

Sensemaker
The Observer
The Sensemaker from The Observer - one story every day to make sense of the world.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

Nov 10, 2025 • 9min
Could Trump start a new nuclear arms race?
President Trump wants America to resume nuclear testing for the first time in 33 years. President Vladimir Putin hinted Russia might follow suit.Host: Tomini BabsWriter & Producer: Amalie SortlandEpisode Photography: Sofia FentonExecutive producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 7, 2025 • 8min
What does the renters rights act mean for tenants?
The renters rights act is the most momentous change to housing law since the 1980's, but what will it mean for the UK's 11 million renters? Writer: Ada BaruméProducer: Ada BaruméHost: Casey Magloire Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 6, 2025 • 9min
Zohran Mamdani: How to topple Trump
The young, charismatic socialist has swept to victory in the New York Mayoral election.Writer: Poppy BullardProducer: Amalie SortlandHost: Tomini BabsEpisode photography: Joe MeeExecutive Producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 5, 2025 • 8min
Will Rachel Reeves raise taxes?
This week Chancellor Rachel Reeves gave an unexpected and unprecedented speech just three weeks before the government’s annual Budget.Writer: Poppy BullardReporter: Rachel SylvesterProducer: Poppy BullardHost: Casey MagloireEpisode photography: Joe MeeExecutive Producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 4, 2025 • 7min
Is this the end of TV?
In 2026, the UK government will decide whether to end terrestrial TV.Host: Katie GunningWriter: Stephen ArmstrongProducer: Amalie SortlandEpisode Photography: Joe MeeExecutive producer: Matt Russell Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 3, 2025 • 7min
Why is there so much AI slop?
Bec Sander, a Data and Graphics Reporter at The Observer, dives into the captivating world of 'AI slop'—those viral yet low-quality AI-generated visuals flooding social media. She defines AI slop and highlights its appeal, from anthropomorphized animals to quirky political memes. The discussion also covers the launch of new video tools like OpenAI's Sora and Meta's Vibes, as well as the rising risks associated with deepfakes and the monetization strategies driving AI video content. Buckle up for a fascinating exploration of AI creativity gone wild!

Oct 31, 2025 • 10min
Why has the violence escalated in Sudan?
On Sunday rebel forces in Sudan captured the key city of el-Fasher. Reports suggest that tens of thousands of people were killed in a matter of days.Writer: Fred Harter.Producer: Casey MagloireHost: Tomini BabsEpisode photography: Joe MeeExecutive Producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 30, 2025 • 8min
How did climate change make Hurricane Melissa worse?
Freddie Otto, a climate science professor at Imperial College London, dives into the alarming intensification of Hurricane Melissa. He explains how human-induced climate change has made such extreme storms four times more likely. With insights from climate models, Otto describes the critical factors—ocean heat and atmospheric stability—that fueled Melissa's power. He highlights the unequal impacts on Jamaica, emphasizing the need for better preparedness and efficient aid for the most vulnerable communities after the hurricane's devastation.

Oct 29, 2025 • 9min
The Israeli settlers waiting to move in to Gaza
Daniel Levy, a former Israeli peace negotiator, offers insights into the controversial plans of a small group of Israeli settlers eager to move into Gaza. He discusses the implications of these settlements on peace efforts and the support from influential political movements. Levy highlights how settlers employ strategies like land confiscation and infrastructure development to secure their presence. He also warns that continued Israeli control could lead to permanent settlements, raising concerns for local Palestinians amid shifting political dynamics.

Oct 28, 2025 • 9min
Are ultra-processed foods making us ill?
Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) make up more than half of all the food we eat in the UK and there are increasing fears about the implications for our health. Host: Ada BaruméWriter & Producer: Amalie SortlandEpisode Photography: Sofia FentonExecutive producer: Katie Gunning Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


