The Explanation
The Explanation is a BBC World Service podcast that makes sense of the big stories behind the headlines. It explores important questions about long-running global issues and the latest news, offering an honest and unvarnished explanation of the world. The show features episodes from series like The President's Path, Unspun World with John Simpson, and The Media Show.
Episodes
The President's Path: America at 250
Sumi Somaskanda, Caitriona Perry and Bernd Debusmann reflect on where America is at, 250 years in. The team discusses a visit to the Great American State Fair in Washington DC, gauges the mood with the latest polling, and evaluates what the American dream means as we look ahead to the future.Every weekend, The President’s Path explores the state of US politics — in Washington and beyond. We dig in
The Media Show: The Murray brothers' media game
Wimbledon is under way and some of the sport's biggest names are increasingly becoming media businesses in their own right. Jamie Murray has joined the BBC's Wimbledon coverage as an analysis expert while launching a new YouTube channel, The Set, with his brother Andy. Jamie Murray explains why they decided to create their own platform, and Catherine Whitaker, co-host of The Tennis Podcast, looks
The President's Path: Has Trump taken over America’s big birthday?
Sumi Somaskanda, Caitriona Perry and Bernd Debusmann look at the preparations and events to mark America’s 250th anniversary. As the country looks to the big day, there are questions around just who is throwing the party – and what this milestone looks like, in the context of big current political divisions.
Every weekend, The President’s Path explores the state of US politics - in Washington an
Unspun World: Has Britain become ungovernable?
John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC’s unparalleled range of experts across the world, examines the factors behind the latest resignation of a British prime minister, explores the state of US politics and society on the eve of the country’s 250th birthday, and analyses the results of the Colombian presidential election.Producer: Kate Cornell
Executive producer: Benedick Watt
Commissioning edit
The Media Show: How Shop workers became content
The shop workers union USDAW says the filming of retail staff by customers for social media has become increasingly common, with concerns about videos being uploaded without workers' consent. The issue is highlighted by the experience of a shop worker who appeared in content created by former television presenter Michael Barrymore, now a social media creator with millions of followers across TikTo
The President's Path: What did America actually win in the Iran deal?
Caitríona Perry is joined by White House reporter Bernd Buzman and CBS News political director Fin Gomez to unpack the memorandum of understanding with Iran, signed with a flourish by President Trump before G7 leaders at Versailles. With a 60-day clock now running toward bigger talks, they ask what America has actually gained — given the Strait of Hormuz was open and petrol cheaper before Operatio
Unspun World: Winners and losers of the US-Iran agreement
John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC’s unparalleled range of experts across the world, examines the new deal aimed at ending the war between the US and Iran, analyses Ukraine’s bid to join the European Union, and looks at the worsening situation for women in Afghanistan under Taliban rule.
The Media Show: Citizen journalists at protests - reporting or activism?
Following the sentencing of 13 people for violent disorder during protests in Southampton, attention has turned to the role of content creators who film demonstrations and public disorder. The judge cited the usefulness of footage filmed by so-called “citizen journalists”. Siddharth Venkataramakrishnan of the Institute for Strategic Dialogue and content creator Wesley Winter give their perspective
The President's Path: Why is Trump hosting the UFC at the White House?
Sumi, Caitríona and Bernd dig into a big week for President Trump, who is celebrating his 80th birthday - just weeks ahead of America's 250th - with UFC Freedom 250, an invite-only MMA fight on the South Lawn of the White House. Bernd reports back from the venue, where a 92-foot structure now towers over the executive mansion, while Caitríona runs through the practical headaches: searing heat, the
Unspun World: Fighting resumes between Israel and Hezbollah
John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC’s unparalleled range of experts across the world, explores the impact of Israel’s recent attacks on Lebanon, analyses the flotation of SpaceX and what it will mean for Elon Musk, and looks at the outcome of the election in Armenia. Producer: Kate Cornell
Executive producer: Benedick Watt
Commissioning editors: Silvia Costeloe and Paul Royall
The Media Show: Reporting the World Cup
The men’s football World Cup begins this week in the US, Mexico and Canada. With matches being played in three different time zones, it presents an unprecedented challenge for the media. Alex Kay-Jelski, Director of BBC Sport, Craig Hope, Chief Football Reporter at the Daily Mail, and Daniel Storey, Chief Football Writer at The i, set out their plans.Violent disorder on the streets in Belfast has
The President's Path: Why did Trump and Netanyahu clash over the Iran war?
Caitriona Perry, Sumi Somaskanda and Bernd Debusmann unpack the extraordinary falling-out between President Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu - a reportedly "blazing row" that both men have since confirmed. Trump was left "perturbed" that Israeli operations in Lebanon risked derailing his Iran negotiations. But it isn't the first time he has vented at Netanyahu in public. Both in
Unspun World: What's it like to live in Iran now?
John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC’s unparalleled range of experts across the world, explores the feelings of ordinary Iranians about the conflict with the United States, analyses the latest extreme global weather warnings, and looks at the state of Ethiopia as it heads to the polls.Producer: Kate Cornell
Executive producer: Benedick Watt
Commissioning editors: Silvia Costeloe and Paul Royal
The Media Show: Inside Rafa Nadal's Netflix show
A new Netflix documentary follows the final stage of Rafael Nadal's tennis career. The series is the latest high-profile sports documentary made for a streaming platform. Zachary Heinzerling, director of Rafa, outlines how the film was made and the level of access his team received. Minal Modha, senior research director at Ampere Analysis, provides context on the growing business of sports documen
The President's Path: The costs of the Iran war
Caitriona Perry, Bernd Debusmann and CBS News' Fin Gomez look at how the Iran War is causing consumers to feel the pinch at the gas pump and the supermarket. They also take a closer look at this week's Texas primaries.
Click here to subscribe to our channel: https://bbc.in/3VyyriM
Every weekend, The President’s Path explores the state of US politics — in Washington and beyond. We dig into th
Unspun World: Is the US preparing to invade Cuba?
John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC’s unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses the possibility of the US forcing regime change in Cuba, examines the effect of the war in Ukraine on Vladimir Putin’s standing in Russia, and looks at the increasing popularity of prediction markets. Producer: Kate Cornell
Executive producer: Benedick Watt
Commissioning editors: Silvia Costeloe a
The Media Show: The French Rupert Murdoch
More than 600 actors, writers and directors have signed a letter raising concerns about the influence of French billionaire Vincent Bolloré over the country’s media and entertainment industry. James Waterhouse, Paris correspondent for BBC News, reports on the reaction from the film industry and the response from Bolloré-linked companies.
Michael Grade is one of the best-known figures in British te
The President's Path: Trump pivots to Cuba
Caitriona Perry, Sumi Somaskanda and Bernd Debusmann look at why President Trump — just back from China — is suddenly turning his attention to Cuba. The Department of Justice has indicted former Cuban president Raúl Castro, the CIA director has flown to Havana for the first time in modern memory, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio is making the case for action 90 miles off the US coast. But with p
Unspun World: Are US-China relations at a turning point?
John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC’s unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses whether there has been a significant shift in the relationship between the United States and China, examines the long-term political turmoil in the United Kingdom, and looks at the psychological impact of artificial intelligence.Producer: Kate Cornell
Executive producer: Benedick Watt
Commissioning
The Media Show: Filming inside El Salvador’s mega-prison
A Channel 5 documentary filmed inside El Salvador’s Cecot prison has drawn attention to the country’s tough approach to gang crime and the questions around filming in tightly controlled places. The prison holds thousands of suspected gang members and has become a powerful symbol of President Nayib Bukele’s security policies. Richard Madeley describes the strict conditions faced by the first Britis
The President's Path: Trump in China
Caitriona Perry, Sumi Somaskanda and Bernd Debusmann look at President Trump's trip to China. A lot of people in both the Republican and Democratic parties don't want a deal with China. Many see China as a danger to America's national security. But for President Trump, a deal with China could mean a boost to the US economy and a chance to Make America Great Again. Can he pull it off and keep his s
Unspun World: Why can’t the US and Iran reach a peace deal?
John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC’s unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses what is preventing the United States and Iran from reaching an agreement to end their conflict, examines the global economic impact of the confrontation, and looks at the growing threat from jihadists in West Africa. Producer: Kate Cornell
Executive producer: Benedick Watt
Commissioning editors: S
The Media Show: Wrestling with Trump
Munya Chawawa found viral fame during the lockdown for his satirical videos on social media. Now he has a new Channel 4 documentary, Wrestling with Trump, which looks at the links between professional wrestling and the MAGA movement.Restrictions on prisoners in the UK speaking to journalists are in focus after The Guardian was told Jeremy Bamber can no longer exchange letters or phone calls with j
The President's Path: Trump’s midterm messaging
Sumi Somaskanda, Bernd Debusmann and Fin Gomez talk about the ongoing war in Iran and the upcoming midterm elections. Trump's presidential approval rating has been steadily declining in recent months, with polls hitting some of his lowest numbers of the term this week. With concerns over the ongoing war in Iran and rising costs at home, will the president hit the campaign trail to boost support -
Unspun World: What’s at stake for Iran’s regime?
John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC’s unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses the Iranian position in its confrontation with the United States in the Gulf, examines the state of play in Russia’s war with Ukraine, and looks at the chances of Benjamin Netanyahu surviving as Israeli Prime Minister after elections later this year.Producer: Kate Cornell
Executive producer: Benedic
The Media Show: The accidental BBC News star
Twenty years ago a man arriving for a job interview at BBC Television Centre was taken into a live TV studio and asked to comment on a legal story. The clip quickly spread on early video-sharing sites and became a meme. Guy Goma reflects on what happened, alongside Elliott Gotkine, the journalist involved in the original error. Saudi Arabia has spent large sums on sport and media in recent years,
The President's Path: Is Trump safe?
Caitriona Perry, Sumi Somaskanda and Bernd Debusmann look at the safety of President Donald Trump following the attempted attack at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner. They also discuss the King’s visit and relations between the UK and the US. Has this trip rekindled their special relationship?
Every weekend, The President’s Path explores the state of US politics - in Washington and beyond.
Unspun World: Trump's exit strategy from Iran
John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC’s unparalleled range of experts across the world, looks at the pressure on President Trump to find an end to the confrontation with Iran, examines the way in which the war in the Middle East has affected China, and analyses the first elections in Gaza for twenty years.Producer: Kate Cornell
Executive producer: Benedick Watt
Commissioning editors: Silvia Cos
The Media Show: I’m a Celebrity… get me a lawyer!
A dispute around the latest series of I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here has drawn attention to how reality television is edited. Some contestants have said that footage was cut in a misleading way, affecting how they were shown on screen. The broadcaster ITV has said the programme reflects events fairly and accurately. Lauren Morris, culture news editor at The Independent, alongside reality tele
The President's Path: Trump goes quiet
Caitriona Perry, Sumi Somaskanda and Bernd Debusmann talk peace. They discuss the differences between the JCPOA agreement and today’s peace talks. It seems unlikely a peace deal will happen in a week, or even a month. And what about Ukraine? The White House has suggested that when the war in Iran is over - they might turn their attention to Cuba instead.
Every weekend, The President’s Path expl
Unspun World: US-Iran standoff over Strait of Hormuz escalates
John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC’s unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses the confrontation between Iran and the United States in the Gulf, looks at the humanitarian situation in Lebanon, and examines the effect of the downfall of the Hungarian Prime Minister, Viktor Orbán, on the European Union. Producer: Kate Cornell
Executive producer: Benedick Watt
Commissioning edito
The Media Show: Building the Uncanny empire
Uncanny, the BBC podcast about paranormal stories, has grown way beyond radio. There's a live theatre tour, a fan convention, it’s on YouTube and now a new series called Uncanny Cold Cases. Danny Robbins, the creator of Uncanny, talks about where the idea came from and why he thinks audiences keep coming back.QVC has filed for debt restructuring in the US, as it tries to shrink a debt pile of arou
The President's Path: Trump's legacy
Sumi Somaskanda, Bernd Debusmann and Courtney Subramanian discuss the ongoing war in Iran and look at what it means for President Trump's legacy - balancing the 'win' of the assassination of the Ayatollah Ali Khamenei with the economic fallout of the war. They also look at the president's attack on the Pope, and consider the impact that will have on his Catholic supporters.
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Every weekend, The Pr
The Media Show: Artemis II and Nasa’s media machine
The Artemis II mission has been presented as a major milestone in human spaceflight, with global audiences following live coverage and access provided by NASA. Questions have been raised about how official feeds, astronaut storytelling and media partnerships shaped reporting. Rebecca Morelle, BBC News science editor, describes the reporting environment she experienced.The BBC has announced plans t
The President’s Path: The political consequences of war and peace for Trump
Sumi Somaskanda, Caitriona Perry and Bernd Debusmann discuss how The president's attitude towards the people of Iran has changed - from saying he would help them to threatening to destroy Iranian civilisation. They also look at how his actions are being viewed at home and the political consequences of this war for President Trump. Every weekend, The President’s Path explores the state of US politi
The Media Show: Investigating Sam Altman
Ronan Farrow, perhaps the world’s most prominent investigative journalist, has turned his attention to Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI. The investigation, published by The New Yorker, draws on more than a year of reporting. Farrow outlines how it was conducted and the questions it raises about power and influence in AI. Madhumita Murgia, AI Editor at the Financial Times, gives her analysis of the issues
The President's Path: Trump’s address over the Iran war
Sumi Somaskanda, Caitriona Perry and Bernd Debusmann discuss the impact the US-Israel war with Iran is having on the US and President Trump’s relationship with his allies. With no end date in sight - and an escalation of oil prices - where does this leave President Trump at home in the US and in the world?Every weekend, The President’s Path explores the state of US politics — in Washington and bey
The Media Show: How far should reporters go with AI?
Artificial intelligence is starting to change how some journalists work, as newsrooms test whether it can help produce more content. One reporter says AI is now helping him write more than 600 articles a year. Nick Lichtenberg, Business Editor at Fortune, Jane Martinson, Professor of Financial Journalism, City, University of London, and Max Goldbart, International TV Co-Editor, Deadline, discuss t
The President's Path: Is the US fighting two wars against Iran?
Sumi Somaskanda, Caitriona Perry and Bernd Debusmann discuss how US-Israel strikes on Iran have developed into an economic conflict, too – a battle over energy, with a small body of water right at the centre. Every weekend, The President’s Path explores the state of US politics — in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what’s on the minds of those closest t
Unspun World: US pauses strikes on Iran’s energy infrastructure
John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC’s unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses Donald Trump’s decision to call a halt to US attacks against Iran’s power plants, examines what the future might hold for the Iranian people, and explores the significance of the first manned journey to the Moon in half a century.Producer: Kate Cornell
Executive producer: Benedick Watt
Commissionin
The Media Show: Cold-calling Trump
Donald Trump’s phone number is apparently not impossible to come by – but there’s also a strategy as to what time of day to call. Edward Luce of the Financial Times and Max Tani, media editor at Semafor, discuss tactics.
Matt Brittin has been appointed as the BBC’s new Director General, following a long career at Google where he led operations across Europe, the Middle East and Africa. Alex Farber
The President's Path: Trump slams allies over Iran war help
Sumi Somaskanda, Caitriona Perry and Bernd Debusmann discuss the impact the US-Israel war with Iran is having on ties with some of Washington’s closest global allies. Nato countries say it’s not their war – and some Gulf states are dealing with the realities of being dragged into a conflict they did not start. With no sign of fighting easing, where does this leave President Trump in the world?
E
Unspun World: How is the Iran war impacting the global economy?
John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC’s unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses the economic effects of the war in the Middle East, explores how the conflict is actually helping Russia, and looks at how the escalating tensions between Hungary and Ukraine might affect the upcoming elections in Hungary. Producer: Kate Cornell
Executive producer: Benedick Watt
Commissioning edito
The Media Show: Reporting from Inside Iran
A small number of international journalists have been allowed into Iran following the start of conflict involving the US and Israel. CNN’s Frederik Pleitgen describes his experience.The 98th Academy Awards took place as viewing figures continue to fall and the film industry faces wider change. Tom Brook, Correspondent, BBC News, and Katey Rich, Awards Editor, The Ankler, outline changes in awards
The President's Path: Trump’s mixed messages over war on Iran
Sumi Somaskanda, Caitriona Perry and Bernd Debusmann discuss the latest on the US-Israel war with Iran. They take stock of the Trump administration’s changing messaging on timelines, and unpack the broader consequences we’re seeing - with the Gulf region brought into the conflict, and the knock-on effects on energy with the disruption to a key shipping route: the Strait of Hormuz.
Every weekend
Unspun World: What do people in Iran think about the war?
Caroline Hawley, in discussion with the BBC’s unparalleled range of experts across the world, explores what life in Iran is like as the war intensifies, analyses what the US objectives are for the war and whether they are obtainable, and examines the possibility of a new war in Ethiopia and its implications for the region. Producer: Kate Cornell
Executive producer: Benedick Watt
Commissioning ed
The Media Show: Who’s shaping American media?
Ros Atkins is in Washington DC speaking to some of the most influential voices in American journalism. Together, they reveal how very different media organisations are covering President Trump’s war with Iran and how they see the US media landscape at this moment.Jeffrey Goldberg, editor-in-chief of The Atlantic, discusses the magazine’s growth strategy and reflects on ‘Signalgate’ one year on.Meh
The Strait of Hormuz
The Strait of Hormuz — the narrow waterway that carries 20% of the world’s oil — is now an active war zone. What in the World tracks the disruption and explains who’s feeling the impact. To hear more, search What in the World wherever you get your BBC podcasts
Unspun World: Can Iran hold out against US-Israeli strikes?
John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC’s unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses whether the Iranian regime will survive, looks at what Israel and the United States are aiming to achieve in their war with Iran, and examines whether Iran’s attacks on countries in the Gulf will change the balance of power in the region. Producer: Kate Cornell
Executive producer: Benedick Watt
Co
The Media Show: Iran and the bigger story
Events in Iran have led news bulletins, alongside ongoing wars in Ukraine and Sudan. As crises compete for attention, questions are being raised about whether reporting captures a wider shift in global power or centres on immediate developments. Christina Lamb, Chief International Correspondent at The Sunday Times, Aaron Bastani, co-founder of Novara Media, and Sir John Tusa, former Managing Direc
Trump’s Texas showdown
Sumi Somaskanda, Courtney Subramanian and Fin Gomez look at one of the most talked-about Senate races - the Texas primaries. For Republicans, it is about who can win the President’s endorsement. For Democrats, success here could shape party strategy for months and years to come.
Every weekend, The President’s Path explores the state of US politics in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key iss
Unspun World: Russia-Ukraine war enters its fifth year
John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC’s unparalleled range of experts across the world, explores the mood in Ukraine after four years of war, examines how the war has changed Russia, and looks at whether Russia’s long sporting isolation is coming to an end.Producer: Kate Cornell
Executive producer: Benedick Watt
Commissioning editor: Vara Szajkowski
The Media Show: The Andrew photo
An image of Andrew Mountbatten Windsor leaving police custody made front pages around the world. It quickly became the defining picture of the latest stage in the crisis linked to Jeffrey Epstein. Suzanne Plunkett, Chief Photographer at Reuters, outlines how her colleague Phil Noble secured the shot, and Arthur Edwards, Royal Photographer at The Sun, reflects on how single images can frame the nar
The President's Path: Inside Trump’s State of the Union
On this episode: Sumi Somaskanda, Bernd Debusmann and Fin Gomez look ahead to next week’s State of the Union address. It’s a chance for President Trump to talk up his achievements one year back in office - and lay out his vision for the year ahead. What do we expect to see – and what surprises could pop up?
Every weekend, The President’s Path explores the state of US politics — in Washington and
Unspun World: What’s the future of US-Europe relations?
John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC’s unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses the state of the transatlantic alliance, explores whether the Iranian regime can survive, and looks at the consequences of the repeal of key environmental regulations in the United States.Producer: Kate Cornell
Executive producer: Benedick Watt
Commissioning editor: Vara Szajkowski
The Media Show: MTV’s co‑founder on reshaping pop culture
Ros Atkins sits down with MTV co‑founder Tom Freston to explore how the channel became a global cultural force, the turning points of his career, and the themes of his new book. Freston reflects on MTV’s early days, creative risk‑taking, and what he has learned from decades shaping the media industry.
Presenter Ros Atkins
Producer: Lisa Jenkinson
The President’s Path: Is Trump facing a Republican rebellion in Congress?
Can President Trump keep Republican lawmakers on side? Caitríona Perry, Sumi Somaskanda and Bernd Debusmann look back at a week where we saw Congress push back against President Trump on key issues like the Epstein files, ICE presence in Minneapolis - and his tariffs. It wasn’t just from Democrats - some Republicans are speaking out against the President.
Every weekend, The President’s Path exp
Unspun World: Who is in control of Gaza now?
John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC’s unparalleled range of experts across the world, explores who is actually governing Gaza at the moment, analyses the landslide election victory for Japan’s prime minister Sanae Takaichi, and looks at a landmark trial in the US that will determine whether social media giants are responsible for harming children.Producer: Kate Cornell
Executive producer: Ben
The Media Show: Bonfire of the Murdochs
A new book focuses on the future of Rupert Murdoch’s media empire after a legal dispute within his family. The case has renewed attention on Murdoch’s long-standing influence in British newspapers and the role of Fox News in American politics. Gabriel Sherman, author of Bonfire of the Murdochs, sets out the background to the succession battle and the company’s direction under Lachlan Murdoch.A wee
The Media Show: The Epstein files
The latest batch of documents linked to the convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein has been released by the US Department of Justice. There are millions of files for journalists to go through, and coverage has focused on what they reveal and how responsibly they can be reported, particularly when powerful figures are named. Journalists Tina Brown and Jim Pickard talk about how the material is being
The President’s Path: Epstein files
The release by the Department of Justice of a new tranche of Epstein files has put more political pressure on President Trump.
On this episode, Caitríona Perry, Bernd Debusmann and Courtney Subramanian look at the ongoing pressure on Donald Trump’s administration over the handling of the release of more Epstein files. They also discuss the announcement of a new trade deal with India – and Presi
Unspun World: Is time running out for Iran's supreme leader?
John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC’s unparalleled range of experts across the world, looks at the dangers facing the Iranian clerical regime, explores whether peace talks on the war in Ukraine can succeed, and analyses who is actually governing Venezuela.Producer: Kate Cornell
Executive producer: Benedick Watt
Commissioning editor: Vara Szajkowski
The President’s Path: Minneapolis unrest
Minneapolis unrest deepens as protests spread after Alex Pretti killing. Donald Trump signals plans to de-escalate as protests and political tensions mount.
On this episode, Caitríona Perry, Fin Gómez and Bernd Debusmann look at how Donald Trump’s administration is handling the unrest in Minneapolis.
Every weekend, The President’s Path explores the state of US politics — in Washington and beyo
Unspun World: Is Europe toughening its stance on Trump?
John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC’s unparalleled range of experts across the world, analyses the relationship between the EU and the United States after the row over Greenland, explores how the UK is trying to improve ties with China, and looks at the challenges facing the first female head of the Anglican Church.Producer: Kate Cornell
Executive producer: Benedick Watt
Commissioning editor:
The Media Show: Netflix’s skyscraper live stunt
The fatal shooting of Alex Pretti during ICE operations in Minneapolis has intensified scrutiny of how events are recorded and reported, as video filmed by members of the public becomes central to news coverage. Meg Anderson, correspondent at NPR, outlines the challenge for reporters on the ground.Algorithms are in the news. Elon Musk says he will "open-source" the algorithms that power X. Instagr
The Evidence: Anaesthesia
In this episode of The Evidence, Claudia Hammond is joined by a panel of experts to discuss the science of anaesthesia.It’s estimated that around the world, more than 250 million people receive surgery requiring anaesthesia each year. But there are still plenty of unknowns. What happens to our brains and our consciousness when we’re put to sleep? Why do so many people around the world still not ha
The President’s Path: US-Europe breakup
Davos 2026 discussions underscore strains in US-Europe relations, as trade and security differences resurface and Donald Trump’s influence shapes debate over the future of transatlantic cooperation.
On this episode, Caitríona Perry, Sumi Somaskanda and Bernd Debusmann examine whether President Trump is driving a breakup with Europe.
Every weekend, The President’s Path explores the state of US
Unspun World: Trump's return, one year on
Caroline Hawley, in discussion with the BBC’s unparalleled range of experts across the world, looks back at the first year of Donald Trump’s second term, analyses the repercussions of the uprising against the clerical establishment in Iran, and explores whether a new blood test could transform the early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease.
The Media Show: The battle for brand Beckham
A public statement by Brooklyn Beckham has prompted extensive media coverage and online debate about how celebrity families manage press narratives. Katie Razzall is joined by Simon Boyle, former executive showbiz editor at The Sun, and Alexandra Shulman, former editor of British Vogue.Donald Trump’s demands about Greenland have triggered an international crisis, with journalists tracking his stat
The President’s Path: Trump’s world domination
Trump orders fresh sanctions targeting senior Iranian officials accused of directing the violent suppression of protests, while European allies deploy troops to Greenland amid rising tensions over renewed US territorial claims.
Caitríona Perry, Sumi Somaskanda and Bernd Debusmann look at Trump’s fresh sanctions on Iran and European troops deploying to Greenland.
Every weekend, The President’s
The Media Show: Iran protests and international coverage
Ongoing protests in Iran have prompted scrutiny of how international media organisations report events in a highly restricted environment, with criticism focused on prominence and framing of coverage. Behrang Tajdin of BBC Persian and Lyse Doucet, the BBC’s chief international correspondent, set out the editorial constraints and considerations involved.The film Hamnet has opened in UK cinemas foll
The President’s Path: After Venezuela, what next for Trump?
Trump's actions in Venezuela and the removal of Nicolás Maduro sparks talk of further US operations in the region. In this episode Caitríona Perry, Sumi Somaskanda and Bernd Debusmann look at the US operation that seized the President of Venezuela.
Every weekend, The President’s Path explores the state of US politics in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncove
The Media Show: Reporting the Venezuela operation
Reports that major US newspapers delayed publishing details of the US raid in Venezuela have prompted renewed scrutiny of how journalists handle sensitive national security information. The decision by the New York Times and the Washington Post followed warnings from the White House that publication could endanger American troops, raising questions about press freedom, editorial independence and e
The Media Show: How to Make a Hit TV Show
Have you ever wondered how reality TV gets made? Why some shows become instant classics, while others vanish without trace? In this special edition of The Media Show, four of the UK’s top creatives in unscripted television reveal their secrets. From The Traitors to Pointless, Hunted to Gogglebox, they discuss what makes a hit format, how casting decisions are made, how streamers and influencers ar
The President’s Path: Year in review
A look back at the first year of President Trump’s second term in office.
On this episode Caitríona Perry, Sumi Somaskanda, Bernd Debusmann and Courtney Subramanian discuss the moments that stood out to them in 2025.
Every weekend, The President’s Path explores the state of US politics — in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what’s on the minds of tho
The Media Show: Meet The Tech Bros
Time Magazine named “The Architects of AI” as their Person of the Year for 2025. This is a group of people, mostly men, who now wield an extraordinary level of influence over the future of society. The Media Show profiles four of them: Mike Isaac from The New York Times explains the rise of Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI; Lauren Goode from Wired outlines the power and beliefs of venture capitalist
The President’s Path: Maga coalition cracks
A look at what the divisions in the Maga coalition mean for Trump.On this episode Caitríona Perry, Sumi Somaskanda and Bernd Debusmann look at what the Maga coalition’s internal divides signal for Trump’s leadership.Every weekend, The President’s Path explores the state of US politics — in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what’s on the minds of those cl
The Media Show: Reporting the Bondi beach attack
A mass shooting at Bondi Beach during a Hanukkah event created major challenges for journalists trying to confirm fast-moving details. Newsrooms had to decide how to describe the attack, when to name suspects and how to treat unverified online posts. Jacqueline Maley, senior writer at the Sydney Morning Herald, explains the decisions behind early reporting and the influence of social media.
The UK
The President’s Path: Affordability
Caitríona Perry, Sumi Somaskanda and Bernd Debusmann look at how President Trump is tackling affordability and the cost of living for Americans.
Every weekend, The President’s Path explores the state of US politics — in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what’s on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: path@bbc.co.uk
Senior produc
The Media Show: Netflix’s Hollywood takeover drama
Netflix’s agreement to buy Warner Bros Discovery has triggered an immediate hostile counter-bid from Paramount, intensifying concerns within Hollywood about consolidation and streaming dominance. Natalie Jarvey, senior correspondent at The Ankler, and Dade Hayes, business editor at Deadline, assess why Warner Bros are in demand and what the takeover could mean for viewers.
Five broadcasters have n
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