

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

Apr 2, 2024 • 24min
Putin's murders: A culture of political murder - episode 1
The chilling culture of political murder in Russia is dissected, revealing how Vladimir Putin's rise was marked by fear and violence. The podcast uncovers the mysterious deaths of his opponents and the brutal regime silencing dissent. It dives into the 1999 apartment bombings that propelled Putin to power and his deep connections to organized crime and the KGB. The discussion highlights the ideological roots of political violence in Russia and the complex relationship between authoritarianism and domestic support.

Mar 26, 2024 • 47min
Dangerous games: Red Bull's killer PR
Explore Red Bull's controversial role in mainstreaming extreme sports, raising ethical concerns about safety and accountability. Delve into tragic fatalities in base jumping and skydiving, highlighting the lack of regulation. Discover the sponsorship dilemma in extreme sports, touching on the pressures faced by athletes to engage in risky behaviors for corporate sponsorships.

Mar 22, 2024 • 46min
The State of Netanyahu: The Failure - episode 3
Donald Macintyre investigates Benjamin Netanyahu's leadership from 2023 to present day. Topics include Netanyahu's strategic use of Hamas, escalating political turmoil in Israel, global outcry over Palestinian casualties, and legacy of despair in Israel.

4 snips
Mar 21, 2024 • 52min
The State of Netanyahu: The Magician - episode 2
Explore Obama's impact on Israel, tensions with Netanyahu, urgency to prevent Iran's nuclear weapons, Palestinian divisions, Netanyahu's diplomatic maneuvers, and future plans. Plus, insights on Iran deal, U.S. embassy move, and podcast recommendations.

Mar 19, 2024 • 43min
The State of Netanyahu: Mr Right - episode 1
Exploring Netanyahu's political impact in Israel, his resistance to a Palestinian state, and his controversial leadership amid turmoil and tragic events. Delving into internal party division, power dynamics, and strategies of key figures in Israeli politics.

Mar 12, 2024 • 34min
Broking Bad
Exploring the dark side of brokerage firms in the City, this podcast delves into the culture of excess and bad behavior. It uncovers shocking incidents, financial scandals, regulatory concerns, pressure faced by brokers, and the rebuilding efforts post-9/11. With a mix of intrigue and humor, this podcast sheds light on the hidden world of finance.

Mar 5, 2024 • 36min
Anna Wintour: The last Editor
Anna Wintour is one of the most important people in fashion. She is arguably one of the world's most influential and powerful people. A brand in her own right. But aged 74 and tasked with saving a global legacy media company in a digital age, is this a step too far for the last great editor?To find out more about Tortoise:Download the Tortoise app - for a listening experience curated by our journalistsSubscribe to Tortoise+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free contentBecome a member and get access to all of Tortoise's premium audio offerings and moreIf you want to get in touch with us directly about a story, or tell us more about the stories you want to hear about contact hello@tortoisemedia.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 27, 2024 • 38min
Who Trolled Amber?
Investigating the trolling campaign against Amber Heard amidst the Depp v Heard trial. Ex-Spy delves into online sleuthing. Unveiling toxic social media hate campaigns and legal challenges. Discussion on court judgment and upcoming legal battles. Exploring social media influence on trials and organized attacks on Amber Heard's career.

Feb 20, 2024 • 38min
A hidden hell: the prison for children
In a town in Kent, there is a place where vulnerable and volatile boys are locked away for "days on end", where weapons are widespread and living conditions are dire. All on the government's watch. This is the story of the chaos behind locked doors.To find out more about Tortoise:Download the Tortoise app - for a listening experience curated by our journalistsSubscribe to Tortoise+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free contentBecome a member and get access to all of Tortoise's premium audio offerings and moreIf you want to get in touch with us directly about a story, or tell us more about the stories you want to hear about contact hello@tortoisemedia.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 16, 2024 • 34min
The trials of Alexei Navalny
This episode was first published in March 2022. In early 2021 Alexei Navalny and his wife, Yulia Navalnaya returned to Russia where a year earlier he had been poisoned with Novichok nerve agent. It was a decision that likely led directly to his death. On arrival in Moscow Alexei and Yulia were separated. He was detained, put on trial and ended up in one of Russia’s toughest penal colonies where he died. This is their story.To find out more about Tortoise:Download the Tortoise app - for a listening experience curated by our journalistsSubscribe to Tortoise+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free contentBecome a member and get access to all of Tortoise's premium audio offerings and moreIf you want to get in touch with us directly about a story, or tell us more about the stories you want to hear about contact hello@tortoisemedia.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


