Podcasts about The Sunday Times

What if “manifesting” isn't about vision boards and wishful thinking… but about brave, uncomfortable action? In this deeply personal solo episode, Zoe shares - for the first time - how she built Motherkind and manifested her dream career alongside early motherhood Not through magic.Not through overnight success.But through clarity, courage and trusting the nudges. Zoe breaks down the three-part framework that changed everything for her: How to get clear on what you actually want (even if all you know is what you don't want) Why tiny, 1% brave steps build unstoppable momentum The truth about “paralleling” careers and why most transitions aren't dramatic leaps What it really means to “trust the process” - and how to spot the breadcrumbs She shares the uncomfortable early days: buying a £50 microphone from Currys, consulting with clients to fund the dream, working late nights with a baby waking at 4 am, and the moments of flow that signalled she was on the right path If you're sitting in a career that feels fine but not fulfilling…If you have an idea you can't quite shake…If you're wondering whether it's too late, too risky, too unrealistic… This episode is your permission slip. Motherhood doesn't end ambition.It can clarify it. Know what you want.Take one small brave step.Trust what flows. Remember to subscribe to Motherkind — it helps more mothers find the show and keeps our community growing. Feeling different since becoming a mother? Get clarity on who you're becoming now and  download your FREE Matrescence Cheat Sheet If you liked this episode, listen to this next: The Work Series: My Biggest Mistakes and Regrets - Zoe's Story Connect with Zoe: Follow Zoe on Instagram  Get Zoe's Sunday Times bestselling book, 'Motherkind: A New Way to Thrive in a World of Endless Expectations' This Motherkind episode is sponsored by: Headline sponsor Wild Nutrition, the brand raising the bar for women's supplements. Want to feel the Food-Grown difference yourself? Get 50% off for three months at wildnutrition.com/motherkind. Ts and Cs apply. For a £100 sponsored job credit, visit Indeed.com/ Motherkind Start your children's reading journey with Usbourne Books Sonic Rooms from Pop That Mumma is a guided audio album designed to help mums find moments of calm in everyday life – use code MOTHERKIND for 30% off. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On Monday, the government released its plan to reform SEND, the system that supports children with special educational needs and disabilities, in England. It's used by around one in five children and Keir Starmer is promising £4 billion over 3 years to overhaul it. But what's changed, who's affected and how will the government pay for it?This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestoryGuests:Georgia Lambert, education and news reporter, The Times.Hayley Harding, SEND campaigner. Host: Luke Jones. Producers: Olivia Case and Micaela Arneson.We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.comRead more: Keir Starmer: I'll ensure no child with special needs is left behindFurther listening: Broken trust: Inside England's maternity scandalPhoto: Getty Images.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Erin Claire Jones was introduced to Human Design by a stranger in New York City in 2015—a chance encounter that would change the course of her life. Today, she's one of the world's leading experts in Human Design. For the past decade, Erin has been teaching it as a practical tool for alignment in work, love, and everyday decision-making. Through her coaching, courses, digital products, and personalized guides, she's helped hundreds of thousands of people worldwide return to who they truly are and find their flow.  Do you know what career you're really meant to pursue? Can you identify the relationships you should really be investing in? Are you living your life to the fullest? Do you want to understand better your partner or work colleagues? Human Design is a mystical personality assessment that uses NASA data, astrology, and Eastern philosophy to generate mind-blowingly accurate insights into how you uniquely thrive at work, in love, and beyond. It is very practical and gives detailed info on what Human Design you are and you can find out what Human Design your children are, spouses are, and make dynamics make more sense. Erin's book: How Do You Choose?  A Human Design Guide to What's Best for You at Work, in Love, and in Life is a hands-on guide to using your Human Design to find more flow at work, deepen your relationships, and make aligned, confident decisions. Her work has been featured in Forbes, The Sunday Times, Vogue, Allure, Nylon and more. https://erinclairejones.com/book You can find out your human design by going here: BLUEPRINT GUIDE: A hyper-personalized, super accessible guide to your human design Here's the link to get your custom guide: https://humandesignblueprint.com/guide Link to study human design with Erin:  https://humandesigngenius.com/ Website: www.heatherthomson.com Social Media: IG: https://www.instagram.com/iamheathert/                     You Tube: https://youtube.com/@iamheathert?si=ZvI9l0bhLfTR-qdo SPONSOR: AirDoctorPro - Head to www.AirDoctorPro.com  and use promo code HEATHER to get UP TO $300 off today! AirDoctor comes with a 30-day money back guarantee, plus a 3-year warranty—an $84 value, free! Get this exclusive, podcast-only offer now! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Four years into Russia's full-scale invasion, Ukraine is still fighting – but the strain is visible. How has the conflict changed since those first days of war? Why would a free and fair election in Ukraine be so difficult? And is peace even conceivable?This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestoryGuests: Anthony Loyd, special correspondent for The Times.Neo, Ukrainian drone unit commander.Anastasiia Romaniuk, researcher based in Kyiv.With thanks to our Ukrainian voices from the ground: Iryna Bortniuk, Pavlo Tkachenko, Natalia Zubar, Logan & Ostap.Host: Manveen Rana.Producers: Harry Stott and Julia Webster.We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.comRead more: War diary: love and desperation on Ukraine's front lineFurther listening: A new peace plan, and a critical moment for ZelenskyClips: BBCPhoto: Photo: Paul Brookbanks, Getty Images.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Priestess, witch, daughter of a brutal king: Medea is the greatest tragic heroine of the classical world. But, as Sunday Times bestselling writer Natalie Haynes reveals, Medea can be so much more than that too. Joining her longtime friend Robin Ince, she reveals her own journey that led her towards classical mythology, and invites modern-day dwellers to revisit the mythical past anew.  From the extraordinary characters of classical heroines such as Medea, Pandora, and Medusa, to how classical myths continue to resonate with the human condition today, Natalie takes us on an epic journey of our own to reimagine the myths we thought we knew. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Three separate scandals have raised serious questions over Keir Starmer's judgement. It's empowered Labour MPs who were once written off as cranks. And with many files still to come out, the questions will keep on coming.Meanwhile, the PM is selling the idea that the Gorton and Denton by-election is a two-horse race between Reform UK and Labour, but will voters believe him when the Green Party is campaigning hard on Gaza? Also, is parliament fit for purpose on the subject of the royal family?Steven Swinford, political editor, The TimesPatrick Maguire, chief political commentator, The TimesGabriel Pogrund, Whitehall editor, The Sunday TimesProducer: Euan DawtreyExecutive producer: Molly GuinnessPicture credit: Getty ImagesEmail us: thestateofit@thetimes.co.ukThis podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There's a quiet moment after you become a mum where you realise your life will never look the same again and neither will your career. In this Motherkind Moment, Zoe Blaskey is joined by Helen Tupper and Sarah Ellis, co-founders of Squiggly Careers, bestselling authors, and two of the UK's leading voices on modern careers, learning and development. Together, they explore the reality so many mothers quietly hold: how becoming a parent doesn't switch off your drive – but it does force you to make sense of it. They talk about the idea of a squiggly career, and why motherhood often accelerates that squiggle. There's a clear before and after when you become a mum, and suddenly your life, priorities and decisions can't look the same as they did before. But that doesn't mean you stop wanting to grow, achieve, or do meaningful work. This Moment speaks directly to the judgment many working mothers experience – the head tilt, the comments, the unspoken assumptions about what you should want after having children. Zoe, Helen and Sarah talk honestly about returning to work by choice, feeling judged for it, and learning to make intentional decisions that work for you, even when they look different to everyone else's. At the heart of the conversation is the power of values, not as a buzzword, but as a practical filter for navigating motherhood, work and identity. When you know what truly drives you, you can make choices with more confidence and less guilt, even in a season that's noisy, exhausting and full of comparison. This Moment is a reminder that there is no one right way to do motherhood or ambition, only what works for you. In this Moment, they explore: Why motherhood often makes careers feel more “squiggly” How ambition can stay alive after becoming a mother Using values to make confident, intentional decisions If you've ever felt judged for what you want after having children or are unsure how to honour both your ambition and your family, this Moment is for you. If you liked this moment, listen to the full episode: Success Isn't Linear: 5 steps to Finally Start Defining Your Own Path with The Squiggly Career Experts Remember to subscribe to Motherkind — it helps more mothers find the show and keeps our community growing. Feeling different since becoming a mother? Get clarity on who you're becoming now and download your FREE Matrescence Cheat Sheet Connect with Zoe: Follow Zoe on Instagram  Get Zoe's Sunday Times bestselling book, 'Motherkind: A New Way to Thrive in a World of Endless Expectations' This Motherkind episode is sponsored by: Headline sponsor Wild Nutrition, the brand raising the bar for women's supplements. Want to feel the Food-Grown difference yourself? Get 50% off for three months at wildnutrition.com/motherkind. Ts and Cs apply. For a £100 sponsored job credit, visit Indeed.com/ Motherkind Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Over the past decade, thousands of families say they have been failed by England's maternity services. With a review into 12 NHS trusts due to publish its interim findings this week, we hear from some of those affected. What went wrong? And can future tragedies can be prevented?This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestoryGuest: Poppy Koronka, health correspondent, The Times.Host: Luke Jones.Producer: Shabnam Grewal. We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.comIf you've been affected by any of the issues raised, the following organisations may be able to help:Sands is a UK charity that provides support to anyone affected by the death of a baby. Please visit www.sands.org.uk or call the helpline on 0808 164 3332The Birth Trauma Association is a charity that supports women and families who have experienced traumatic birth. Visit www.birthtraumaassociation.org or call the helpline on 0203 621 6338Tommy's is a charity focused on pregnancy research in the UK. Visit their website www.tommys.org or call 0800 0147 800Read more: NHS maternity failings leave women feeling blamed for poor careClips: Parliament TV, Channel 4 News, Ockenden Maternity Review, Sky News,Photo: Getty Images.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hannah Murray will start by looking at the bestseller lists on Amazon.co.uk and The Sunday Times, the oldest and most influential book sales chart in the UK, and seeing what new entries there are. Robert Garner is Emeritus Professor of Politics at the University of Leicester. His PhD thesis focused on the history of the Labour Party. His novel 'Landslide' is the story of the 1945 General Election, vividly bringing to life the gripping personal and political dramas of key figures such as Churchill, Atlee, Morrison, Wilkinsons and Bevin. Robert says that we are still living in a time that was heavily influenced by the outcome of that election. David F. Reed spent twenty years building a successful career in television production, working on a few programmes that followed and helped publicise missing persons cases. In his debut psychological thriller 'Running with the Devil', he draws on his real-life police work, looking at the catastrophic effects a missing relative can have on a person's life. Marlowe Edison is the pen name of Suzanne Brook. 'Mastering the Art of Deception' is her debut novel and the first in a planned trilogy. It's a high-octane espionage thriller packed with mind games, simmering tension, and operatic stakes. It's a genre-crossing novel that asks what it takes to survive betrayal and carve out your own identity in a world built on deception. ...Ed Needham is the Editor of Strong Words Magazine. He joins us monthly to review a selection of new Fiction and Non Fiction titles, which this week includes Workhorse by Caroline Palmer. P.C. Dinan brings over 25 years of experience in the television industry to her debut thriller 'Ilved Trust Germs' Inspired by real events, it's an atmospheric  and adrenaline filled game of cat and mouse that explores politics, power and corruption. Lin Treadgold is a member of the Romantic Novelist's Association. Her latest novel 'The Trail Back to Freedom' is based on her own father's letters sent back from the war. She wove his real experience into a fictional story that is about a young soldier's wartime experience in Italy, and a love story about his relationship with his girlfriend back home.

Jesse Jackson, the civil rights firebrand, preacher, and two-time presidential candidate rose from segregated South Carolina to the front lines of America's fight for justice. Marching alongside Martin Luther King Jr., Jackson transformed protest into political power, inspiring generations and paved the way to the first black president. We take a look at his influential, and controversial life.Guest: Anna Temkin, deputy obituary editor, The Times.Host: Luke Jones.Producer: Dave Creasey and Julia Webster.We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.comRead more: Rev Jesse Jackson obituary: civil rights campaignerClips: CBS, NPR, ITV, WCNC, BBC, The Obama White House, ThamesTV.Photo: Getty Images.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sunday NY Times Opinion

Sunday NY Times Arts & Leisure section

After her horrific rape ordeal, Gisèle Pelicot did not want a public trial. But, in an exclusive extract from her new book, she reveals why she changed her mind.This episode is from the audiobook A Hymn to Life by Gisèle Pelicot, read by Emma Thompson.Read by: Emma Thompson.Producer: Dave Creasey.We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.comRead more: ‘I saw him rape me. My body tortured, cast unconscious into the pit of men'Photo: Getty Images.Further information: Published in hardback by Bodley Head on Feb 17 at £22.To order a copy of A Hymn to Life go to timesbookshop.co.uk.Free UK standard P&P on orders over £25.Special discount available for Times+ members World Europe.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has been arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office. He has denied all wrongdoing. This is the first time a member of the royal family has been arrested since the English Civil War in the 1600s. What does this mean for the future of the British monarchy?This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestoryGuests:Valentine Low, former royal correspondent, The Times.Dr. Tom Frost, senior lecturer, Loughborough University.Host: Manveen Rana. Producers: Taryn Siegel and Olivia Case. We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.comRead more: Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor arrested for misconduct in public officeClips: ABC News, Talk TV, Sky News, CNBC.Photo: Getty Images.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if motherhood hasn't set you back… but actually made you more powerful? We're told we lose things when we become mothers - sleep, freedom, career momentum. But what if we've also gained something extraordinary? In this solo episode, Zoe shares the five “superpowers” she believes every mother develops - often without even realising it Because motherhood isn't a step away from leadership. It's one of the most intense leadership trainings you'll ever experience. In this episode, you'll learn: The 5 core superpowers motherhood builds - from empathy to creative problem solving Why time constraints and micro-decisions are sharpening your leadership daily How to stop apologising for nursery pick-up and start owning your efficiency A simple strength-based exercise to help you recognise and use your new skills If you've ever wondered what this season is building in you, this episode is your reminder. Remember to subscribe to Motherkind — it helps more mothers find the show and keeps our community growing. Feeling different since becoming a mother? Get clarity on who you're becoming now and  download your FREE Matrescence Cheat Sheet If you liked this episode, listen to this next: How to Build Confidence + Self-Belief in Yourself Again (Even When You're Knackard) Connect with Zoe: Follow Zoe on Instagram  Get Zoe's Sunday Times bestselling book, 'Motherkind: A New Way to Thrive in a World of Endless Expectations' This Motherkind episode is sponsored by: Headline sponsor Wild Nutrition, the brand raising the bar for women's supplements. Want to feel the Food-Grown difference yourself? Get 50% off for three months at wildnutrition.com/motherkind. Ts and Cs apply. For a £100 sponsored job credit, visit Indeed.com/ Motherkind Sonic Rooms from Pop That Mumma is a guided audio album designed to help mums find moments of calm in everyday life – use code MOTHERKIND for 30% off. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former Prince Andrew, the brother of King Charles, has been arrested over suspected misconduct in public office following revelations in the Jeffrey Epstein files. The former prince has denied any wrongdoing since he befriended Epstein in 1999. Ramy Inocencio reports, and The Sunday Times royal editor Roya Nikkhah joins with more. King Charles released a statement Thursday saying "the law must take its course" following the arrest of his brother, former Prince Andrew, for suspected misconduct in public office revealed in the Jeffrey Epstein files. Former Prince Andrew has denied any wrongdoing. CBS News royal contributor Julian Payne, who was the communications director for King Charles when he was Prince of Wales, breaks down how the royal family is reacting. Dr. Mark Hyman, a bestselling author and CBS News contributor, speaks with "CBS Mornings" about his claim that America's current food system is the "single biggest threat to our future as a society." He discusses its impact on our diets and how to make changes. For 24 seasons, supermodel Tyra Banks promised young women the chance to become the next big name in fashion on the show "America's Next Top Model." In a new Netflix documentary, former contestants, judges and Banks herself revisit some of the more controversial episodes of the reality show that aired from 2003 to 2018. Former "America's Next Top Model" contestant Eva Marcille, known as Eva Pigford on the show, joins "CBS Mornings" to discuss the new docuseries exploring the show's controversies. Marcille, the winner of season three in 2004, describes the shocking revelations she learned through watching the docuseries. In the series "USA to Z," "CBS Mornings" shows how World War II icon "Rosie the Riveter" is continuing to inspire women today. Elizabeth Cook spoke with women taking on a huge project using lessons from those who blazed a trail before them. Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg testified Wednesday in a civil case over social media addiction allegations that skyrocketing social media use shows how people value the sites and it's not a strategy to keep users addicted. Jo Ling Kent reports. Druski speaks to "CBS Mornings" about how he rose to global fame after starting his comedy skits on Instagram in 2017 and some of the controversy in his work, including at the NFL Honors earlier this month. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Unividuals Podcast Ep 2: Philosopher Tim Freke describes how spiritual awakenings that bring profound oneness, universal love, connection to a sublime intelligence, and deep joy are accessible to anyone—no philosophy required—and how his main mission is help people experience it. But do spiritual ideas matter? Not for the initial experience, but yes for deepening it. His worldview unites science and spirituality, offering fresh perspectives on identity, God, evolution, death, and what survives as an evolving soul. Introducing the aspiration of becoming a “unividual”: an individual waking up to unity, creatively engaged in life's unfolding! Watch The Soul To Soul Experience short film: https://youtu.be/h1upGcXbM1E  Information on events and my online community: https://timfreke.com/  Tim Freke: I am the author of 35 books, translated into 15 languages, including a Sunday Times bestseller and Daily Telegraph 'Book of the Year'. For some inexplicable reason I was included in ‘The 100 Most Spiritually Influential Living People' lists in Watkins Magazine for 2021 and 2022. I am exploring a groundbreaking evolutionary understanding of the nature of reality that unites science and spirituality, bringing deep meaning to our human lives.

The Board of Peace began with the grand ambition of reconstructing Gaza and securing a lasting end to one of the world's most intractable conflicts. But with Donald Trump as chairman for life, its ambitions have grown: it wants to become a wider international peacekeeping organisation. As members meet for the first time in Washington DC, will their lofty ambitions translate into action on the ground? Or is it all just a vanity project?This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestoryGuest: Gabrielle Weiniger, Israel correspondent, The Times.Host: Manveen Rana.Producer: Harry Stott, Olivia Case.We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.comRead more: Tony Blair to attend Trump's inaugural Board of Peace meetingFurther listening: Trump's Greenland play and the future of transatlantic relationsClips: OneIndia News / Youtube, AP / Youtube, CTV, BBC, Channel 4, ABC News.Photo: Getty Images.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Just after 8am this morning, patrol cars arrived at the Sandringham estate in Norfolk. Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office. What do we know? What happens next? And what does this mean for the palace? Our sister podcast, The Royals, brings you the latest.This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestoryGuests: Harry Yorke, deputy political editor, The Sunday TimesCharlotte Alt, news reporter, The TimesHost: Roya Nikkhah, royal editor, The Sunday TimesProducer: Robert WallaceWe want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.comFurther listening: The Royals with Roya and KateRead more: Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor arrested for misconduct in public officePhoto: Getty Images.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has been arrested and is being held in custody on suspicion of misconduct in public office after police were seen at the Sandringham estate on his 66th birthday. In an unprecedented move, the King issued a statement saying the “law must take its course”. As scrutiny intensifies over Andrew's decade as UK trade envoy and what the Epstein files appear to suggest about that period, Roya Nikkhah is joined by Harry Yorke and Charlotte Alt to talk about how this moment could affect the monarchy, and whether the institution has ever faced pressure on this scale.Guest: Harry Yorke, Deputy Political Editor, The Sunday Times.Charlotte Alt, News Reporter, The Times.Producer: Robert WallaceExecutive Producer: Priyanka DeladiaImage: Getty Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Hub & Spoken, Jason Foster, CEO & Founder of Cynozure, is joined by returning guest Pete Williams, former Director of Data at Penguin Random House, to discuss the findings of Cynozure's 2026 report, The Next Horizon: Data, AI and Impact.   Drawing on insights from senior data and analytics leaders, they explore a persistent challenge: while expectations of data teams have shifted towards impact, investment often remains focused on platforms and foundations.   Jason and Pete reflect on why demonstrating value is still difficult, what the report reveals about priorities, decision-making and data leadership, and the gap between having data and using it effectively. Read the full report to explore what Cynozure's 2026 Data & AI research reveals about turning capability into value.   Cynozure is a leading data, analytics and AI company that helps organisations to reach their data potential. It works with clients on data and AI strategy, data management, data architecture and engineering, analytics and AI, data culture and literacy, and data leadership. The company was named one of The Sunday Times' fastest-growing private companies in both 2022 and 2023 and recognised as The Best Place to Work in Data by DataIQ in 2023 and 2024. Cynozure is a certified B Corporation. 

I'm looking forward to diving into the crumbling and the haunted this week with Leon Craig.  We're discussing Leon Craig's THE DECADENCE. And you the listener picked Leon as one of the rising stars of literature that you wanted me to interview. Have you ever walked past an old abandoned house and wondered what kinds of lives were lived there? Have you ever dared to explore one? Perhaps you wanted to escape and hide in the house. Or perhaps you wanted to use it for something a little more nefarious. Leon Craig, whose previous collection of short stories, PARALLEL HELLS, was also published by Sceptre, is a graduate of the Birkbeck MFA Creative Writing course. Her work has been published by Hazlitt, the Sunday Times, the London Magazine and others and is forthcoming in Nulla magazine and Berlin Babel anthology.   Get exclusive subscriber benefits from the Rippling Pages.  https://patreon.com/RipplingPagesPod?utm_medi Check out the Rippling Pages Bookshop and buy all the books featured on the Rippling Pages: https://uk.bookshop.org/shop/ripplingpagespod Interested in hosting your own podcast? Follow this link and find out how: https://www.podbean.com/ripplingpages  Episode Chapters 1.30 - rising literary stars poll 3.30 - The crumbling haunted house 6.30 - the ensemble cast  7.25 - early hauntings.  10.10 - misunderstandings and humour  11.50 -embracing imperfect characters. 14.25 - secret passageways  16.05 - sexual elements to hauntings.  19.10 - colonial legacies and trespassing 22.55 - Rippling Pages Patreon 24.20 - on beauty   27.00 - getting what we want.  29.50 - desire and disgust  32.00 - The country housegenre 37.15 - Leon's next novel   Reference Points House of Leaves (2000, Mark Z. Danielewski). Saltburn (2023, dir. Emerald Fennell) Beowulf The Great Gatsby (1925, F.Scott Fitzgerald) White is for Witching(2009, Helen Oyeyemi) Brideshead Revisited (1945, Evelyn Waugh)

This week on The Write Place Podcast, I'm joined by bestselling psychological thriller author Lesley Kara, whose debut novel The Rumour became a Sunday Times bestseller and was later adapted for television.We talk about her latest novel, Troublemaker, a tense psychological thriller set in Tunbridge Wells, and explore how grief, vulnerability and doubt shape both her characters and her storytelling.Lesley shares:The real-life influences behind TroublemakerWhy short chapters matter in suspense fictionWhat it was really like seeing The Rumour adapted for TVThe business realities of commercial publishingWriting her debut at 55 and why it's never too lateHow social media became a creative outlet rather than a choreIt's a practical, honest conversation about craft, resilience and staying visible in a competitive market.About Lesley KaraLesley Kara is the Sunday Times bestselling author of multiple psychological thrillers including The Rumour, Who Did You Tell?, The Other Tenant and her latest novel Troublemaker.Her debut, The Rumour, was a breakout success and has since been adapted for television. Lesley lives in Tunbridge Wells, Kent, and began her publishing career in her mid-fifties after years of writing and perseverance.Topics CoveredWriting lean prose in psychological suspenseStructuring novels using three-act structureManaging pressure after a commercial breakthroughAdapting novels for screenBalancing creativity with the business of publishingBuilding community and reach through InstagramLate-start writing careersLinks

James Van Der Beek's death last week at just 48 shocked fans, reignited fears about a disease we still associate with old age. Cases of bowel cancer are rising in those under 50, even as rates fall among the elderly. To find out why, researchers are turning to a century of preserved samples.This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestoryGuest: Ben Spencer, science editor, The Sunday Times Professor Trevor Graham,  director, Centre for Evolution and CancerHolly Masters, cancer patient Host: Manveen RanaProducer: Julia Webster, Sophie McNultyWe want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.comRead more: Bowel cancer has doubled in under-50s: do the reasons lie in birth?Further listening: Why are more young people getting cancer?Photo: Getty.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Organized crime is often imagined as something violent, chaotic, and obvious. But today, it looks far more polished than that. It operates like a multinational business, spread across borders, built on trust networks, specialization, and efficiency rather than brute force. This episode looks at how modern scams, fraud, and money laundering actually work and why they're so hard to spot before serious damage is done. My guest is Geoff White, an investigative journalist who has spent decades covering organized crime, cybercrime, and financial fraud. His reporting has appeared on BBC News, Sky News, The Sunday Times, and other major outlets, and he is also the creator of The Lazarus Heist, the hit podcast and book series exploring North Korea's global hacking operations. His latest book, Rinsed, examines how technology has transformed the world of money laundering. We talk about how modern criminal networks are structured, why scams now rely on patience and psychology rather than speed, and how money laundering functions as a service industry that quietly supports fraud at scale. The conversation also explores why victims are sometimes unknowingly used to move stolen funds, how urgency is weaponized to override judgment, and why slowing down remains one of the most effective defenses people have. Show Notes: [01:08] Geoff shares his background and why the organized crime + technology overlap is where he's spent his career. [02:52] Why longer-form work (books, podcasts) is often the only way to explain complex crimes that don't fit into a quick news segment. [03:56] Old-school enforcement was violence; modern crime groups often can't use that when partners are anonymous and overseas. [04:23] The trust networks holding global crime together can be more fragile than people assume. [05:06] The strange "trust inside crime" dynamic especially in ransomware, where criminals must appear "reliable." [06:18] Competition today looks more like corporate rivalry than street violence, especially in ransomware affiliate ecosystems. [07:41] Do these groups evolve from traditional cartels or arise from new tech-native criminals? Geoff says it depends on the region. [09:58] The skill split of elite coders builds ransomware, while newer recruits use social engineering to get initial access. [11:34] Money laundering adapts fast with crypto, game currencies, NFTs while the core "service business" model stays the same. [12:46] The "cost" of laundering: fees can be extreme for newcomers, and lower for experienced players with connections. [13:53] A disturbing case where victims are daisy-chained to launder money and reinforce the romance-scam illusion. [15:12] Why money mules are treated as disposable and how many don't realize the seriousness until law enforcement shows up. [16:48] The tactic of letting victims withdraw a little money to make a platform feel legitimate and why it works so well. [18:09] Geoff connects today's tactics to classic con mechanics ("putting the mark on the send") and the psychology behind it. [19:22] Geoff describes seeing an "escalator scam" firsthand: small payouts early, then pressure to pay to "unlock" higher earnings. [21:51] The scary shift is that scams now look polished and patient, stretching across multiple channels and weeks (or longer). [23:12] The more we "self-custody" money and identity online, the more security responsibility shifts onto individuals. [24:32] A major crypto seizure case raises a messy question when seized assets grow in value, who gets the upside? [28:46] Geoff's practical defense: slow down on anything money-related, create space, and don't let urgency steer decisions. [31:17] Why today's scammers play the long game of months of relationship-building can lead to life-changing losses. [34:29] Repeat victimization: recovery scams and fake "investigators" often target people right after they've been hit. [36:08] "Traceable" doesn't mean "recoverable," why freezing and returning stolen crypto is legally and logistically hard. [38:44] UK reimbursement changes shift liability between sending and receiving banks but there are tradeoffs and open questions. [41:28] Geoff reacts to US payment quirks (card taken away, tip written in pen) and why it still surprises outsiders. [45:11] Closing advice is to learn from other people's stories and run "what would I do?" scenarios before a crisis hits. Thanks for joining us on Easy Prey. Be sure to subscribe to our podcast on iTunes and leave a nice review.  Links and Resources: Podcast Web Page Facebook Page whatismyipaddress.com Easy Prey on Instagram Easy Prey on Twitter Easy Prey on LinkedIn Easy Prey on YouTube Easy Prey on Pinterest Geoff White Geoff White - LinkedIn Geoff White - Instagram Rinsed: From Cartels to Crypto: How the Tech Industry Washes Money for the World's Deadliest Crooks The Lazarus Heist Crime Dot Com: From Viruses to Vote Rigging, How Hacking Went Global

One of the most anticipated West End productions of 2026 has finally arrived, as Dracula starring Cynthia Erivo opened last night at the Noël Coward Theatre in London.The production, which has already been seen in Australia, has been adapted and directed by Kip Williams and comes on the heels of his previous staging of The Picture of Dorian Gray starring Sarah Snook.The production has divided critics, with some outlets giving 2* critiques while others delivered 4* praise. Check out a selection of the critical responses in this review roundup...•00:00 | introduction02:09 | The Stage07:52 | The Sunday Times 13:32 | WhatsOnStage18:18 | The Guardian23:48 | TimeOut London28:58 | The Standard33:27 | The IndependentAbout Mickey-Jo:As one of the leading voices in theatre criticism on a social platform, Mickey-Jo is pioneering a new medium for a dwindling field. His YouTube channel: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠MickeyJoTheatre⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ is the largest worldwide in terms of dedicated theatre criticism, where he also share features, news and interviews as well as lifestyle content for over 95,000 subscribers. With a viewership that is largely split between the US and the UK he has been fortunate enough to be able to work with PR, Marketing, and Social Media representatives for shows in New York, London, Edinburgh, Hamburg, Toronto, Sao Pãolo, and Paris. His reviews and features have also been published by WhatsOnStage, for whom he was a panelist to help curate nominees for their 2023 and 2024 Awards as well as BroadwayWorldUK, Musicals Magazine and LondonTheatre.co.uk. Instagram/TikTok/X: @MickeyJoTheatre Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Labour Together scandal is the latest storm threatening to capsize the government - and Gabriel has been right at the heart. For the first time, he describes what happened when a Labour think tank set private investigators on a journalist. Their secret report falsely accused Gabriel of acting as a Russian agitator and "grotesquely subverted" his faith in an attack on his and his colleagues' reporting in The Sunday Times.This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestoryHosts: Patrick Maguire, chief political commentator, The TimesGabriel Pogrund, Whitehall editor, The Sunday TimesProducer: Euan Dawtrey.Executive Producer: Dan Box.We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.comFurther listening: ‘This is dark s***': inside the political smear campaign to discredit journalistsPhoto: Getty Images.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Labour Together, the think tank which helped Sir Keir Starmer become prime minister, has been accused of paying a PR firm to investigate Sunday Times journalists. The subsequent report contained personal information and false claims about Whitehall editor Gabriel Pogrund's faith and family background, including the incorrect suggestion he was part of a Russian conspiracy to bring down Starmer. So why did a political organisation pay for a smear campaign against journalists? This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestoryGuests: Emanuele Midolo, investigations reporter, The Sunday Times. Ben Clatworthy, Whitehall editor, The Times. Host: Manveen Rana. Producers: Julia Webster, Micaela Arneson. We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.comRead more: Labour activists paid for smear campaign against journalistsClips: BBC, Times Radio, Channel 4 News, ITV News, Sky News, GB News. This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Labour Together scandal is the latest storm threatening to capsize the government - and Gabriel has been right at the heart. For the first time, he describes what happened when a Labour think tank set private investigators on a journalist. Their secret report falsely accused Gabriel of acting as a Russian agitator and "grotesquely subverted" his faith in an attack on his and his colleagues' reporting in The Sunday Times.Hosts:Patrick Maguire, chief political commentator, The TimesGabriel Pogrund, Whitehall editor, The Sunday TimesProducer: Euan DawtreyExecutive producer: Dan BoxEmail us: thestateofit@thetimes.co.ukThis podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if staying on top of home life didn't require doing more, but doing a few small things consistently? In this Motherkind Moment, Zoeis joined by Ingrid Jansen, co-founder of The Declutter Hub, to talk about daily resets and non-negotiables – a simple, realistic way to stop life at home from constantly tipping into overwhelm. Ingrid shares why having a handful of everyday tasks that always get done – like clearing the sink, loading the dishwasher, or running one load of laundry – can completely change how your home feels. Not because everything is perfect, but because you're no longer starting each day already behind. They talk about how short, regular resets (just 10–15 minutes, once or twice a day) can support tired mums, especially in busy seasons where decision fatigue is high, and energy is low. This isn't about rigid routines or unrealistic standards – it's about doing small things that make life feel calmer for your future self. The conversation also explores toys, clutter, and the mental load of “stuff” – from organising play spaces in age-appropriate ways, to decluttering gently over time, to managing the constant influx of gifts. Ingrid shares why less really can be more for both children and parents, and how involving kids (and partners) builds shared responsibility rather than burnout. This is a compassionate, practical conversation for any mother who feels overwhelmed by the never-ending to-do list – and wants things to feel just a little lighter. In this Moment, they explore: Daily resets and non-negotiables that reduce overwhelm Why small, consistent habits help your future self Toys, clutter, and creating calmer spaces at home If you've ever thought, “I just want things to feel more manageable,” this Moment is for you. If you liked this moment, listen to the full episode: Toys Everywhere? They're making you Stressed - Here's How To Finally Tackle The Kid's Clutter with Decluttering Expert Ingrid Jansen Remember to subscribe to Motherkind — it helps more mothers find the show and keeps our community growing. Feeling like you're carrying it all? Download your FREE Mental Load Cheat Sheet and learn how to start feeling lighter, even if nothing in your life changes. Connect with Zoe: Follow Zoe on Instagram  Get Zoe's Sunday Times bestselling book, 'Motherkind: A New Way to Thrive in a World of Endless Expectations' This Motherkind episode is sponsored by: Headline sponsor Wild Nutrition, the brand raising the bar for women's supplements. Want to feel the Food-Grown difference yourself? Get 50% off for three months at wildnutrition.com/motherkind. Ts and Cs apply. For a £100 sponsored job credit, visit Indeed.com/ Motherkind Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Susan Dabbar is the founder and editor-in-chief of Provoked by Susan – a bold, unapologetic digital magazine for women 50+, challenging and redefining how older women are seen, heard and represented. Susan's career has been shaped by fearless pivots. She began as a naval architect designing nuclear submarines, went on to shape brand strategy at companies including Disney and Nestlé, played professional poker, worked as an international education consultant – and then, in her 60s, launched a media platform because she couldn't find content that truly respected women's intelligence and lived experience. We talk about: -Why Susan launched Provoked after retiring – and why she wasn't finished yet The cultural gap in media for women over 50 (and why "Good Housekeeping" still exists) -Designing nuclear submarines – and knowing when it's time to walk away -What poker taught Susan about patience, power and underestimation -The myth of "passion" and why it can hold women back -How women learn to stop performing and start making space for themselves -The rise of the "I don't give a f***" woman – and why it matters -Female friendship as an underestimated source of power -The coming wealth transfer – and what it could mean when money lands in women's hands -Why AI risks reinforcing ageism and sexism if women don't shape it -Building something meaningful in your 60s – and aiming high without apology And more. f you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it and leave us a 5* review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you're listening.   Order Rachel's book, Magnificent Midlife: Transform Your Middle Years, Menopause And Beyond, recommended in The New York Times as one of seven top books about menopause at magnificentmidlife.com/book   The paperback can also be purchased on Amazon or other online retailers: UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ US & Canada: https://www.amazon.com/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ Australia: https://www.amazon.com.au/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/   You can listen to all the other episodes and get the show notes at magnificentmidlife.com/podcast.   Podcast recommended by the Sunday Times.   FeedSpot #5 in 40 Best Midlife Podcasts  FeedSpot #7 in 100 Best Midlife Women Podcasts FeedSpot #2 in 10 Best UK Life Hacks Podcasts   You'll find lots of strategies, support and resources to help make your midlife magnificent at magnificentmidlife.com.   Check out Rachel's online Revitalize Experience, a 6-week intensive small group mentoring experience or 1-1 Midlife Mentoring.

Fi is on half term this week but fear not... school is still in session for Jane, who is joined by Robbie Millen, literary editor of The Times and The Sunday Times. Robbie graces us with his withering verdict on the new Wuthering Heights adaptation, baths in bedrooms and eavesdropping Alexas. Our next book club pick is 'A Town Like Alice' by Nevil Shute. Our most asked about book is called 'The Later Years' by Peter Thornton. You can listen to our 'I'm in the cupboard on Christmas' playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1awQioX5y4fxhTAK8ZPhwQ If you want to contact the show to ask a question and get involved in the conversation then please email us: janeandfi@times.radio Follow us on Instagram! @janeandfi Podcast Producers: Hannah Quinn and Eve Salusbury Executive Producer: Rosie Cutler Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Times' Money desk has been investigating the UK's student debt system – and has discovered some bombshells. After being promised a loan that would be like paying a ‘phone bill every month', graduates are weighed down by tens of thousands of pounds in ever-increasing debt. So how did we get here? And is there a plan to fix it?This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestoryGuest: Mary Downer, Money reporter, The Times.Host: Luke Jones.Producer: Sophie McNulty.We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.comRead more: Plan 2 student loan interest is unfair, says Lucy PowellFurther listening: The Budget unpackedClips: BBC, Parliament Live, ITN, Channel 4 News, LBC.Episode artwork: Times Media.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

AI researcher Zoe Hitzig quit her job at OpenAI this week over “deep reservations” about the company's strategy, including their decision to pilot running ads on ChatGPT. In a rare interview, she gives her reasons for leaving the industry - a world with access to "an unprecedented archive of human candour". Meanwhile, another AI researcher, this time at Anthropic, also quit with a the stark warning that "the world is in peril". They just the latest in a series of high profile resignations. So what's going on - and what are the big fears for a world increasingly dominated by AI?This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestoryGuests: Zoe Hitzig, former AI researcher at OpenAI.Mark Sellman,Technology Correspondent for the Times.Host: Manveen Rana. Producer: Dave Creasey.We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.comRead more: ‘The world is in peril': AI researchers quit with public warningsPhoto: Getty Images.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sunday NY Times Opinion

Sunday NY Times Arts & Leisure section

Danny Finkelstein's mother survived Bergen-Belsen. When far-right activist Nick Fuentes began spreading antisemitic, pro-Hitler ideas, our writer challenged him. He wasn't ready for the onslaught that ensued.This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestoryReady by: Danny Finkelstein, Times columnist, author and Conservative peer.Producer: Dave Creasey.We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.comRead more: Daniel Finkelstein: How the world's antisemites turned on meClips: TalkTV, CBS.Photo: Tom Jackson for The Times Magazine.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

New York Times bestselling author, BA Paris, discusses her chilling new release, WHEN I KILL YOU. Elle believes she knows who has kidnapped and murdered a young woman, and she'll go to any lengths to make sure he is held accountable. Years later, the repercussions of those dark choices are coming back to haunt her…and they may just kill her. “This satisfyingly creepy novel is a solid addition to Paris's collection of nail-biters, including Behind Closed Doors and The Guest.”―Library Journal Listen in as we discuss the incredible real life experience that inspired this story, the dangers facing civilians who try to become armchair detectives, and what part of herself Bernadette likes to insert into her books. https://www.mariesutro.com/twisted-passages-podcast https://www.baparis.com ABOUT THE AUTHOR: B.A. Paris is the New York Times and Sunday Times bestselling author of eight novels including the word-of-mouth hit, Behind Closed Doors, and her latest psychological thriller, When I Kill You. Over nine million editions of her work have been sold worldwide and her books have been translated into 41 languages. Her novel, The Breakdown, has been adapted for film under the title Blackwater Lane. Before becoming an author, B.A. Paris, who spent most of her adult life living in France, worked in finance as a trader before retraining as an English teacher. Today, she writes from her cottage in Hampshire, England.

Caroline Wheeler of The Sunday Times assesses the latest developments at Westminster.After a week in which the Prime Minister had to fight for his political survival, Caroline speaks to Labour grandee, Alan Johnson, a Cabinet minister in both the Blair and Brown governments, and Peter Hyman, a former strategist for Tony Blair when he was in Number Ten.In the wake of the scandal around Peter Mandelson, and amid concerns about the slow progress of the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill, a new cross-party group is calling for 'wholesale' reform of the House of Lords. One of those involved is Carmen Smith of Plaid Cymru, the youngest member of the House of Lords. Lord Young of Acton, a Conservative peer and founder of the Free Speech Union, is concerned that rule changes on stripping peerages could be used to suppress speech.Ahead of the Government's Schools White Paper, which is likely to include controversial reforms to special educational needs provision, Caroline speaks to Jo Hutchinson of the Education Policy Institute about how the system might be changed.And, to discuss what it's like inside Number Ten at moments of political crisis, Caroline brings together Guto Harri, former Director of Communications to Boris Johnson, and Luke Sullivan, former political director for Sir Keir Starmer.

It's almost six weeks since America launched military strikes against Venezuela and captured its President over claims the country was flooding the US with drugs and migrants. But was this ever actually the intention, or is Trump more interested in syphoning off the country's oil? Why is the old regime still in power – and what is life like for locals?This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestoryGuest:  Stephen Gibbs, contributor, Latin America and the Caribbean, The Times and The Sunday Times.Host: Manveen Rana. Producers: Olivia Case and Harry Stott.We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.comRead more: Ally of Venezuela's opposition leader ‘kidnapped' hours after being freedFurther listening: Prince William walks a tightrope in Saudi ArabiaClips: The White House / X, BBC, NBC, CNBC, CBS / 60 Minutes, Sky News Australia.Photo: Getty Images.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Default parenting doesn't start with a conversation – it creeps in quietly, until one day you realise you're carrying the mental load, the guilt and the responsibility almost entirely alone. In this powerful Motherkind moment, Zoe is joined by Lou Beckett, author of The Default Parent, to name something so many mothers feel but rarely have language for. Together, they unpack the emotional, physical and invisible weight of being the default parent – the one who carries the responsibility, the mental load, and the constant background hum of guilt. Lou shares the moments that pushed her to write the book, the research that confirmed it's not “just you”, and why so many women feel lost in motherhood even when they're doing an incredible job. This is an honest, funny, rage-inducing and deeply validating conversation for anyone who's ever felt unseen in the day-to-day reality of parenting – and especially for those who are carrying more than their fair share. In this conversation, you'll learn: Why becoming the “default parent” often happens quietly – and why it's so hard to undo once it's set The invisible labour of motherhood, and why it's exhausting even when you “have support” How guilt, comparison and unrealistic expectations keep mothers stuck – and how to start letting them go If you've ever thought, “Why does this feel so hard when everyone else seems to cope?” – this conversation is for you. Remember to subscribe to Motherkind — it helps more mothers find the show and keeps our community growing. Feeling like you're carrying it all? Download your FREE Mental Load Cheat Sheet and learn how to start feeling lighter, even if nothing in your life changes. If you liked this episode, listen to this next: Why the Mental Load Causes So Much Tension and how to Communicate Your Way Out Of It Connect with Zoe: Follow Zoe on Instagram  Get Zoe's Sunday Times bestselling book, 'Motherkind: A New Way to Thrive in a World of Endless Expectations' This Motherkind episode is sponsored by: Headline sponsor Wild Nutrition, the brand raising the bar for women's supplements. Want to feel the Food-Grown difference yourself? Get 50% off for three months at wildnutrition.com/motherkind. Ts and Cs apply. Usbourne Books For a £100 sponsored job credit, visit Indeed.com/ Motherkind Sonic Rooms from Pop That Mumma is a guided audio album designed to help mums find moments of calm in everyday life – use code MOTHERKIND for 30% off. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It's been almost a fortnight since the release of the Epstein files, and since then we've learned a lot about the disgraced financier's connections to the rich and powerful. But what more have we learned about Jeffrey Epstein himself? Was he a foreign spy? And what do the files tell us about how the world is really run? This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestoryGuest: Josie Ensor, chief US reporter, The Times. Host: Manveen Rana. Producers: Micaela Arneson, Olivia Case. We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.comRead more: Epstein's victims: my six-year search for the truthFurther listening: Mandelson, Epstein and the fight for survival at No 10Clips: Sky, AP, TalkTV, ABC News Australia, ITV, LBC, New York Post, CSPAN, House Oversight Committee.Photo: Getty Images.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Often in the history of science, myths overrun scientific findings and take hold with such force that they are difficult or nearly impossible to dislodge from public understanding. Perhaps no example of this phenomenon is more pronounced than that of the societal collapse of Easter Island, also known as Rapa Nui. With us to unravel the myth from the science is Mike Pitts. Mike is a writer and broadcaster (a frequent voice on BBC radio), archaeologist (directing excavations at Stonehenge), and one-time museum curator. He has written for The Times, Telegraph, Sunday Times, Observer, and Guardian, and many magazines including New Scientist, Archaeology, and BBC History. He edited British Archaeology magazine for 20 years and has written books on topics ranging from the discovery of Richard III's grave to How to Build Stonehenge. His original research has been published in peer-reviewed journals such as Nature, World Archaeology, and Antiquity. He is a Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries.

In this special episode of Offair Air with Durex, Gbemi and Toolz are joined by the incredible Chidera aka Slumflower, a Sunday Times best-selling author, as they dive into the art of speaking your mind and owning your desires in relationships. With unfiltered honesty, they discuss how to confidently express your needs, especially when it comes to intimacy, and why it's so important for both men and women to #SayItWithYourChestSlumflower takes us through her journey as a dominatrix, sharing valuable insights on power dynamics, and how she navigates dominance and submission in a healthy and consensual way. Plus, get the inside scoop on her experiences in relationships and how to communicate what turns you on without fear, shame, or hesitation.In partnership with Durex, this episode explores mutual pleasure, sexual confidence, and how both partners can truly understand each other's needs in and out of the bedroom.00:00 - Introduction: What Does It Mean to 'Say It With Your Chest'?03:30 - Meet Slumflower: From Best-Selling Author to Dominatrix07:00 - The Importance of Confidence in Communication12:20 - Navigating Power Dynamics in Relationships16:50 - Saying What You Want in Bed: How to Communicate Your Needs22:00 - The Psychology of Men's Submissive Tendencies28:15 - Confidence, Consent, and Comfort: The Key to Great Sex33:00 - Breaking Down Cultural Barriers: Owning Your Pleasure in Nigerian Society39:30 - Sexual Exploration: How to 'Train' Your Partner (In a Fun Way)44:00 - The Role of Praise: Why Men Love to Be Called 'Good Boy'49:20 - Slumflower's Take on Dominance, Submissiveness, and Consent54:00 - A Conversation on Mutual Pleasure: Durex's Role in Sexual Confidence58:30 - Closing Thoughts: Speak Up, Own Your Desires, and Say It With Your Chest

The Office for National Statistics has said that by 2029 it expects more deaths than births in Britain. Simultaneously migration could go into reverse soon, with more people leaving our shores than arriving. But how will a shrinking - and ageing - population affect our politics, our economy and our lives?This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestoryGuest: Tom Calver, Data Editor, The Times and The Sunday TimesHost: Manveen Rana.Producer: Olivia Case.We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.comRead more: Could Britain's population actually start shrinking soon?Further listening: Britain is in a cancer crisis. Will a new strategy fix it?Clips: Sky, ITN, BBC.Photo: Getty Images.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Olympians dare to distance themselves from Trump, Bad Bunny turns the Super Bowl halftime show into a love-soaked middle finger, and Kid Rock delivers what may be the worst miming incident in broadcast history.Then it gets darker. Survivors of Jeffrey Epstein's trafficking network run a Super Bowl PSA demanding the truth while the US government, British media and political class continue to redact, deflect and downplay. Why are names still hidden? Why is the press treating this like an inconvenience rather than the biggest abuse-and-blackmail scandal in modern history? And why does Peter Mandelson get a soft-focus Sunday Times makeover like he's the victim here?Jemma and Marina dig into the Epstein files, the media blackout, the aristocratic audacity of people bragging about their proximity to a convicted sex trafficker, and the jaw-dropping clips you have to hear to believe. Plus: Reform, Farage, Russia, Israel, the monarchy, Melania's film getting absolutely savaged and a pudding that might be the only sane thing left.It's rage, receipts and gallows humour — because apparently that's where we are now.Thank you for sharing and please do follow us @MarinaPurkiss @jemmaforte @TheTrawlPodcastPatreonhttps://patreon.com/TheTrawlPodcastYoutubehttps://www.youtube.com/@TheTrawlTwitterhttps://twitter.com/TheTrawlPodcastIf you've even mildly enjoyed The Trawl, you'll love the unfiltered, no-holds-barred extras from Jemma & Marina over on Patreon, including:• Exclusive episodes of The Trawl Goss – where Jemma and Marina spill backstage gossip, dive into their personal lives, and often forget the mic is on• Early access to The Trawl Meets…• Glorious ad-free episodesPlus, there's a bell-free community of over 3,300 legends sparking brilliant chat.And it's your way to support the pod which the ladies pour their hearts, souls (and occasional anxiety) into. All for your listening pleasure and reassurance that through this geopolitical s**tstorm… you're not alone.Come join the fun:https://www.patreon.com/TheTrawlPodcast?utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's been a week of chaos in Westminster, as Prime Minister Keir Starmer fights for survival. The crisis he faces reached fever pitch on Sunday with the resignation of his chief of staff, Morgan McSweeney, followed swiftly the next morning by the departure of Tim Allan, his director of communications. On Monday afternoon, the pressure escalated further when Anas Sarwar, Labour leader in Scotland, became the most senior figure yet to publicly call for Starmer's resignation. So can his government survive the next week ahead?This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestoryGuest: Aubrey Allegretti, chief political correspondent, The Times.Host: Manveen Rana.Producer: Harry Stott, Sophie McNulty.We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.comRead more: With Morgan McSweeney forced out, PM may not be far behindFurther listening: Mandelson, Epstein and the fight for survival at No 10Clips: Times Radio, BBC, The Telegraph, Sky News, ITV News, GB NewsPhoto: Getty Images, The Times, Dinesh MehtaThis podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After a whirlwind week in Westminster, we've decided to bring you an extra dose of Whitehall gossip. Check out this week's episode from our sister podcast: The State of It.The prime minister thought it was all over for him this weekend, but a scrambled rearguard action has left him looking stronger than he has for some time. But to survive, Keir Starmer may now have no choice but to move leftwards. And there's much worse to come when the Mandelson files are released. Meanwhile, has Wes Streeting missed his moment to challenge the prime minister?This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestoryHosts: Steven Swinford, political editor, The TimesPatrick Maguire, chief political commentator, The TimesGabriel Pogrund, Whitehall editor, The Sunday TimesProducer: Euan Dawtrey.Executive Producer: Molly Guiness.We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.comFurther listening: The State of ItClips: Sky News.Photo: Getty Images.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this Motherkind Moment, Zoe Blaskey is joined by broadcaster and journalist Emma Barnett for a deeply honest conversation about early motherhood, identity, and what really happens to us when we become mothers. Emma shares the reframe that changed everything for her: moving from the idea of maternity leave to maternity service. A season where you are always on call, constantly adapting, sacrificing parts of yourself, and often expected to carry on without much language for how profound that experience really is. Together, Zoe and Emma talk about those early months – the walking, the exhaustion, the heatwaves, the survival mode – and the surprising way creativity can sometimes re-emerge in the middle of it all. Not because motherhood is easy, or beautiful, or calm – but because so much else has been stripped back. They explore the tension so many mothers feel: how maternity can be deeply depleting and, at the same time, quietly expansive. How there can be grief for who you were, uncertainty about who you're becoming, and moments of clarity that feel almost shocking when you're in the trenches. This is also a conversation about what we're missing culturally – the lack of space, language and stories for matrescence. Not parenting advice. Not baby manuals. But an honest reflection on the inner shift of becoming a mother. Because motherhood doesn't just add something to your life. It changes you. In this Moment, they explore: Reframing maternity leave as maternity service Creativity, identity and thinking again in early motherhood The loss, rebirth and in-between space of matrescence If you've ever felt changed by motherhood in ways you couldn't quite explain, this Moment is for you. If you liked this moment, listen to the full episode: Maternity Service, Not Leave: A New Perspective with Emma Barnett Remember to subscribe to Motherkind — it helps more mothers find the show and keeps our community growing. Ready to feel like yourself again? Download your FREE Matrescence Cheat Sheet Connect with Zoe: Follow Zoe on Instagram  Get Zoe's Sunday Times bestselling book, 'Motherkind: A New Way to Thrive in a World of Endless Expectations' This Motherkind episode is sponsored by: Headline sponsor Wild Nutrition, the brand raising the bar for women's supplements. Want to feel the Food-Grown difference yourself? Get 50% off for three months at wildnutrition.com/motherkind. Ts and Cs apply. For a £100 sponsored job credit, visit Indeed.com/ Motherkind Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Xi Jinping has just carried out the most significant purge of China's military in decades. Top general Zhang Youxia, alongside other leading figures and formerly close allies, have been arrested, accused of treason and corruption. Is this a sign of Xi's strength and his iron grip on power and his party? Or is it a sign of weakness, paranoia and growing internal dissent? Here, Cindy Yu – columnist and contributing editor at The Times and The Sunday Times – talks to spiked's Fraser Myers about what Xi might be thinking. Plus, they discuss the threat to Taiwan, the trade war with Trump, and how Britain should navigate China's rise.  Read spiked: https://www.spiked-online.com/     Support spiked: https://www.spiked-online.com/support/  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices