Podcast appearances and mentions of Will Grant

In Venezuela, rescue teams are searching through collapsed buildings for survivors after last week's devastating earthquakes, with international help now reaching some of the worst-hit areas. The BBC hears from people who have been left with nothing, as thousands sleep outdoors or in makeshift shelters. Also: Israel's recognition of the mass killing of Armenians by the Ottoman Empire as genocide prompts a furious reaction from Turkey. Gazans try to rebuild lives and livelihoods, despite much of the Palestinian territory still lying in ruins. Uganda's biggest independent media group is ordered to close, raising fears over press freedom. Eleven people die in a plane crash in eastern France. A journalist investigates the Nigerian cybercrime network behind a romance scam that targeted his mother. Canada reaches the last 16 of the men's football World Cup after a dramatic win against South Africa. The Large Hadron Collider - the world's most powerful particle accelerator - shuts down for a four-year upgrade. And a vigilante nicknamed Mexico's Batman goes viral after catching alleged motorcycle thieves.The Global News Podcast brings you the breaking news you need to hear, as it happens. Listen for the latest headlines and current affairs from around the world. Politics, economics, climate, business, technology, health – we cover it all with expert analysis and insight. Get the news that matters, delivered twice a day on weekdays and daily at weekends, plus special bonus episodes reacting to urgent breaking stories. Follow or subscribe now and never miss a moment. Get in touch: globalpodcast@bbc.co.ukPhoto: BBC correspondent Will Grant at a baseball stadium in Venezuela where displaced families have come to shelter after the earthquakes Credit: BBC

Pack the car! Route 66 turns 100 this year, and the Mother Road is still one weird and wild ride. We're hitting the highway from the California border to the New Mexico high desert, where we'll encounter the feral donkeys who rule the streets of a gold rush boomtown, visit an abandoned zoo with a body count, and climb a 2,000-year-old pueblo with a hidden staircase that outsmarted the Spanish conquistadors. Along the way, journalist and adventurer Will Grant introduces us to the people who populate this legendary road: a Hualapai elder who remembers the highway's golden age, the determined shopkeeper who fought to preserve her town's iconic neon glow, and a young Diné man who grew up at his family's trading post. Together, they share what the centenarian route means to the communities that depend on it—and tap into the powerful hold it still has on the nation's imagination. Whether you long for an epic Western roadtrip or you're just here for the vintage kitsch, this episode will have you reaching for the keys. Where Route 66 takes us: Oatman, Arizona: Stop to cuddle the adorable baby burrows in this old mining town. Kingman, Arizona: Home to the Arizona Route 66 Museum, where Model T's roll in from Chicago and tourists arrive from around the globe. Peach Springs, Arizona: The heart of the Hualapai Nation, where the tribal market is the unofficial town square. Williams, Arizona: Vintage neon signs dot one of the most authentic main streets on the route. Two Guns, Arizona: An abandoned zoo where the murderous owner was mauled by his own mountain lions. Winslow, Arizona: The sandstone canyon where Easy Rider and The Grapes of Wrath were filmed, plus a classic Diné trading post. Acoma Pueblo, New Mexico: Dubbed Sky City, this mesa-top village is the oldest continuously inhabited community in the U.S. Guest: Will Grant Born and raised in Colorado, Will Grant brings a cowboy-philosopher's eye to the landscapes, characters, and histories that make the West unlike anywhere else on earth. After college, he worked as a cowboy and a horse trainer in Colorado, Wyoming, and Texas, where he apprenticed under the legendary horseman Jack Brainard. In 2008, he pivoted to a career in journalism, but he continues to seek out ways to combine horses and storytelling. His 2023 book, The Last Ride of the Pony Express, recounts his 2,000-mile journey along the famed mail route with his horses Chicken Fry and Badger. Other adventures include a 600-mile horse race across Mongolia, an expedition to find gold in Arizona, and two trips to Kyrgyzstan to play kok boru, the most dangerous horseback game on the planet.  For Via, Will traded his saddle for a steering wheel to investigate some of the most storied—and strangest—stretches of Route 66. His writing has also appeared in Outside magazine, Bloomberg Businessweek, the Wall Street Journal, and regional publications throughout the West. Will currently lives in Santa Fe, New Mexico, with his partner, Claire Antoszewski, and two dogs, three chickens, and five horses. Via Podcast is a production of AAA Mountain West Group.

Tommy and Ben are back to discuss a week that includes collapsed ceasefire(s), the World Cup, and Jared and Ivanka pretending to be conquistadors.The so-called ceasefires between Israel and Lebanon and the US and Iran continue to unravel, while Trump insists he has Iran and Israel under his control and twists reality (and the English language) to fit his narrative. Then, Ivanka Trump claims to have "discovered" a pristine, protected ecological island off the coast of Albania, sparking major protests and a government corruption investigation. The FIFA World Cup kicks off this week across three countries and 16 cities, and the guys dig into the Trump administration's decision to use the biggest sporting event on earth as an opportunity to deny visas to fans, journalists, and even Africa's top referee. Xi Jinping pays his first visit to North Korea in seven years amidst reports about Kim Jong Un's surprising economic turnaround. Former Trump National Security advisor John Bolton pleads guilty to mishandling classified information, while a CIA official is caught with 303 gold bars and a 15-year-old Nigerian congressional candidate is exposed for faking his age on the campaign trail. Then Tommy speaks with the BBC's Mexico, Central America, and Cuba Correspondent, Will Grant, about life on the ground in Cuba, what US intervention on the island could look like, and the vibes in Mexico City ahead of the World Cup. Will's book is Populista: The Rise of Latin America's 21st Century Strongman.Buy Ben's book All We Say: The Battle for American Identity: A History in 15 Speeches  and subscribe to his Substack here.For a closed-captioned version of this episode, click here. For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast, episode title, and episode date

Kate Adie introduces stories on Cuba's economic crisis as it feels the strain of the US fuel blockade, Lebanon's shattered ceasefire, the fevered debate over Australia's social media ban, plus dispatches from Greece and Iceland.Cuba is struggling to cope with the the US government's near-total fuel blockade and the Trump administration increased the pressure on the ruling Communist Party when it issued an indictment against Raul Castro this week. Will Grant has been gauging the mood in Havana.In southern Lebanon, Israel has stepped up its offensive on Hezbollah with daily strikes, which have killed dozens of civilians. This follows drone attacks launched by the Iran-backed group on communities in northern Israel. John Sudworth reports on the ongoing conflict.Six months on from Australia's introduction of a social media ban for under 16s, governments around the world are eagerly looking on as they consider rolling out similar policies… but is it working? Katy Watson has been following the debate in Sydney.In Greece, indignation over new labour laws introduced last October continue to simmer as the summer heat takes hold. The new law, which permits 13-hour working days was met with fierce opposition and nationwide strikes. Heidi Fuller Love heard some full-throated views on the subject in a local tavernaAnd finally, when a correspondent is on deployment, they often have to navigate sudden changes of plan. Sandra Kanthal found herself diverted by bad weather from an assignment reporting on Iceland's arctic defences… and founded herself in an unusual museum.Series Producer: Serena Tarling Production Coordinators: Sophie Hill & Katie Morrison Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith

Beat Migs! We chat with the head of electrification for Washington State Ferries so tune in to learn something new. We're also joined by Will Grant, Lifetime Achievement Award for Pizza!

The WHO has upgraded the risk from the current Ebola outbreak to "very high" in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and says regionally the risk is high -- though it remains low in the rest of the world. Newshour hears from Professor Sir Andrew Pollard, director of the Oxford Vaccine Group which helped develop the Astra Zeneca Covid vaccine. Also in the programme: Will Grant reports from Havana on Cuba under pressure; and how barnacles affect stationary ships in the Strait of Hormuz.(Picture: Red Cross workers walk in a formation as they disinfect Rwampara general hospital before handling the body of a person who died of Ebola, as aid agencies intensify efforts to contain a new Ebola outbreak. Credit: Reuters)

US Secretary of State Marco Rubia has said Cuba poses a "national security threat" to the US and the likelihood of a peaceful agreement is "not high". His comments come days after the US announced criminal charges against Cuba's former president Raul Castro, the brother of Fidel Castro. The charges relate to his alleged role in the shooting down of two planes in 1996, which killed four people, including three Americans. The Cuban government say the move is “a political manoeuvre, devoid of any legal foundation.”The indictment has drawn comparisons to the capture of Venezuelan president Nicolas Maduro, and whether the US has set the stage for military intervention.Asma speaks to Cecilia Barria, a journalist based in Miami for BBC Mundo, and Will Grant, the BBC's Mexico, Central America and Cuba correspondent, about the story behind the charges — and why three decades on, the indictment is only happening now.Producers: Sam Chantarasak and Aron Keller Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China CollinsPhoto: Raul Castro attend the International Labor Day commemoration in Havana, Cuba, 01 May 2026. Ernesto Mastrascusa/EPA/Shutterstock

The United States is finally allowing Russian oil to be delivered to Cuba after months of what has basically been an energy blockade imposed by the U.S. The blockade has caused nationwide blackouts, severe fuel shortages, and shutdowns of schools and nonessential businesses. The BBC's Will Grant joins us for more. Then, we head to Boston, where one of the oldest trade schools in the country is teaching students skills like piano-tuning, locksmithing, and violin-making.

The United States is finally allowing Russian oil to be delivered to Cuba after months of what has basically been an energy blockade imposed by the U.S. The blockade has caused nationwide blackouts, severe fuel shortages, and shutdowns of schools and nonessential businesses. The BBC's Will Grant joins us for more. Then, we head to Boston, where one of the oldest trade schools in the country is teaching students skills like piano-tuning, locksmithing, and violin-making.

While still engaged in a war with Iran, Donald Trump's attention is also on Havana. The US president suggested last week that he expects to soon have the “honour” of “taking Cuba, in some form”. He added “Whether I free it, take it—I think I can do anything I want with it.” The Trump administration has tightened a longstanding US economic embargo on the Caribbean island, and created a near-total fuel blockade. Cuba was already in the grip of a severe economic crisis, and while a Russian oil tanker has recently reached the island, the blockade has pushed the country to the brink of collapse. We speak to the BBC's Will Grant, who has recently returned from the island, to discuss what Trump wants in Cuba, and whether the Cuban Revolution can survive its biggest test in decades. Producers: Aron Keller and Viv Jones Executive producer: Penny Murphy Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: Havana street during a blackout. Credit: Ernesto Mastrascusa/EPA/Shutterstock

Kate Adie introduces stories on Cuba's multiple crises from blackouts to food shortages, what it's like living under another war in Lebanon, how Persian new year festivities were muted this year, what China thinks about the war in the Middle East, and how an archaeological dig in Georgia led to a political purge.More than ten million people were left in the dark this week in Cuba, as the third major blackout in a month hit the island. The US fuel blockade is taking its toll, but locals are now finding the courage to publicly criticise the communist government, finds Will Grant in Havana.Lebanon was quickly drawn into another war following the US-Israel bombardment of Iran. For many Lebanese, much of their life has been spent living amid conflict or the aftermath of war. Carine Torbey reports from Beirut.The Spring equinox marked the Persian new year festival of Nowruz, though celebrations were muted this year with the country at war, and emotions still raw from the thousands of protesters killed in January. Leila Molana Allen is British-Iranian and reflects on how Iranians inside the country - and in the diaspora - have been trying to draw strength from this ancient tradition.China has so far kept its distance from the US-Israel war with Iran - a strategy designed, perhaps, with an eye on longer-term advantages over the United States. But it might not be quite so straight-forward says Laura Bicker in Beijing.And in the Southern Caucasus, archaeologists are once again digging for fossils in Georgia following a political purge of the country's museum sector. William Dunbar went to see what new discoveries are being made.Series Producer: Serena Tarling Production Coordinators: Katie Morrison and Sophie Hill Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith

A plot twist in Hollywood has taken place in the last 24 hours, but in the spreadsheets rather than on the screens, as Netflix decides it's not willing to counter Paramount–Skydance's US$111bn bid for Warner Bros Discovery. We discuss what this means for the studio house that brought Bugs Bunny, the Looney Tunes, Harry Potter and the DC Universe to audiences worldwide. Vishala Sri-Pathma hears how US President Donald Trump has directed every federal agency to immediately stop using technology from Anthropic, as the row between the White House and the AI developer continues. Meanwhile, with the United States oil blockage of Cuba continuing for nearly a month, Will Grant reports on the economic and humanitarian crisis engulfing the Caribbean country. And as Pokémon celebrates turning 30 with its first ever theme park in Japan - we find out how a kids' craze become a cultural heavyweight. Global business news, with live guests and contributions from Asia, Latin America and the USA. (Picture: The Warner Bros. Studios water tower in Burbank, California, on 11 September 2025. Credit: Allison Dinner / EPA / Shutterstock).

Mexico's most wanted man – Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, better known as “El Mencho” – was killed during a security operation to arrest the cartel leader on Sunday. In the days that followed, the operation was celebrated by President Trump in his State of the Union address. But it came at a cost, as cartel members carried out retaliatory rampages across Mexico and turned many towns and cities into war zones.El Mencho's death came after months of pressure from the Trump administration on Mexico to do more to fight the drug cartels. According to one NBC News report, the US even considered sending troops into Mexico. Our correspondent, Will Grant, examines the dilemma Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum now faces – and we ask if she is now caught between Trump and the cartels. Producers: Chris Benderev and Aron Keller Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior News Editor: China CollinsImage Credits: FILE PHOTO: Members of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), led by Nemesio Oseguera, known as “El Mencho,” poses for a photo at an undisclosed location in Michoacan state, Mexico, October 15, 2022. REUTERS/Stringer

Kate Adie introduces stories from the Gaza-Egypt border, Cuba, Bangladesh, Ukraine and Slovenia.The Rafah border crossing between the Gaza Strip and Egypt reopened this week after being mainly kept shut since Israel captured the Gazan side in 2024. It's opening has brought relief to many Palestinians who see it as a lifeline to the world. However, there has been frustration over delays and the small number of people being allowed through each day. Yolande Knell has been following developments.Outside Venezuela, nowhere was last month's US military action in Caracas felt more keenly than in Cuba. Venezuela has helped prop up the Communist-run island for twenty-five years, with subsidised supplies of crude oil. Will Grant reports from Havana on the island's growing economic crisis.Bangladesh goes to the polls next week in its first election since a student uprising forced the previous Prime Minister, Sheikh Hasina, to flee for India. However, a new student-led political party is already in crisis. Azadeh Moshiri reports from Dhaka.Ukraine continues to endure heavy Russian bombardment of its energy grid - in the capital more than a thousand buildings are still without power. But locals are finding innovative ways to keep warm amid freezing temperatures, as Abdujalil Abdurasulov discovered at a disco on a frozen river.The Winter Olympic Games in Milan-Cortina are officially underway and one of Europe's smallest countries is hoping to fly higher than the rest. Guy De Launey met the Slovenian brother and sister who are favourites for ski-jumping gold.Producer: Serena Tarling Production coordinators: Katie Morrison and Sophie Hill Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith

With TikTok being told by the EU to change what it believes is an 'addictive design' or face fines, we speak to cyber-psychologist Dr Sarah Hodge, and France's ambassador for digital affairs and AI, Clara Chappaz, on whether the continent is set to follow Australia's lead and ban children below the 16-years-old from using social media. Will Grant reports on the latest as the critical fuel crisis in Cuba worsens and Havana's fuel pumps run dry. Elsewhere, we look to Japan as the nation heads to the polls this weekend, and Ed Butler hears from Professor Maria Rodas on what it takes to make the perfect Superbowl commercial. Global business news, with live guests and contributions from Europe, Latin America and the USA.(Picture: A TikTok logo is seen in front of the headquarters of the European Commission in Brussels, Belgium. Credit: Olivier Hoslet / EPA / Shutterstock.)

Beat Migs! "Pizza is kind of like sex… when it's good, it's great, and when it's bad, it's still pretty good" - Will Grant

The US and Cuba have for decades had a troubled relationship, with the former imposing sanctions and travel restrictions on its close Caribbean neighbour. Now, in its attack on Venezuela, and the capture of president Nicolas Maduro, the US has dealt Cuba a blow so significant that President Trump has warned the socialist state is, “ready to fall”. Today, BBC Central America and Cuba correspondent Will Grant explains the deeply intertwined relationship between Venezuela and Cuba, and how Havana's government plans to stand up to Trump. Producers: Hannah Moore and Xandra Ellin Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China CollinsPhoto: Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel speaks during an event in support of Venezuela in Havana. Credit: Ernesto Mastrascusa/EPA/Shutterstock.

Following the president's intervention in Venezuela, the Trump administration is escalating threats against several sovereign nations. Now, Cuba is set to lose access to one of its main suppliers of oil, adding pressure to its increasing energy shortage and an already struggling economy. This morning, we'll discuss with the BBC's Will Grant. Plus, President Donald Trump's pivot on Greenland was well-received on Wall Street, and renter affordability is improving.

Following the president's intervention in Venezuela, the Trump administration is escalating threats against several sovereign nations. Now, Cuba is set to lose access to one of its main suppliers of oil, adding pressure to its increasing energy shortage and an already struggling economy. This morning, we'll discuss with the BBC's Will Grant. Plus, President Donald Trump's pivot on Greenland was well-received on Wall Street, and renter affordability is improving.

Do we still have what it takes to do traverse the frontier? Mike talks with Will Grant, author of "Last Ride of The Pony Express" which details his 2000 mile journey across the US on horseback. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kate Adie introduces stories from Venezuela, the United States, Iran, India and Germany.The capture of Nicolas Maduro following America's night-time military operation in Venezuela caught the world off-guard. Quickly transported to New York, Mr Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, will now face trial. Will Grant reflects on his own encounters with Maduro and his legacy in Venezuela.Miami is home to the largest Venezuelan community in the United States, and hundreds of people took to the streets to celebrate the capture of Nicolas Maduro. Bernd Debusmann was in Miami, capturing the mood there in the hours after the raid on Caracas.A wave of protests has spread rapidly across Iran over the last fortnight, fuelled by anger over the country's economy. Now the protests have taken on a stronger anti-government tone. BBC Persian's Mahshid Hosseini has been speaking to protesters in Tehran.Nagaland in northeast India is the scene of an annual stone-pulling festival, which brings together several of the region's ethnic tribes. The event conveys a message of unity in a state once known for its fierce infighting. Simon Broughton watched on, while keeping a safe distance from the moving monolith.Germany is set to double its defence spending over the next five years, and for the first time in decades arms production is to resume in Berlin. Lucy Ash investigates the row over a repurposed factory in the northern suburb of Wedding, where locals are worried for the future.Series Producer: Serena Tarling Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith Production coordinators: Sophie Hill & Katie Morrison

Kate Adie introduces stories from Israel, Honduras, Turkey and Lebanon, Georgia and Russia.Israel is facing an impending crisis over conscripting ultra-Orthodox Jews into the Israeli army, and the issue is threatening to undermine Israel's government and split the country. Lucy Williamson reports from the city of Bnei Brak.Donald Trump surprised many in his own Republican party this week when he signed a pardon releasing the former president of Honduras from a West Virginia prison. Juan Orlando Hernández was serving 45 years for his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy. Will Grant gauges the reaction in Tegucigalpa - and pays a visit to the former president's wife.Pope Leo chose Turkey and Lebanon as the destinations for his first overseas trip as Pontiff, stopping off in the Turkish city of Iznik – scene of the First Council of Nicaea seventeen hundred years ago, which shaped Christian beliefs for centuries. Aleem Maqbool has been travelling with the Pope.It's been a year since demonstrators took to the streets of Tbilisi to protest the Georgian government's suspension of accession talks with the European Union. Rayhan Demytrie reports from the capital Tblisi, where demonstrators continue to voice their objections every day.It's nearly four years since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine began, and despite heavy losses to his own country, President Putin seems convinced now is not the moment to stop. Despite punitive laws which discourage people from speaking out, discreet conversations reveal a strong desire among Russian citizens to end the war. Ben Tavener reveals the insights he has gleaned while out walking his dog.Series Producer: Serena Tarling Production coordinators: Katie Morrison and Sophie Hill Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith

President Donald Trump has pardoned Juan Orlando Hernández, a former president of Honduras who was serving a 45-year sentence for drug trafficking and weapons offences.It was only last year that Hernández was convicted in a New York courtroom of being part of a huge drug trafficking conspiracy, after being extradited to the US. Prosecutors said the operation flooded America with cocaine and turned Honduras into a “narco-state”. But Trump has claimed the investigation was a Biden administration “set up”, and Hernández is now a free man. As the Trump administration ramps up its military threats against Latin American drug cartels, including multiple strikes on alleged drug trafficking boats in the Caribbean, why has it pardoned Hernández? Will Grant reports. Producer: Xandra Ellin, Hannah Moore and Viv JonesExecutive producer: James Shield Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins (Photo: Juan Orlando Hernandez being escorted by US agents for extradition in 2022. Credit: Fredy Rodriguez/Reuters)

Welcome Back to Pizza Quest!This conversation is bound to tick off some folks, and everyone's entitled to his or her own opinion, but our music Yoda, Peter Scott Ruben, is definitely not shy about his Mt. Rushmore of top rock band singers. During his last visit we did the same for solo singers, from Frank Sinatra and down, but this time the criteria is for those who earned acclaim fronting rock bands (and I mean serious rock bands), not as soloists (even though some were superstars as soloists too). Some of Peter's list may surprise you (I was), and some of his omissions may make you even more upset, but hey, this is rock and roll so getting riled up is part of the game. Tune in for a fun-filled hour as we dive back into the past, especially the golden era of the 1960's and '70's, as we compile a top ten, and then a Mt. Rushmore, of the best of the best. Remember, it's more about the quest than it is about the pizza, and today's quest is rock and roll greatness (with a little pizza thrown in too), so jump on the magic bus and hang on for a wild ride!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Welcome back to Pizza Quest!The cottage bakery movement is a global phenomenon and we have here, in my hometown of Charlotte, NC, a shining example of a rising star of this movement. Doug and Kaitlin Rose, along with their "team" of four kids (ages 9-16), are cranking out amazing 100% sourdough breads and bagels (and other inventive sourdough products made with heirloom and ancient grain flours), from a small bakeshop constructed inside their carport. Every loaf is pre-sold via subscription before it ever hits the shelves and, after a relentless six year commitment to learning the craft and growing the business, the Roses are ready to make the huge leap to a brick and mortar bakery located about a mile from their home (and, I might hope, to reclaiming full use of their home for, well, home stuff). This is an inspirational story about single-mindedness and grit, and a great case study for how to grow a business for anyone who has ever had an entrepreneurial vision of their own. One obvious takeaway: stay patient and be resilient. Hear all about it in this delightful and insightful conversation with my favorite local bakers, Doug and Kaitlin Rose, founders of Team Rose Bread. You can follow their ongoing journey via https://teamrosebread.com/ and @teamrosebread on Instagram.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Will Grant, Master Pizzaiolo and owner of Sourdough Willy's Pizzeria in Kingston and That's A Some Pizza on Bainbridge Island, has officially taken his craft to the world stage, earning a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Pizza World Cup in Rome. Instagram: @thatsasomepizza @sourdoughwillyspizzeria

Beat Migs!! We chat with Will Grant, the American from Bainbridge Island who recently won the World Pizza Championship in Italy! Also GTA 6 has been delayed and the US is stopping the production of pennies forever!

Welcome back to Pizza Quest!This episode is a case study on how to create and bring a new product to market. The product is called Pizza Freak, and the team members behind it are Brad Daniels, Brad Kilgore, and Matt McKenney or, as I like to call them, two chefs and a marketing guru. What you will learn in this episode is how a Detroit-inspired frozen square pizza went through the journey from idea, to product, to getting it on the shelves. I've tasted it and it is pretty special -- a frozen pizza with chef-inspired aspirations that really delivers on its promise. It's a product that required innovation at every level of the process and, hey, they have pulled it off, so far— but the story is still unfolding!The two chefs, Brad Kilgore and Brad Daniels (Brad and Brad) are the real deal, with resume's and restaurant successes that firmly establish their bona fides (you'll hear all about their various restaurant projects during the conversation), and Matt McKenney is the marketing and branding partner who represents a number of advanced-level cooking tools and products. What started out as a "what if" passion project turned into Pizza Freak, as they all realized, "We've got something special here." For anyone who has ever dreamed of taking their signature food products (you know, the ones that all your friends and family members tell you should be turned into a business or a restaurant, not realizing the challenges of such a task) this episode is for you, as the Pizza Freak team shares the many lessons learned during their five year quest, which is patiently finding its way onto a shelf (or click) near you. When Pizza Freak finally tips over and goes big, remember that you heard about it here first. Enjoy!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Welcome back to Pizza Quest! Somehow, New York City never has too many great pizzerias, and they all seem to push their competitors to keep raising the bar. In the midst of one of the most competitive marketplaces on earth, a new player better have some game if he or she wants to thrive, especially in the intense pizza playground known as the West Village. So, what did the successful Italian restaurateur Enrico Proietta (of Bella Blu fame) do? He turns loose one of his former proteges, Agostino Cangiano, as well as his own dynamic daughter, Tatiana Revox. to open Slicehaus, featuring Agostino's original Neapolitan/NY hybrid pizza using a little known imported flour that you will hear about in this interview. Tatiana takes care of the fun and games and customers, and Agostino handles the food side (including his personal meatball recipe -- hey, are we in a meatball renaissance? I think yes), and I'm guessing Enrico is kicking back and enjoying the show. Hear all about NYC's new kid on the block and how they have staked their claim against all the OG pizzerias that surround them, in this delightful conversation with Agostino Cangiano and Tatiana Revox, proprietors of Slicehaus.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ten years ago, Sarah Owens decided to parlay her success as a successful cottage baker and curator of roses at the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens, and write a book, "Sourdough: Recipes for Rustic Fermented Breads, Sweets, Savories, and More." The book went on to win a coveted James Beard Award and Sarah was off and running into the next stage of her career: teaching classes around the world, writing more books, such as "Toast & Jam," and even helping open a bakery in Lebanon for Syrian refugees. Those ten years flew by and now she has just released an updated tenth anniversary edition of the book that helped make her famous. She tells us all about those book updates, including a new resource section listing of small, artisan mills around the country where bakers can source locally produced flour, and also shares many of the adventures that her journey in natural fermentation and jam making has opened up for her. Pizza Quest welcomes the lovely and talented, Sarah Owens!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Mark Todd, aka "The Cheese Dude" returns to take us on the ultimate cheese tasting to die for -- or, more accurately, a "Before You Die" tour. Mark has previously guided us through the pasta filata category (aka, mozzarella-like "pulled" cheeses), the cheddar category, the world of hard aged cheeses, and Alpine and smelly cheeses -- he has been my cheese Yoda for the past few years here on Pizza Quest and this time we go all the way to the summit. I asked him to guide me through four or five cheeses that he considers his Mt. Rushmore and, sure enough, this episode has, for me, fulfilled the "loyalty test" (that is, I tasted them when we recorded this episode but I am still enjoying the taste memories weeks later). Join us as we climb to the top of the Mt. Rushmore of cheeses you will want to run out and track down so that you can taste along with us.For the record, here are the five cheeses we tasted and enjoyed with what I call our Meg Ryan cheese moments together. You'll know what I mean when you tune in: Emmi Gruyere Kaltbach; Akaas 36 month Aged Gouda; HRVMNS Epoisses; Mitica Sottocenere; and Delin Brillat Savarin Your local cheese monger will know what these are, or may have ones as close as possible to them.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On Wednesday, President Trump confirmed that he has authorised the CIA to take covert lethal action in Venezuela. The revelation came off the back of a series of US strikes on Venezuelan boats accused of transporting drugs in the Caribbean Sea, which resulted in the death of 27 people in what some human rights experts are calling "extrajudicial executions". The US military operation has the region on edge, leaving analysts wondering whether this is just part of a new war on drugs, or a push to bring down the Maduro regime. The BBC's Will Grant briefs us on these latest developments, and the CIA's history in Latin America. Producers: Viv Jones and Valerio Esposito Editor: Annie Brown and James Shield Sound engineer: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Image: Miguel Gutierrez/Shutterstock

Welcome back to Pizza Quest! The artist known as Meathead is back, hard on the heels of his newest book, The Meathead Method: A BBQ Hall of Famer's Secrets and Science on BBQ, Grilling, and Outdoor Cooking with 114 Recipes. His website and newsletter, AmazingRibs.com, is followed by millions of people worldwide, where we all can get everything we need to know, free of charge, about cooking meat -- with and without fire -- and this includes both the science and the craft, which is why I referred to him above as an artist. His new book has been described by Alton Brown as, "The only book on outdoor cookery you'll ever need." In addition, thousands of his followers are dues paying members of his exclusive Pitmaster's Club, which entitles them to all sorts of other benefits and perks, all discussed in this episode. I guarantee that you will learn more than you ever imagined about food science and cookery in this dynamic conversation with the one and only Meathead. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Welcome back to Pizza Quest.You may remember Blaine Parker from an earlier episode, awhile back, in which we discussed his book and website, Free the Pizza, which is a humorous, step by step manual for how to make restaurant quality pizzas in a home oven. Well, Blaine is back, along with his talented wife and writing/producing partner, Honey Parker, to tell us all about a new documentary film they are making. The full is titled, "Little Miss Margherita: A Misundertood Pizza in a Misunderstood Place." The place they are referring to is the state of Mississippi, along the Gulfport Coast. There's a lot more to the story, and it's much more fun to hear Blaine and Honey tell us about it in their own words. Also, Honey talks a bit about her series of rom-com novels, "The V-Life," about Sugar Bernstein, a New York ad-woman who also happens to be a vampire (yes, you heard it right). We even discuss who Honey hopes will be cast to play Sugar when the books become a movie. Tune in to find out who is on the wish list....See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Welcome back to Pizza Quest,Rye bread, the way we remember it -- at least those of who grew up near Jewish bakeries and delis -- has never really gone away but it does, at times, seem like an endangered species. Steven Katz, a Washington DC attorney and policy consultant, who also happens to be a published food writer and recipe developer, along with his longtime friend, library archivist and guardian of cultural taste memories Donna Webber, worked together over the past few years to develop a Jewish rye bread that checks off all the boxes connecting past with present. Steven, as the baker, calls his loaf, "Katz Rye Has Soul." His food roots go deep in the American culinary industry, having been raised in Chicago's meat packing world in a family business selling some of the finest steaks and other meat products known to mankind, and his collaboration with Donna resulted in a synergy that tapped into both of their passions for quality and authenticity. If you too are part of the rye renaissance, you will not want to miss this stimulating conversation. As we often say, it's more about the quest than it is about the pizza, and Steve and Donna's journey is a perfect example.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Welcome back to Pizza Quest!Charlotte, NC is starting to generate more and more national buzz as a culinary destination city. Top Chef is in pre-production here in preparation for its next season, with Charlotte as the host city, and some of the local chefs and restaurants are getting recognition by The James Beard and other prestigious organizations. And, on the pizza front, a couple new pizzerias are getting a lot of national recognition and, in the case of our guests on this episode, international acclaim. Bird Pizzeria a tough reservation to get these days, with a 60 day wait list and a location that is slightly off the beaten path, but the pizzas are uniquely their own -- a combination of East Coast as well as Chicago and Cleveland influence. In addition, due to the magic of TikTok and Instagram, the Kale Caesar Salad has gone viral and now people from as far away as New Zealand are filming themselves doing knock-off versions. Who knew?As a Caesar Salad junkie myself (I sometimes flirt with the idea of doing a companion website called Caesar Salad Quest), I had to get over there to find out what all the hoopla was about. My wife, Susan, and met up with Blaine and Honey Parker (who you will meet in a future episode here if you aren't already a subscriber to Blaine's newsletter, Free the Pizza), who had driven 600 miles just to experience Bird Pizzeria as part of their own pizza quest (like I said, the buzz has extended beyond the city walls), and we all shared the (yes) amazing Kale Caesar as well as two signature pizzas, The Plain (their take on a Margherita) and also the White, with half pepperoni and half sausage and a few other embellishments. You'll hear more about the salad and the pizzas during this podcast.In this episode, Nkem and Kerrel share their journey with us, and tell us how they ended up landing in Charlotte and developing their menu. Their story, like many others we've showcased here, is unconventional, loaded with unexpected moments of struggle and grace that somehow have serendipitous, happy endings. Sometimes you throw out the playbook and just follow your gut. Those are the places that often end up becoming legends in the making.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Welcome back to Pizza Quest!Every now and then we are fortunate to welcome back the legendary John Arena, who I refer to as the Yoda of Pizza. Often, Brian Spangler of Portland's Apizza Scholl's, also joins us and we refer to the two of them as The Pizza Yodi's. It's one of our most popular series and always a lot of fun for me. Well, Brian couldn't make it this time but we are fortunate to have a new member of the Pizza Yodi pantheon, Leo Spizzirri, the Director of Education at Pizza University, and a certified master teacher extraordinaire (aka Maestro) who is recognized throughout the world. In this episode, John tells us about his upcoming trip to Naples for a ceremony in recognition of the top 50 global pizzerias (including 10 from the USA), and shares his own thoughts on some who did and didn't make the list, as well as those who he values as the national treasures of the American pizza universe. Leo adds his own views on the mentors in his life and pays tribute to John's legacy of mentoring the next generation of pizza luminaries. Listen to two of the great ones, right here in this week's episode of Pizza Quest.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Welcome back to Pizza Quest for another new season of conversations with very interesting people.Ellen King, whose bakery in Evanston, Illinois, Hewn, has become legendary for its beautifully crafted breads and pastries using regionally specific flour and local grains. Ellen explains the vision behind the bakery's name and she shares the story of her long and winding journey to fulfill that vision, which emerged over time, to marry her love of art with her love for bread. This episode is for those of us bread geeks who never tire of drilling down deep in our quest for beauty, especially as found in a loaf of bread. Look for her book, “Heritage Baking: Recipes for Rustic Breads and Pastries Made With Artisan Flour From Hewn Bakery” at your favorite book seller.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Kate Adie introduces stories from Ukraine, Ireland, Mexico, the United States and Italy.Kill Russian soldiers, win points: a sobering new scheme for Ukrainians soldiers rewards units with new battlefield equipment, each time they eliminate enemy troops. Paul Adams met the government minister behind the scheme, and hears what Ukrainian soldiers on the frontline think of it.In Ireland, the excavation of the bodies of hundreds of babies and young children got underway this week at an unmarked mass grave in Tuam. Chris Page discovers the decision to exhume the remains has not been entirely well received by locals, as Ireland continues to confront the secrets of its church-run institutions.A severe drought has been affecting large areas of Northern Mexico and Texas, which has led to growing cross-border tensions over access to water. Will Grant reports from the northern Mexican state of Chihuahua.Donald Trump's immigration crackdown has taken a much more assertive approach than many expected. Sophie Williams visited a guest house in Queens, New York where she met Chinese asylum seekers worried about what might happen next.The Summer holiday season is now in full swing, but for holiday-makers with ADHD the pre-travel preparations and airport queues can be overwhelming, says James Innes Smith, who reports from Italy.Series Producer: Serena Tarling Production Coordinators: Sophie Hill & Katie Morrison Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith

If someone talks about Cuba does it make you think of cigars and classic cars? Or maybe you think of limited freedom of speech and Che Guevara?We're talking about Cuba because its minister for Labour, Elena Feitó Cabrera, was forced to resign after she said there was no such thing as ‘beggars' on the island. What's the situation with homelessness?We're running through some of the top claims we've seen about Cuba online with Will Grant, our Cuba Correspondent, and break down how much truth there is behind them.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: William Lee Adams Producers: Emily Horler and Benita Barden Editor: Verity Wilde

Garrett McPerry fell down the sourdough rabbit hole about eight years ago, started selling loaves at his local farmers market and, fueled by the public's enthusiastic response, just kept drilling deeper until, two years ago, when he and his wife Lauren opened a brick and mortar bakery cafe called Tommy & Atticus, where the lines are often around the block, the sandwiches sell out by 1:30, and then the pizzas fly out of the oven and are gone by 3 PM. To hear how they got that name, how he finally gave up his day job as an accountant and went all in, and everything else about their phenomenal success story, join me in this lively conversation with Garrett McPerry of Tommy & Atticus.Also, to see the entire menu, go to their website at https://www.tommyandatticus.com/  Their journey has been a wild and crazy ride and one that will inspire you all.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Kate Adie presents stories from the US, Canada, Mexico, Myanmar and the NetherlandsAn increasing number of Americans - especially young men - are converting to the Russian Orthodox Church, enticed by its embrace of unabashed masculinity and traditional family values. Lucy Ash met some recent converts in Texas.The diplomatic fallout between the US and Canada continues over Donald Trump's repeated desire to make Canada the 51st state. The issue was forefront in Canadian minds as King Charles visited Ottawa this week, with locals looking for signs of support for the country's sovereignty. Royal correspondent Sean Coughlan watched the King walk a diplomatic tightrope.Mexico will become the first country in the world to elect its entire judiciary by direct vote, following a controversial reform last year. Will Grant went to Ciudad Juarez to meet a candidate who has had doubts raised over her suitability as a judge after she once defended notorious drug lord, El Chapo.Chinese criminal gangs have established lucrative scam centres in Myanmar, staffed by workers lured from across the world with the promise of well-paid work. Once there, they face exploitation and no way home. Olivia Acland tells the story of one man from Sierra Leone, who was tricked into con trade.More than a quarter of journeys in the Netherlands are made by bike – which made it all the more maddening for correspondent Anna Holligan, when she recently had her bike stolen in The Hague. But the experience had an upside, as she discovered the softer side to the pragmatic Dutch, who understood the nature of her loss.Series Producer: Serena Tarling Production Coordinators: Katie Morrison & Sophie Hill Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith

John Pollock and Brandon Thurston discuss the latest developments in the wrestling industry, including TKO COO Mark Shapiro's appearance at the JP Morgan conference following the company's Q1 earnings report, highlighting cost-cutting and WWE's live events strategy.Plus, the influence of Sabu, WWE confirms Night of Champions in Saudi Arabia on June 28, AEW moves 12,000 tickets for Forbidden Door in London, comments from CW's president on NXT, a six-show residency for AEW in Chicago, and possibly implications for Grant v. WWE as a result of an appeals court ruling.RELATED:TKO COO Mark Shapiro at JP Morgan media conference: https://www.patreon.com/posts/audio-tko-coo-at-128856610Judge denies doctor's motion to dismiss Janel Grant's petition: https://www.postwrestling.com/2025/05/12/judge-denies-motion-to-dismiss-in-janel-grants-petition-to-obtain-evidence-from-doctor/Will Grant v. WWE go to arbitration? https://wrestlenomics.com/articles/2025/will-grant-v-wwe-stay-in-open-court-or-go-to-arbitration/CW president comments on NXT: https://variety.com/2025/tv/news/cw-nxt-game-changer-1236390902/AEW adds six-show residency in Chicago for July: https://www.postwrestling.com/2025/05/13/aew-announces-six-show-residency-in-chicago/TKO Boxing event to run head-to-head with UFC 320, per The Ring Magazine: https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/story/sports/ufc/2025/05/13/ufc-320-tko-boxing-canelo-crawford-dana-white-conflict-mma-turki-alalshikh/83608450007/Music courtesy: “Panic Beat” by Ben TramerPOST WrestlingSubscribe: https://postwrestling.com/subscribePatreon: http://postwrestlingcafe.comForum: https://forum.postwrestling.comDiscord: https://discord.com/invite/Q795HhRMerch: https://store.postwrestling.comTwitter/Facebook/Instagram/YouTube: @POSTwrestlingBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/postwrestling.comWrestlenomicsSubscribe: https://wrestlenomics.com/podcast/Patreon: https://patreon.com/wrestlenomicsSubstack: https://wrestlenomics.substack.com/Twitter/Facebook/Instagram/YouTube: @WrestlenomicsBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/wrestlenomics.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

John Pollock and Brandon Thurston discuss the latest developments in the wrestling industry, including TKO COO Mark Shapiro's appearance at the JP Morgan conference following the company's Q1 earnings report, highlighting cost-cutting and WWE's live events strategy.Plus, the influence of Sabu, WWE confirms Night of Champions in Saudi Arabia on June 28, AEW moves 12,000 tickets for Forbidden Door in London, comments from CW's president on NXT, a six-show residency for AEW in Chicago, and possibly implications for Grant v. WWE as a result of an appeals court ruling.VIDEO VERSION: https://youtube.com/live/F50V9CX750URELATED:TKO COO Mark Shapiro at JP Morgan media conference: https://www.patreon.com/posts/audio-tko-coo-at-128856610Judge denies doctor's motion to dismiss Janel Grant's petition: https://www.postwrestling.com/2025/05/12/judge-denies-motion-to-dismiss-in-janel-grants-petition-to-obtain-evidence-from-doctor/Will Grant v. WWE go to arbitration? https://wrestlenomics.com/articles/2025/will-grant-v-wwe-stay-in-open-court-or-go-to-arbitration/CW president comments on NXT: https://variety.com/2025/tv/news/cw-nxt-game-changer-1236390902/AEW adds six-show residency in Chicago for July: https://www.postwrestling.com/2025/05/13/aew-announces-six-show-residency-in-chicago/TKO Boxing event to run head-to-head with UFC 320, per The Ring Magazine: https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/story/sports/ufc/2025/05/13/ufc-320-tko-boxing-canelo-crawford-dana-white-conflict-mma-turki-alalshikh/83608450007/Music courtesy: “Panic Beat” by Ben TramerPOST WrestlingSubscribe: https://postwrestling.com/subscribePatreon: http://postwrestlingcafe.comForum: https://forum.postwrestling.comDiscord: https://discord.com/invite/Q795HhRMerch: https://store.postwrestling.comTwitter/Facebook/Instagram/YouTube: @POSTwrestlingBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/postwrestling.comWrestlenomicsSubscribe: https://wrestlenomics.com/podcast/Patreon: https://patreon.com/wrestlenomicsSubstack: https://wrestlenomics.substack.com/Twitter/Facebook/Instagram/YouTube: @WrestlenomicsBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/wrestlenomics.comSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/wrestlenomics-radio2532/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Kate Adie introduces stories from Mexico, Canada, Kenya, the USA and Syria.As the first pope to come from Latin America, Pope Francis was hugely popular in the region, standing in solidarity with local priests who often have to walk a delicate line in communities under the control of drug cartels. Will Grant reflects on the late pope's legacy in Mexico.Canada goes to the polls on Monday, in a race that has become increasingly tight over the past few months. Reporting from Vancouver Island, Neal Razzell says it's the name that's not on the ballot that has proved to be the game changer.The Kenyan port town of Lamu is undergoing a radical transformation, as part of a Chinese-funded multi-billion dollar development project. While it promises to bring jobs and trade to the region, Beth Timmins finds some locals are less sure of the signs of progress.Once a seasonal threat, wild fires in California are now a year-round problem. So much so, that some homeowners are being told by insurers that they are no longer willing to honor their policies. Amy Steadman has been speaking to Californians who say they can no longer afford to live in the state.And finally to Syria - home to several UNESCO world heritage sites. After 14 years of civil war came to an end, and President Assad was driven from power. tour guides living in towns close to the country's famous ancient sites are hopeful that travellers will soon return.Series producer: Serena Tarling Production coordinators: Sophie Hill & Katie Morrison Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith

Kate Adie presents stories from the USA, Myanmar, The Dominican Republic, Afghanistan and the Greek island of Syros President Trump's decision to impose huge tariffs across the world drew ire from Wall Street financiers this week - and even members of his own Republican party. But what do his supporters in small-town America think? Mike Wendling travelled to Delta, Ohio, in America's rust belt, where locals have other things on their mind.In Myanmar the military junta has restricted foreign rescue teams' access to areas damaged by the recent earthquake - not to mention international media. After entering the country undercover, Yogita Limaye reports from the city of Mandalay, close to the earthquake's epicentre.The Dominican Republic announced three days of national mourning this week, after the roof of a popular nightclub collapsed, killing more than two hundred people. Will Grant visited the scene in the capital Santo Domingo, where an investigation is now under way as to what caused the collapse.Since returning to power in Afghanistan, the Taliban have steadily increased restrictions on the country's citizens and the introduction of a huge CCTV network in the capital Kabul has alarmed human rights groups. The Taliban says it is to combat crime, but Mahjooba Nowrouzi says there is unease over what else might be under surveillance.The battle for dominance in the electric car market is in full swing, but the EV evolution has been a long time in the making, as Sara Wheeler discovered when she stumbled across one of the world's first mass-produced models on the Greek island of Syros.Series producer: Serena Tarling Production Coordinators: Katie Morrison & Sophie Hill Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith

Will Grant, the BBC's Mexico, Central America and Cuba correspondent, was recently on the ground at Jalisco's Rancho Izaguirre, dubbed ‘Mexico's Auschwitz', and CECOT, Nayib Bukele's megaprison in El Salvador. Will spoke to Sean about what he saw in both places, how politics and organized crime is coverging, what new Mexican President Claudia Scheinbaum can do without triggering full-scale war — and how populism and the mob have often gone hand-in-hand across Latin America. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kate Adie presents stories from the US, Mexico, Bangladesh, Guatemala and Malaysia Donald Trump marked his return to the White House with a deluge of executive orders and announcements, which included an immigration crackdown, ending federal diversity programmes and withdrawing the US from the WHO. Anthony Zurcher travelled with the president on board Air Force One.In cities across the US, the Immigration Enforcement Agency has been conducting raids and arresting thousands of undocumented migrants, as part of President Trump's crackdown. Mexico is preparing itself for the potential arrival of tens of thousands of people in the coming weeks. Will Grant reports from both sides of the border.In Bangladesh, deaths related to diseases, such as cholera and rotavirus are considered especially high, because of long-standing issues with overcrowding, poor sanitation and access to clean water. Rebecca Root visited a hospital in the capital, Dhaka, which is leading the way in treatment and prevention.Many of Guatemala's indigenous communities live outside the major cities, and the stress of living isolated lives has fuelled mental health problems. A group of indigenous women is trying to change that. Jane Chambers went to lake Atitlan to meet them.The Malaysian state of Sabah, in northern Borneo, is a mountainous region covered in dense rainforest. On a recent visit there, Stephen Moss came across the increasingly rare black hornbill – and a new generation of keen birdwatchers.Series Producer: Serena Tarling Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith Production coordinators: Katie Morrison & Sophie Hill

The season premiere of The Bachelor has arrived and you're here for all the right reasons! From the limo entrances we loved (and loved to hate), to surprise visitors, and, of course, Linda the Llama, Kay and Jared are recapping it all and not holding back. Will Grant bring the heat or take a back seat? Listen in and find out OR watch our episodes now on YouTube! Head to the Betches YouTube channel and subscribe so you don't miss a beat. And as always, be sure to follow along @alwayson! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kate Adie introduces stories from Mexico, Lebanon, Liberia and Tanzania.Mexico's first woman president, Claudia Sheinbaum, is preparing for a potentially bumpy year, as Donald Trump returns to the White House with threats of tariffs and mass deportations. Will Grant looks at the challenges ahead in 2025.On Saturday 4th January 1975, Jim Muir pulled up in Beirut, marking the beginning of a decades-long career reporting for the BBC from the Middle East. He recalls what the 'Switzerland of the Middle East' was like in the months before civil war gripped the country, and how it has changed over the years.The Liberian warlord-turned-politician, Prince Yormie Johnson, recently died at the age of seventy-two. The BBC's former Africa Correspondent, Hilary Andersson, recalls meeting him when she was first starting out as a journalist.Last year, Reha Kansara and her friends challenged themselves to climb Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. While they made it to the foothills to fulfil their promise, they also discovered a few truths about the adage that it's the journey, not that destination that really matters.Series producer: Serena Tarling Production Coordinators: Katie Morrison & Sophie Hill Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith