

The Take
Al Jazeera
The Take is a daily interview-driven international news podcast hosted by award-winning journalist Malika Bilal. Each episode focuses on conversations with journalists and people directly impacted by the news of the day, offering our listeners the context necessary to understand what's in the headlines.
With millions of global listens, it's clear the conversations we're having on The Take are worth hearing. And critics think so too. The show has won the Online Journalism Awards, the Signal Awards, Lovie Awards, and Anthem Awards, among others.
With millions of global listens, it's clear the conversations we're having on The Take are worth hearing. And critics think so too. The show has won the Online Journalism Awards, the Signal Awards, Lovie Awards, and Anthem Awards, among others.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 7, 2024 • 23min
Another Take: Running from murder and abuse in Kenya
In this gripping discussion, Damaris Muthee Mutua, a celebrated athlete whose murder exposed dire issues of gender violence, and Agnes Tirop, a distinguished Kenyan runner tragically killed, share their stories. They delve into the harsh realities female athletes face in Kenya, highlighting systemic issues while celebrating their resilience. The conversation reveals the urgent need for safety and recognition in sports, and features powerful testimonials from women fighting against domestic violence in their community.

Sep 6, 2024 • 17min
Is the UK’s arms suspension on Israel a meaningful shift?
The UK is suspending 30 of 350 arms export licenses to Israel, citing a "clear risk" of violating international law. However, campaigners say it’s not enough. With massive protests and resignations over Gaza, does this signal a real shift in UK-Israel relations, or is it just a token gesture? In this episode: Nick Dearden (@nickdearden75), Director of Global Justice Now Episode credits: This episode was produced by Sarí el-Khalili, Amy Walters, and Tamara Khandaker, with Shraddha Joshi, Hagir Saleh, Duha Mosaad, Phillip Lanos, Hisham Abu Salah, and our host Malika Bilal. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Joe Plourde mixed this episode. Our lead of audience development and engagement is Aya Elmileik. Munera Al Dosari and Adam Abou-Gad are our engagement producers. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Ney Alvarez is Al Jazeera's head of audio. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads and YouTube

Sep 5, 2024 • 19min
What’s behind the massive protests in Israel?
Oren Ziv, an Israeli journalist for +972 Magazine, dives into the massive protests erupting in Tel Aviv following the discovery of captives' bodies. He explores the public's growing frustration with the government's handling of the hostage crisis and the shift towards a demand for peace amid violence. Ziv highlights the emotional weight carried by demonstrators, the confrontations with police, and the societal divisions that define these movements. He discusses how these protests may signal a pivotal change in the relationship between the populace and their leaders.

Sep 4, 2024 • 24min
Reels of revolution: capturing Algeria’s fight for liberation
Stevan Labudović, a Yugoslav cameraman famed for his work during the Algerian Independence War, joins documentary filmmaker Mila Turajlić to discuss untold stories and hidden footage from this crucial period. They dive into how Labsdović's films countered French propaganda and shaped Algeria's narrative. The conversation explores the role of media and documentary filmmaking in liberation movements, the importance of solidarity in decolonization, and how grassroots stories can redefine historical memory.

Sep 3, 2024 • 16min
Venezuela unrest: can Nicolas Maduro hold onto power?
Anneke Ball, a journalist with a focus on Venezuela, provides vital insights into the political chaos gripping the nation. She discusses how President Nicolas Maduro continues to consolidate power despite widespread allegations of fraud and international pressure. The conversation highlights the increasing repression against dissenting voices, including the detainment of journalists and activists. Ball also examines the impacts on everyday Venezuelans, revealing their struggles and the changing landscape of support for Maduro amidst rising opposition.

Sep 2, 2024 • 27min
Lessons from the student anti-apartheid movement
In this engaging discussion, student organizer Erin Lawson, political science professor Pearl Robinson, and expert Bill Minter dive into the historical influence of the US student anti-apartheid movement. They connect past protests, like the Columbia sit-in, to today's student activism for Palestinian rights. The guests highlight the lessons learned from previous struggles, emphasize the importance of sustained effort against oppression, and explore the ongoing challenges faced by modern activists fighting for justice and equality.

Sep 1, 2024 • 7min
Brief: Gaza polio vaccinations begin, Israel expands West Bank raids
Hani Mahmoud, an Al Jazeera Correspondent, reports from the frontline of Gaza's ongoing crisis. Nour Odeh offers critical insights from the Occupied West Bank, where military operations intensify. Gabriel Elizondo discusses the launch of polio vaccinations amidst the conflict, spotlighting the challenges faced by medical teams. The dangers to aid workers are highlighted, particularly following an attack on a UN convoy. The podcast reveals the resourceful methods Gazans are using to combat fuel shortages, shedding light on a grim yet resilient reality.

Aug 31, 2024 • 21min
Another Take: One prisoner’s fight to end solitary confinement
Dennis Wayne Hope, an inmate who has spent over 27 years in solitary confinement, shares his powerful story and insights. He discusses the psychological torture of isolation, highlighting its devastating impact on countless prisoners. Dennis reflects on his troubled past and daring escape attempts, questioning the system that keeps him and many others in isolation. He emphasizes the urgent need for reform in how solitary confinement is perceived and treated, advocating for justice and a reassessment of ethical practices in prisons.

Aug 30, 2024 • 20min
Beyond Gaza: Israel’s military escalation in the West Bank
Diana Buttu, a Human Rights Lawyer and Analyst, dives into the significant military escalation in the West Bank, marking a troubling increase in violence. She discusses the motivations behind Israel's operations, particularly in Jenin and Tulkarem, highlighting the severe humanitarian impact on civilians. Buttu also shares personal experiences of Palestinians living under siege and critiques the normalization of violence in this region against the backdrop of the Gaza crisis. Her insights reveal deep frustrations with media coverage and international response.

Aug 29, 2024 • 18min
Why was Telegram CEO Pavel Durov arrested in France?
Pavel Durov, the charismatic CEO of Telegram, recently made headlines after his arrest in France, sparking debates on free speech. Joining him is Tristan Redman, an Al Jazeera producer, who delves into the geopolitical ramifications of the event. They discuss Durov's transformative journey from founding V-Contact to becoming a significant tech figure. The conversation highlights Telegram’s dual nature as a tool for both communication and controversy, especially in political realms, while questioning the platform's implications for safety and accountability in the digital age.


