This Is Why
Sky News
The world’s a pretty confusing place right now – so how do you make sense of it all? This Is Why takes one story every day, explains how we got here and why it matters to you.
Sky News’ Niall Paterson speaks to experts and correspondents from around the world, getting simple answers to some complex questions.
Available every weekday afternoon.
This Is Why is a Sky News podcast – if you have a question, contact us: why@sky.uk
Sky News’ Niall Paterson speaks to experts and correspondents from around the world, getting simple answers to some complex questions.
Available every weekday afternoon.
This Is Why is a Sky News podcast – if you have a question, contact us: why@sky.uk
Episodes
Mentioned books
Mar 27, 2026 • 20min
Why is NASA going back to the moon?
Thomas Moore, Sky News science and medical correspondent, explains mission mechanics and astronaut health. Tom Clarke, Sky News science and technology editor, outlines technical, political and program risks. They discuss Artemis II’s test flight profile, free‑return trajectory, life aboard the capsule, radiation protection, contractors and the geopolitical push to return to the Moon.
Mar 26, 2026 • 18min
Why your fake fashion is funding organised crime
Sarah Woodcock, CEO of The Anti-Slavery Collective, exposes forced labour in supply chains. Katerina Vittozzi, Sky News North of England correspondent, reveals where and how fake fashion is sold. They discuss the market’s huge scale, influencer-driven demand, production hubs, links to organised crime, enforcement gaps and the human cost of counterfeit goods.
Mar 25, 2026 • 19min
Why are people betting on war?
Sam Doak, a Sky News data and forensics investigator specialising in open-source intelligence, betting markets and conflict reporting. He explains how crypto prediction markets work and why people trade on wars and political violence. He explores anonymity, possible insider information, pressure on journalists, and the ethical and legal concerns around monetising real-world conflict.
Mar 24, 2026 • 18min
Why the UK's efforts to tackle antisemitism have fallen short
Dr Dave Rich, Director of Policy at the Community Security Trust and antisemitism expert, gives concise analysis and incident figures. He discusses the spike in anti-Jewish incidents since October 7. He explores why antisemitic speech feels more acceptable, the role of social media, and how security measures are changing Jewish public life.
Mar 23, 2026 • 20min
Why the UK needs to be wary of Iranian retaliation
Michael Clarke, defence analyst and security academic, explains Iran's missile capabilities and limits. He assesses whether Tehran can realistically reach the UK. He outlines Britain’s air-defence gaps, vulnerable overseas bases, proxy threats like the Houthis and Hezbollah, and rising cyber and terrorism risks. The conversation urges clearer national defence planning.
Mar 20, 2026 • 16min
Why comedians want the UK 'Saturday Night Live'
Rosie Holt, comedian and writer known for satirical social-media sketches, and Jon Schneider, SNL historian and podcast creator, discuss SNL UK. They explore SNL's format and lore, the role of hosts and talent-spotting, how British humour might reshape the show, and whether a live sketch revival can boost TV comedy and new performers.
Mar 19, 2026 • 16min
Why Gen Z is giving up alcohol
Kate Nicholls, chair of UKHospitality, explains how pubs are reshaping menus and experiences for moderation. Millie Gooch, sober curious influencer and founder of Sober Girl Society, shares why she quit alcohol and how she builds boozeless social scenes. They discuss Gen Z’s shift to low/no-alcohol drinks, the rise of sober events and how venues can stay profitable while catering to clearer-headed customers.
Mar 18, 2026 • 19min
'Why wasn’t the UK ready for Iran war?' Michael Clarke answers your questions
Professor Michael Clarke, an experienced military analyst and academic, answers listener questions on Iran and UK defence. He discusses the Strait of Hormuz as a geopolitical pressure point. He explains why the UK had so few ships ready and the limits on HMS Dragon’s readiness. He explores how drones, robotics and lasers are reshaping warfare and whether US commitments to NATO can be relied on.
Mar 17, 2026 • 16min
Why help with energy bills could come at a cost
Ed Conway, Sky News data and economics editor, breaks down national debt, energy prices and the fiscal trade offs of a new bailout. He walks through supply shocks from the Iran conflict and how high oil and gas could go. He weighs political pressure for universal cuts against targeted support and warns short-term bailouts can saddle future taxpayers.
Mar 16, 2026 • 19min
Why are young people still dying from meningitis?
Thomas Moore, Sky News science and technology correspondent, explains how meningitis spreads and the clinical picture. Dr Tom Nutt, CEO of Meningitis Now, outlines outbreaks, prevention and vaccination policy. They discuss rapid progression and sepsis risk. They cover symptom recognition, why harmless carriage can turn dangerous, and why adolescent MenB vaccination is not routinely provided.
