The Audio Long Read

The podcast unveils the glamorous yet cut-throat world of London’s super-prime estate agents. It explores the staggering rise in property prices, with homes selling for up to £200 million. From innovative marketing strategies that leverage social media to the tension between traditional values and modern trends, hear how agents navigate their pivotal roles. The impact of urban inequality is starkly highlighted, contrasting uninhabited luxury mansions with lively, occupied homes in a housing crisis, making for a thought-provoking listen.

In this intriguing discussion, journalist Harry Shukman, who works for Hope Not Hate, shares his eye-opening experiences infiltrating far-right extremist groups under the pseudonym Chris. He recounts a tense yet humorous encounter at a pub with a white nationalist leader. Shukman delves into the psychological strain of maintaining a false identity and reveals unsettling ties between fringe ideologies and mainstream discourse. His firsthand experiences at a far-right conference in Estonia expose alarming discussions on race science and the motivations behind extremist beliefs.

James Faulkner narrates a gripping tale about a former KGB spy known as 'the Inheritor.' The discussion delves into the emotional turmoil of revealing hidden identities and the profound impact on family bonds. A pivotal moment unfolds between a father and son in Lima as shocking secrets challenge their relationship. The struggles of balancing family loyalty with the moral dilemmas of espionage are examined, alongside the sacrifices made for a life shrouded in secrecy. This story uncovers dark consequences on personal lives, highlighting an extraordinary world of spies.

Delve into the enigmatic world of a renowned French serial killer expert, Stéphane Bourgoin, who captivated audiences with his insights. Discover the allure and societal obsession with serial killers, tracing its roots from France to the U.S. Unravel the complexities behind Bourgoin's controversial methods and the investigation into his deceptive practices. Explore the darker aspects of human psychology, revealing unsettling patterns of deceit among killers and the emotional turmoil faced by those who study their twisted minds.

In this engaging discussion, Zhang Wang Li narrates an insightful piece by Murong Xuecun, highlighting the surprising friendship between a Chinese author and his censor, Liu Lipeng. They delve into the moral dilemmas of censorship in China, exploring how Liu grapples with his role while secretly supporting critical voices against the Communist Party. The conversation uncovers the paradox of expressing dissent in an oppressive regime and reflects on how unlikely alliances emerge amidst the struggle for freedom and creativity.

A young woman's body is discovered in a Spanish border town, sparking a decades-long search for her identity. The mystery unfolds against a backdrop of societal issues surrounding unnamed victims. The story extends to the haunting disappearance of Evie Rauta, revealing the emotional turmoil faced by her family. Additionally, the community responds passionately, creating memorials for the nameless dead, blending grief with awareness of loss and the importance of their stories.

Raj Ghatak, the narrator and voice behind compelling stories, dives into the labyrinth of food fraud and counterfeit textiles. He reveals how Oritain uses atomic-level analysis to authenticate products and combat deceit in the global supply chain. The conversation touches on the Wellspun cotton scandal, emphasizing the fallout from misrepresentation. Ghatak highlights the rising consumer demand for transparency, showcasing the challenges brands face in regaining trust and the vital role that forensic testing plays in ensuring product integrity.

Explore Jeremy Deller's unique approach to art that transcends traditional boundaries. Discover his upcoming bacchanalian festival, a bold public artwork like no other. The discussion delves into collaborative projects merging history and community, from public memorials to innovative partnerships with professionals like forensic anthropologists. Listen in as Deller highlights the role of art in social justice and remembrance, capturing the spirit of collective creativity against a backdrop of modern life.

Discover the profound legacy of the Black Panther movement through the eyes of the Panther Cubs. Hear personal stories of loss, resilience, and pride as they navigate the complexities of growing up amidst activism and systemic oppression. Explore the emotional toll of revolutionary parents on family dynamics, highlighted by intimate accounts of love, resentment, and longing. Delve into the lasting effects of U.S. policies on families and the power of storytelling to inspire resilience. Uncover lessons that resonate deeply in today's fight for justice.

We are raiding the Guardian long read archives to bring you some classic pieces from years past, with new introductions from the authors. This week, from 2022: Five million payphone calls are still made each year in the UK. Who is making them – and why? By Sophie Elmhirst. Read by Emma Powell. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/longreadpod