Tortoise News

As the UK Parliament takes its summer break, has Reform seized the media spotlight and emerged as a viable third-party contender? What are the risks of uploading ID to age-restricted websites under the Online Safety Act? Will Trump impose his peace deal deadline on Russia if Putin refuses negotiations?Rebecca Moore is joined by The New Statesman's Associate Political Editor, Rachel Cunliffe. Plus the Observer's Poppy Bullard and Patricia Clarke, as they battle it out and pitch the top stories of the day. Links to the team's Must Reads and recommendations here: Gen lay-Z: Why my generation doesn't care about work - HERE One year on, tensions still circle Britain's asylum-seeker hotels - HERENathan For You (Season 4, Episode 8), Finding Frances. Trump's relationship with Putin ‘at breaking point' after Russia unleashes Kyiv blitz - HEREWe want to hear what you think! Email us at: newsmeeting@observer.co.uk Follow us on Social Media: @ObserverUK on X @theobserveruk on Instagram and TikTok@theobserveruk.bsky.social‬ on bluesky Host: Rebecca Moore, Executive Producer Producer: Casey Magloire Executive Producer: Matt Russell To find out more about The Observer:Subscribe to TheObserver+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free contentHead to our website observer.co.uk Download the Tortoise app – for a listening experience curated by our journalists Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Are male novelists a dying breed? Can women trust apps with their personal data? Are tariffs the only way Donald Trump knows how to do diplomacy?Giles Whittell is joined by The Observer's Home Affairs Editor John Simpson, Head of Data and Graphics Katie Riley and Consulting Editor for Comment, Erica Wagner. Links to the team's Must Reads here: What do tweens really want?DOGE-pilledRead Erica's piece on the Booker Prize longlist HEREFollow us on Social Media: @ObserverUK on X @theobserveruk on Instagram and TikTok@theobserveruk.bsky.social‬ on bluesky Host: Giles Whittell, Deputy Editor-in-Chief Producer: Poppy BullardExecutive Producer: Rebecca MooreTo find out more about The Observer:Subscribe to TheObserver+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free contentHead to our website observer.co.uk Download the Tortoise app – for a listening experience curated by our journalistsIf you want to get in touch with us directly about a story, or tell us more about the stories you want to hear about contact hello@tortoisemedia.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is the UK's decision to conditionally recognise the state of Palestine more symbolic than practical? As protests in Epping continue, how is rhetoric around asylum seekers impacting children from ethnic minority backgrounds? Now that the Lionesses have won the Euros for a second time, is this confirmation that the hard work put into the women's game has paid off?Giles Whittell is joined by ITV News Presenter and Loose Women panellist Charlene White. Plus, the Observer's narrative editor Chloe Hadjimatheou and Deputy Sports Editor, Andrew Butler.**Join us at the next News Meeting Live HEREDive deeper into all the stories from this episode: Leader: it is time to recognise Palestine HERESensemaker podcast: How did the Lionesses do it again? HERENever mind the economy, immigration is now a bigger concern for voters HERESensemaker podcast: How much aid is getting through to Gaza? HERENigel Farage wants to be taken seriously, but can't stop playing dangerous games HEREFollow us on Social Media: @ObserverUK on X @theobserveruk on Instagram and TikTok@theobserveruk.bsky.social‬ on bluesky Host: Giles Whittell, Deputy Editor-In-ChiefProducer: Casey MagloireExecutive Producer: Matt Russell, Deputy Head of Audio and Rebecca Moore, Executive producerTo find out more about The Observer:Subscribe to TheObserver+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free contentHead to our website observer.co.uk Download the Tortoise app – for a listening experience curated by our journalistsIf you want to get in touch with us directly about a story, or tell us more about the stories you want to hear about contact hello@tortoisemedia.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Are Labour's concerns about social cohesion a sign that they may be aligning with some of Reforms ideas on immigration? Why does Kemi Badenoch want to outlaw doctors' strikes? And are the latest aid drops in Gaza a sign of change to come? Jasper Corbett is joined by journalist and broadcaster David Aaronovitch. Plus, the Observer reporter Stephen Armstrong and senior producer Katie Gunning.**Listen to the Sensemaker podcast: How did the Lionesses do it again? HERE**Join us at the News Meeting Live HERELinks to the team's Must Reads here: Tom Lehrer, Musical Satirist With a Dark Streak, Dies at 97Britain isn't broken by Sam Freedman What I Learnt From Being Disinherited by Daisy GoodwinFollow us on Social Media: @ObserverUK on X @theobserveruk on Instagram and TikTok@theobserveruk.bsky.social‬ on bluesky Host: Jasper Corbett, Head of Audio Producer: Casey MagloireExecutive Producer: Matt Russell, Deputy Head of AudioTo find out more about The Observer:Subscribe to TheObserver+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free contentHead to our website observer.co.uk Download the Tortoise app – for a listening experience curated by our journalistsIf you want to get in touch with us directly about a story, or tell us more about the stories you want to hear about contact hello@tortoisemedia.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is Belgium paving the way for more international action over Gaza? Have the Lionesses paved the way for a permanent change in English football culture? What's going on at Unite? Rebecca Moore is joined by three Observer journalists. Senior Digital Editor Claudia Williams, Sports Reporter Jessy Parker Humphreys and Architecture Critic Rowan Moore. Links to the team's Must Reads here: The billionaire and the tax evading gift shopsThe Human Side of Music's Prince Of DarknessRecords Tumbling for Lucy BronzeListen to the Inside Unite HERE**Join us at the News Meeting Live HEREFollow us on Social Media: @ObserverUK on X @theobserveruk on Instagram and TikTok@theobserveruk.bsky.social‬ on bluesky Host: Rebecca Moore, Executive ProducerProducer: Poppy BullardExecutive Producer: Jasper Corbett, Head of AudioTo find out more about The Observer:Subscribe to TheObserver+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free contentHead to our website observer.co.uk Download the Tortoise app – for a listening experience curated by our journalistsIf you want to get in touch with us directly about a story, or tell us more about the stories you want to hear about contact hello@tortoisemedia.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why has Israel launched a new air and ground offensive in Gaza, where many international aid organisations are operating? Will plans to overhaul the water companies in England and Wales work? And why is Donald Trump suing Rupert Murdoch? Jasper Corbett is joined by The Observer's Head of Data and Graphics, Katie Riley, researcher Serena Cesareo, and reporter Stephen Armstrong.Links to the team's Must Reads here: ‘My Friends' by Hisham Matar: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/127488823-my-friends ‘Where Americans Ever Healthy' by Bloomberg: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/features/2025-07-18/was-the-us-ever-healthy-what-maha-gets-wrong-about-nutrition-history ‘You Said ‘Yes' to Being an Organ Donor. What Exactly Does That Mean?' by the New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/07/20/health/organ-donors-information.html **Join us at the News Meeting Live HERE: Follow us on Social Media: @ObserverUK on X @theobserveruk on Instagram and TikTok@theobserveruk.bsky.social‬ on bluesky Host: Jasper Corbett, Head of AudioProducer: Amalie SortandExecutive Producer: Matt RussellTo find out more about The Observer:Subscribe to TheObserver+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free contentHead to our website observer.co.uk Download the Tortoise app – for a listening experience curated by our journalists Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Will the conspiracy theories about Jeffrey Epstein divide Trump from his MAGA supporters? Can British culture accept genetically modifying embryos to prevent serious diseases? And why have we only just learned of the data breach involving Afghan refugees? Giles Whittell is joined by The Observer's Head of Audio Jasper Corbett, reporter Phoebe Davis and producer Poppy Bullard. Links to the team's Must Reads here: Sarina Wiegman, the tough England manager who could win us the EurosIlliberal land: Hungary's empire of ideas‘A relentless, destructive energy': inside the trial of Constance Marten and Mark GordonListen to the Retreat from Kabul parts One and Two**Join us at the News Meeting Live HEREFollow us on Social Media: @ObserverUK on X @theobserveruk on Instagram and TikTok@theobserveruk.bsky.social‬ on bluesky Host: Giles Whittell, Deputy Editor-in-Chief Producer: Casey MagloireExecutive Producer: Rebecca Moore, Executive Producer To find out more about The Observer:Subscribe to TheObserver+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free contentHead to our website observer.co.uk Download the Tortoise app – for a listening experience curated by our journalistsIf you want to get in touch with us directly about a story, or tell us more about the stories you want to hear about contact hello@tortoisemedia.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is climate politics full of hot air? What's next for the government's Prevent scheme? What's behind falling vaccine rates in some parts of the country? Rebecca Moore is joined by a trio of Observer reporters: Whitehall editor Cat Neilan, Senior Audio Producer Katie Gunning and Senior Writer Francisco Garcia.You can read Rebecca's Must Read HEREAnd you can read Francisco's Must Read HERE**Join us at the News Meeting Live: LIVE from the Observer Newsroom on Tuesday 29th July - with ITV News presenter Charlene White.Follow us on Social Media: @ObserverUK on X @theobserveruk on Instagram and TikTok@theobserveruk.bsky.social‬ on bluesky Host: Rebecca Moore, Executive ProducerProducer: Poppy BullardExecutive Producer: Jasper Corbett, Head of AudioTo find out more about The Observer:Subscribe to TheObserver+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free contentHead to our website observer.co.uk Download the Tortoise app – for a listening experience curated by our journalistsIf you want to get in touch with us directly about a story, or tell us more about the stories you want to hear about contact hello@tortoisemedia.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Observer recently published a major investigation into the bestselling memoir The Salt Path. In this special episode, Giles Whittell is joined by the journalist behind the story, Chloe Hadjimatheou, and her editor, Alexi Mostrous, to discuss how the investigation unfolded. To read Chloe's piece click here.To read Raynor Winn's rebuttal, click here.To listen to the episode of The Sensemaker outlining Chloe's piece, click here. **Join us at the News Meeting Live: LIVE from the Observer Newsroom on Tuesday 29th July - with ITV News presenter Charlene White.Follow us on Social Media: @ObserverUK on X @theobserveruk on Instagram and TikTok@theobserveruk.bsky.social‬ on bluesky Host: Giles Whittell, Deputy EditorProducer: Poppy BullardExecutive Producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Are Britain and France on the cusp of yet another agreement over small boats? Could the Texan floods have been prevented? Can women trust the justice system? Rebecca Moore is joined by Observer reporters Phoebe Davies and Serena Cesareo, and the journalist and author Jenny Evans, whose book Don't Let It Break You, Honey details her experience being assaulted by a high profile figure, and her subsequent fight to find out why details of her ordeal made it into the tabloids. You can buy Don't Let It Break You, Honey HERE**Join us at the News Meeting Live: LIVE from the Observer Newsroom on Tuesday 29th July - with ITV News presenter Charlene White.Follow us on Social Media: @ObserverUK on X @theobserveruk on Instagram and TikTok@theobserveruk.bsky.social‬ on bluesky Host: Rebecca Moore, Executive ProducerProducer: Poppy BullardExecutive Producer: Jasper Corbett, Head of AudioTo find out more about The Observer:Subscribe to TheObserver+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free contentHead to our website observer.co.uk Download the Tortoise app – for a listening experience curated by our journalistsIf you want to get in touch with us directly about a story, or tell us more about the stories you want to hear about contact hello@tortoisemedia.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why did the case to prosecute rapper Sean “Diddy” Combs fail? Who's to blame for Rachel Reeve's terrible week? Should kids be taught to read faster? Giles Whittell is joined by a trio of Observer reporters. Cat Neilan is the Whitehall Editor, Vanessa Thorpe is the Media and Arts reporter and Stephen Armstrong, who has been covering the Diddy trial for the paper. **Join us at the News Meeting Live: LIVE from the Observer Newsroom on Tuesday 29th July - with Charlene White and Kehinde Andrews Follow us on Social Media: @ObserverUK on X @theobserveruk on Instagram and TikTok@theobserveruk.bsky.social‬ on bluesky Listen to Stephen's episode of the Sensemaker about the Diddy Trial here https://tinyurl.com/ysz3s2dy Host: Giles Whittell, deputy editor-in-chief at The ObserverProducer: Poppy BullardExecutive Producer: Rebecca MooreTo find out more about The Observer:Subscribe to TheObserver+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free contentHead to our website observer.co.uk Download the Tortoise app – for a listening experience curated by our journalistsIf you want to get in touch with us directly about a story, or tell us more about the stories you want to hear about contact hello@tortoisemedia.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is Keir Starmer facing his most significant rebellion yet? Why is Chinese billionaire Justin Sun being accused of buying access to Donald Trump? And what should Health Secretary Wes Streeting focus on if he wants to fix the NHS? Rebecca Moore is joined by host of the Westminster Inside podcast Sascha O'Sullivan, alongside The Observer's Patricia Clarke and Jon Ungoed-Thomas, as they battle it out and pitch the top stories of the day. **Join us at the News Meeting Live: LIVE from the Observer Newsroom on Tuesday 29th July - with Charlene White and Kehinde Andrews Listen to Westminster Insider here: Read everything mentioned in the episode here: Patricia's article - Trump's top crypto investor edges closer to the seat of American power - HEREThe private trials of Keir Starmer by Tom Baldwin - HERE The Verge's reporting on Justin Sun - HEREFollow us on Social Media: @ObserverUK on X @theobserveruk on Instagram and TikTok@theobserveruk.bsky.social‬ on bluesky Host: Rebecca Moore, Executive ProducerProducer: Casey MagloireExecutive Producer: Matt Russell, Deputy Head of AudioTo find out more about The Observer:Subscribe to TheObserver+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free contentHead to our website observer.co.uk Download the Tortoise app – for a listening experience curated by our journalistsIf you want to get in touch with us directly about a story, or tell us more about the stories you want to hear about contact hello@tortoisemedia.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why are TV audiences for women's sport falling? Was the Nato summit a victory lap for Donald Trump? And who is Zohran Mamdani, the charismatic progressive running for New York City Mayor?Giles Whittell is joined by Katie Riley, data editor at The Observer; Jessica Hayden, The Observer's assistant sports editor and author of The Red Roses: Behind the Scenes with the England Women's Rugby Team; and Ivo Daalder, former US ambassador to Nato and foreign policy advisor to President Obama.**Join us at the News Meeting Live: LIVE from the Observer Newsroom on Tuesday 29th July - with Charlene White and Kehinde Andrews Follow us on Social Media: @ObserverUK on X @theobserveruk on Instagram and TikTok@theobserveruk.bsky.social‬ on bluesky Host: Giles Whittell, deputy editor-in-chief at The ObserverProducer: Poppy BullardExecutive Producer: Rebecca MooreTo find out more about The Observer:Subscribe to TheObserver+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free contentHead to our website observer.co.uk Download the Tortoise app – for a listening experience curated by our journalistsIf you want to get in touch with us directly about a story, or tell us more about the stories you want to hear about contact hello@tortoisemedia.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Has Netanyahu got the Middle East exactly where he wants it? How will Iran respond to the US strikes on its nuclear facilities? Will the the conflict in the region change British politics forever?Rebecca Moore is joined by the journalists Rana Rahimpour and Jotam Confino, and former advisor to Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg, as they battle it out for the top story of the day. **Join us at the News Meeting Live: LIVE from the Observer Newsroom on Tuesday 29th July - with Charlene White and Kehinde AndrewsFollow us on Social Media: @ObserverUK on X @theobserveruk on Instagram and TikTok@theobserveruk.bsky.social‬ on bluesky Host: Rebecca Moore, Executive Producer Producers: Poppy Bullard Executive Producer: Matt Russell, Deputy Head of Audio To find out more about The Observer:Subscribe to TheObserver+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free contentHead to our website observer.co.uk Download the Tortoise app – for a listening experience curated by our journalistsIf you want to get in touch with us directly about a story, or tell us more about the stories you want to hear about contact hello@tortoisemedia.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is Ayatollah Khamenei becoming increasingly isolated? Who's got Donald Trump's ear in the decision to strike Iran? How can we find out what's happening on the ground in Gaza?Jess Winch is joined by the Observer's Head of Audio Jasper Corbett, journalist Rana Rahimpour and the author of Prisoners of Geography, Tim Marshall, as they battle it out for the top story of the day. **Join us at the News Meeting Live: LIVE from the Observer Newsroom on Tuesday 29th July - with Charlene White and Kehinde AndrewsListen to The hunt for Iran's next Supreme Leader - HERE Buy Prisoners of Geography https://observershop.co.uk/prisoners-of-geography-9781783968596/Follow us on Social Media: @ObserverUK on X @theobserveruk on Instagram and TikTok@theobserveruk.bsky.social‬ on bluesky Host: Jess Winch, Managing EditorProducers: Casey Magloire and Poppy Bullard Executive Producer: Matt Russell, Deputy Head of Audio To find out more about The Observer:Subscribe to TheObserver+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free contentHead to our website observer.co.uk Download the Tortoise app – for a listening experience curated by our journalistsIf you want to get in touch with us directly about a story, or tell us more about the stories you want to hear about contact hello@tortoisemedia.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Could the latest developments in Iran and Israel end the Cold War of the Middle East? Why has it taken 40 years to start the process of identifying the bodies of 800 unknown babies in Ireland? And will President Trump's MAGA support base buy into his family's latest venture? Rebecca Moore is joined by the Observer's managing editor Jess Winch, NPR's Lauren Frayer and co-host of Good Bad Billionaire Zing Tsjeng, as they battle it out for the top story of the day. **Join us at the News Meeting Live: LIVE from the Observer Newsroom on Tuesday 29th July - with Charlene White and Kehinde AndrewsFollow us on Social Media: @ObserverUK on X @theobserveruk on Instagram and TikTok@theobserveruk.bsky.social‬ on bluesky Host: Rebecca Moore, Executive ProducerProducer: Casey MagloireExecutive Producer: Matt Russell, Deputy Head of Audio To find out more about The Observer:Subscribe to TheObserver+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free contentHead to our website observer.co.uk Download the Tortoise app – for a listening experience curated by our journalistsIf you want to get in touch with us directly about a story, or tell us more about the stories you want to hear about contact hello@tortoisemedia.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special episode of The News Meeting, Jess Winch is joined by Jerusalem-based reporter Noga Tarnopolsky, along with The Observer's Chloe Hadjimatheou and Stephen Armstrong. Together, they unpack the Middle East conflict through the perspectives of America, Israel and Iran.**Join us at the News Meeting Live: LIVE from the Observer Newsroom on Tuesday 17 June - with Zing Tsjeng and NPR's Lauren Frayer LIVE from the Observer Newsroom on Tuesday 29th July - with Charlene White and Kehinde AndrewsFollow us on Social Media: @ObserverUK on X @theobserveruk on Instagram and TikTok@theobserveruk.bsky.social‬ on bluesky Host: Jess Winch, Managing editor at The ObserverProducer: Casey MagloireExecutive Producer: Rebecca MooreTo find out more about The Observer:Subscribe to TheObserver+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free contentHead to our website observer.co.uk Download the Tortoise app – for a listening experience curated by our journalistsIf you want to get in touch with us directly about a story, or tell us more about the stories you want to hear about contact hello@tortoisemedia.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

OpenAI's Sam Altman self-publishes chat GPT's water and energy consumption for the first time, but how can tech companies continue to expand in a more sustainable way? How will RFK Jr's appointment of known anti-vaxers to the CDC panel shape vaccination policy in the US? And are generational labels a problematic myth? Following Israeli strikes on Iran, The Observer's Chloe Hadjimatheou and Jess Winch discuss the latest developments in the Middle East.Then, Jess Winch is joined by award winning journalist and best selling author of Empire of AI Karen Hao; plus, The Observer's Alexi Mostrous and James Tapper, as they battle to pitch the top story of the day.**Join us at the News Meeting Live: LIVE from the Observer Newsroom on Tuesday 17 June - with Zing Tsjeng and NPR's Lauren Frayer LIVE from the Observer Newsroom on Tuesday 29th July - with Charlene White and Kehinde Andrews ** Links to everything mentioned in the episode: Get your copy of Karen's book Empire of AI: Inside the reckless race for total domination HEREWatch Karen's full conversation with Patricia Clarke at the Observer Bookclub live HEREListen to Alexi's podcast series, Dr Anti-Vax HEREFollow us on Social Media: @ObserverUK on X @theobserveruk on Instagram and TikTok@theobserveruk.bsky.social‬ on bluesky Host: Jess Winch, Managing editor at The ObserverProducer: Casey MagloireExecutive Producer: Rebecca MooreTo find out more about The Observer:Subscribe to TheObserver+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free contentHead to our website observer.co.uk Download the Tortoise app – for a listening experience curated by our journalistsIf you want to get in touch with us directly about a story, or tell us more about the stories you want to hear about contact hello@tortoisemedia.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What's behind the president's decision to deploy the National Guard in response to protests over immigration raids? Is Greta Thunberg's journey aboard the detained Madleen flotilla the most effective way to highlight the plight of Gazans? And how should we tackle the soaring water use of AI?Giles Whittell is joined by The Observer's Katie Gunning, Jon Ungoed-thomas and Serena Cesareo, as they battle to pitch the top story of the day.**Join us at the News Meeting Live: LIVE from the Observer Newsroom on Tuesday 17 June - with Zing Tsjeng and NPR's Lauren Frayer LIVE from the Observer Newsroom on Tuesday 29th July - with Charlene White and Kehinde Andrews Follow us on Social Media: @ObserverUK on X @theobserveruk on Instagram and TikTok@theobserveruk.bsky.social‬ on bluesky Host: Giles Whittell, deputy editor-in-chief at The ObserverProducer: Casey MagloireExecutive Producer: Rebecca MooreTo find out more about The Observer:Subscribe to TheObserver+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free contentHead to our website observer.co.uk Download the Tortoise app – for a listening experience curated by our journalistsIf you want to get in touch with us directly about a story, or tell us more about the stories you want to hear about contact hello@tortoisemedia.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why has the American Evangelical leader Johnnie Moore been chosen to chair the Gaza Humanitarian Fund? How will slipping data collection standards in the US undermine critics of the Trump administration? What is the rationale behind President Donald Trump's latest travel ban placed on 12 countries? Giles Whittell is joined by journalist Anu Anand, along with The Observer's Katie Riley and Jasper Corbett, as they battle to pitch the top story of the day.**Join us at the News Meeting Live: LIVE from the Observer Newsroom on Tuesday 17 June - with Zing Tsjeng and NPR's Lauren Frayer LIVE from the Observer Newsroom on Tuesday 29th July - with Charlene White and Kehinde Andrews Follow us on Social Media: @ObserverUK on X @theobserveruk on Instagram and TikTok@theobserveruk.bsky.social‬ on bluesky Host: Giles Whittell, deputy editor-in-chief at The ObserverProducer: Casey MagloireExecutive Producer: Rebecca MooreTo find out more about The Observer:Subscribe to TheObserver+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free contentHead to our website observer.co.uk Download the Tortoise app – for a listening experience curated by our journalistsIf you want to get in touch with us directly about a story, or tell us more about the stories you want to hear about contact hello@tortoisemedia.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In his stark new film on the fishing industry, David Attenborough warns we're "almost out of time" to save the oceans. Are Nigel Farage's calls to change UK abortion laws the start of a new culture war? And with Thames Water in crisis, should the government step in?James Harding is joined by Pod Save the UK's Coco Khan, along with The Observer's Basia Cummings and Miranda Sawyer, as they battle to pitch the top story of the day.**Join us at the News Meeting Live: LIVE from the Observer Newsroom on Tuesday 17 June - with Zing Tsjeng and NPR's Lauren Frayer LIVE from the Observer Newsroom on Tuesday 29th July - with Charlene White and Kehinde Andrews ** Listen to Coco Khan on Pod Save the UK HEREFollow us on Social Media: @ObserverUK on X @theobserveruk on Instagram and TikTok@theobserveruk.bsky.social‬ on bluesky Host: James Harding, editor-in-chief at The ObserverProducer: Casey MagloireExecutive Producer: Rebecca MooreTo find out more about The Observer:Subscribe to TheObserver+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free contentHead to our website observer.co.uk Download the Tortoise app – for a listening experience curated by our journalistsIf you want to get in touch with us directly about a story, or tell us more about the stories you want to hear about contact hello@tortoisemedia.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The UK government's new Strategic Defence Review says it's time for British citizens to step up. In southern Gaza, the Red Cross says 21 people were “declared dead on arrival” at a field hospital after an incident near an aid distribution centre. And could Ukraine's Operation Spider's Web change the face of modern warfare?Giles Whittell is joined by Media Storm's Mathilda Mallinson along with The Observer's Cat Neilan and Jasper Corbett, as they battle to pitch the top story of the day.To read Cat's article about the Strategic Defence Review click here.**Join us at the News Meeting Live: LIVE at SXSW on Wednesday 4th June - with Coco Khan and Miranda SawyerLIVE from the Observer Newsroom on Tuesday 17 June - with Zing Tsjeng and NPR's Lauren Frayer LIVE from the Observer Newsroom on Tuesday 29th July - with Charlene White and Kehinde Andrews Follow us on Social Media: @ObserverUK on X @theobserveruk on Instagram and TikTok@theobserveruk.bsky.social‬ on bluesky Host: Giles Whittell, deputy editor-in-chief at The ObserverProducer: Rebecca MooreExecutive Producer: Katie GunningTo find out more about The Observer:Subscribe to TheObserver+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free contentHead to our website observer.co.uk Download the Tortoise app – for a listening experience curated by our journalistsIf you want to get in touch with us directly about a story, or tell us more about the stories you want to hear about contact hello@tortoisemedia.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If the book is good, do we care if it was written by AI? Should we be concerned by the distribution of aid in Gaza by non-UN services? A team of British climbers recently reached Everest's summit in just five days after using xenon gas to boost performance. Does this kind of enhancement challenge traditional ideas of mountaineering achievement?Giles Whittell is joined by author, political adviser, and foreign policy specialist Chloe Dalton along with the Observer's Claudia Williams and Vanessa Thorpe, as they battle to pitch the top story of the day.**Join us at the News Meeting Live: LIVE at SXSW on Wednesday 4th June - with Coco Khan and Miranda SawyerLIVE from the Observer Newsroom on Tuesday 17 June - with Zing Tsjeng and NPR's Lauren Frayer LIVE from the Observer Newsroom on Tuesday 29th July - with Charlene White and Kehinde Andrews Follow us on Social Media: @ObserverUK on X @theobserveruk on Instagram and TikTok@theobserveruk.bsky.social‬ on bluesky Host: Giles Whittell, deputy editor-in-chief at The ObserverProducer: Casey MagloireExecutive Producer: Rebecca MooreTo find out more about The Observer:Subscribe to TheObserver+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free contentHead to our website observer.co.uk Download the Tortoise app – for a listening experience curated by our journalistsIf you want to get in touch with us directly about a story, or tell us more about the stories you want to hear about contact hello@tortoisemedia.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What links Elon Musk's business ties in South Africa to the US president's attack on Cyril Ramaphosa? Will AI hit women in the workforce hardest? And could the case of Adriana Smith - a brain-dead pregnant woman being kept alive because she's pregnant - reshape abortion laws in states like Georgia?Giles Whittell is joined by writer and journalist Marisa Bate, along with Observer reporters Stephen Armstrong and Phoebe Davis, as they battle to pitch the top story of the day.**Join us at the News Meeting Live: LIVE from Hay Festival on Thursday 29th May - with Chloe Dalton LIVE at SXSW on Wednesday 4th June - with Coco KhanLIVE from the Observer Newsroom on Tuesday 17 June - with Zing Tsjeng and NPR's Lauren Frayer LIVE from the Observer Newsroom on Tuesday 29th July - with Charlene White and Kehinde Andrews Read more of Phoebe's reporting on abortion laws in the UK here: Police could search homes and phones after pregnancy lossProsecuted, shamed and traumatised for mistake of taking abortion pills too lateFollow us on Social Media: @ObserverUK on X @theobserveruk on Instagram and TikTok@theobserveruk.bsky.social‬ on bluesky Host: Giles Whittell, deputy editor-in-chief at The ObserverProducer: Casey MagloireExecutive Producer: Rebecca MooreTo find out more about The Observer:Subscribe to TheObserver+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free contentHead to our website observer.co.uk Download the Tortoise app – for a listening experience curated by our journalistsIf you want to get in touch with us directly about a story, or tell us more about the stories you want to hear about contact hello@tortoisemedia.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alex Thompson and Jake Tapper's book, Original Sin alleges that officials working for Biden's administration tried to keep what they describe as the president's mental decline hidden. Is the media guilty of sensationalising Cassie Ventura's testimony and the trial involving Sean ‘Diddy' Combs? Why are changes to the fisheries policies between the EU and UK causing such a fuss?Giles Whittell is joined by Anu Anand, Stephen Armstrong and Patricia Clarke as they battle to pitch the top story of the day.**Join us at the News Meeting Live:LIVE from Hay Festival on Thursday 29th May - with Chloe Dalton LIVE at SXSW on Wednesday 4th June - with Coco KhanLIVE from the Observer Newsroom on Tuesday 17 June - with Zing Tsjeng and NPR's Lauren Frayer LIVE from the Observer Newsroom on Tuesday 29th July - with Charlene White and Kehinde Andrews Read more about the team's guilty pleasure news stories here:British mountaineer breaks his own record for most Everest climbs by a non-NepaliListen to more of the Observer's coverage on today's stories here: The Slow Newscast: The Clooney Intervention The Case against Sean CombsFollow us on Social Media: @ObserverUK on X @theobserveruk on Instagram and TikTok@theobserveruk.bsky.social‬ on bluesky Host: Giles Whittell, deputy editor-in-chief at The ObserverProducer: Casey MagloireExecutive Producers: Rebecca MooreTo find out more about The Observer:Subscribe to TheObserver+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free contentHead to our website observer.co.uk Download the Tortoise app – for a listening experience curated by our journalistsIf you want to get in touch with us directly about a story, or tell us more about the stories you want to hear about contact hello@tortoisemedia.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why did Bradley Wiggins seek advice from disgraced former cyclist Lance Armstrong to help him recover from cocaine addiction? What does the indictment of a US judge tell us about President Trump's plans to take on the judiciary? How is a law from the 1800s being used to criminalise women who have abortions in 2025? Jess Winch is joined by Marie Le Conte, Rowan Moore and Andrew Butler, as they battle to pitch the top story of the day.**Join us at the News Meeting Live:LIVE from Hay Festival on Thursday 29th May - with Chloe Dalton LIVE at SXSW on Wednesday 4th June - with Coco KhanLIVE from the Observer Newsroom on Tuesday 17 June - with Zing Tsjeng and NPR's Lauren Frayer LIVE from the Observer Newsroom on Tuesday 29th July - with Charlene White and Kehinde Andrews Read The Observer's exclusive - Bradley Wiggins: ‘I was a functioning cocaine addict' HERERead Marie's column on cricket: ‘It's like a summer fling, but I'm not sure cricket is for me' HERERead more about the team's guilty pleasure news stories here:Gunnersbury women's cricket club celebrate hitting historic centuryThe Cybertruck was supposed to be apocalypse-proof. Can it even survive a trip to the grocery store?How Video Game Sex Scenes Are MadeFollow us on Social Media: @ObserverUK on X @theobserveruk on Instagram and TikTok@theobserveruk.bsky.social‬ on bluesky Host: Jess Winch, managing editor at The ObserverProducer: Casey MagloireExecutive Producers: Jasper Corbett To find out more about The Observer:Subscribe to TheObserver+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free contentHead to our website observer.co.uk Download the Tortoise app – for a listening experience curated by our journalistsIf you want to get in touch with us directly about a story, or tell us more about the stories you want to hear about contact hello@tortoisemedia.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is youth mobility on the cards for Labour's post-Brexit plan with Europe? Why is it so hard to record incidents of spiking? How will Labour's immigration plan affect international students and higher education? Giles Whittell is joined by Rebecca Myers, Katie Riley and Cat Neilan, as they battle to pitch the top story of the day.**Join us at the News Meeting LiveLIVE from Hay Festival on Thursday 29th May - with Chloe Dalton LIVE at SXSW on Wednesday 4th June - with Coco KhanLIVE from the Observer Newsroom on Tuesday 17 June - with Zing Tsjeng and NPR's Lauren Frayer LIVE from the Observer Newsroom on Tuesday 29th July - with Charlene White and Kehinde Andrews Follow us on Social Media: @ObserverUK on X @theobserveruk on Instagram and TikTok@theobserveruk.bsky.social‬ on bluesky Host: Giles Whittell, deputy editor-in-chief at The ObserverProducer: Casey MagloireExecutive Producers: Rebecca MooreTo find out more about The Observer:Subscribe to TheObserver+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free contentHead to our website observer.co.uk Download the Tortoise app – for a listening experience curated by our journalistsIf you want to get in touch with us directly about a story, or tell us more about the stories you want to hear about contact hello@tortoisemedia.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How will Labour's immigration legislation affect the UK's care sector? What are the potential conflicts of interests if Trump accepts a jet from Qatar? The Indian Premier League is set to return after the competition was suspended amid rising tension in Kashmir, but what does this tell us about India's power in international cricket? Rebecca Moore is joined by Orwell Prize winning Pete Apps, alongside The Observer's Patricia Clarke and Jessy Parker Humphreys, as they battle to pitch the top story of the day.**Join us at the next edition of the News Meeting Live on Tuesday 13th May HERERead Patricia Clarke's article in full: ‘How the US president and his clan ushered in a new golden age of corruption' Follow us on Social Media: @ObserverUK on X @theobserveruk on Instagram and TikTok@theobserveruk.bsky.social‬ on bluesky Host: Rebecca Moore, executive producer at The ObserverProducer: Casey MagloireExecutive Producers: Rebecca Moore and Matt RussellTo find out more about The Observer:Subscribe to TheObserver+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free contentHead to our website observer.co.uk Download the Tortoise app – for a listening experience curated by our journalistsIf you want to get in touch with us directly about a story, or tell us more about the stories you want to hear about contact hello@tortoisemedia.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As tensions rise between the two nuclear powers and US remains noticeably missing from the world stage, who will be the guarantor of peace between India and Pakistan? What does the new US-UK trade deal tell us about the new world order? Elon Musk is stepping away from Doge, was his time in government a success or costly failure? Jess Winch is joined by author Quinn Slobodian and The Observer's Rebecca Moore and Jasper Corbett, as they battle to pitch the top story of the day.**Join us at the next edition of the News Meeting Live on Tuesday 13th May HEREPurchase Quinn's book ‘Hayek's Bastards: The Neoliberal Roots of the Populist Right' HERERead more about the team's guilty pleasure news stories HEREHe injected himself with snake venom hundreds of times. His blood could ‘revolutionize' snakebite treatmentFollow us on Social Media: @ObserverUK on X @theobserveruk on Instagram and TikTok@theobserveruk.bsky.social‬ on bluesky Host: Rebecca Moore, executive producer at Tortoise Producer: Casey MagloireExecutive Producers: Rebecca Moore and Matt RussellTo find out more about The Observer:Subscribe to TheObserver+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free contentHead to our website observer.co.uk Download the Tortoise app – for a listening experience curated by our journalistsIf you want to get in touch with us directly about a story, or tell us more about the stories you want to hear about contact hello@tortoisemedia.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why are there calls to return British art like the original Winnie-the-Pooh doll from America to the UK? Trump and Zelensky have finally signed the US-Ukraine mineral deal, but who is the real winner? With wedding season approaching, what lengths are people willing to take to look slimmer on the big day?Rebecca Moore is joined by Jeevan Vasagar, James Tapper and Vanessa Thorpe, as they battle to pitch the top story of the day.**Join us at the next edition of the News Meeting Live on Tuesday 29th April HEREListen to James Tapper's Sensemaker episode, 'The Down sides of weightloss drugs' HERE Read more about the team's guilty pleasure news stories here:Number of children playing recorder halves in a decadePaul Mescal headlines National Theatre's bold new season as Stormzy debuts for ground-breaking collaborationSlow news: Cumbria tortoise found a mile from home nine months after going missingFollow us on Social Media: @ObserverUK on X, @theObserveruk on Instagram and TikTok@theobserveruk.bsky.social‬ on bluesky Host: Rebecca Moore, executive producer at Tortoise Producer: Casey MagloireExecutive Producers: Rebecca Moore and Jasper Corbett To find out more about The Observer:Subscribe to TheObserver+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free contentHead to our website observer.co.uk Download the Tortoise app – for a listening experience curated by our journalistsIf you want to get in touch with us directly about a story, or tell us more about the stories you want to hear about contact hello@tortoisemedia.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What do councils do with the money they get from renting public spaces out for festivals? How will the Supreme Court's ruling on the definition of a woman impact our day-to-day lives? And North Korea has confirmed it sent troops to fight alongside Russia in Ukraine.Giles Whittell is joined by Rebecca Moore, Chloe Hadjimatheou and Miranda Sawyer as they battle to pitch the top story of the day.**Join us at the next edition of the News Meeting Live on Tuesday 29th April here: https://observer.co.uk/our-events/the-news-meeting-live Get in touch and let us know what you think should lead the news. Send a voice note to newsmeeting@tortoisemedia.com Follow us on Social Media: @tortoise on IG and X, @tortoisemedia on tiktok @tortoisemedia.bsky.social on bluesky Subscribe to TheObserver+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free contentHead to our website observer.co.uk Download the Tortoise app – for a listening experience curated by our journalistsHost: Giles Whittell Email: newsmeeting@tortoisemedia.comProducer: Casey MagloireExecutive Producer: Matt Russell Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Donald Trump has failed to resolve the conflict in Ukraine, how frustrated is he with Russia's latest round of attacks on Kyiv? Ofcom published its news set of rules tech firms must comply with - or else. And how have the devastating attacks in Kashmir reignited tensions between India and Pakistan? Giles Whittell is joined by Rebecca Moore, Stephen Armstrong and Cat Neilan, as they battle to pitch the top story of the day.**Join us at the next edition of the News Meeting Live on Tuesday 29th April here: https://www.tortoisemedia.com/our-events/the-news-meeting-live-2 Get in touch and let us know what you think should lead the news. Send a voice note to newsmeeting@tortoisemedia.com Read more about the team's guilty pleasure news stories here:The ‘Profound' Experience of Seeing a New ColorA Roman Gladiator and a Lion Met in Combat. Only One Walked AwayFollow us on Social Media: @tortoise on IG and X, @tortoisemedia on tiktok @tortoisemedia.bsky.social on bluesky Host: Giles Whittell Email: newsmeeting@tortoisemedia.comProducer: Casey MagloireExecutive Producer: Jasper Corbett Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does the government's takeover of the Scunthorpe steelworks mean for the future of UK industry? Why is a bin strike in Birmingham exposing deep cracks in Britain's social fabric? And who's paying the price for Trump's cuts to US foreign aid?Rebecca Moore is joined by Katie Gunning, Stephen Armstrong and NPR's Lauren Frayer as they battle to pitch the top story of the day.**Join us at the next edition of the News Meeting Live on Tuesday 29th April here: https://www.tortoisemedia.com/our-events/the-news-meeting-live-2 Get in touch and let us know what you think should lead the news. Send a voice note to newsmeeting@tortoisemedia.com Read more about the team's guilty pleasure news stories here:US blocks Canadian access to cross-border libraryBatman and Robin costumed police make arrestsKaty Perry kisses the ground as she leaves capsuleListen to Stephen's Slow Newscast episode, 'DIE, DIE, DEI' here: lnk.to/8NMCoV Listen to Lauren's report on the impact of US aid cuts in Syria here: https://www.npr.org/2025/04/14/nx-s1-5342255/how-trumps-cuts-to-u-s-foreign-aid-have-hobbled-syrias-war-crimes-investigations Follow us on Social Media: @tortoise on IG and X, @tortoisemedia on tiktok @tortoisemedia.bsky.social on bluesky Host: Rebecca Moore, executive producer at Tortoise Email: newsmeeting@tortoisemedia.comProducer: Casey MagloireExecutive Producer: Rebecca Moore and Jasper Corbett Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A few hours before he announced a 90-day pause on tariffs, the president posted “THIS IS A GREAT TIME TO BUY!!! DJT” on social media. Why has this led to accusations he manipulated the market for his own gain? The popularity of companion AI chatbots is rapidly increasing, but what safety nets are in place to protect young people? How have Big Law firms in America reacted to Trump 2.0?Rebecca Moore is joined by Hashi Mohamed, Patricia Clarke and Katie Riley, as they battle to pitch the top story of the day.**Join us at the next edition of the News Meeting Live on Tuesday 29th April here: https://www.tortoisemedia.com/our-events/the-news-meeting-live-2 Get in touch and let us know what you think should lead the news. Send a voice note to newsmeeting@tortoisemedia.com Read more about the team's guilty pleasure news stories here:Did Scientist really bring back the Dire Wolf? Who is joining Katy Perry and Gayle King in space? Bulgarian footballer honoured with minute's silence … despite not being dead Listen to Patricia's Slow Newscast episode, 'My AI Girlfriend' here: lnk.to/MyAIGirlfriend Follow us on Social Media: @tortoise on IG and X, @tortoisemedia on tiktok @tortoisemedia.bsky.social on bluesky Host: Rebecca Moore, executive producer at Tortoise Email: newsmeeting@tortoisemedia.comProducer: Casey MagloireExecutive Producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The United Nations says 15 medics have been killed by Israeli forces in Gaza, could this mark a turning point in how the West responds to the war? Is Keir Starmer right to suggest Donald Trump's tariffs spell the end of globalisation? And with trillions wiped off global markets, will the President retreat from his punchy new policy?Giles Whittell is joined by Jasper Corbett, Chloe Hadjimatheou and Cat Neilan, as they battle to pitch the top story of the day.**Join us at the next edition of the News Meeting Live on Tuesday 29th April here: https://www.tortoisemedia.com/our-events/the-news-meeting-live-2 Listen to Chloe's episode of the Sensemaker here: lnk.to/sensemaker Get in touch and let us know what you think should lead the news. Send a voice note to newsmeeting@tortoisemedia.com Follow us on Social Media: @tortoise on IG and X, @tortoisemedia on tiktok @tortoisemedia.bsky.social on bluesky Host: Giles Whittell, deputy editor at Tortoise Email: newsmeeting@tortoisemedia.comProducer: Casey MagloireExecutive Producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Will President Trump's global tariff hike force countries to forge new alliances beyond the US? What is the government's plan to tackle the problems involving young boys in Netflix's Adolescence? And why are doctors sounding the alarm over the return of Victorian-era diseases?Jess Winch is joined by the Observer's Rebecca Myers, along with Jasper Corbett and Stephen Armstrong from Tortoise, as they battle to pitch the top story of the day.**Join us at the next edition of the News Meeting Live on Tuesday 29th April here: https://www.tortoisemedia.com/our-events/the-news-meeting-live-2 Get in touch and let us know what you think should lead the news. Send a voice note to newsmeeting@tortoisemedia.com Follow us on Social Media: @tortoise on IG and X, @tortoisemedia on tiktok @tortoisemedia.bsky.social on bluesky Host: Jess Winch, news editor at Tortoise Email: newsmeeting@tortoisemedia.comProducer: Casey MagloireExecutive Producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

One of the largest earthquakes in decades has wrecked parts of Myanmar, but how does a country still grappling with civil war and military rule handle a natural disaster of this scale? The Guardian investigates why senior Tory Lords and MPs are lobbying to thwart the renters' reform bill. What does Prince Harry's bullying allegations, brought forward by his former charity chief, reveal about the way we provide aid? Basia Cummings is joined by the Guilty Feminist's Deborah Frances-White, plus Tortoise's Katie Riley and Claudia Williams, as they battle it out to pitch the top story of the day. **Join us at the next edition of the News Meeting Live on Tuesday 29th April here: https://www.tortoisemedia.com/our-events/the-news-meeting-live-2 Take a look at Tortoise's Peer Review tools here - https://www.tortoisemedia.com/peer-review-explore-tool Get in touch and let us know what you think should lead the news. Send a voice note to newsmeeting@tortoisemedia.com Follow us on Social Media: @tortoise on IG and X, @tortoisemedia on tiktok @tortoisemedia.bsky.social on bluesky Host: Basia Cummings, Editor at TortoiseEmail: newsmeeting@tortoisemedia.comProducer: Casey MagloireExecutive Producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Will there be any repercussions after top US security officials accidentally added the editor of the Atlantic to a Signal group used to plan airstrikes in Yemen? New government, new Spring Statement, but is this the same old politics? And why we need to talk about the growing fashion scene in Bath.Giles Whittell is joined by journalist Anu Anand, Bath Spa University Chancellor Sharanjit Leyl and Tortoise's Chloe Hadjimatheou, as they battle it out and try to pitch the top story of the day. **Join us at the next edition of the News Meeting Live on Tuesday 29th April here: https://www.tortoisemedia.com/our-events/the-news-meeting-live-2 Get in touch and let us know what you think should lead the news. Send a voice note to newsmeeting@tortoisemedia.com Follow us on Social Media: @tortoise on IG and X, @tortoisemedia on tiktok @tortoisemedia.bsky.social on bluesky Host: Giles Whittell, Deputy Editor at TortoiseEmail: newsmeeting@tortoisemedia.comProducer: Casey MagloireExecutive Producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Have the disruptions at Heathrow airport revealed key weaknesses in the UK's infrastructure? Is the US looking to pull out of Ukraine so it can focus on a potential war with China? And what will happen to millions of people's genetic data now that 23andMe has declared bankruptcy? Giles Whittell is joined by Sky News' Yalda Hakim, alongside Tortoise's Patricia Clarke and Cat Neilan, as they each pitch a story they think should lead the news.**Join us at the next edition of the News Meeting Live! Get your ticket for Wednesday 26th March in Bath here: https://www.tortoisemedia.com/our-events/the-news-meeting-live-3 And our London live show on Tuesday 29th April here: https://www.tortoisemedia.com/our-events/the-news-meeting-live-2 Listen to Tortoise's latest episode of the Slow Newscast, The $Trumpcon - here Listen to The World with Richard Engel and Yalda Hakim podcast - here Follow us on Social Media: @tortoise on IG and X, @tortoisemedia on tiktok @tortoisemedia.bsky.social on bluesky Host: Jess Winch, News Editor at TortoiseEmail: newsmeeting@tortoisemedia.comProducer: Casey MagloireExecutive Producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What is President Trump's “voluntary transfer plan” for Gaza residents? As Trump clashes with a federal judge over mass deportation, is the Supreme Court willing to stand up to the President? Who were the Navajo code talkers, and why was their wartime legacy briefly erased from US military websites?Jess Winch is joined by Tortoise's Katie Riley, Chloe Hadjimatheou and Jasper Corbett, as they each pitch a story they think should lead the news.**Join us at the next edition of the News Meeting Live! Get your ticket for Wednesday 26th March in Bath here: https://www.tortoisemedia.com/our-events/the-news-meeting-live-3 And our London live show on Tuesday 29th April here: https://www.tortoisemedia.com/our-events/the-news-meeting-live-2 Listen to Tortoise's latest investigative series - Lucky Boy - here Follow us on Social Media: @tortoise on IG and X, @tortoisemedia on tiktok @tortoisemedia.bsky.social on bluesky Host: Jess Winch, News Editor at TortoiseEmail: newsmeeting@tortoisemedia.comProducer: Casey MagloireExecutive Producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Are welfare reforms Labour's only hope of saving money ahead of the Spring Statement? Who are the hundreds of Venezuelans who have been forcibly removed from the US? And what is the media getting wrong when it comes to reporting on femicide by an intimate partner?Giles Whittell is joined by Media Storm podcast hosts Mathilda Mallinson and Helena Wadia, along with Claudia Williams from Tortoise, as they each pitch a story they think should lead the news.**Join us at the next edition of the News Meeting Live! Get your ticket for Wednesday 26th March in Bath here: https://www.tortoisemedia.com/our-events/the-news-meeting-live-3 And our London live show on Tuesday 29th April here: https://www.tortoisemedia.com/our-events/the-news-meeting-live-2 Listen to Media Storm here - https://podfollow.com/media-stormFollow us on Social Media: @tortoise on IG and X, @tortoisemedia on tiktok @tortoisemedia.bsky.social on bluesky Host: Giles Whittell, deputy at TortoiseEmail: newsmeeting@tortoisemedia.comProducer: Casey MagloireExecutive Producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is potential deportation of Mahmoud Khalil proof that Donald Trump will use cancel culture against his loudest critics? If misogyny is a political ideology, should the Southport murderer's crime be classed as terrorism? Why health professionals are struggling to treat teenagers addicted to vaping.Giles Whittell is joined by founder and host of The Young Turks, Cenk Uygur. Plus,Tortoise's Katie Riley and Claudia Williams, as they each pitch a story they think should lead the news. **Join us at the next edition of the News Meeting Live! Get your ticket for Wednesday 26th March in Bath here: https://www.tortoisemedia.com/our-events/the-news-meeting-live-3 And our London live show on Tuesday 29th April here: https://www.tortoisemedia.com/our-events/the-news-meeting-live-2 Follow us on Social Media: @tortoise on IG and X, @tortoisemedia on tiktok @tortoisemedia.bsky.social on bluesky Host: Giles Whittell, deputy at TortoiseEmail: newsmeeting@tortoisemedia.comProducer: Casey MagloireExecutive Producer: Jasper Corbett Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is King Charles' new Apple playlist a savvy PR move or just a bid for relevance? Mark Carney is Canada's new prime minister; are technocrats the best leaders to combat Trump 2.0? How will the Reform party's internal battle impact the next British election?Jeevan Vasagar is joined by Orwell Prize-winning author and Inside Housing contributing editor, Pete Apps. Plus,Tortoise's Katie Riley and Katie Gunning as they each pitch a story they think should lead the news. **Join us at the next edition of the News Meeting Live! Get your ticket for Wednesday 26th March in Bath here: https://www.tortoisemedia.com/our-events/the-news-meeting-live-3 And our London live show on Tuesday 29th April here: https://www.tortoisemedia.com/our-events/the-news-meeting-live-2 Follow us on Social Media: @tortoise on IG and X, @tortoisemedia on tiktok @tortoisemedia.bsky.social on bluesky Host: Jeevan Vasagar, contributing editor at TortoiseEmail: newsmeeting@tortoisemedia.comProducer: Casey MagloireExecutive Producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Could Europe unlock frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine's fight against Putin? Why Elon Musk's DOGE remains a mystery despite promises of transparency. And how climate change is reshaping Alaska's iconic dog sled race.Jasper Corbett is joined by Tortoise's Chloe Hadjimatheou, Patricia Clarke and Katie Riley as they each pitch a story they think should lead the news. **Join us at the next edition of the News Meeting Live! Get your ticket for Wednesday 26th March in Bath here: https://www.tortoisemedia.com/our-events/the-news-meeting-live-3 And our London live show on Tuesday 29th April here: https://www.tortoisemedia.com/our-events/the-news-meeting-live-2 Want to learn more about what we discussed in this episode? Here's everything you need:What to know more about DOGE? Listen to Patricia's episode of the Sensemaker: Musk, Trump, and the secretive government overhaul hereRead more of the reporting on DOGE by ProPublica here and the New York Times here and here If you're interested in the attention economy, Katie recommends reading Chris Hayes' The Siren's Call: How Attention Became the World's Most Endangered ResourceFollow us on Social Media: @tortoise on IG and X, @tortoisemedia on tiktok @tortoisemedia.bsky.social on bluesky Host: Jasper Corbett, Audio Editor at TortoiseEmail: newsmeeting@tortoisemedia.comProducer: Casey MagloireExecutive Producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After a frantic weekend of diplomatic chess, has Sir Keir Starmer emerged as the new leader of Europe? Will Israel agree to enact the second stage of the ceasefire deal and pull troops out of Gaza? Why is the government spending £100m on a bat cave for HS2? Giles Whittell is joined by Tortoise's Stephen Armstrong, Chloe Hadjimatheou and Hashi Mohamed as they each pitch a story they think should lead the news. **Join us at the next edition of the News Meeting Live! Get your ticket for Wednesday 26th March in Bath here: https://www.tortoisemedia.com/our-events/the-news-meeting-live-3 And our London live show on Tuesday 29th April here: https://www.tortoisemedia.com/our-events/the-news-meeting-live-2 Listen to Tortoise's latest series - Lucky Boy here - https://lnk.to/IKgGih Listen to the latest episode of the Slow Newscast: Trump's Dealmaker hereFollow us on Social Media: @tortoise on IG and X, @tortoisemedia on tiktok @tortoisemedia.bsky.social on bluesky Host: Giles Whittell, deputy editor at TortoiseEmail: newsmeeting@tortoisemedia.comProducer: Casey MagloireExecutive producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Will Keir Starmer's meeting with Donald Trump cement him as the pragmatic leader the UK left has been missing? With the TV industry struggling, are we witnessing the end of our beloved British TV dramas? Giles Whittell is joined by comedian Matt Forde, critic Scott Bryan and Tortoise's Cat Neilan as they each pitch a story they think should lead the news. **Join us at the next edition of the News Meeting Live! Get your ticket for Wednesday 26th March in Bath here: https://www.tortoisemedia.com/our-events/the-news-meeting-live-3 And our London live show on Tuesday 29th April here: https://www.tortoisemedia.com/our-events/the-news-meeting-live-2 Grab your ticket to see Matt Forde's Political Party Live - https://www.mattforde.com/live/ Listen to Tortoise's latest series - Lucky Boy here - https://lnk.to/IKgGih Get 30% off UnCommon Wine by using the code UNCOMMONTORTOISE at checkout!Follow us on Social Media: @tortoise on IG and X, @tortoisemedia on tiktok @tortoisemedia.bsky.social on bluesky Host: Giles Whittell, deputy editor at TortoiseEmail: newsmeeting@tortoisemedia.comProducer: Casey MagloireExecutive producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Germany's Friedrich Merz has vowed to secure “independence” from the United States following his party's victory in parliamentary elections. In 2023 the Crown Prosecution Service found black people are 16 times more likely than white people to face prosecution under joint enterprise laws, so why is a review only happening now? For the first time, Apple has agreed to withdraw its highest-level data security tool from UK customers after the government demanded access to user data for security reasons.Giles Whittell is joined by ITV News presenter Charlene White, plus Tortoise's Jeevan Varsagar and Patricia Clarke, as they pitch and battle it out for today's top story. **February's edition of the News Meeting Live has sold out! So grab a ticket for our March and April shows while spots are still available! Get your ticket hereWe always love to hear your thoughts. Send a voice note to: newsmeeting@tortoisemedia.com Host: Giles Whittell, deputy editor at Tortoise.Producer: Casey MagloireExecutive producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why is it so hard for journalists to report on Trump's blatant lies? Tens of thousands have died and been displaced in the Democratic Republic of Congo - so why is the war missing from the front pages? And what does the conversation between Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch and controversial podcaster Jordan Peterson reveal about the UK's political right?Giles Whittell is joined by journalist and author Marie Le Conte, plus Tortoise's Ada Barumé and Cat Neilan, as they pitch and battle it out for today's top story. **February's edition of the News Meeting Live has sold out! So grab a ticket for our March and April shows while spots are still available! Get your ticket hereWe always love to hear your thoughts. Send a voice note to: newsmeeting@tortoisemedia.com Host: Giles Whittell, deputy editor at Tortoise.Producer: Casey MagloireExecutive producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As Trump and Putin negotiate a peace deal without Europe or Ukraine, where does this leave Nato members? Can Keir Starmer establish himself as a key figure in European defence? And as the US and Russia meet in Saudi Arabia this week, what does that tell us about the future of geopolitics? Giles Whittell is joined by Tortoise's Jasper Corbett, Stephen Armstrong and Cat Neilan, as they pitch and battle it out for today's top story. **Join us at the next edition of the News Meeting Live! We host live recordings on the last Thursday of every month. Get your ticket for February 27th hereWe always love to hear your thoughts. Send a voice note to: newsmeeting@tortoisemedia.com Host: Giles Whittell, deputy editor at Tortoise.Producer: Casey MagloireExecutive producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With a single 90-minute phone call has Donald Trump sidelined Europe in the Ukraine discussion? Why is Donald Trump criticising South Africa's land laws and what does Elon Musk have to do with it? With Cardiff University announcing major departmental cuts, will other institutions follow suit to save higher education in Wales? Giles Whittell is joined by the former opposition leader of South Africa and founder of Futurelect, Lindiwe Mazibuko, CNN presenter Max Foster and Tortoise's Patricia Clarke as they pitch and battle it out for today's top story. **Join us at the next edition of the News Meeting Live! We host live recordings on the last Thursday of every month. Get your ticket for February 27th hereWe always love to hear your thoughts. Send a voice note to: newsmeeting@tortoisemedia.com Host: Giles Whittell, deputy editor at Tortoise.Producer: Casey MagloireExecutive producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What are the ethical dilemmas of publishing a writer's private works after their death? A new poll reveals that Nigel Farage's Reform Party may be the UK's most popular political party. How have Labour and the Conservatives responded to the news? What does the latest round of Trump tariffs tell us about the President's negotiating tactics?Jeevan Vasagar is joined by Tortoise's Cat Neilan, Katie Riley and Patricia Clarke as the pitch and battle it out for today's top story. **Join us at the next edition of the News Meeting Live! We host live recordings on the last Thursday of every month. Get your ticket for February 27th hereListen to Cat's episode of the Slow Newscast - The Rwanda Plan: How to lose £70 million here from Tuesday 11th FebruaryWe always love to hear your thoughts. Send a voice note to: newsmeeting@tortoisemedia.com Host: Jeevan Vasagar, contributing editor at Tortoise.Producer: Casey MagloireExecutive producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.