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Aug 23, 2024 • 28min

Did Kamala Harris pull off the biggest speech of her life?

Kamala Harris, a prominent political figure, delivers a pivotal speech aimed at swaying undecided voters. She reflects on her working-class upbringing and shares her immigrant values, establishing a personal connection with the audience. The discussion also tackles her strategic handling of complex issues like border security and the Israel-Palestine conflict. The hosts analyze the impact of enthusiasm in campaigns and ponder the inconsistencies in polling data, emphasizing the excitement surrounding the upcoming presidential debate.
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Aug 22, 2024 • 35min

Can Celeb Support Sign, Seal, Deliver Election Results?

Marianna, a commentator on celebrity political endorsements, joins John Burn-Murdoch, the chief data reporter at the Financial Times. They dive into the impact of celebrity endorsements on voter behavior, analyzing how figures like Oprah and Taylor Swift engage the public. The discussion contrasts American and British political strategies while exploring the delicate balance of authenticity in endorsements. They also touch on the recent breakthrough drug for Alzheimer’s, its implications for families, and the ongoing conversations on health care accessibility.
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Aug 21, 2024 • 33min

What Do The Riots Tell Us About The Far Right?

Daniel De Simone, an Investigations Correspondent, and Henry Zeffman, a Chief Political Correspondent, delve into the recent riots in the UK, exploring who orchestrated them and the role of far-right groups. They highlight the chaotic mix of opportunists and extremists involved, revealing the lack of organized leadership within these movements. Additionally, the discussion covers the implications for public finances and the challenges the Labour government faces in managing budget cuts amid social unrest.
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Aug 20, 2024 • 26min

How Did the Super Yacht Sink?

Join Mike Lynch, a British tech tycoon who was on the doomed super yacht, as he shares harrowing details from the sinking off Sicily's coast. Mark Lowen reports on the challenges rescuers face while searching for survivors in turbulent waters. Katie Prescott sheds light on Lynch's tech career amidst the unfolding tragedy. The discussion also dives into freak weather conditions, like waterspouts, that contributed to the disaster and how legal battles are now intertwined with his legacy.
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Aug 19, 2024 • 29min

Harris, Obama and Beyoncé (Maybe) At the DNC

Kamala Harris, poised to become the Democratic presidential nominee, discusses her upcoming keynote at the DNC in Chicago. Will she unveil key policies? The hosts, Anthony Zurcher of Americast and BBC journalist Caitriona Perry, delve into the vibrant atmosphere before the convention and highlight key issues, including protests related to Biden's Gaza stance. The surprising possibility of a Beyoncé appearance adds excitement. They also touch on the intriguing disappearance of tech entrepreneur Mike Lynch in connection to a yacht incident.
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Aug 18, 2024 • 57min

Interview: The First British Astronaut Helen Sharman

Helen Sharman, the first British astronaut who ventured into space in 1991, shares her remarkable journey from ice cream to the cosmos. She discusses her training in the Soviet Union and the importance of international cooperation in space exploration. Sharman reflects on the challenges of sustainability, space debris, and the need for responsible practices as humanity eyes Mars. The conversation also touches on the recent plight of astronauts stranded in space, highlighting the psychological challenges they face and the significance of mental resilience in extreme conditions.
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Aug 17, 2024 • 33min

17/08/2024

Lyse Doucet, a chief international correspondent acclaimed for her coverage of global conflicts, joins Gordon Correra, a security correspondent specializing in international security. They dive into the tense Gaza ceasefire talks, showcasing the delicate power dynamics at play. The discussion shifts to Ukraine's bold tactical maneuvers against Russia, exploring the implications for global security and Western support. Both experts provide insights into the psychological impacts on communities and the intricate web of geopolitical factors influencing current events.
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Aug 16, 2024 • 35min

The Infected Blood Scandal Payouts

Nick Thomas-Symonds, Paymaster General, discusses the poignant compensation scheme for around 30,000 individuals affected by the contaminated blood scandal, emphasizing lifelong support and transparency. Political correspondent Nick Eardley shares insights on impending rail strikes and strikes in the health sector, exploring ongoing pay disputes and their broader economic implications. Together, they shed light on accountability in public life post-scandal and examine the cultural shifts needed for future governance.
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Aug 15, 2024 • 34min

University Challenged

Branwen Jeffreys, the BBC education editor, decodes today's A-level results and their implications for the UK's higher education landscape. She highlights the shifts in university admissions amidst tough competition and changing criteria. Dr. Rosamund Lewis, WHO's mpox technical lead, sheds light on the mpox outbreak, addressing its rapid spread and the public health emergency it has sparked. Together, they discuss the intersection of education and public health challenges, emphasizing the need for urgent responses.
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Aug 14, 2024 • 38min

Is Ukraine's Advance Damaging Putin?

Alex Forsyth, a political correspondent, and Dharshini David, a chief economic correspondent, join Steve Rosenberg, a Russia editor, to dissect the current turmoil stemming from Ukraine's advances into Russian territory. They delve into the economic impact of rising inflation in the UK, scrutinizing the Scottish government's spending cuts. Steve provides on-the-ground insights from Moscow, where a facade of normal life collides with the sobering reality of conflict, revealing the Kremlin’s struggle amid increasing public awareness of Ukraine's military successes.

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