standard can reveal that magistrates are sitting in secret to allow utility companies to break into people's homes, granting warrants based on applications they have never seen.Back in late 2022, energy firms and courts were rocked by scandal when it was revealed that hundreds of thousands of warrants – including for the homes of some of Britain's poorest people – were being “waved through” by magistrates.The government promised a clean-up and new court process, but a year-long probe by The Standard has uncovered disturbing practices - and the Chief Magistrate is investigating the concerns. The Standard's Courts Correspondent Tristan Kirk is here with the latest. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It might be the festive season, but there's fury in the corridors of power following a row which broke out regarding proposals that would see local elections delayed for a second year in a row for millions of voters. It comes as the government plans to abolish the two-tier system of district and county councils, creating a swathe of new local authorities that will be responsible for delivering services in their areas from 2028. In total, ministers have written to a total of 63 councils scheduled to hold elections in May 2026, although we won't know for sure if they're postponed until January.The Standard's Chief Political Correspondent Rachael Burford is here with the latest. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The British Library is one of the UK's greatest cultural institutions. However, behind the scenes, the staff who make it function are working longer hours for less pay, in worsening conditions. Now, with help from the PCS union, they've decided to fight back.But what does this means more broadly in terms of who is able to access and benefit from our cultural institutions? The Standard's Culture Writer Claudia Cockerell is here with the findings of her special report on the subject - alongside footage of the strikers in action, from London tour guide Jenny Draper. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A special preview from our sister podcast Brave New World, featuring a new episode from its latest series.Host Evgeny Lebedev sits down with Professor Tim Spector and Dr Federica Amati — the leading scientific minds behind personalised nutrition company ZOE — to rethink everything we've been told about food. They challenge myths around fats and calorie counting, unpack the damage caused by ultra-processed foods, and explain why eating for your gut microbes could be the key to better health.Listen to the full conversation on the Brave New World podcast here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 More than 17 million people arrive in the capital each year to celebrate one of London's most beloved cultural gemstones - theatre. But seeing a central London play can set you back hundreds of pounds, and the costs are only going up. Audiences are now being priced out with the average price of a top ticket rising by 50% between 2023 and 2024 to 146 pounds and 61 pence a seat.So who or what is to blame for the situation? Is this just a callous cash grab, and what does it all mean for the future of London's West End? We're joined by The Standard's Commissioning Editor and Culture Writer Vicky Jessop, who has been investigating the issue for the latest special report. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

At least 15 people including a London-born rabbi have died and dozens more remain in hospital following a shooting at Sydney's Bondi Beach. The attack was declared a terrorist incident, and targeted a Hanukkah celebration at a park next to the beach on the first day of the Jewish festival of lights.It comes as Victims Minister Alex Davies-Jones has said that Britain is being blighted by an “abhorrent” rise in anti-Semitism. We're joined by Emily Hilton, who grew up around Bondi beach in Sydney and is the international policy director at Diaspora Alliance, a Jewish-led organisation that works to oppose antisemitism and its politicisation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Londoners will have to pay more in transport costs from March 2026, as mayor Sir Sadiq Khan has revealed that tube fares are set to rise.The cost of a single tube journey in zone 1, central London will be hiked by up to 7.1 per cent, which is about double the current rate of inflation. According to details published by City Hall, most Tube and train fares – for TfL services such as the Elizabeth line and London Overground – will increase by a maximum of 20p, although many fares will only increase by 10p.For the first time in years, bus fares will also be increased, although not until July. The Standard's City Hall and Transport Editor Ross Lydall is here with the latest - and also shares what action he'd take if he were London mayor for the day. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.