The Story

It’s the Makerfield by-election on June 18th and one of Keir Starmer’s key challengers - Mayor of Manchester Andy Burnham - is vying for a seat. If he becomes the MP it’ll enable him to challenge Starmer for the top job. Elsewhere there’s a battle on the right as Reform and Restore Britain face off. But who's got the best chance of success, in this complicated constituency that’s more than meets the eye? This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestory Guest: Darryl Morris, presenter, Times Radio.Host: Luke Jones. Producer: Olivia Case. We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.comRead more: Who are the Makerfield constituents that could choose the next PM?Further listening: Fordingbridge rape victim: “I’m the one being punished”Clips: Restore Britain / Instagram, BBC, The Guardian, Mayor of Manchester / YouTube, @andy.burnham / TikTok, Reform UK. Photo: Getty Images.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 4 June 2026

An alleged expletive-filled phone call between Donald Trump and Benjamin Netanyahu has laid bare deep tensions over the war in Lebanon. As the conflict escalates, could it derail Trump's hopes of securing a deal with Iran? This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestory Guests: Dr Lina Khatib, Associate fellow at the Middle East and North Africa Programme, Chatham House. George Grylls, Washington Correspondent, The Times.Host: Manveen Rana.Producers: Dave Creasey and Colette Fountain.We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.comRead more: ‘Everybody hates Israel’, Trump allegedly tells Netanyahu in angry callFurther listening: Is Lebanon the key to peace in the Middle East?Clips: CNN.Photo: Getty Images.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 3 June 2026

A student, Henry Nowak, who had been stabbed repeatedly told police “I can’t breathe” as they handcuffed him minutes before he died, newly-released bodycam footage has revealed. His attacker, Vickrum Digwa, falsely alleged that Nowak had racially abused him and knocked his turban off, prompting police to handcuff the teenager. This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestory Guest: Oli Wright, policy editor, The Times.Host: John Pienaar.Producers: Sandra Mitchell, Sofia JohansonWe want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.com Read more: Police officers face death threats over Henry Nowak murder caseClips: Parliament TV, Nigel Farage, Good Morning Britain.Photo: Courtesy of Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 2 June 2026

On Monday, the government released more than a thousand documents related to Peter Mandelson’s controversial appointment as ambassador to the US. It’s one of the largest publications of secret documents to parliament in UK history. The files contain insights into how Mandelson operated and what he, and ministers, really thought of the prime minister. So what does all this mean for the embattled Keir Starmer?  This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestory Guest: Steven Swinford, political editor, The Times. Host: Manveen Rana. Producers: Micaela Arneson, Sophie McNulty. We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.com Read more: Mandelson files release: ministers prepare for day of humiliation Further listening: When Andrew met MandelsonClips: Parliament.tv. This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 2 June 2026

As AI continues to grow, its innovators have warned of its potential impact on jobs. Meanwhile, young people in the UK are facing record levels of unemployment. Fearing for his own teenage daughter’s future, one Microsoft veteran has taken matters into his own hands and used data to identify the most AI-proof jobs. This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestory Guests: Babith Bhoopalan, creator, AI Career Playbook.Thea Babith.Host: Luke Jones.Producers: Colette Fountain.We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.comRead more:My daughter wants a career that survives AI — so I ranked them Answered by an expert, the AI career questions every parent asksPhoto: Chona Kasinger for The Times.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 1 June 2026

Gisèle Pelicot has become a symbol of dignity, courage and defiance after waiving her anonymity and insisting her trial — in which dozens of men were accused of raping her while she was drugged unconscious by her husband — be held in public. In a rare interview, she speaks to Jane Garvey about why she no longer wants to be defined as a victim. This episode originally aired on Off Air with Jane an Fi on 26th May 2026. This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestory Host: Jane GarveyProducers: Dave Creasey, Eve Salusbury and Rosie Cutler.Further reading: Gisèle Pelicot: Pornography is a scourge on childhoodWe want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.comPhoto: Getty ImagesThis podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 31 May 2026

Pressures of migrant parents, the shackles of family expectation, and the urge to reinvent yourself in 90s Britain - all themes that connect writer Sathnam Sanghera with George Michael. Growing up in Wolverhampton as the son of Sikh immigrants, Sanghera was a teenage Wham obsessive, later finding unexpected parallels with the pop star’s life, and his own. This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestory Read by: Sathnam Sanghera, contributor, The Times.Producer: Dave Creasey.Further reading: Sathnam Sanghera: how George Michael changed my lifeWe want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.comClips: BBC, CNN, ITV. Faith - George Michael.Photo: Robert Wilson for the Times magazine.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 30 May 2026

As discussions - and tensions - rumble on in the Middle East, what are the stumbling blocks that have prevented a peace deal so far? And the Makerfield by-election which could help decide our next prime minister is fast approaching; we’ve got all you need to know on both topics, in our monthly Q&A. This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestory Hosts: Manveen Rana and Luke Jones. Producer: Olivia Case. We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.comRead more: Israel bombs ancient sites as it pushes deeper into southern LebanonFurther listening: Is Trump being out-negotiated over Iran?Clip: BBC.Photo: Getty Images.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 29 May 2026

In January last year, a 14 year old girl we’re calling Olivia, was attacked by three boys in Fordingbridge in Hampshire. Two were aged 14 and one just 13 years old. One of the boys raped her while the other two filmed the attack. Just two months earlier, the older boys had attacked another girl in an underpass in the same town.  The three boys were convicted of ten rape charges related to the two attacks. But they were given rehabilitation orders rather than jail time. It’s a decision which has sparked outrage. On Tuesday, the Prime Minister announced their sentence will now be reviewed.  Now, Olivia and her family have spoken to The Times about the trauma they've experienced and what they hope will happen next.  This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestory Guest: Jessica Sharkey, crime correspondent, The Times.Host: Manveen Rana.Producers: Sophie McNulty, Harry Stott, Micaela Arneson.We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.com Read more: Fordingbridge rape victim: I feel like I’m the one being punishedFurther listening: She convicted her rapist years after her deathClips: Channel 5 News, ITN, BBC, The Times. Photo: Getty Images.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 28 May 2026

Iranian officials remain in Qatar, negotiating the details of a possible peace plan for the region. Discussions continue even after American strikes hit targets in southern Iran late on Monday. So, is peace actually within reach? What’s really on the table? And after months of escalation and bluster, could President Trump end up the biggest loser in all of this? This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestory Guest: Michael Stephens, senior associate fellow, RAND Europe and RUSI. Host: Manveen Rana. Producers: Sophie McNulty, Micaela Arneson. We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.com Read more: Trump’s Iran peace deal will come with strings attachedFurther listening: How did Pakistan become the peacemakers?Clips: The White House, CNN, Channel 4 News, NBC News, Fox News. Photo: Getty Images.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 27 May 2026

A leaked Pentagon memo suggesting the US could withdraw support for British sovereignty over the Falkland Islands has thrust the remote territory back into the global spotlight. The controversy revived memories of war in 1982, when the Argentinian junta attempted to assert their own claim to the islands. The scars of that conflict are still deeply felt – so could US statements renew fears of invasion? And what is life like for islanders today? This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestory Guest: Matthew Campbell, foreign features editor, The Times and Sunday Times.Host: Luke Jones.Producers: Julia Webster and Sophie McNulty.We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.com Read more: The Falkland Islands are richer than Britain, but anxiety’s in the airFurther listening: Why Svalbard could be in Putin’s sightsClips: Sky News, C5N, BBC.Photo: Sunday Times photographer Jack Hill.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 26 May 2026

With the manosphere in mainstream, make way for the "femosphere". A movement urging women to rethink love entirely. Less romance and more strategy, no splitting the bill and no over-investing emotionally. But is it a bleak vision of dating, or the future of feminism? This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestory Guests: Sarah Ditum, contributor, The Times.Host: Luke Jones.Producer: Dave CreaseyWe want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.comRead more: No hook-ups and men must pay: inside the femosphereClips: The Female Dating Strategy, CNN.Photo: Getty Images.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 25 May 2026

Sue Firth did all she could to bring the man who raped her to justice. Within hours of the assault, in the early morning of September 7 1985, she had reported it to police. A manhunt ensued, but yielded nothing. In 1997, aged 39, Firth died. But this was not the end of her story. Three decades after her death, all that she did on the night of the attack has helped to convict her rapist.  This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestory Please be advised that this episode contains discussions of rape. If you or someone you know has been affected by anything in this podcast, help is available. Rape Crisis England & Wales is the feminist charity working to end child sexual abuse, rape, sexual assault, sexual harassment and all other forms of sexual violence.Call our free 24/7 Support Line on 0808 500 2222 or chat online at 247sexualabusesupport.org.uk. Guests: Martin Sills, brother of Susan FirthRobert Varey, former detective sergeant, South Yorkshire Police.Dave Stopfort, head of Major Incident Review team, South Yorkshire Police.Host: Lottie Hayton.Producer: Taryn Siegel.Further reading: Sue died in 1997 — and got her rapist convicted in 2026We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.com Photo: Courtesy of Martin Sills.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 24 May 2026

Former contestants on Married At First Sight this week made serious allegations of rape and sexual misconduct. All men accused deny any wrong doing. For TV producer and writer Daisy Goodwin, creator of shows like Grand Designs and Victoria, it’s another sign that reality TV is losing its grip, with people getting hurt. So how did we get here? Ready by: Daisy Goodwin, TV producer and writer for The Times.Producer: Dave Creasey.We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.comRead more: I made reality TV shows — they are even more extreme nowClips: C4, BBC.Photo: Getty ImagesThis podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 23 May 2026

Two significant developments surround the story of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor. First, detectives investigating Andrew could examine allegations of sexual misconduct and corruption as part of their inquiry into potential misconduct in public office. Andrew has not been charged and denies all wrongdoing. Secondly, newly released government files show that it was the late Queen’s wish for Andrew to take on the prominent trade envoy role now under scrutiny. On The Royals podcast, Roya Nikkhah is joined by The Sunday Times’s Whitehall correspondent Katie Tarrant to discuss the latest police developments and unpack the government files. We also hear from Fiona Hamilton, chief news correspondent for The Times, on the Thames Valley Police briefing.  Producer: Robert Wallace.Executive Producer: Priyanka Deladia.Read more: The Andrew files - read the documents in fullImage: Getty.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 22 May 2026

For decades, Pakistan was viewed by Western leaders with deep suspicion. They were accused of taking billions in US counter terrorism funding, while allegedly harbouring Taliban networks at the same time – even Osama Bin Laden himself. Now, that same country finds itself at the centre of efforts to broker peace between the US and Iran. So how did Pakistan pull off one of the most dramatic geopolitical reinventions of the modern era? And who's side are they really on? This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestory Guests: Christina Lamb, chief foreign correspondent, The Sunday Times.Host: Luke Jones.Producer: Dave Creasey & Harry Stott.We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.comRead more: Pakistan’s PM is ecstatic to be US-Iran peacemaker. Not everyone agreesClips: BBC, CNN.Photo: Getty ImagesThis podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 22 May 2026

With Sir Keir Starmer’s premiership on the brink, the revolving door of Number 10 feels like it has never been more pronounced. But is this true? Why is Britain burning through leaders at record speed? And has the country become fundamentally ungovernable? This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestory Guest: Josh Glancy, associate editor, The Sunday TimesHost: Luke JonesProducer: Sophie McNulty, Colette FountainWe want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.com Read more: Seven PMs in ten years? How British politics got into this messFurther listening: Labour’s Brexit conundrum Clips:  BBC, 10 Downing Street - YouTube, The Guardian, Keir Starmer - Facebook, The Independent, Times Radio, Pharos Foundation, UK ParliamentPhoto: Getty Images. This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 21 May 2026

A new Ebola outbreak, driven by a rare strain of the virus, has struck the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda. The rapid rise in cases and deaths suggests that the virus had been circulating for some time before the alarm was raised. So why wasn’t it detected sooner? And have recent international aid cuts made us more vulnerable to outbreaks of infectious diseases?  This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestory Guest: Paul Hunter, professor in medicine, University of East Anglia. Host: Manveen Rana.Producers: Micaela Arneson, Julia Webster.We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.com Read more: ‘There are bodies everywhere’: ghost of ebola returns to haunt CongoFurther listening: How the hantavirus cruise ship nightmare unfolded - The Saturday StoryClips: PBS, AFP.Photo: Getty Images. This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 20 May 2026

Andy Burnham, a potential leadership challenger to Sir Keir Starmer as PM, has said that re-running Brexit arguments is "the last thing we should do right now" after Wes Streeting put the EU back on the agenda. Ahead of one of the most significant by-elections in recent political history, could the Brexit debate define the future of the Labour party, as well as the country at large?  This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestory Guest: Max Kendix, political correspondent for The TimesJoe Twyman, founder and director of DeltapollHost: Manveen RanaProducers: Julia Webster and Harry StottWe want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.com Read more: Keir Starmer latest: Wes Streeting’s EU stance ‘an attempt to derail Andy Burnham’Further listening:  Labour at warClips: BBC, Manchester Evening News, The Guardian Photo: Shaun Parkinson and Getty Images.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 18 May 2026

The Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard is home to a Russian settlement where signs are in cyrillic and inhabitants pay for their groceries in rubles. It’s also at the heart of the scramble between global powers for resources, so as the Arctic sea ice melts opening up the region, could Svalbard become the next geopolitical flashpoint? This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestory Guest: Matthew Campbell, foreign features editor, The Sunday Times.Host: Manveen Rana.Producers: Harry Stott and Edward Drummond.We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.com Read more: Polar bears, spy stations and Lenin: life on the Norwegian island in Putin’s sightsClips: Forces News, Russia 1.Photo: Jack Hill/The Times. This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 18 May 2026

This year’s Sunday Times Rich List offers a revealing snapshot of modern Britain’s fortunes, from the Gallagher brothers returning after their sell-out comeback shows, to David and Victoria Beckham officially joining the billionaire club. But beyond the celebrity headlines lies a much bigger story: Britain’s accelerating wealth exodus, as billionaires, investors and entrepreneurs increasingly move overseas. What’s driving the rich out of Britain and what could it mean for the country’s future? This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestory Guest: Robert Watts, Rich List compiler, The Sunday Times.Host: Manveen Rana.Producer: Dave Creasey.We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.comRead more: The Sunday Times Rich List 2026 revealedIllustration: Emanuel Santos for The Sunday Times MagazineThis podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 17 May 2026

The luxury cruise ship, MV Hondius, became a floating nightmare when passengers aboard the contracted hantavirus, leaving three people dead and triggering an international emergency response. But what really happened? And could the outbreak have been contained sooner? This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestory Read by: Shabnam Grewal.Producer: Dave Creasey.We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.comRead more: Death on the hantavirus cruise ship: how a hellish month unfoldedPhoto: Getty Images.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 16 May 2026

The Labour psychodrama continues. Wes Streeting resigned as health secretary on Thursday afternoon, stating that it was clear Sir Keir Starmer would not lead the Labour Party into the next general election. However he has not yet triggered a leadership contest. Meanwhile, Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, said he’ll plan to run for a parliamentary seat in a by-election. So, where does this leave the party? And what will happen next? This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestory Guest: Lara Spirit, deputy political editor, The Sunday TimesHost: Manveen RanaProducers: Sophie McNulty, Harry BlighWe want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.com Read more: Keir Starmer latest - live pageFurther listening: What the hell’s going on in Westminster? Clips: Sky News, BBC, C4 News, Times RadioPhoto: Getty Images.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 15 May 2026

Donald Trump is in Beijing for his much-anticipated trip to see President Xi - the leaders meet today. But with the US seemingly stuck in a frozen conflict in the Middle East, does Xi see Trump as a lame duck? Will he help Trump persuade Iran to end the war or could the conflict embolden Xi’s pursuit of Taiwan? And how could the trip affect the Asian pivot away from the USA and towards China?This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestory Guests:Professor Rana Mitter, S.T. Lee Professor of U.S.-Asia Relations, Harvard.Richard Spencer, China correspondent, The Times.Host: Manveen Rana. Producer: Olivia Case. We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.comRead more: Summit of the superpowers: what’s on the agenda for Trump and Xi?Further listening: The end of the ceasefire in Iran…..or notClips: CNA, Fox, Reuters, Al Jazeera, Richard Nixon Foundation / YouTube. Photo: Getty Images.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 14 May 2026

This morning the Times broke the news that Wes Streeting had told allies he was preparing to resign as Health Secretary tomorrow to trigger a leadership contest. The story emerged just ahead of the King’s arrival in Westminster for the state opening of parliament. What do we know now? And what does this mean for Starmer’s future? This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestory Guests:  Anna Mikhailova, political editor, Times RadioAubrey Allegretti, chief political editor, The Times Host: John Pienaar, Manveen RanaProducers: Sandra Mitchell, Harry Bligh We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.com Read more: Keir Starmer latest - live pagePhoto: Getty Images.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 13 May 2026

As Keir Starmer clings on to his premiership, there’s one man continuing his victory laps. Nigel Farage’s party Reform UK was the big winner in last week’s local elections, picking up more than 1,450 council seats. So, what’s behind this? Is this just a blip – or the start of a new phase of British politics? This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestory Guest: Lara Spirit, deputy political editor, The Sunday Times.Host: Luke Jones.Producers: Callum Martin, Sophie McNulty.We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.com Read more: New Reform councillor suspended after racist posts emergeFurther listening: “Keir Starmer couldn’t run a bath.” What next for Labour?Clips: BBC, Manchester Evening News, LBC, Reform UK, APT. Photo: Getty Images.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 13 May 2026

An extraordinary day in British politics: Keir Starmer vows to fight on, but the resignations keep on coming. How long can the prime minister survive? What's next, and who will move first? Wes Streeting has one shot: will he take it? What is Andy Burnham's plan? Recorded at Temple Church as part of the Fleet Street Quarter Festival of Words. Hosts:Steven Swinford, political editor, The TimesPatrick Maguire, chief political commentator, The TimesGabriel Pogrund, editor of Insight, The Sunday Times Producers: Euan Dawtrey, Harry KitsonExecutive producer: Molly GuinnessPicture credit: Getty Images  This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 12 May 2026

Republican voters across the United States are rejecting ultra-processed foods, marking a striking political and cultural shift. But, how did the ‘bread basket of America’ get so ultra-processed in the first place? And is this the moment Big Food faces a reckoning? This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestory Guest: Louise Callaghan, Americas correspondent, The Sunday TimesHost: Luke JonesProducer: Sophie McNultyWe want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.com Read more: How Maga fell out of love with fast foodFurther listening: The momfluencers embracing ‘Make America Healthy Again’Clips: Robert F Kennedy Jr. - YouTube, The White House, Fox News, Charles McCall - Instagram, The Internet Archive, US National Archives, Pringles - YouTube. Photo: Getty Images.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 12 May 2026

More than 50 MPs have publicly urged Keir Starmer either to resign immediately or set out a timetable for his departure as PM, after he made a speech this morning attempting to save his premiership after last week’s disastrous election results. So has he done enough to prove the doubters wrong for now? This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestory Guests:  Anna Mikhailova, political editor, Times Radio.Steve Reed, Housing Secretary.Host: John Pienaar.Producer: Edward Drummond, Sandra Mitchell.We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.com Read more: Rebel MP gathers names calling for resignationPhoto: Getty Images. This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 11 May 2026

Labour suffered historic losses in Thursday’s elections, triggering dozens of the party’s MPs to call for Keir Starmer’s resignation. And yet, even with the party in disarray, the PM has so far remained defiant. So, can he survive? And what do the election results tell us about the country’s political future?  This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestory Guest: Aubrey Allegretti, chief political correspondent, The TimesHost: Manveen RanaProducers: Sophie McNulty, Dave CreaseyWe want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.com Read more: Challenge Keir Starmer by Monday or I will, Labour MP tells cabinetFurther listening: Reform shake Labour to its coreClips: BBC, ITN, Times Radio, The TimesPhoto: Getty Images.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 11 May 2026

Amanda Knox was at the centre of one of the most gruesome murders and sensationalised trials of the 21st century. Accused of killing her flatmate, she transformed into a global media obsession almost overnight. Now, nearly two decades later, she’s turning that experience into an Edinburgh Fringe comedy show. Is it brave, morally questionable, or both? This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestory Guest: Helen Rumbelow, feature writer, The Times.Host: Manveen Rana.Producer: Dave Creasey.We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.comRead more: Amanda Knox: Why I’ve turned my life into an Edinburgh comedy showClips: ABC, CNN, BBC News, Sky News.Photo: Getty Images.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 10 May 2026

Very few people get to see David Attenborough behind the scenes. Tony Lee Moral did, starting out as a young researcher alongside him at Bristol’s legendary Natural History Unit. As Attenborough turns 100, what's it like to observe him in his natural habitat? Tony reflects on the charm, curiosity, exacting standards and quiet humanity that made him such a remarkable person to work with. This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestory Read by: Tony Lee Moral.Producer: Dave Creasey.We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.comRead more: David Attenborough at 100 — we’ve been lucky to watch him roam this planetClips: BBC.Photo: Getty Images.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 9 May 2026

For now, the Prime Minister Keir Starmer vows to stay as the Reform leader Nigel Farage calls this a “truly historic shift in British politics”. Steven and Lara caught up at the Times office in Westminster just after 4pm to unpack the results from England’s local council and mayoral elections, alongside national contests in Scotland and Wales, as Reform and the Greens surge and Labour suffer huge losses. Hosts:Steven Swinford, political editor, The TimesLara Spirit, deputy political editor, The Sunday Times Producers: Euan Dawtrey, Harry KitsonPicture credit: Getty ImagesThis podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 8 May 2026

In Moscow, preparations are complete for tomorrow’s Victory Day celebrations. This year’s military parade will be pared back amid fears of Ukrainian drone strikes. So as the country marks its biggest celebration in muted style, five years into a grinding war, how are Russians feeling about their government and the economy? And what’s been the true impact of the war in Iran? This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestory Guest: Alexander Gabuev, director, Carnegie Russia Eurasia Centre.Host: Rosie Wright.Producer: Callum Martin.We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.comRead more: No tanks or missiles at Russia’s scaled-back Victory Day paradeFurther listening: The descent into madness under PutinClips: YouTube, Times Now World, France24, FreakiAhhMilitary, APT, Daily Express.Photo: Getty Images.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 8 May 2026

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and Peter Mandelson’s relationship with Jeffrey Epstein has been poured over by the press – but what about their relationship with one another? New Times reporting reveals they met for the first time in 1999 at an NSPCC charity event, and continued a mutually advantageous relationship for a decade. So how do the people who brought them together feel about it now? And what can it tell us about how power works in the upper echelons of British society? This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestory Guest: Hugo Daniel, general news reporter, The Sunday Times.Host: Manveen Rana.Producers: Harry Stott.We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.comRead more: Revealed: When Andrew first met Peter MandelsonFurther listening: Starmer strikes back over Mandelson vetting scandalClips: Getty, The Lost Media Archive / Youtube, ITN.Photo: Getty Images.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 7 May 2026

This episode was recorded before the latest announcement from President Trump pausing 'Project Freedom'. Earlier this week President Trump launched his latest move in the Iran war... 'Project Freedom' was designed to get ships through the Strait of Hormuz under US military escort. But Iran said the plan meant the US was breaking the ceasefire and the two countries began trading missiles again. The UAE’s been hit too, at a time when it's increasingly turning to Israel for help. So how will the new allegiances being formed in fire reshape the region? Where are negotiations up to? And is there any hope of peace? This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestory Guest: Michael Stephens, consultant and senior associate fellow at the Royal United Services Institute and fellow at RAND Europe. Host: Manveen Rana. Producers: Olivia Case and Sophie McNulty. We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.comRead more: Iran war latest: Hegseth says ceasefire holds but US ‘locked and loaded’Further listening: Is political violence America’s new normal?Clips: Fox, Hugh Hewitt / YouTube.    Photo: Getty Images.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 6 May 2026

This week Scottish voters will head to the polls for the Holyrood parliamentary elections. To understand what's on people's minds, we visited Motherwell - a town where, for decades, Labour used to dominate. This year Labour appear to be haemorrhaging support across Scotland and may even fall to third place. And an unlikely party is emerging from the fallout. This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestory Guests:Ross Thomson, editor, Wishaw PressRichard Bolton, community development officer, Forgewood Housing CooperativePaul Murphy, corporate services office, Forgewood Housing CooperativeJustin Parkes, industrial history curator, North Lanarkshire Council MuseumsHost: Manveen Rana.Producers: Taryn SiegelWe want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.com Further listening: Is Labour facing a bloodbath in Wales?Photo: Getty Images.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 5 May 2026

NHS spending has reached record highs and shows no sign of slowing down. The government poured in £205 billion last year, yet waiting lists remain stubbornly high and patient satisfaction is at an all time low. So where is all the money going? And if spending isn’t the solution, what is? This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestory Guests: Eleanor Hayward, Health Editor, The Times.Tom Calver, Data Editor, The Times and The Sunday Times.Host: Luke Jones.Producers: Callum Martin and Micaela Arneson. We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.com Read more: Why doesn’t ever-growing money seem to improve the NHSFurther listening: Is your sofa toxic?Clips: BBC, The Guardian, Rishi Sunak / LinkedIn, The Sun, Reuters, The British Library, The Department of Health and Social Care.Photo: Getty ImagesThis podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 4 May 2026

At his peak, Carl Hayman was widely regarded as the world's best tighthead prop. Then, in 2021, at just 41, he was diagnosed with early-onset dementia and probable CTE, a disease he believes was caused by the sport he loves, and one that has torn his life apart. In this intimate and devastating interview with David Walsh, Carl describes what happened, what he’s doing for the players who come after him, and what concussion means for rugby’s future.  The final part of a two-part special investigation into the crisis facing this global game. You can listen to part one here. This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestory Guest: Carl HaymanHost: David Walsh, chief sports writer, The Sunday TimesProducer: Sophie McNultyWe want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.com Read more: Two best friends, two suicides. How did rugby let this happen?Further listening: Can rugby survive its head injury problem?Photo: Getty Images.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 3 May 2026

Marriage rates are at their lowest since 1850, and it's predicted by 2050 just 3 in 10 of us will have tied the knot. Cohabiting is now the fastest-growing family type in the UK. So what’s happening? Feminism, atheism, a mistrust of state intervention, or just an old fashion 'trend' dying out? And should cohabiting couples get the same rights as married ones? This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestory Read by:Hannah Betts, features writer, The Times.Will Roe, executive producer, The Story.Producer: Dave Creasey.We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.com Read more: Why I will never get marriedPhoto: Robert Wilson for The Times MagazineThis podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 2 May 2026

Could Thursday’s local elections herald the end of two party politics in England? Labour are expected to lose heavily to parties on the left and right. So how bad would it need to be for the party to replace the prime minister? This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestory Guests: Joe Twyman, co-founder and director, DeltaPoll Lara Spirit, deputy political editor, The Sunday Times.Host: Luke Jones. Producers: Micaela Arneson. We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.com Read more: Angela Rayner weighs leadership challenge after local electionsFurther listening: ‘The punishment election’: Is Labour facing a bloodbath in Wales? Clip: Daily Express. Photo: Getty Images This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 1 May 2026

Police have declared a terrorist incident after two Jewish men were stabbed in Golders Green. The suspect, Essa Suleiman, is in custody and the two men are stable. Plenty of questions remain as the Jewish community reels from the latest in a series of antisemitic incidents. How can Jewish communities be protected?  This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestory Guests:Matt Dathan, home affairs editor, The Times.Neil Basu, former head of UK counterterrorism policing.Host: Callum MartinProducers: Callum Martin, Olivia Case, Elizabeth Highfield, Sandra Mitchell.We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.comRead more: What happened in Golders Green? How London stabbing attack unfoldedFurther listening: “They tried to firebomb my synagogue”: The rise in antisemitic attacksPhoto: Getty ImagesThis podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 30 April 2026

Sir Keir Starmer has dodged a bullet on the Mandelson vetting scandal but did he expend too much political capital in the process? With local elections around the corner he’s not out of the woods yet, so what can we expect from next week's results? And more than 60 days into the Iran war, Trump has proclaimed there's 'No more Mr. Nice Guy' - so are we about to see renewed military action from the USA? Hosts Manveen Rana and Luke Jones are here to answer your questions in our monthly Q&A. This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestory Hosts: Manveen Rana and Luke Jones. Guest: Aubrey Allegretti, chief political correspondent, The Times.Producers: Olivia Case and Callum Martin. We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.comRead more: Iran war latest: Trump warns Tehran ‘No more Mr Nice Guy’ in Truth Social postFurther listening: ‘The punishment election’: Is Labour facing a bloodbath in Wales?Clips: The Independent, Sky. Image: @realDonaldTrump / Truth SocialThis podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 30 April 2026

South Wales has been a Labour heartland since the party formed over a century ago, but speak to people there today and you'll find support leaving in droves. So can Labour avoid an electoral car crash? Could the other main parties capitalise? Ahead of the Welsh Senedd elections next week, we travelled to Swansea to take the political temperature. This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestory Guests: Professor Matthew Wall, professor of politics, philosophy and international relations at Swansea University and principal investigator of the 2026 Welsh election study.Grant Berni, head of the Osprey’s supporters club.Host: Manveen Rana.Producer: Harry Stott.We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.comRead more: A walk round Pembroke Dock shows why Labour will lose Welsh electionFurther listening: Get ready for a pub brawl, it's local election timePhoto: Getty Images.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 29 April 2026

Morgan McSweeney has told MPs that the revelations about Peter Mandelson's relationship with Jeffrey Epstein were like a knife through his soul. The more we learn about the appointment process, the madder it sounds. And the odd thing is that crucial decisions were not written down: there are no receipts. There's a mood building in the Labour Party that Keir Starmer will need to go big or go home: come up with a bold agenda, make the case for it and then deliver it. Has he got it in him? This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestory Hosts: Steven Swinford, political editor, The Times. Patrick Maguire, chief political commentator, The Times. Lara Spirit, deputy political editor, The Sunday Times.Producers: Euan Dawtrey, Harry Kitson.Executive producer: Molly Guinness.We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.com Read more: McSweeney and Barton raise new questions over PM’s judgmentPhoto: Getty Images.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 28 April 2026

White House correspondents' dinner shooting suspect Cole Tomas Allen has been charged with attempting to assassinate the president. The White House says Saturday’s attack is the third 'assassination attempt' on Donald Trump in the last two years. But what do we know about Allen? And what does this all tell us about the rise of political violence in America?  This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestory Guests:David Charter, assistant editor, US, The Times and The Sunday Times. Nick Bryant, journalist and author of Forever War America's Unending Conflict With Itself and the Substack History Never Ended.Host: Manveen RanaProducers: Julia Webster and Olivia CaseWe want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.com Read more: Cole Tomas Allen: who is the alleged gunman at correspondents’ dinner?Further listening: Can King Charles fix the special relationship?Clips: The Obama White House / YouTube, C-SPAN, OverDriveGamesAnime / YouTube, ABC, CBS, NBC, The New Yorker, KATU News.Photo: Getty Images.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 28 April 2026

This episode was recorded before the events at the White House Correspondents’ Association on Saturday. King Charles arrives in America today for a state visit to mark the country’s 250th birthday. But with US-UK relations at a low over Iran - and the Epstein scandal still looming large - the stakes are high. Last week Trump said the monarch could help repair the special relationship so will soft power bring the allies back together? This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestory Guests:Kate Mansey, assistant editor, The Times.Sir David Manning, former British Ambassador to America and former advisor to the Royal Household. Host: Luke Jones. Producer: Olivia Case. We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.comRead more: King’s US visit can ‘absolutely’ repair relations, says TrumpFurther listening: The Pope v TrumpClips: The Art of the Surge: The Donald Trump Comeback / Instagram, BBC, DailyMotion, The Royal Family Channel / YouTube, ABC. Photo: Getty Images.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 27 April 2026

Shane Christie was one of the brightest rugby stars in New Zealand before suffering multiple concussions, leading to a brain injury that would slowly take everything from him. And his experience is far from unique. In this deeply personal account, David Walsh talks to Shane's former partner, Holly Parkes, to ask, What happened? What does Shane's story reveal about the sport he loved deeply? And can rugby survive the fallout?  This is part one of a two-part special investigation into the crisis facing this global game.  This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestory Guest: Holly ParkesHost: David Walsh, chief sports writer, The Sunday TimesProducer: Sophie McNultyWe want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.com Read more: The concussion filesClips: Harlequins - YouTube.Photo: Getty Images.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 26 April 2026

Hidden in a quiet Belgian archive, century-old colonial maps of the Democratic Republic of Congo may hold the key to an estimated $24 trillion in untapped minerals. Now the United States, backed by Trump, together with the likes of Jeff Bezos, want them. The curators, however, are in no hurry to hand them over. This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestory Written by: Madeleine Spence, deputy editor for News Review, The Sunday Times.Read by: Olivia Case.Host: Luke Jones. Producer: Dave Creasey.We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.comRead more: The $24trn question: who owns these 100-year-old mining maps?Clips: DW, BBC.Photo: Getty Images, The Sunday Times.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 25 April 2026

The American Dream is as old as the United States itself. But as the country marks its 250th anniversary, with economic uncertainty, political turbulence and social divisions all on the rise, do ordinary Americans still believe? The Times and YouGov spoke to 1800 of them to find out – and we've got their analysis. This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestory Guests:  David Charter, assistant editor (US), The Times.Tom Calver, data editor, The Times and Sunday Times.Host: Rosie Wright.Producer: Callum Martin and Olivia Case.We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.comRead more: The American Dream is dying, Times poll revealsFurther listening: Five years on from the Jan 6 riots, how has the US president changed America?Clips: SullenToys / YouTube, Zohran Mamdani / YouTube.Photo: Getty Images.This podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 24 April 2026