The Audio Long Read

Mark Miodownik, a materials science expert and writer, takes us on a captivating journey through the history of nitrous oxide. He discusses its transformation from a 18th-century novelty to a groundbreaking anesthetic that changed medicine. Miodownik shares insights on early experiments with various anesthetics and recounts Queen Victoria’s role in promoting chloroform. He also explores the cultural implications of laughing gas today, including its recreational use, highlighting its surreal and euphoric effects on consciousness.

Abiy Ahmed, Ethiopia's Prime Minister and Nobel Peace Prize winner, initially seen as a unifier, faces backlash amid a deepening civil conflict. Journalist Tom Gardner delves into the stark contrast between Abiy's reformative promises and the violent fallout in Tigray. They discuss his economic reforms and the chaos arising from ethnic tensions. The conversation unveils the complexities of political alliances and the catastrophic humanitarian crisis swirling around Ethiopia, illustrating how misjudgments have led to significant turmoil.

Nina Gold, a prominent casting director known for her work on hit series like Game of Thrones and Chernobyl, shares insights into her transformative role in the entertainment industry. She discusses the art of spotting fresh talent and the high-stakes nature of auditions, revealing the emotional rollercoaster actors face. Gold also reflects on the challenges of gender biases within casting and the complex blend of artistic vision and commercial demands that shape her casting decisions. Her anecdotes highlight the invisible yet vital impact of casting on storytelling.

Dive into the intriguing world of court reporters at the Old Bailey. Discover their daily routines and the challenges they face covering grim criminal cases. Explore a humorous tale involving a wealthy tailor that highlights the nostalgia of seasoned reporters. Learn how they're adapting amidst rising crime rates and digital reforms, impacting their storytelling. Gain insight into the vital role these reporters play in documenting trials, shaping public understanding of justice, and navigating courtroom rituals.

Former Ireland's No 1 tennis player, Conor Niland, shares the brutal reality of life as a low-ranking tennis player, including isolation, financial hardships, and competitive pressures. He explores the challenges faced on the lower tiers of professional tennis, encounters with big names like Andre Agassi, and the struggle to find warm-up partners. Niland provides insights into the loneliness and competitiveness of striving for success in the sport.

Delving into cultural roots, family loss, and identity, the narrator navigates between the US and China. Reflecting on family history, the challenges of maintaining connections across borders, and the impact of technology on relationships. The complexity of cultural identity, intergenerational ties, and the struggle of being torn between two worlds.

Explore the diverse and vital roles of Britain's libraries, serving as shelters, language schools, and asylum support providers. Learn about the challenges faced, such as closures and budget cuts, and how libraries have become essential community hubs offering much more than just books.

Exploring the deaths of unarmed black men in police custody, highlighting the lack of accountability and racial biases within law enforcement. The podcast delves into the challenges faced by bereaved families seeking justice and healing, exposing systemic failures and lack of urgency in addressing these tragedies.

Follow the story of a circus family and their elephant, Dumba, as they escape from animal rights activists, settle in a village in France, and face backlash. Learn about the changing views on using wild animals in circuses, the compassionate nature of elephants, and the challenges of rescuing and relocating former circus elephants to sanctuaries.

The podcast delves into the Environment Agency's struggle to uphold its environmental watchdog role, calling out lack of funding leading to reduced pollution investigations. It highlights the leniency towards mega farms despite evidence of violations, and the challenges in regulating farming practices. A former employee's frustration over neglected warnings about England's rivers and the sudden shift towards prioritizing water quality are also discussed.