The Slow Newscast
The Observer
The Slow Newscast from The Observer takes the news slowly. We investigate, and every week we focus on stories that really matter in the UK and around the world. From wars in Ukraine and Gaza through to true crime and injustice and real life mysteries, The Slow Newscast team is devoted to narrative investigations covering some of the biggest topics of the day.Who are the people biohacking themselves in a quest for immortality? Or the man taking on an entire nation in the high seas to protect whales? And what happened when humanity's most distant messenger fell silent? From a newsroom with a different approach to journalism these are the stories we tell.Subscribe to The Observer and use the code AUDIO50 to get 50% off your annual subscription: Early access, bonus content and ad-free listening to our podcastsA daily edition, curated by our editors 7 days a weekPuzzles from the inventors of the cryptic crosswordRecipes for every occasionFree tickets to join Observer events in our newsroom or online Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Feb 24, 2026 • 45min
Stephen Miller’s America
A deep look at a powerful adviser’s rise from teen provocateur to architect of hardline immigration and enforcement tactics. Discussion covers family separation, large ICE deployments and controversial raids. The story moves from covert operations in Venezuela to ambitious hemispheric plans and even strategic claims like Greenland.
Feb 17, 2026 • 32min
“My best pal”: Mandelson and Epstein
Peter Mandelson, senior British political figure and former Labour cabinet minister, is discussed in depth. The conversation traces his abrupt sacking after his US appointment and examines newly revealed email exchanges and financial links with Jeffrey Epstein. It also explores Mandelson’s influence in Washington, the sharing of sensitive information, and the political fallout rippling through Labour.
Feb 10, 2026 • 43min
Mismatch: Bumble vs the men’s rights activists
Alan Candelore, a California men's rights activist and plaintiff-advocate in discrimination lawsuits. He discusses how legal pressure and Unruh Act claims targeted Bumble's women-make-the-first-move premise. The conversation traces a Super Bowl ad spark, mass arbitration tactics, product shifts like Opening Moves, and the business and cultural fallout that followed.
Feb 3, 2026 • 31min
Russia's shadow war at sea
Matt Russell, a reporter and producer at The Observer who investigated the shadow fleet, guides listeners through a vast network of tankers evading sanctions. He traces high‑stakes chases, changing ship identities, and the practical and legal obstacles to stopping them. Short scenes show sabotage risks, shifting routes and how these vessels quietly sustain a war.
9 snips
Jan 27, 2026 • 41min
The God complex: Part 2
Patient A, an anonymous survivor who was groomed and sexually abused by a medical professional as an adolescent. She recounts how messages, gifts and medical knowledge were used to blur boundaries and coerce her. The conversation covers courtroom and tribunal responses, police inaction, and calls for tougher sanctions and systemic reforms to protect patients.
Jan 22, 2026 • 41min
Archive: Peltz-Beckham: A super-wedding gone wrong
Brooklyn Beckham's public fallout with his parents traces back to a chaotic wedding with billionaire in-laws. A high-profile lawsuit over wedding planners reveals behind-the-scenes drama, miscommunication, and lavish expenses. As industry insiders weigh in, the event becomes a case study on celebrity culture and business dealings. The discussion highlights the pressures of living under public scrutiny, especially amidst familial tensions and a shift towards transparency in celebrity narratives.
9 snips
Jan 20, 2026 • 38min
The God complex: Part 1
Rachel Sylvester, Political editor and investigative reporter for The Observer, investigates a troubling case of sexual misconduct involving esteemed transplant surgeon James Gilbert. Joined by Alice and Grace, two anonymised surgeons, they recount harrowing experiences of harassment in the operating theatre. The discussion reveals a shocking culture of over-deference and systemic abuse, highlighting the psychological toll on victims and the weak institutional response. The consequences of power dynamics in surgery expose a deeper issue within the medical community.
Jan 16, 2026 • 2min
Introducing the new host of the Slow Newscast
A new era begins as Claudia Williams announces a shift in hosting roles at the show. Alexi Mostrous takes the reins, bringing a wealth of investigative experience. He shares exciting plans for future stories, diving into intriguing topics like dark fleets and designer babies. Alexi encourages listeners to share their feedback and story suggestions, aiming to make the show even more engaging. Stay tuned for fresh insights and captivating narratives from this dynamic new host!
Jan 13, 2026 • 42min
The Walkers: The real Salt Path
In a small Welsh town, a theft at an estate agency sets off a global intrigue. A tip leads to an investigation into Raina Wynne's bestseller, revealing emotional narratives of eviction and healing. An unexpected Hollywood adaptation stars Gillian Anderson, while deep deception around the author's origins unfolds. Financial troubles, missing funds, and an astonishing link to local figures raise community tensions. As the truth emerges, betrayal hits hard, and the fallout leaves both fans and locals reeling from the shock.
10 snips
Jan 6, 2026 • 45min
Donald Trump and Marjorie Taylor Greene: The MAGA divorce
In this podcast, investigative reporter Stephen Armstrong delves into the surprising fallout between Donald Trump and his once staunch ally, Marjorie Taylor Greene. He explores Greene's dramatic criticisms following Trump's actions regarding Venezuela, marking a potential rift in the MAGA movement. Armstrong recounts Greene’s shift from fervent support to opposition, her controversial past with QAnon, and the implications of her resignation. The conversation touches on the broader consequences for the GOP as it grapples with conspiracism and the evolving definition of MAGA.
