The Standard

Evgeny Lebedev joins Dr Aubrey de Grey, a pioneer in biomedical gerontology - the study of life extension and rejuvenation - and co-founder of the SENS Research Foundation.Known for his radical approach to ageing, Dr de Grey discusses his latest research, society’s attitude to the human lifespan and his hopes for future anti-ageing treatments.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The temperature in London next week is set to plummet into chilly single digits.But what effect is this cold weather having on our brains - and what can we do to keep our wellbeing levels topped up as the mercury drops, stave off seasonal depression and ensure our bodies enjoy a regular rest pattern in order to reboot effectively?It comes after the ‘anticyclonic gloom’ loomed over the capital, when fog and grey clouds blotted out the sun.Rachelle Abbott asked neuroscientist Dr Henry Mahncke, chief executive of ‘brain fitness’ platform BrainHQ, about winter’s impact on the brain and our mental health.You’ll also hear Dr Mahncke’s top tips for boosting mood and staying more balanced during the colder months. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today marks the launch of The London Standard’s 2024 Winter Appeal, in collaboration with Comic Relief. The campaign’s aim is to help organisations in London and across the UK that support refugees and homeless people. In this episode we’re joined by our campaigns editor, David Cohen, and CEO of Comic Relief, Samir Patel.We also hear of Claude's story. One of the organisations we are backing is The Running Charity, which uses the power of running to help both refugees and those who are homeless to build mental health, confidence and fitness — and where Claude now works as programme manager and head coach. The group will be given a grant of £50,000 to assist its work of mentoring more than 120 vulnerable people aged 16 to 25 each year.To make a donation, visit comicrelief.com/winter. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Victims of the Church of England’s worst ever child abuser have demanded further resignations after the Archbishop of Canterbury quit in ‘shame’ over the scandal.Justin Welby had been under days of pressure after a damning review into attacks by barrister John Smyth QC - who died in South Africa 2018 - that found he may have been brought to justice had Welby formally alerted authorities in 2013.Over decades from the 1970s, Smyth, a lay church reader, subjected as many as 130 boys and young men in the UK and Africa to sadistic physical, sexual and psychological attacks, the independent Makin review found.So, why did the scandal take so long to come to light, what are the victims calling for, and what is future for the Church of England?We’re joined by Melanie McDonagh, a columnist at The London Standard, and a leader writer at the Catholic Herald.In part two, president-elect Donald Trump has handed Elon Musk the job of running a new Department of Government Efficiency, as part of his new cabinet.The London Standard’s deputy political editor Jitendra Joshi discusses the focus of Musk’s new role and whether there are potential conflicts of interest. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The second incarnation of president-elect Donald Trump’s cabinet is taking shape.The London Standard’s deputy political editor Jitendra Joshi reports on Tuesday that Team Trump 2.0 ushers in potentially dismal consequences for Ukraine, illegal immigrants and the global climate.Trump has already announced a few cabinet-level appointments - so, who’s in?Joshi joins us to discuss what we know about the Republican president-elect’s appointments so far, and whether there’s anyone who could be considered a voice of American unity in Trump’s new inner circle.In part two, as The London Standard’s transport editor Ross Lydall reports that buses in central London are now nudging below 7mph - as detailed in London TravelWatch data - so, how is this impacting passenger journeys, now slower than a decade ago?We also discuss the various factors contributing congestion, including on-demand minicabs and internet deliveries, plus whether cycle lanes impact traffic flow. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sir Keir Starmer joined French president Emmanuel Macron for Armistice Day commemorations in Paris - the first time a British leader attended the remembrance event in the French capital since Winston Churchill with Charles de Gaulle in 1944.They met French and British veterans as part of commemorations for the 106th anniversary of the 1918 Armistice, with services held across the UK following Remembrance Sunday.The London Standard’s political editor Nicholas Cecil discusses the significance of Sir Keir’s Paris visit, bilateral defence talks and the current health L’Entente Cordiale.In part two, thousands of delegates are heading to Baku in Azerbaijan for the Cop29 climate summit, where politicians face pressure over delivering finance for developing countries to cope with climate change, and increasing their ambitions on emissions cuts. The Standard podcast is joined by Simon Lewis, professor of global change science at UCL, to discuss the summit goals, its controversial host, the importance of climate multilateralism and why the UK’s Cop29 involvement under Labour marks a “sea-change” from the Conservatives’ environmental outlook. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nicola Barron delves into the fascinating world of negotiation with Simon Horton, a globally recognised negotiation skills trainer. In this episode, Simon shares strategies for achieving win-win outcomes, building trust, and knowing when to walk away. Simon reveals the secrets to effective negotiation that you can use in both personal and professional settings.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Standard’s lifestyle and culture writer, India Block, has been looking into the growing problem of ‘mankeeping’. A new term from Stanford researchers which describes how women are bearing the brunt when it comes to male loneliness. In part two, our Deputy Political Editor, Jitendra Joshi, explains everything you need to know about Susie Wells, Donald Trump’s first appointment and the first female chief of staff. Plus he discusses the rumours about whether Elon Musk could be getting a role in Trump’s new administration. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

ITV’s Until I Kill You, starring Anna Maxwell Martin, has gripped audiences across the country. But, how does the hit drama compare to the true story behind it? Our culture writer Vicky Jessop has the details. In part two, The London Standard’s Will Hosie catches up with the star of Emily in Paris, Lily Collins, as part of our 100 people shaping London in 2024 series. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In JD Vance’s words, Donald Trump has pulled off ‘the greatest political comeback in US history’, and will be the next president of the United States. He’s the first person in over a century to secure two non-consecutive terms, since Grover Cleveland in 1897. Andrew Rudalevige, professor of government at Bowdoin College in Maine, joins us from the US to analyse Donald Trump’s ‘historic’ victory, and discuss what his second term as president will look like for America and the rest of the world. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s election day in the US and polls suggest that it’s neck and neck between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump. Our Deputy Political Editor, Jitendra Joshi, joins us to discuss what role the Supreme Court could play in this extremely close race.  In part two, Nick Curtis, the Standard’s Chief Theatre Critic, gives his verdict on the latest movie installment from Britain’s most famous bear, Paddington in Peru.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our Deputy Political Editor, Jitendra Joshi, discusses the most pivotal moments from an extraordinary campaign trail. There’s been assassination attempts, court cases, high-profile blunders, a new Democratic nominee, and plenty of drama. But, where does this all leave the presidential race now? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nicola Barron joins one of the UK's most respected literary agents, Juliet Mushens, to talk about the publishing world and her upcoming Masterclass for The Standard. Juliet shares her expertise and gives practical advice for aspiring authors.Topics include:The role of literary agentsTips on submitting your manuscript and catching an agent’s attentionInsider advice for those just starting their writing journeyWhat to expect from Juliet’s upcoming Masterclass, "How to Get Published: Finding a Literary Agent for Your Novel"Whether you're just dreaming of becoming an author or have a completed manuscript ready to go, Juliet’s insights offer invaluable guidance for every stage of the writing process. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this preview of Brave New World, Evgeny Lebedev is in conversation with the Oscar-winning actor, Dame Helen Mirren.They discuss everything from the evolution of technology, ageing, the contemporary media landscape and the idea of God.“It’s so sad that Kurt Cobain died when he did, because he never got to see GPS”Listen to the full conversation on the Brave New World podcast here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The London Standard is unveiling The Standard 100, a list of the top hundred men and women shaping the capital in 2024.The line-up covers the variety of expertise and knowledge that make our capital great - from politics and media, the arts, music, food, to science and medicine.In this episode, we hear from our editor-in-chief Dylan Jones, and Charlotte Hill, chief executive of food redistribution charity The Felix Project, who features on today’s list.The charity gave out the equivalent of 32 million meals to people across every London borough.Over the next few months, we’ll be showcasing more people from the list, so make sure you keep an eye on our feed.To view the full list pick up a copy of this week’s paper, or head to standard.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves has announced £40billion of tax rises in Labour’s first budget for nearly 15 years.In a 77-minute speech before a packed House of Commons, the UK’s first female Chancellor of the Exchequer announced massive tax hikes to help “fix the foundations” of the economy.Reeves plans to raise £25 billion from employers’ national insurance contributions plus increases to capital gains tax, while also making changes to inheritance tax and stamp duty.Billions of pounds in public funding was also pledged for the NHS, schools building, the national minimum wage, GB Energy, HMRC reform, cladding removal, defence and compensation for victims of the infected blood and Post Office Horizon scandals.In a boost for London, the Chancellor confirmed that HS2 would be extended via tunnelling to London Euston.It is all part of the government’s plan to tackle the so-called “£22bn black hole” in the public finances.But the opposition Conservatives accused Labour of breaking manifesto pledges. We’re joined by Parliament by The London Standard’s political editor Nicholas Cecil. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With the Budget on Wednesday getting us more focussed about stretching the pennies - who’s splashing out on £1,000-a-night on London’s new five-star hotel suites, amid a building boom? It seems there’s plenty of business at the top-end, with The London Standard’s business editor Jonathan Prynn reporting the capital is on the brink of a new luxury hotel “gold rush”, with destinations offering hundreds of five-star rooms and suites due to open over the next 18 months.In part two, could east London’s famed “Blackhorse beer mile” be at risk?The London Standard’s City Hall editor Ross Lydall reports on the fate of two breweries run by The Wild Card Brewery, which were shuttered after bailiffs arrived over apparent rent arrears with Waltham Forest council.Now there are concerns for other local businesses, which also have the council as their landlord. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, has given a speech to prepare the ground for the Budget, saying Britain "must embrace the harsh light of fiscal reality".Elsewhere in the Labour party, Mike Amesbury MP has been suspended after CCTV appears to show him repeatedly punching a man. Our Political Editor, Nicholas Cecil, shared his insight. In part two, we have a special preview of The Standard’s series on London’s hidden gems. In this episode we get an exclusive peek inside the Transport for London’s lost property office, and the weird and wonderful things commuters have left behind.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why is traveling off-season the best way to go? Sustainable travel expert Juliet Kinsman and journalist Jon Weeks transport us to Turkey, and we meet two inspiring guests who bring to life why so much good can come from our travels. Selina Pirinccioglu from Alavya hotel tempts us to Alaçati on the Çeşme peninsula, as they reflect on how traveling off-season is better for visitors and locals, and where else she’d like to explore across Turkey.Award-winning author Elif Shafak reminds us of the power of travel to connect with people around the world and emphasises the importance of immersing ourselves in other cultures through fiction, her latest novel is There are Rivers in the Sky.And Doug Lansky - of ReThinkingTourism on YouTube - brings the series to a poignant end with his concept of 'sustainable-ish’. Find out what else we're exploring as part of our Sustainable Travel campaign here.Follow us on X or on Threads, or have a look at Juliet’s Instagram @JulietKinsman Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lorry ‘blind spots’ continue to present serious hazards for London’s cyclists. The London Standard’s transport editor Ross Lydall examines why haulage companies have been given more time by TfL to tackle vision issues and install camera tech in HGVs being driven in London, despite concerns expressed by cycle campaigners.In part two, The Royal Ballet is currently showcasing a mixed programme of works by 21st century choreographers titled ‘Encounters: Four Contemporary Ballets’, which runs until November 22nd. The Standard podcast is joined by former alumnus of The Royal Ballet Choreographic Residency, Joseph Toonga, who discusses the world premiere his new work at the Royal Opera House, called Dusk, which combines classical ballet and hip hop. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special episode, we’re taking you behind the scenes of a conversation between the London Standard’s Editor in Chief, Dylan Jones, and former UK Prime Minister, Sir Tony Blair.He discusses themes in his book, On Leadership: Lessons for the 21st Century (which is published by Penguin), and the lessons that can be learned from executive action in government.The book looks at the importance of assembling the right team, effective implementation of policy, and what works and what doesn’t.So, how was negotiation key to securing the Good Friday Agreement, devolution and London mayoralty, and what would the former prime minister have done differently?You’ll also hear discussion on digital ID, the Middle East crisis and if Sir Tony would offer Sir Keir Starmer any advice. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Donald Trump’s claim that the “far-Left” Labour Party in Britain is interfering in the US elections was slapped down by a Cabinet minister on Wednesday.Environment Secretary Steve Reed insisted it was people linked to Labour acting as individuals going out to campaign for Democrat Kamala Harris, not any action organised by the party.The London Standard’s political editor Nicholas Cecil discusses Trump’s allegations and Labour’s response, with less than a fortnight to go in the race for the White House.In part two, our crime correspondent Anthony France reports on the ‘wine detectives’ combating an illegal trade in counterfeit luxury wines flooding London, the international gangs involved and how experts spot the fake stuff. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A murder plot targeting a rival gang member allegedly involving Met Police shooting victim Chris Kaba was among revelations about his criminal record that emerged on Tuesday.Kaba's convictions included prison sentences for weapons possession, as well as being subject to a domestic violence order, which surfaced following the judge’s lifting of reporting restrictions.Police firearms officer Martyn Blake was cleared of murder following the fatal shooting in a ‘hard stop’ in south London, but 24-year-old Kaba’s family described feeling a “deep pain of injustice” following the verdict.We’re joined from the Old Bailey by The London Standard’s courts correspondent, Tristan Kirk.In part two, our business editor Jonathan Prynn on the latest plans for 1 Undershaft - the Square Mile’s tallest skyscraper - how objections have changed this lengthy project and demand for space in the capital’s new-build office blocks. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A government minister has left open the door to big tax hikes in next week’s Budget hitting high-earners on more than £100,000 - as he refused to say if these high earners were “working people” under Labour’s definition.Care minister Stephen Kinnock was repeatedly asked on Sky News, but gave no clear answer, whether or nor people earning six figures were classified as “working people” by the government.We’re joined by The London Standard’s political editor Nicholas Cecil from Parliament to discuss the build-up to next week’s first Labour budget under Chancellor Rachel Reeves.Plus, in part two, The Standard’s transport editor Ross Lydall has been digging into Transport for London documents.He found the organisation’s being warned the capital’s post-Covid return to the office may have stalled as commuter journey numbers grew only at a snail’s pace. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the fifth episode of our six-part travel series, we visit Marrakech, Fes and Chefchaouen, as sustainable travel expert Juliet Kinsman and journalist Jon Weeks discuss how small-group trips allow for immersive experiences. And they explain how responsible tourism can be a great way of supporting the empowerment of women.Experience the magic of a home-made breakfast in a private home in Marrakech's medina, appreciate the charm of a small family-owned hotel in Fes, explore the souks, and get a sense of the cinematic setting of the Blue City in this impact-unlocking Morocco adventure. Plus, find out what else we're exploring as part of our Sustainable Travel campaign here.Follow us on X or on Threads, or have a look at Juliet’s Instagram @JulietKinsman Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s what everyone in the UK wants to know, what is going to be in the Budget? Rumours have been swirling around what Chancellor Rachel Reeves has in store with potential tax rises, including inheritance tax, and National Insurance for employers. The jobs minister, Alison McGovern, has said publicly that benefits are set to be cut. With the welfare bill in Britain set to spiral in coming years and decades, the Chancellor is reported to be seeking billions of pounds in benefits savings.Our Political Editor, Nicholas Cecil, reveals everything we know so far as well as his predictions for the upcoming Budget. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this preview of Brave New World, host Evgeny Lebedev is joined by Jim Poole, chairman, president and chief executive of Solace Life Sciences.The neuroscience company owns NuCalm, a technology designed to reduce stress and improve sleep without recourse to drugs. You may have even spotted the Duchess of Sussex wearing one of their stress relief patches.In this episode, Evgeny and Jim explore the evolution of the human brain, anxiety and how to deregulate the amygdala, a small, almond-shaped part of the brain that plays a central role, which Jim says ‘feeds on fear’.Listen to the full conversation on the Brave New World podcast here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s official, England’s new manager is Thomas Tuchel.The former Chelsea and Bayern Munich boss reportedly signed a contract with the FA last week which will see him receive a salary worth around £5 million. Tuchel, who is German, will be just the third foreign manager to become England coach, after the late Sven-Goran Eriksson of Sweden and the Italian manager Fabio Capello. The Standard’s football reporter, Dom Smith, gives his verdict on the appointment, analyses the new manager’s credentials, and reveals the big tests that lie ahead.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this very special episode, The Standard podcast’s Rachelle Abbott is in conversation with the producer, rapper, singer/songwriter and entrepreneur, will.i.am. Plus, they’re also joined by FYI.AI’s Fyilicia. To hear the full extended interview search Tech & Science Daily on your podcast provider, or click here.FYI.AI, which stands for ‘Focus Your Ideas', is a messaging and productivity tool for creatives, founded by will.i.am and software developer, Sunil Reddy.In this episode:will.i.am’s relationship with AIThe story behind FyiliciaThe AI revolution, diversity, inclusivity and what he would say to the next US PresidentFYI is available to download for iOS from the App store and on Android from Google Play Store. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Mayor of London sits down with London Standard Editor, Dylan Jones, to talk about all things politics.Sadiq Khan discusses the exodus of the capital’s rich, his goals for his unprecedented third term as mayor, the plans to pedestrianise Oxford Street, as well as issues surrounding housing and traffic.In part two, the Gaza marches, his message to London’s Jewish community, and who he would choose as his successor when he eventually steps down. To read Dylan’s full article click here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Incredible natural environments, cycling through the trees and living among the clouds. Sustainable travel expert Juliet Kinsman and journalist Jon Weeks discuss the beauty of Ecuador, and how it's a great example of an economy that relies on Tourism. Learn how Ecuador's 'eternal spring' makes the best tasting fruit, and why you should think twice about negative headlines about a destination.Roque Sevilla, former Mayor of Quito, explains how tourism protects the country's biodiversity and natural environments, and why civil disturbances in Ecuador shouldn't impact your decision to travel there.Plus, find out what else we're exploring as part of our Sustainable Travel campaign here.Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Britain’s economy made a welcome return to growth in August after a pick up on the high street and in factories helped drive overall GDP.The London Standard’s business editor Jonathan Prynn reports that output was up by 0.2 per cent in the month following two months of flatlining in June and July, that’s according to latest figures from the Office for National Statistics.It comes a fortnight before Chancellor Rachel Reeves unveils the Labour government’s first budget. Jonathan joins us with an analysis of the data and also discusses the significance of Santander withdrawing its cheapest mortgage deal - what does it signal?In part two, The London Standard’s beauty and wellness editor Madeleine Spencer on secrets from world’s best wellness clinics - that you can try at home - as the nights draw in and the capital’s cold, drying air whistles over our skin.We also discuss the wellbeing weapons deployed by supermodel Kate Moss, plus, the importance of a boiled egg and a good stretch. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Conservative leadership race has been narrowed to Kemi Badenoch and Robert Jenrick, after once-favourite James Cleverly was squeezed out of the contest - to considerable surprise.Badenoch won 42 votes, Jenrick secured 41, but Cleverly took just 37, with 120 Tory MPs having taken part.So, what’s next, who is best to hold Sir Keir Starmer to account at the dispatch box - and how did James Cleverly’s leadership bid come unstuck?The Standard’s political editor Nicholas Cecil has the details from a dramatic day in Parliament and assesses the candidates’ chances.In part two, on World Mental Health Day, we’re looking at the impact of stress and anxiety on our lives, and small steps you can take if you’re having a difficult time. The Standard podcast is joined by Neil Shah, founder - and chief de-stressing officer - of the Stress Management Society, who discusses his own personal story, the pressures of the digital world and post-pandemic urban anxiety.If you’re struggling with themes discussed in this podcast, you can find support at samaritans.org and mind.org.uk  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Flights from Britain to Florida have been cancelled as the US state braces for what President Joe Biden warned could be the worst storm in a century.Approaching Category Five Hurricane Milton - just a fortnight after Category Four Hurricane Helene - has brought widespread disruption to the Sunshine State as officials urge residents to follow evacuation orders and airports, including Tampa International and Orlando, have temporarily closed.As this episode of The Standard podcast went live, millions of Floridians were in a race against time to evacuate before the hurricane makes landfall on Wednesday night at speeds of 155mph with 15ft-high storm surges expected.The Standard podcast is joined from Orlando by Jonathan Alingu, co-executive director of Central Florida Jobs With Justice, who explains how Floridans are preparing.In part two, Frieze art fair is back in its huge tent in Regent’s Park for the 21st year and we look at some of the highlights from this celebrated fixture in London’s cultural calendar, with The Standard’s head of culture, Nick Clark. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transport secretary Louise Haigh has signalled the HS2 high-speed line will terminate in central London.She told Times Radio on Tuesday an announcement would be made soon on the controversial under-construction route from Birmingham into the capital - that’s expected at the Budget on October 30.There was uncertainty over HS2’s final stop amid funding worries and whether it would instead be at Old Oak Common further to the west of London.We’re joined by The Standard’s political editor Nicholas Cecil to discuss the project - forecast to cost over £66 billion - plus, rail nationalisation plans and government assurances over pensioners’ free bus passes.In part two, water companies in England and Wales have been hit with penalties of nearly £158 after regulator Ofwat published its annual performance report into the sector - and they’ve been told to knock the money off customers’ bills.The report revealed firms continue to miss targets on pollution, leaks and customer satisfaction. To find out what this means for consumers and discuss the impact of water privatisation, we’re joined by Dr Eleanor Shearer, senior research fellow at the Common Wealth think tank. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This October 7 marks one year from devastating terror attacks on Israel that set in motion a series of events plunging the Middle East into crisis.Hamas gunmen launched surprise cross-border raids from the Gaza Strip during the Jewish new year holiday of Rosh Hashanah, leaving with more than 1,200 Israelis killed and at least 250 hostages taken.Hostilities mushroomed to claim over 40,000 Palestinian lives, with Hezbollah in Lebanon and then Iran pushing into the conflict.In Britain, the 7 October attacks, were followed by a huge increase in antisemitism and anti-Muslim abuse.As vigils mark this sombre day, The Standard podcast hear reflections from Marie van der Zyl, World Jewish Congress commissioner for gender inclusion and equality, and former president of the Board of Deputies of British Jews.In part two, The Standard’s deputy political editor Jitendra Joshi discusses the weekend departure of Sue Gray, Sir Keir Starmer’s controversial chief of staff, and her successor at No.10, Labour’s election guru Morgan McSweeney. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why fly when you can take the train? In this episode Sustainable travel expert Juliet Kinsman and journalist Jon Weeks explore the best places to travel to by train and why, including Slovenia, Spain, Switzerland, Sweden & Scotland. Find out when trains truly are the best option for your trip, and why the pros of travelling along the tracks often outweigh the cons of flying.Tine Murn the former director of the Slovenian tourism board explains his romantic view of train travel, and creating his own office among views of the alps in a comfortable carriage and incredible.Plus, executive producer of Green Traveller productions Richard Hammond explains the 'rail renaissance' underway in Europe, and explains how rail and coach travel is better for the planet and your pocket.Plus, find out what else we're exploring as part of our Sustainable Travel campaign here.Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rising tensions in the Middle East are adding new global economic uncertainties. The pound, while recovering slightly on Friday, remained set for its worst week in more than a year - as oil heads for the biggest weekly price increase since 2023.It came as Israel intensified strikes on Lebanon following Iran’s missile barrage and ongoing Hezbollah rocket attacks. The Standard podcast is joined by Dr James Meadway, economist at the Progressive Economy Forum, to examine the financial forecast.In part two, hear some of the soundscapes visitors to a high-tech immersive art installation at Lumen Studios close to Tower Bridge can experience.Spanning over 1,000 square metres, the ticketed Eclipse show by French-Japanese visual art duo Nonotak explore the boundary between art and technology as visitors step into a show filled with darkness, light beams and sound. Jen Roebuck, chief executive of Bermondsey’s Lumen Studios, discusses the installation and our growing appetite for IRL immersive art. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this preview of Brave New World….Why AI is the future of medicine. Alternative medicine advocate and best-selling author Deepak Chopra joins host Evgeny Lebedev, to discuss why artificial intelligence is the key to unlocking both personal and spiritual growth, and why humanity is at a crucial crossroads with technology.The health and wellness expert has been at the intersection of science and spirituality for nearly 50 years and recently released his 95th book, titled Digital Dharma. Listen to the full conversation on the Brave New World podcast here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As the world awaits Israel’s response to rocket attacks by Iran, what role did British forces play defending the country?In this episode of The Standard podcast we’ll also look at the UK government’s handling of the crisis, with Britons told to leave Lebanon as Israel continues to pound Tehran-backed Hezbollah and ground operations begin.Around 180 Iranian rockets were fired on Tuesday night as Iran’s response to Israel’s assassination of Hezbollah secretary-general Hassan Nasrallah, and follows devastating pager-based attacks against the terror group.Evening Standard defence editor Robert Fox explains the significance of Iran’s rocket barrage targeting Israel.In part two, the average UK household energy bill has now increased by £149 after Ofgem raised its price cap just as the winter months begin. The Standard podcast is joined by Jonathan Marshall​​​, principal economist at the Resolution Foundation think-tank, who discuss context of the latest increase. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s the penultimate day of the Conservatives’ conference in Birmingham, where the final four leadership hopefuls are vying for attentions of the party faithful.Yesterday, we looked at the free ‘merch’ being offered on candidates’ stalls - those friendship bracelets and fake tan - but will these multiple charm offensives translate into votes?Kemi Badenoch, James Cleverly, Robert Jenrick and Tom Tugendhat have been fielding questions from voting party members at conference events ahead of the leadership race.So, is anyone edging ahead - and who’s got the best offer for London?We’re joined from Birmingham by The Standard’s political editor Nicholas Cecil, who reports developments from the leadership race and recent revelations in the memoir of Tory grandee Lord Brady.In part two, The Standard’s transport editor Ross Lydall examines proposals for a £4.5 million cycleway running through the City of London, including Bank junction, to provide an alternative to the CS3 cycle superhighway. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Conservative Party conference kicks off in Birmingham - throwing the race to become the next opposition leader wide open. And as the hopefuls promote themselves to the Tory membership, there’s an unusual array of candidate promotional ‘merch’ being offered.The Standard’s chief political correspondent, Rachael Burford, has the details.But is it actually helping convince members that they should back James Cleverly, Tom Tugendhat, Kemi Badenoch or Robert Jenrick?The jury’s out, but there’s also been some very interesting polling on who the public’s thinks has what it takes to become a future prime minister.In part two, as the UK’s last remaining coal-fired power station shuts down, is it possible to ensure clean energy while cutting consumer bills - and how would this power grid of the future operate?We’re joined by climate scientist Simon Lewis, professor of global change science at UCL. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For your next trip, why not explore closer to home? Sustainable travel expert Juliet Kinsman and journalist Jon Weeks discuss the benefits of visiting nature-positive escapes such as Sussex's Knepp Estate, which was transformed from a working farm into a 3,500 pioneering rewilding project. Isabella Tree, who led the transformation, explains how giving the site back to nature saw it grow into an incredible natural landscape, and help re-establish animal species. Ned Burrell, director of the site's Wilding Kitchen restaurant explains how they're using food to promote the benefits of rewilding endeavours in the UK.Juliet also describes her trips to the 42 acres wellness retreat in Somerset, and the Reeds at South Lodge in the south east.Plus, find out what else we're exploring as part of our Sustainable Travel campaign here.Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sir Keir Starmer has met with the US Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump for the first time.The meeting has sparked quite a bit of backlash though, considering what prominent Labour front benchers have said about the former president in the past. Our Deputy Political Editor, Jitendra Joshi, discusses everything we know about the meeting so far, and shares his insight into whether this could be the beginning of an unlikely friendship. In part two, our features & culture writer, Emma Loffhagen, explains the Sally Rooney divide amongst book lovers and critics. Plus, gives her review of Rooney’s latest novel Intermezzo. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Prime Minister has told the London Standard, he wants to make London the artificial intelligence capital of the world, and the opportunities to create wealth are endless.Our Political Editor, Nicholas Cecil, discusses whether the UK can compete with the US when it comes to leading the way with this rapidly developing technology, and what spurred Sir Keir Starmer on to focus on AI now.In part two, cyber security expert Richard Bingley, shares his insight after a Wi-Fi cyber attack hits major UK stations - with ten of them in London. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Want something to brighten up the gloomy autumn days? We’ve got the definitive list of all the best entertainment to keep you busy.From exciting films, shows, TV, exhibitions and gigs, there’s so much coming up. We give you a sneak peek at the BFI London film festival, Gladiator II, Wicked, the ITV series Joan, Disney+’s Rivals, Janet Jackson at the O2, Dua Lipa at the Royal Albert Hall, through to The Devil Wears Prada musical.For a special treat The Standard’s Head of Culture, Nick Clark, has put together the ultimate autumn culture guide.With a summer of Taylor Swift can the UK’s music scene compete this season?Listen to find out… Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The UK Prime Minister has delivered his first Labour party conference speech since coming to power. Sir Keir Starmer reassured the UK that despite difficult decisions ahead there is light at the end of the tunnel. He went on to promise to “build a new Britain” with a crackdown on benefit fraudsters, a promise to house all veterans, and by reducing the UK’s reliance on foreign workers.The Standard’s Political Editor, Nicholas Cecil, joins the podcast from Liverpool and unpacks everything covered. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Labour party conference is fully underway and today’s big speech was from the Chancellor Rachel Reeves.The Standard’s Political Editor, Nicholas Cecil, joins us from Liverpool to discuss the key points from the speech, and reveals the findings of our Ipsos poll which indicate the honeymoon might already be over for Sir Keir Starmer after less than three months in power.   In part two, we speak to Maurizio Roccato, criminal historian at the University of Turin in Italy and the curator of London’s controversial new exhibition about serial killers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Come with us as we travel to Hanoi, Hue, Hoi An and Cat Ba Island. Sustainable travel expert Juliet Kinsman and journalist Jon Weeks explore the best Vietnam has to offer; travelling via overnight train, exploring eco-resorts doing things differently, kayaking among breathtaking scenery, and tasting the best food you’ll ever eat. Find out how trips like this actually benefit the country you're visiting, in this case, a country that’s experienced centuries of cultural change, occupation and war, but still maintained its core identity.Plus, discover what else we're exploring as part of our Sustainable Travel campaign here.Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fears are growing over the potential of a full-scale war after Israel hit southern Lebanon with its most intense air strikes in nearly a year, raising tensions with Hezbollah.Our Defence Editor, Robert Fox, discusses what the latest developments mean for this conflict, where this leaves the Western allies, and reveals the wider impact of the Middle East crisis. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our Political Editor, Nicholas Cecil, discusses what happened when he spoke to Louise Haigh about her plans for the future of British transport, including how they are going to ‘modernise outdated work practices’ on strike-plagued railways and get trains running on time. Plus, more on the Sir Keir Starmer gifts row and Sue Gray's salary reveal.In part two, our Chief Political Correspondent, Rachael Burford, explains why Global Radio are taking Westminster council to court over Leicester Square buskers in a first of its kind case. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A major Evening Standard and ITV News investigation has found grieving families, pensioners with dementia, and even dead people have been wrongly prosecuted in Britain’s secretive fast-track courts,.The Standard’s courts correspondent Tristan Kirk discusses the latest evidence his ongoing investigation has uncovered, why this secretive process is still happening and the calls for reform.In part two, more on the proposed plans to pedestrianise Oxford Street as it’s emerged cyclists will be banned from riding through the West End's proposed traffic-free section - with Evening Standard transport editor Ross Lydall. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is London’s Oxford Street, the UK’s most famous shopping district, about to become pedestrianised? Ross Lydall, The Standard’s City Hall Editor and Transport Editor, walks us through the proposed plans and explains why Sadiq Khan is facing a battle against Westminster Council.Plus, we close London Fashion Week with Junior Fashion Editor, Joe Bromley, who reveals all the highlights and the trends to follow. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sir Keir Starmer flew to Italy to meet with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni to discuss the country’s asylum processing scheme. We speak with our Political Editor Nicholas Cecil to find out what it could mean for the UK.And in part two it’s Emmys 2024. We’re joined by arts and culture writer and commissioning editor Vicky Jessop to discuss the highlights, such as a three award win for Baby Reindeer. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For this special episode we're joined by weight-loss specialist Shahroo Izadi to talk about her upcoming masterclass for The Standard called 'how to lose weight for good'. In this episode host Nicola Barron and Shahroo discuss:Why so many of us find it hard to stick to dietsMaintaining a heathy weight and enjoying foodThe kindness methodPlus much more!For all listeners we’re running a special 15% discount across all our classes this month with the code BACKTOSCHOOL <link>Tap the links to hear our previous episodes on 'how to succeed as an introvert' and 'how to stay focused and get things done'. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transport for London has admitted a cyber attack hitting its IT systems is much worse than initially thought.Ross Lydall has the latest on the investigation, the risk to passenger data - plus, what's happening with Central Line delays linked to ongoing rolling stock refurbishment.In part two, a new wave of fixed mortgage rate cuts is on the way for lucky borrowers on Friday 13 as home loan costs continue to fall.Evening Standard business editor Jonathan Prynn examines data showing major high street lenders TSB, Nationwide and HSBC will cut rates across their range of fixed rate products in the latest flare up in the mortgage price war. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The father of Stephen Lawrence has spoken of his son’s legacy and the family’s enduring heartbreak ahead of what would have been the teenager’s 50th birthday.Stephen, a black 18-year-old aspiring architect, was stabbed to death in a racist attack by a group of young white men in April 1993, in Eltham, south London.Evening Standard crime correspondent Anthony France has interviewed Dr Neville Lawrence, who told our journalist the world was robbed of a “special” young man “who loved people for who they are” as he told of son’s hope to design the capital’s future skyscrapers.In part two, the world’s biggest style brands showcase their collections alongside the capital’s independent designers at the 40th anniversary of London Fashion Week.Evening Standard Joe Bromley discusses spring/summer 2025 collections appearing at venues around London. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kamala Harris pummelled Donald Trump at their first - and potentially only - White House election debate, forcing the former president onto the defensive and subsequently winning the prized endorsement of Taylor Swift.Evening Standard deputy political editor Jitendra Joshi reports Democratic vice president Harris exploited her experience as a courtroom prosecutor to convey the Republican as unfit for office - while Trump pushed back against claims that he endangers the Constitution.In part two, Evening Standard chief theatre critic Nick Curtis is joined by Ruth Wilson to discuss ‘A Very Royal Scandal’ - which comes to Amazon Prime on 19 September.The award-winning actress plays former BBC Newsnight anchor Emily Maitlis in a new dramatisation of Prince Andrew’s nightmare interview about his friendship with convicted sex offender and late financier Jeffrey Epstein.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Around 1,700 prisoners were being freed on Tuesday in the first wave of early release to ease the overcrowding crisis in jails despite new warnings that some are certain to reoffend.Evening Standard home affairs editor Martin Bentham reports each of the inmates being released will have served only 40 per cent of the prison term they were handed by the courts in an emergency measure ordered by the Government to stop jails running out of space for new suspects and convicts.In part two, the Princess of Wales has been praised by charities for giving “hope to many others” with a heartfelt video explaining progress in her cancer treatment.Evening Standard reporter Robert Dex discusses Kate’s use of the professionally-shot short film also featuring her husband and children, and its public relations context, to announce completion of her course of chemotherapy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

London MPs have joined a Commons movement challenging the axing winter fuel payments for millions of pensioners.Evening Standard political editor Nicholas Cecil has Monday morning's details on an early day motion calling for the Starmer government’s hugely controversial cuts to be postponed.In part two, a look at how construction of the huge new HS2 station at Old Oak Common will see years of Christmas closures and diversions for passengers using at Paddington.Transport editor Ross Lydall discusses the logistics of moving services temporarily to Euston and its impact on timetables. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nicola Barron (Masterclasses) is joined by Mark Channon, productivity coach and World Memory Grand Master no less, to explore ways in which we can stay focused and get things done. Plus, boost your power of recall with Mark’s memory technique.For all listeners we’re running a special 15% discount across all our classes this month, when you enter the promo code BACKTOSCHOOL.To hear our previous episode on how to thrive as an introvert, click here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The UK government is reportedly considering sending offenders to serve sentences in Estonian prisons to ease overcrowding in Britain’s jails. Although it’s not officially been confirmed, cabinet minister Angela Eagle says ‘anything’ is being considered to ease the prisons crisis.Our Courts Correspondent, Tristan Kirk, reveals what we know so far about this potential option, and discusses the urgent issues facing our country’s prisons.In part two, film critic Jo-Ann Titmarsh joins us from the Venice International Film Festival to give her verdict on Joker: Folie à deux, all the very long standing ovations, and the movies that should be on your list to go see. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bereaved families of victims who died in the Grenfell Tower fire say those complicit in the 2017 disaster must face justice - but face waiting at least a further two years for any charges to be brought.It came as PM Sir Keir Starmer issued an apology from the British state to families and survivors following the publication of a damning public inquiry report - amid growing calls to overhaul fire safety and building cladding laws.Evening Standard political editor Nicholas Cecil discusses reaction to the public inquiry’s scathing report, next steps for the criminal investigation and the outlook for new building safety legislation.In part two, Evening Standard transport editor Ross Lydall has details of the expansion of contactless train payments to include dozens of commuter towns for the first time, and how it could see fewer passengers caught out with fines for buying the wrong ticket. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Grenfell Tower Inquiry has delivered a damning final report into the disaster that claimed 72 lives.It found the west London tower was turned into a death trap in June 2017 by “dishonest” construction firms, architects and negligent politicians who ignored fire safety for decades.Bereaved families and survivors vowed to continue their fight for justice, with Wednesday's report paving the way for criminal prosecutions over one of the worst disasters in modern British history.A seven-year public inquiry, chaired by Sir Martin Moore-Bick, exposed how refurbishment prior to the devastating fire left the North Kensington block coated in cheap, highly flammable cladding and foam insulation - while warnings of impending disaster from Grenfell residents were ignored.We’re joined from the inquiry in Paddington by Evening Standard courts correspondent Tristan Kirk. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The UK Defence Secretary has told his Israeli counterpart that the British government is ‘following the law’ with its decision to suspend around 30 arms export licences over the Gaza conflict.The Government says that humanitarian concerns and the treatment of detainees were among the reasons why they suspended some arms sales to Israel, amid concerns a “clear risk” exists that they could be used to breach international humanitarian law.Nicholas Cecil, the Standard’s Political Editor, explains the decision and potential repercussions. In part two, our features journalist, Maddy Mussen discusses the rumours that there could be a potential plot to reintroduce Prince Harry back into the royal family… and why she’s all for the idea.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s been announced that the one and two-word Ofsted ratings for schools will be scrapped with immediate effect. The Government said the change, which follows the suicide of head teacher Ruth Perry in 2023, was needed to reduce the high stakes for schools and give parents a better picture.Darren Northcott, National Official for Education at NASUWT, gives his reaction and discusses whether the changes go far enough. In part two, the Standard’s culture writer, Vicky Jessop, joins us to discuss why Oasis fans across the country have been left feeling outraged over dynamic ticket pricing.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We're treating you to an episode from London Love Stories. What’s that they say about buses and two coming at once? Perhaps the same can be said of bus-related love stories, too. Host Katie Strick meets Rory and Charlotte, another couple who have a lot to thank the number 17 bus route for... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The 81st annual Venice International Film Festival is officially underway. Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, the long-awaited sequel to Tim Burton’s 1988 classic comedy horror, opened up the festival this week but there’s still plenty more to come from the event which runs until 7th September.Jo-Ann Titmarsh, freelance film critic for the Evening Standard, joins us from Venice to discuss all the hotly anticipated premieres, including; Joker: Folie à Deux with Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga, Maria starring Angelina Jolie, and Luca Guadagnino’s Queer with Daniel Craig.Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this preview of Brave New World….Is there such a thing as perfect sleep? Leading expert in circadian neuroscience from Oxford University, Professor Russell Foster, joins host Evgeny Lebedev, to explain the science behind nighttime slumber and why it's crucial to living our best lives awake. The pair discuss everything from sleep hygiene, napping, our circadian rhythm and body clocks, and the impact of technology before bed.Listen to the full conversation on the Brave New World podcast here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Team GB's 220 athletes have arrived in Paris ready for the Paralympic Games. Our senior editor and feature writer Katie Strick discusses what she learned from interviews with some of this year’s athletes, including Zak Skinner and Stef Reid, such as the need for resilience, humour and a change in mentality to succeed in the games.Find Katie's full article here, and more on the Paralympic games here.Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After a 15-year hiatus the Gallagher brothers are finally getting the band back together. Wembley stadium is set to host four shows as part of the UK and Ireland tour in 2025. The Standard’s Celebrity Correspondent Lisa McLoughlin and Executive News Editor Mark Wilkinson discuss the huge announcement, what it means for London, and what the tour could entail.Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We're treating you to an episode from London Love Stories. Host Katie Strick meets Alice and Elliot, the first of two couples who fell in love after meeting on the same bus route from King’s Cross. Make sure to come back next Saturday for part two...  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The August bank holiday weekend brings a feast of music to west London as Notting Hill Carnival marks its 56th year.The celebration of Caribbean culture runs over three days, with musical styles from calypso to dancehall for over two million expected revellers.Mark Blunden is joined by sound system pioneer and Notting Hill Carnival director Linett Kamala, who in 1985 at 15 years old was one of the first female DJs to perform at the event.Linett spoke to The Standard podcast from Powis Square, where she was putting the finishing touches to her dubstep-focussed Trojan 7 x Lin Kam Art sound system collaboration.In part 2, Rachelle Abbott speaks with Joshua Thomson, artistic director of Australian performance art troupe Legs On The Wall.His production Thaw will see members of the daredevil dance troupe suspended above Docklands from a crane atop a 2.5-ton melting block of ice in a bid to urge action on climate change. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

London students continued to have Britain’s best GCSE results as hundreds of thousands of teenagers nationwide discovered their academic fate.Pupils in England, Wales and Northern Ireland received their results in the first year where grade marking was restored to pre-pandemic 2019 levels in all three nations.Evening Standard chief political correspondent Rachael Burford discusses GCSE results day, student stories around the capital and government plans to address attainment gaps. In part two, it appears Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck are headed for divorce after a second go at a relationship that first sparked over two decades ago.JLo filed for divorce at an LA court on Tuesday, but what happens next and who gets what - it all hinges on if a prenuptial agreement was signed.We’re joined by Evening Standard courts correspondent Tristan Kirk, who examines the case and next steps for the Hollywood stars’ legal teams. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A report reveals the salaries Londoners need to earn so they can afford a privately rented home in the capital.Average earnings required are growing ever higher, with more than £76,000 a year now needed, according to research by the G15 group, which represents London’s largest not-for-profit housing associations.Evening Standard chief political correspondent Rachael Burford examines the report’s findings.Plus, in part two, Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta plans to build the most physically-imposing Gunners team since Arsène Wenger’s ‘Invincibles’.Evening Standard football writer Simon Collings discusses Arteta’s strategy to boost the club’s complement of tall players for the new Premier League season. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The search for British technology tycoon Mike Lynch and his teenage daughter resumed on Tuesday after a luxury yacht sank in a tornado off the coast of Sicily.One person is confirmed dead after 56-metre superyacht Bayesian hit a violent storm with 22 aboard, causing the mast to break and the vessel to be thrown off balance in strong winds.Cave divers are trying to access the Bayesian, as Sicily’s Civil Protection said Morgan Stanley International bank chairman Jonathan Bloomer was among six missing.Fifteen people were rescued, including a mother and her one-year-old daughter.Plus, Taylor Swift bows out from Wembley Stadium with nearly three-quarters of a million Swifties enjoying the show over a record-breaking eight nights in total. Hear Evening Standard arts correspondent Robert Dex on Swift’s economy-influencing London run. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zombie knives and machetes will finally be banned from next month amid horrific attacks on London’s streets.Ahead of a full ban, people in possession of these gruesome-looking weapons are being urged to hand them in at special bins at the capital’s police stations as part of a blades amnesty.We’re joined by Evening Standard home affairs editor Martin Bentham to discuss the ban and knife crime's devastating impact on young Londoners.Plus, in part two, Team GB Olympic 800 metres champion Keely Hodgkinson and victorious climber Toby Roberts on their plans after Paris 2024 gold medal success. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tom Leathes is CEO of Motorway, the car buying and selling company that launched in 2017 and secured Unicorn status just four years later, after it was valued at over $1billion. This is a preview taken from our business podcast. To hear the full interview just search How to be a CEO or click here.For more interviews, news and analysis, go to the business page here or pick up the Evening Standard newspaper. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sweden confirms Europe’s first case of a contagious new mpox variant, called Clade 1, following the World Health Organisation declaring a global public health emergency - latest with Evening Standard health reporter, Daniel Keane.In part two, ES arts & culture writer Vicky Jessop on Taylor Swift’s Wembley Stadium run and how the devastating Southport attacks affected the singer. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this preview episode of our Brave New World podcast, we’re turning our attention to nootropics and neuroscience. Nootropics are drugs and supplements which proponents say can boost alertness, increase focus, and improve memory. Evgeny Lebedev meets Nootopia founder Mark Effinger, AKA Mr Noots. Since launching in 2004, Nootopia has helped 300,000 people- including doctors, biohackers, and fitness instructors- unlock their potential. To hear the full episode search Brave New World on your podcast provider. Disclaimer: you should always seek your own medical advice. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The government is coming under pressure to cap rail fares for another year as July inflation data signalled potential further misery ahead for commuters.Evening Standard deputy political editor Jitendra Joshi reports this would land some commuters with a 4.6 per cent hike to their travel bills.We also examine the latest on government plans for rail nationalisation - and why won’t this necessarily mean any cheaper fares for passengers already paying through the nose.Plus, in part two, it’s Taylor Swift’s The Eras Tour London reprise as the economy-influencing megastar returns to Wembley stadium.Swift’s back for five nights at Wembley after her triple concerts in June and cancelled Vienna gigs after a foiled terror plot.If you can’t get a ticket, there’s a host of TayTay-themed events around the capital.We’ve got the highlights with El Hunt, commissioning editor and writer on the Evening Standard’s culture desk. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Elon Musk and Donald Trump sat down for a much-hyped live interview on X on Monday night. It’s been dubbed by viewers as a bizarre and rambly conversation, with many criticising how the former president made a number of strange statements and false claims, without being challenged during the two hour discussion. Our Deputy Political Editor, Jitendra Joshi, helps break down the key talking points from the interview and gives the latest updates on the US election as it stands. In part two, The Standard’s Junior Fashion Editor, Joe Bromley, joins us to discuss whether British men are ready for the return of budgie smugglers? Following a surge in purchases of the controversial swimwear.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After an incredible two weeks, the Paris Olympics has officially come to an end.There’s no denying that the Games captured the world once again and gifted us countless iconic sporting moments, but did Paris 2024 deliver everything it promised? The Evening Standard’s Sports Correspondent, Matt Majendie, joins us from Paris to give his verdict, and share his favourite sporting moments from the 2024 Olympics. In part two, our Arts Correspondent, Robert Dex, gives his review of the star-studded closing ceremony, and discusses some of the most talked about moments from the Games. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer has said the police are to remain on “high alert” this weekend following days of violent disorder and unrest in England and Northern Ireland.It comes as cabinet minister Nick Thomas-Symonds also issued a warning to football fans who “engage in violent, thuggish behaviour” that they will be dealt with quickly. As police examine the links between far-right thugs and football hooligans ahead of the new season.Our Political Editor Nicholas Cecil reveals the latest developments.In part two, The Standard’s El Hunt examines the increasing number of artists using dynamic pricing for concerts, and asks when did they get so greedy?  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Met police chief, Sir Mark Rowley, has praised the “show of force and unity from communities” that defeated the threat from far-right troublemakers yesterday, after thousands of anti-racism protesters lined streets of the capital.Our Crime Correspondent, Anthony France, explains what exactly happened, how racist thugs are being fast-tracked through our justice system, and discusses whether this could be the beginning of the end of the riots. In part two, as Justin Timberlake kicks off the UK leg of his world tour, The Standard’s Emma Loffhagen analyses where it all went wrong for the star and how he went from pop's golden boy to DWI drama. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kamala Harris has officially announced Minnesota governor Tim Walz as her Democratic running mate, as the race to the White House heats up. But, are they an election-winning partnership?Andrew Rudalevige professor of government at Bowdoin College in Maine in the US, visiting professor at the LSE, and affiliated with the Centre for US Politics at University College London, is here to share his insight on the latest developments with the US election and explain everything you need to know about Tim Walz. In part two, as Netflix’s Love is Blind:UK begins streaming today, we talk to The Standard’s India Block about what she made of the first episode, and whether or not it can live up to the success of the US version.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There’s been another day of violent disorder in the UK, and there are fears that the far-right protests could be heading to London.A list circulating on social media which suggests that extremists are planning protests in four London boroughs is currently being assessed by the Metropolitan Police. Our Political Editor Nicholas Cecil discusses what we know so far and how hundreds of thugs are facing jail as the Government fast-tracks justice. In part two, The Standard’s feature writer and editor, Robbie Griffiths, takes a little trip down London 2012 memory lane, and analyses whether or not the city delivered on its Olympic legacy promises… and considers whether Paris can too. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Prime Minister has laid out his plan of action to tackle the riots across the country, following a COBRA meeting on Monday. The Standard’s Political Editor Nicholas Cecil explains what Keir Starmer's plans are and why there’s a focus on social media. In part two, the Standard’s Fashion Director Victoria Moss explains what Charli XCX’s latest music video tells us about sustainable fashion.Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Katrina Mirpuri joins renowned Indian chef and owner of the Cinnamon Collection, Vivek Singh to discuss the significance of South Asian Heritage Month in the UK.South Asian people make up 20 per cent of London's population.The month runs from July 18 to August 17 and aims to celebrate all things surrounding South Asian culture. To read Katrina’s full guide of the capital’s events click here.Vivek Singh has launched the UK’s first chaat competitive eating challenge at his latest restaurant, Cinnamon Bazaar in Richmond...In this episode:-What is chaat? the challenge, and Katrina reveals her own score-This year’s theme ‘Free to Be Me’ and how it’s expressed in many ways-History, culture, and delicious food...-Why Vivek is “proud to be Indian” and thinks the population is "more seen" than beforePlus more.For all the latest news head to standard.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A report by recruitment firm Hays suggests the United Kingdom faces a shortage of skilled workers for in-demand job sectors, including technology, manufacturing and banking.But, paradoxically, it comes amid growing concerns about the impact of immigration rule changes around the Skilled Worker Visa salary threshold for foreign workers and their families - which rose from £26,200 to £38,700 in April.Evening Standard social editor Deeya Sonalkar describes her experiences navigating the Home Office's labyrinthine visa system, and our business editor Jonathan Prynn discusses the economic implications.In part two, the Evening Standard has got you covered for this summer's top free art shows, and acting culture editor Nick Clark has the highlights. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this preview of Brave New World, Evgeny Lebedev meets with billionaire entrepreneur Christian Angermayer.The pair discuss The Enhanced Games. Could this improve drug testing at the Olympics?To hear the full episode search Brave New World. You will also be able to hear a conversation with retired Australian swimmer James Magnussen, a silver and double bronze Olympic medallist, who’s been offered $1 million if he wins the controversial new competition’s 100m freestyle swimming race. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Emergency services report almost 40 police officers were injured as riots hit Southport after three girls were killed in a devastating knife attack.Violence on Tuesday flared as crowds gathered in the north-west seaside town for a vigil honouring Bebe King, six, Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, and Alice Dasilva Aguiar, nine, who were all fatally stabbed at a Taylor Swift-themed holiday club on Monday.Tensions were already running high in the wake of the tragedy, which escalated into violence.A police van was torched and a mosque attacked by a far-right mob after false rumours circulated on social media about the identity of the 17-year-old male suspect arrested on suspicion of murder and attempted murder at the dance studio.In this episode of the Standard podcast, with our home affairs editor Martin Bentham, we examine how social media disinformation is fanning the flames of extremism.Plus, why the British legal process won’t give you a suspect’s name or crime scene evidence immediately. In part two, reporter Robert Dex with Paris Olympics 2024 analysis as Great Britain leap to fourth in the medal table with two more golds, in the men’s triathlon and women’s quadruple sculls. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Evening Standard reveals on Tuesday that more than 30 more low traffic neighbourhoods could be built across London with funding from Mayor Sadiq Khan’s transport body.Evening Standard transport editor Ross Lydall has been examining details of expanded LTN plans, expected to cost around £50 million, in Transport for London’s annual progress report.Plus, acting culture editor Nick Clark visited the extraordinary Spitalfields home of married artists Philip and Charlotte Colbert, which is packed with bright, colourful pop art and surrealist pieces - but what about their everyday teapots and vases?Pop artist Philip and filmmaker Charlotte discuss inspiration for their work and a collaborating on a new homewares and furniture project at Chelsea’s Conran Shop.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Great Britain’s gold rush begins with our first victory of Paris 2024 as Ros Canter, Tom McEwen and Laura Collett triumph in equestrian team eventing at the Château de Versailles.Tom Daley earlier scooped a remarkable fifth Olympic diving medal as he took silver alongside Noah Williams in men’s synchronised 10m platform final.It came after Adam Peaty narrowly missed out on the top podium spot to retain his title by a cruel 0.02 seconds in the men’s 100m breaststroke, and settled for joint silver.For more on Monday’s Paris successes, The Standard podcast is joined by reporter Robert Dex, who’s been covering developments.In part two, in her first major speech as chancellor, Rachel Reeves identifies a £20 billion black hole in government spending as she seeks to pin the blame for future tax rises on Tory profligacy.Reeves’s spending cut targets include more empty public buildings sell-offs, plus slashing government investment in some road-building projects - and there’s concerns about the future of central London’s High Speed 2 rail link.We have policy analysis, plus the latest on the Conservative leadership race, with Evening Standard political editor Nicholas Cecil. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this bonus episode Jon Weeks meets Zahra Bahrololoumi, CEO of Salesforce UK&I.The CRM firm has been dubbed the world's number one customer relationship management software company, and Zahra herself has been named one of the best-known female leaders in the UK.In this episode Zahra discusses how AI is top of the agenda for businesses, why data security is paramount when using the technology, and why more investment is needed in boosting digital skills in the UK.To hear the full episode, search How to be a CEO wherever you find your podcasts, or tap here.For all the latest news head to standard.co.uk. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 7 of A Week's a Long Time in Westminster: While "Brat" Kamala Harris is all but confirmed as the Democrat presidential nominee, there’s speculation in the UK that Labour are planning to raise taxes despite their election promises.Nicholas Cecil and Rachael Burford discuss the key moments of the week in the world of politics, including:Kamala Harris is celebrating "brat summer" as she prepares to take on TrumpThe candidates running to replace Rishi Sunak as the Tory leadership contests hots upWill Keir Stamer's honeymoon end in Autumn as MPs hint the country's finances are worse than they thought?London's housing crisis continues to bite Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The wait is nearly over. The Evening Standard’s Sports Correspondent, Matt Majundie, joins us from Paris to give you the definitive guide on everything you need to know about this year’s Games. From Team GB’s chances of topping the medal table, the big name athletes competing again, to the rising stars to watch out for, and the key dates for your diary.In part two, our Arts Correspondent, Robert Dex, runs through the latest news from the Olympics, from Charlotte Dujardin’s dramatic withdrawal, to Tom Daley testing out the beds in the athletes’ village, and all the rumours around what to expect from the opening ceremony.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Standard can reveal that the Royal Mint has been told by the Treasury that it would not have to mint any new 1p and 2p coins for general circulation this year - and doesn’t expect to order any more in the coming years.  Our Business & Technology Correspondent, Simon Hunt, who is behind the story, explains what we know so far about the situation and whether the UK is officially becoming a cashless society.  In part two, The Standard’s El Hunt reveals the next wave of Taylor Swift mania, the opening of a new display at V&A Museum about the global superstar. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Evening Standard’s Defence Editor, Robert Fox, explains how the political situations in the US, Germany and France have thrust the UK to the front of the western alliance.Prime Minister Keir Starmer has been pitched into Nato leadership due to the UK Labour government being seen as the strongest and most stable of the lead European Nato allies - amid threats from Russia, China, North Korea and Iran.In part two our Arts Correspondent, Robert Dex, discusses the BBC’s annual list of top earners and what the Director General Tim Davie had to say about the Strictly Come Dancing crisis. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Joe Biden has officially dropped out of the 2024 US presidential race, and has publicly endorsed the current Vice-President Kamala Harris to succeed him. But with only 105 days left to go until election day, will it be Harris vs Trump? And is there enough time for the Democrats to fight against the momentum building behind Donald Trump? Jitendra Joshi, The Evening Standard’s Deputy Political Editor, explains how we got here and where this all leaves the Democrats. In part two, we take a deeper look at Kamala Harris, the potential Democratic nominee and hopeful president in waiting.Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What is the best pub for food in London?Well, David Ellis, ES going out editor, and Josh Barrie, food writer, have put together a comprehensive list of the top spots in the capital. Whether you’re looking for well poured beers, excellent wines, a classic fish and chips, or something a bit different, they've got you covered. In this episode they discuss what makes a great gastro pub in 2024 and guide us through the top five on their list; where they are, what they offer and why they're the best.Check out their article with all 50 of London’s best gastropubs here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 6 of A Week’s a Long Time in Westminster: As our new PM Sir Keir Starmer tries to unite Britain, Europe and the wider world, there’s plenty of political drama in the US. Nicholas Cecil, Jitendra Joshi and Rachael Burford discuss the key moments of the week in the world of politics, including:IT “pandemic” hits Britain and the worldLong-range missile talks between Keir Starmer and Volodymyr Zelensky into No10Donald Trump tries (for half an hour) to unite America before new attacks on DemocratsGrandfather clock is ticking against Joe BidenFollow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Brave New World, Evgeny Lebedev talks to bestselling author and brain coach Jim Kwik. Kwik suffered a traumatic brain injury aged 5 and is now a world authority on brain optimisation.To hear the full interview with Jim Kwik, and to learn his top tips to boost your brain power, search Brave New World or click here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

More housing, improved rail services, extra rights for renters and more. Jitendra Joshi and Rachael Burford discuss the key points from the King’s Speech, and how Labour’s plans will impact London. Plus, Robert Dex explains why Strictly Come Dancing is introducing chaperones for celebrity contestants.Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Data shows more than 100 spiking cases are happening in London every month. Anthony France discusses the recent surge in spiking in the capital, and explains the Met's plan to tackle it. Plus, in part two, Nick Clark reveals the top theatre shows to watch in London this summer.Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Investigators continue to piece together evidence for a motive leading to the assassination attempt on former president Donald Trump.It left a former fire chief dead and wounded two other people at the Pennsylvania rally, plus Trump, after the shooter's bullet struck his ear.The gunman, named as Thomas Matthew Crooks, opened fire at the rally in Butler and was himself shot dead.But there are now serious questions about police and Secret Service response to the incident.The assassination attempt is also reframing Republican Trump’s bitter presidential contest against Democrat incumbent Joe Biden.For the latest, we’re joined by Evening Standard deputy political editor Jitendra Joshi.Plus, in part two, as Gareth Southgate’s pride of lions fly home after their 2-1 Euro 2024 final loss to Spain in Berlin, we look at England’s tournament highlights, with Evening Standard reporter Robert Dex. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Meet public speaker, writer and professional introvert, Richard Etienne. He’s made a career out of showing people that you don’t need to be the loudest person in the room to have the most impact.Richard joins Nicola Barron from Evening Standard Masterclasses to discuss:·        What is an introvert?·        Is it harder for an introvert to succeed?·        Tips for public speaking and presentations·        Hybrid working: Advice for returning to the officeFor more information on Masterclasses from the Evening Standard, and to book your place on Richard’s class ‘How to speak up and get noticed’ go to standard.co.uk/masterclasses.For all listeners of this podcast you can book with a 20% discount using promo code ‘Standard’. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Starmer’s first week in power but is it slipping away from Biden?Episode 5 of A Week’s a Long Time in Westminster: All eyes on the president, Labour’s great reset, and is football coming home? Analysis with our politics team - Nicholas Cecil, Jitendra Joshi and Rachael Burford.In this episode:Labour gets off to a flying startIs Biden heading for the Rest Wing?Battle for the heart and soul of the Tory PartyNewbie MPs at WestminsterAnd….it’s coming home..how London’s preparing for England vs Spain Euro 2024 final Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

England’s late winner against the Netherlands has sparked a rush of fans trying to get to Berlin in time for Sunday night’s final.Evening Standard reporter Robert Dex has the latest on the race to grab those gold-dust tickets for the showdown against Spain.In part two, we’ll look at why water bills in London are set to shoot up by almost £100 by 2030 under proposals unveiled today by the industry regulator Ofwat.Thames Water, Britain’s biggest water supplier, says the money’s needed to fix its shattered finances and pay for a multi billion investment programme.We’re joined by Professor Ewan McGaughey, of King’s College London, a specialist in public service regulation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As Sir Keir Starmer jets to Washington for Nato’s 75th anniversary, his armed forces minister said the government will aim to complete a defence review in less than a year.It comes amid warnings from former military chiefs that Britain is unprepared for the threat of war. Minister Luke Pollard said the new government would work “at pace” to finish the assessment - which the prime minister said needs to happen before decisions are made on raising defence spending to 2.5 per cent of GDP.Now, the prime minister is in Washington to meet US President Joe Biden and other Nato leaders at a summit to mark the alliance’s 75th anniversary.Evening Standard political editor Nicholas Cecil has the latest.In part two, we’ll examine new tolls being levied at two Thames crossings, Blackwall Tunnel and the under-construction Silvertown Tunnel - which Transport for London has confirmed will be up to £4 each way.Analysis from City Hall with Evening Standard transport editor Ross Lydall. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hybrid vehicles of a different kind will soon be seen on London’s roads - behold the era of the ‘tram-bus’.Officially called ieTrams, they will ply one of the capital’s longest routes, the 15-mile 358 line from Crystal Palace to Orpington.The striking new vehicles might look like a rounded single-decker with covered wheels, but the hardware includes a pantograph overhead fast-charging system used in electric tramsMark Blunden speaks to Evening Standard transport editor Ross Lydall about this new age for the capital’s public transport.In part two, a look at what public art’s in store for London this year - as a giant polka-dotted pumpkin by Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama is installed in Kensington Palace - and we’re joined the Royal College of Art’s head of programme for MA sculpture, Sarah Staton. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Britain’s newly-minted chancellor Rachel Reeves gives her first major speech at the Treasury with the hope of boosting investment in Britain after years of post-Brexit economic turbulence.The fledgling Labour government is making growth its number one priority as it seeks to bring in extra billions to improve public services.Speaking to business chiefs at the Treasury, Reeves explained how she wants to rev up Britain’s economy domestically, including by planning reforms, as she sought to boost shaken investor confidence.For the latest, we’re joined by Evening Standard political editor Nicholas Cecil. Plus, the countdown is on for England’s semi-final clash with the Netherlands - with one match ticket being offered for £16,000.With just days to go, Evening Standard reporter Robert Dex discusses the demand for Euros tickets in host city Düsseldorf and hopes for London ‘fan zones’ to watch the action. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Standard’s Jon Weeks met with Nicola Hodson, the UK and Ireland CEO of multinational corporation IBM.On this special cut-down episode Jon and Nicola discuss AI and how IBM is helping companies from all sectors to incorporate the technology into their business.To hear the full interview just search How to be a CEO Nicola Hodson. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's Election Results Day.... Episode 4 of A Week’s a Long Time in Westminster: Labour's historic victory, broken down by our politics team - Nicholas Cecil, Jitendra Joshi and Rachael Burford. In this episode:How London's political landscape has changedWhy Keir Starmer's now facing the 'hard part'What's next for the Conservative party?Did Reform UK and the Lib Dems do as well as they hoped?Find more general election reaction here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Brave New World, Evgeny Lebedev talks to physician and longevity expert Mark Hyman. The two discuss the rise of functional medicine and what lifestyle changes we can make to enhance our healthspan.To hear the full interview just search Brave New World on your podcast provider. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The pros & cons of immigration, the main parties’ proposals, and how to tackle an influx of migrants. Madeleine Sumption, the Director of the Migration Observatory at the University of Oxford discusses the current state of immigration in the UK, how migrant numbers impact the economy, and why evidence suggests the Rwanda scheme might not be an effective deterrent against illegal migration.Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week in the run-up to election day, we’re taking a deeper look at three of the biggest issues for voters: taxes & the economy, immigration - and today, it’s the turn of the NHS. Strikes, waiting lists, lack of funding, not enough GP appointments, dentists appointments, or mental health services - they’re all issues that never seem to be out of the news. Experts have been sounding the alarm that the NHS is in crisis for years now, so what will whoever wins the general election and makes up the next government, do to improve the situation for our much-loved health care system? The Standard’s Health Reporter, Daniel Keane, shares his insight.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The countdown to polling day is on, and in a special miniseries of the Standard podcast ahead of 4 July, we’re taking a deeper look at three of the hot topics on the 2024 general election campaign trail - tax and the economy, the NHS and immigration.In this first special episode, we’ll examine the critical of issue the pound in our pocket and which of the parties can be trusted to steward the economy.While both the Conservatives and Labour have unanswered questions about funding specifics for spending commitments.Plus, Sir Keir Starmer’s careful wording over tax plans, City of London's mood for Labour and what is Rishi Sunak’s political legacy?From the newsroom, join Mark Blunden in conversation with Evening Standard business editor Jonathan Prynn. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 3 of A Week’s a Long Time in Westminster: Angry debates on both sides of the Atlantic, exclusive interviews with Rishi Sunak and Sir Ed Davey, a calamitous poll for the Tories, and the battle for Jewish votes in Finchley. Nicholas Cecil, Jitendra Joshi and Rachael Burford discuss the latest drama in the run-up to the general election. In this episode:Did the PM do enough in his final debate with the Labour leader?Just how bad was Joe Biden’s own debate with Donald Trump?Ipsos polling finds 72% of voters dislike the Tories.Sir Keir Starmer admits remarks about Bangladesh were ‘clumsy’ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sir Ed Davey has appealed to voters in London and the commuter belt to “tear down the Blue Wall” on July 4.Evening Standard political editor Nicholas Cecil secured an exclusive interview with the Liberal Democrat leader , which took place on the Waterloo to Wimbledon route that’s seen as a key hunting ground for Lib Dems to snatch Conservative votes in south-west London.Now, Sir Ed’s hoping a boost in visibility with stunts on the campaign trail will translate into crosses on ballot papers.Plus, in part two - it’s the countdown to Glastonbury Festival.This year’s line-up includes Dua Lipa, Coldplay, SZA, Little Simz, Shania Twain, Cyndi Lauper, Avril Lavigne, Janelle Monae and Paul Heaton.We asked the BPI’s Paul Williams about the evolution of Glastonbury’s live music in the streaming world - and the resurgence of retro cassettes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feel like you’re going nowhere? That’s because London remains the most traffic-congested city in Europe and the third worst globally, according to an annual survey.Evening Standard transport editor Ross Lydall reports the Inrix 2023 global traffic score found speeds in central London fell 10 per cent in a year to an average of 10mph.Ross joins Mark Blunden to discuss the capital’s most congested routes, TfL’s gridlock management strategies and how Londoners’ on-demand shopping habits are fuelling the problem.Plus, make sure to stay tuned for part two, where we’ll analyse ‘Brat summer’ - a phenomenon that fuelled by Charli XCX’s new album that’s seen social channels overrun with low-res green squares inspired by the cover artwork.Rachelle Abbott joins features writer Maddy Mussen to discuss her piece on Brat summer as the singer prepares to play a Glastonbury DJ set. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange has left London after agreeing a US plea deal that will see him plead guilty to a spying charge and go free.Assange was locked in a lengthy legal battle over his extradition with American authorities, including years living in London’s Ecuadorian Embassy from 2012 before detention in HMP Belmarsh.He was sought by the US since Wikileaks published hundreds of thousands of secret documents relating to the Afghanistan and Iraq wars.Assange left Britain on a charter flight to plead guilty on a single spying charge at court in a US Pacific territory.Evening Standard home affairs editor Martin Bentham examines what’s next in the legal case and Assange’s timeline of being locked up in London.Plus, in part two, we look at the increasing price of a pint of beer in London - which has reached, on average, a frothy £6.75.Evening Standard business editor Jonathan Prynn discusses the soaring costs hitting the capital’s hospitality sector. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Polling day is nearly here - and the prime minister has set out sweeteners he hopes will woo Londoners to vote Conservative on 4 July, rather than backing Labour - or switching to Reform, the Liberal Democrats or Greens.In a wide-ranging interview with the Evening Standard’s political editor, Nicholas Cecil, Sunak teased future interest rate cuts, vowed war on post-Brexit red tape, discussed the future of the City and civil service reform.Plus, Taylor Swift played the finale of three shows at Wembley Stadium on her Eras tour, before returning to London in August.Evening Standard commissioning editor and writer El Hunt, who was at Wembley, joins Mark Blunden in the newsroom to discuss the concerts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 2 of A Week's a Long Time in Westminster: A betting scandal, Starmer struggles to shake off Corbyn’s legacy, Boris returns and Ed Davey’s latest antics. Nicholas Cecil, Jitendra Joshi and Rachael Burford discuss the latest drama in the run-up to the general election. In this episode:Conservatives forced to delete ‘gambling’ post on XSuella Braverman’s embarrassing TikTok postsThe latest Ipsos survey sheds light on London’s intentionsWhy a local Labour leader was found hiding in a hedgeFollow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this preview of Brave New World, Evgeny Lebedev speaks with Ryan Holiday about the modern media landscape, echo chambers and the value of Stoic leadership.To hear the episode in full just search Brave New World Evening Standard. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our Political Editor Nicholas Cecil discusses Rishi Sunak’s LBC appearance, the poll that shows a potential Tory wipe-out in London, and more drama over Labour taxes. Plus, food & drink writer Josh Barrie talks us through the best beer gardens in the capital.Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our Chief Political Correspondent Rachael Burford dissects Keir Starmer’s performance on LBC, and considers whether Boris Johnson’s set to make a comeback. Plus, Senior Feature Writer Katie Strick talks us through the juiciest revelations from Tom Bower’s House of Beckham book.Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our Political Editor Nicholas Cecil discusses whether the Conservatives will reap the benefits of their tax war on Labour. Plus, in part two,  features journalist Maddy Mussen discusses the rise of ‘spot stickers’ across London, and whether they’re better than concealer.Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode One: Three weeks to go until July 4 polling day...Ahead of Euro 2024 kicking off, it's a game of two halves on the campaign trailLabour, the Tories, the Lib Dems and Greens publish their manifestosHas Rishi Sunak recovered from his D-Day blunder?Sir Keir Starmer’s party still on the back foot over tax plansOr is it really potholes and NHS waiting lists voters are most concerned about?With Evening Standard political editor Nicholas Cecil, deputy political editor Jitendra Joshi and chief political correspondent Rachael Burford.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Labour launched its general election manifesto on Tuesday as Sir Keir Starmer sought to reassure millions of voters across middle England with a pledge of “stability” after years of Tory “chaos”.Sir Keir declared the party would be “pro-business and pro-worker”, ruling out some tax rises, including on VAT, income tax and National Insurance.But how - and what’s still at risk of rising or being cut?For the latest, we’re joined by Evening Standard political editor Nicholas Cecil.Plus, stats, names, numbers and percentages will come in thick and fast from hundreds of constituencies on 4 July - and the Evening Standard’s news team has preparing fresh ways to present results metrics to our audience.Interactive maps, charts and graphs will also help readers to digest the data leading up to the general election.Evening Standard business and technology correspondent Simon Hunt tells Mark Blunden about preparations for their data journalism project to go live soon at standard.co.uk. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Evening Standard courts correspondent Tristan Kirk has won a top British journalism award for his investigation into the flaws of the single justice procedure.Kirk scooped this year’s Private Eye Paul Foot Award for Investigative and Campaigning Journalism for his reporting on the scandal of people prosecuted behind closed doors, dubbed “conveyor belt justice”.Stay tuned for part two, where Evening Standard features writer Maddy Mussen discusses the demand for footballer-models - and her verdict on those beige two-pieces for the England squad’s Euro 24 campaign.Plus, how footballing fashionistas spend their bumper wages on hiring stylists to ensure they look sharp off-pitch in the Insta age. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rishi Sunak sought to put his D-Day debacle behind him and refocus the Conservatives’ general election campaign on policy.The prime minister was at Silverstone grand prix circuit on Tuesday to launch the party’s manifesto, with a smorgasbord of pre-ballot pledges and tax cut proclamations.Evening Standard political editor Nicholas Cecil examines the policy detail.In part two, we’re out in the modest summer sunshine with diary editor Ethan Croft to discuss the Evening Standard’s guide to London’s hottest, most exclusive parties - and hear professional tips on successful mingling. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A business group representing 170 top London firms has issued its own manifesto of “quick win” measures and longer term reforms that it claims could turbo-charge the capital’s economic potential.BusinessLDN suggests post-General Election changes include increasing devolution for London, scrapping stamp duty on share trades and a controversial review of green belt development rules.It comes as plans are teased for a new underground museum that could see a James Bond exhibition hosted as one of its first attractions.The once secret Kingsway Exchange Tunnels, which run 40 metres under High Holborn, is planned to be transformed into a cultural space after developers applied to the City of London Corporation for permission.To discover more about their reporting, Mark Blunden is joined by the Evening Standard’s business editor Jonathan Prynn and arts correspondent Robert Dex. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Highlights from this week’s Evening Standard Rugby Podcast, where Lawrence Dallaglio and Steve Cording are joined by Warren Gatland. Fresh from announcing his training squad for the Qatar Airways Cup against South Africa, and Wales’ summer tour of Australia, Gats talks about the highs and lows since returning to Wales, shares his views on which law changes he thinks could improve the game and discusses how physical training for teams has changed during the course of his coaching career. In partnership with QBE Business Insurance and Voxpod Studios.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From our politics team, Nicholas Cecil and Jitendra Joshi discuss the fallout from Rishi Sunak’s D-Day apology, and two other Tory own-goals this week. Plus, Izzy Van Dyke gives us the lowdown on Stormzy’s new nostalgia bar in Soho, bringing back the classic old-school house party. Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today's episode is with Dr. Rhonda Patrick, a biomedical researcher and health educator from California.Evgeny Lebedev and Rhonda discuss how experiments on genetic pathways in worms got her interested in the science of anti-ageing in humans. Plus, Rhonda explains how nutrition can impact our wellbeing.To hear the full interview search Brave New World Evening Standard, or click here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Journalist Alice Cockerell reveals some of the details behind the Duke of Westminster's wedding in Cheshire. Plus, our Arts Correspondent Robert Dex discusses the hit Netflix drama Baby Reindeer's success at the Gotham TV awards.Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As Nigel Farage announced he’s running for MP of Clacton in Essex, our Political Editor Nicholas Cecil explains how worried the Tories will be about his return. Nic also explains the latest poll which suggests that the Tories face near wipeout in London. Plus, our Diary Editor Ethan Croft discusses the key songs of this year’s election. Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Campaign Editor David Cohen discusses the Show Respect campaign, and explains how healthy relationship workshops in schools can be effective in reducing violence against women and girls. David also calls on the next government to back the campaign. Plus, El Hunt reveals why London has become obsessed with Dryrobes. Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this bonus episode, Jon Weeks meets Jonathan Raggett, CEO of Red Carnation Hotels, an international hotel group designed to offer guests a luxurious, bespoke experience.To hear the full episode, search How to be a CEO wherever you find your podcasts.For all the latest news head to standard.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Donald Trump has become the first former, or serving, US president to be convicted of a crime. He was convicted on all 34 counts of falsifying business records in his criminal trial in New York. Our Deputy Political Editor, Jitendra Joshi, explains the significance of the conviction, and what we know about the potential sentences Trump is now facing. In part two, we’re joined by Dr Leslie Vinjamuri, Director of the US and Americas Programme at Chatham House. She discusses the US reaction and whether or not this will affect Trump’s bid to be re-elected to the White House. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In an exclusive interview with The Standard, Jeremy Hunt has vowed that the Tories will “defend the Blue Wall brick by brick” and admitted his Surrey seat is on a “knife edge”.Our Political Editor, Nicholas Cecil, reveals why the Chancellor said he can work with almost anyone but the “problem with Sadiq Khan is he’s always playing politics”.In part two, ES Magazine Editor, Ben Cobb, discussed their new Pride special edited by fashion legend Donatella Versace.For all the latest news head to www.standard.co.uk or pick up a newspaper.Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A special investigation from The Standard has uncovered the horrifying reality of misogyny and how it’s impacting women and girls.Teenage girls, aged between 13-15, say they are victims of sexual harassment every day - online, in the street, and even in the classroom. David Cohen, our investigations Editor and Campaigns Editor, went into some London schools to find out what exactly is happening, and how we can make our women and girls feel safe.For all the latest news head to www.standard.co.uk or pick up a newspaper.Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In an exclusive interview for The Standard, Sir Keir Starmer has vowed to end the “bashing of London”, and instead get more homes “built at speed” if he becomes Prime Minister. Our Political Editor, Nicholas Cecil, the man who sat down with the hopeful PM in waiting, discusses what the Labour leader’s plans are for the country and for the capital. In part two, The Standard’s Courts Correspondent, Tristan Kirk, reveals the latest update from the Wagatha Christie saga.For all the latest news head to www.standard.co.uk or pick up a newspaper. Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With the Top 4 of the Premiership now decided, Lawrence Dallaglio, Steve Cording and Evening Standard rugby correspondent, Nick Purewal, review the weekend’s performances and discuss the semi-final line up, assessing the key strengths of each team. To hear the full episode just search The Evening Standard Rugby Podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our Health Reporter Daniel Keane explains why GP numbers are dropping in the capital, and how the three main political parties are planning to fix the issues plaguing GP surgeries. Plus our acting Culture Editor Nick Clark chats with Sotheby’s Deputy Chairman Andre Zlattinger about their major new art exhibition, London: An Artistic Crossroads.Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From our politics team, Rachael Burford and Jitendra Joshi discuss the Conservatives' chances in London ahead of the July 4th general election. Plus, Londoners Diary editor Ethan Croft reveals the behind-the-scenes drama at Westminster, during Rishi Sunak's announcement on Wednesday. Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As Rishi Sunak celebrates the latest drop in inflation, our political editor Nicholas Cecil explains why it’s not the news the City was hoping for, and why it’ll be a while before we see the impact of this latest drop. Plus, our homes and property deputy editor India Block reviews the new Netflix reality show Buying London.Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nine in ten pensions get worse returns than a tracker fund - but why? Financial journalist Michael Hunter explains how a drop in pension funds investing in UK stocks could be impacting how so many are underperforming. Plus, film critic Jo-Ann Titmarsh discusses her review of the drama based on Donald Trump’s life called The Apprentice. Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our health reporter Daniel Keane reveals the devastating revelations from the final infected blood inquiry report, and explains why the findings are so damning. Plus, the Standard’s Ethan Croft reveals Sir Keir Starmer’s favourite London pubs.  Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It is the impossible dream - cut-price commuter tickets to help ease the crushing financial burden of daily travel into the capital.So, why are long-suffering London rail travellers always bearing the brunt of expensive fares, when there are deals to be had on other lines out of London?It comes as a low-cost train operator has announced plans for a new no-frills service linking London and Manchester.But, it’s not due to start until 2027.Mark Blunden hears how it’s been a significant week for rail infrastructure from our transport editor, Ross Lydall.Plus, in part two Rachelle Abbott speaks with ES commissioning editor El Hunt about her five-star review of the much anticipated third album from Billie Eilish, titled Hit Me Hard And Soft.El discusses the record’s themes, its best tracks, rumours about Eilish’s next album and if now is a competitive time for an album release. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is a preview of Brave New World season two. In episode one, Evgeny Lebedev talks to stoicism expert Professor Bill Irvine, whose books detail the ancient wisdom of Epictetus and Marcus Aurelius for a new generation.To hear the full episode search Brave New World Evening Standard. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

London's been named the worst region in the country for recycling. How plastics are sent to Bristol to be incinerated. Why China and other far-away countries are picking up the Capital’s trash. In Part One, author and journalist Oliver Franklin-Wallis explains what’s really happening to our recycling and why. And in Part Two, our acting culture editor Nick Clark explains why he gave the V&A’s ‘Fragile Beauty’ exhibition five stars.Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A London council has revealed officials are investigating owners of nearly 2,500 properties who it’s claimed have broken the rules on short-term lets.Westminster is pledging a crackdown on what's described as a "wild west" of residents renting out homes to holidaymakers, in an ongoing battle with owners breaching a 90-day limit governing short-term rentals.To discover more, we’re joined by Evening Standard chief political correspondent Rachael Burford.Plus, Gucci turns the Tate Modern art gallery into a plant-filled runway - and Evening Standard fashion director Victoria Moss explains why the Italian luxury label chose Southwark for its showcase. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The prime minister has sought to brush off Labour claims of 14 years of Tory failure and portray his party as best placed to lead Britain.Rishi Sunak set out his election stall to Britain’s voters, claiming it was his government that could be trusted to keep families safe and warning of “increasing dangers” facing the nation.Sunak gave the speech in central London before Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer met his party’s regional mayors, including London’s Sadiq Khan, at a pre-General Election summit in Wolverhampton.With the latest, the Standard podcast is joined from Parliament by Evening Standard political editor Nicholas Cecil. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lawrence Dallaglio and the Evening Standard’s Steve Cording are joined by Lawrence’s World Cup winning team mate and former Leicester and Harlequins centre, Will Greenwood.To hear the full episode, which includes Evening Standard rugby correspondent, Nick Purewal for his predictions for Round 17 of the Premiership, search The Evening Standard Rugby Podcast with Lawrence Dallaglio wherever you find your podcasts, or click this link. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A report suggests London could be on course to become something of a “Manhattan-on-Thames” as almost 600 more skyscrapers are planned to cram into gaps of the capital’s crowded historic skyline.The 10th annual tall buildings report from think-tank New London Architecture finds there are 583 tall buildings of more than 20 storeys that authors describe as “queuing up in the pipeline”.Plus, Gordon Ramsay’s plans to become the BT Tower’s successor as London’s highest restaurant and Savile Row tailors are unhappy at Westminster Council's pushback over redevelopment of a former police station.From the newsroom, join Evening Standard business editor Jonathan Prynn in conversation with Mark Blunden. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Protest tents are popping up at London universities following student encampments in the US, set up in opposition to Israel over its war against Hamas in Gaza.But there are concerns the flashpoint violence we’ve seen at august academic institutions including UCLA and Columbia, could spread to Britain.It comes as Education Secretary Gillian Keegan joins the prime minister in urging vice-chancellors to “crack down” on anti-Semitic abuse on campuses and create “a safe environment for all students”.The Standard podcast is joined by Sharon Booth, founder of Solutions Not Sides, a London charity aiming to bridge the chasm through dialogue, listening, understanding and critical thinking - including young inviting Israeli and Palestinian speakers to speak with 14 to 18 year olds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There were no happy landings at UK airports after a national IT network meltdown left passport e-gates firmly closed - and many thousands of exhausted travellers stranded.The tech failure bricked e-gates to blank screens as Border Force officials at airports including Heathrow, Stansted and Luton processed passengers the old-fashioned way - by hand, at the desk.Some travellers complained of waiting for hours without food and water - or even bed town on terminal floors as onwards transport options were overcrowded or services had finished for the night.For the latest on the travel implications for your summer holiday - and some important passport news, The Standard podcast is joined on the line by Sean Tipton, spokesperson for travel association Abta. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s a third term for Sadiq Khan as London’s record-breaking mayor begins a fresh tenure at City Hall - but to the background of tragedy.Over the weekend, another Londoner’s life was lost, this time in a Bethnal Green stabbing.So, as Khan begins his ninth year in charge of the capital, what are his priorities - and how can he match delivery with rhetoric?The Labour incumbent, who first won power in 2016, took his third term with about 44 per cent of the vote - or just over a million of ballots cast, which was nearly 276,000 more than his Conservative challenger, Susan Hall.Mark Blunden is joined by Evening Standard City Hall editor Ross Lydall to discuss Khan’s mayoral roadmap for his third term Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From our How to be a CEO podcast: An interview with the boss of AXA UK and Ireland, Tara Foley.We’ll also be looking at the AXA Start-up Angel competition, which is run in partnership with the Evening Standard and gives budding entrepreneurs the chance to win capital, and get first-class mentoring. There are six opportunities to win, including two top prizes of £25,000 to fund your business idea, and you’ll get mentoring from the AXA Startup Angels along with business insurance for a year. Entries close on June 2nd 2024. For more details, and Ts and Cs, head over to the website.For more interviews, news and analysis, go to the business page at standard.co.uk/business, or pick up the Evening Standard newspaper. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Conservatives on track for one of their worst council elections ever. Rishi Sunak calls results ‘disappointing’...but what’s his next move? Our deputy political editor Jitendra Joshi and our chief political correspondent Rachael Burford discuss the Conservatives' significant losses in the local elections, Labour's success in the Blackpool South by-election, and they consider how the PM could react to such damning election results.Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Restaurants reporting ruder customers, 50% of theatre staff considered quitting over poor behaviour, tube riders blocking your way out of the carriage. Exploring London's shifting etiquette, features writer Maddy Mussen describes how the Capital is getting ruder, and reveals the experts and analysis that back up her hypothesis.Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sadiq Khan's advertising van driver sleeps through his alarm. Susan Hall denies being banned from tweeting. Why you'll need ID to vote on Thursday. Our political editor Nicholas Cecil runs through the final poll results ahead of Thursday's vote, and city hall editor Ross Lydall describes some of the final day drama, including twitter antics and a van driver who overslept...Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With less than two days to go before the 2024 London mayoral election, our city hall editor Ross Lydall explains the key pledges made by each of the four main candidates, Sadiq Khan (Labour), Susan Hall (Conservatives), Rob Blackie (Liberal Democrats) and Zoe Garbett (Green Party), and reveals which one he thinks is relevant to most Londoners. In this episode:Why now is the time to secure votersFree school meals, ULEZ, tackling crime, lowering rents: which issue speaks to most Londoners?Who’s tipped to win based on the latest pollsFollow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bereaved families have criticised Sadiq Khan’s record on crime as figures show a 20% spike in knife and gun crime in 2023. Our Crime Correspondent Anthony France explains what the families are calling for, and whether Sadiq Khan’s proposed measures to tackle crime if he's re-elected will be enough. In this episode:How the Met Police have defended stop & search measuresSadiq’s record on crime explainedAhead of the mayoral election, how important is tackling crime for Londoners?Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special episode of The Standard podcast, you’ll hear an Evening Standard roundtable discussion focussing on the crunch issues in the 2024 mayoral election.Three cabbies debate the candidates and policies impacting the black taxi trade as the race for City Hall intensifies between Labour incumbent Sadiq Khan and his Conservative rival Susan Hall.There’s plenty of lively opinion on the mayor’s tenure, low-traffic neighbourhoods, road closures and cycle lanes - plus, could Ulez swing the vote?Hosted by Ross Lydall, the Evening Standard’s City Hall editor and transport editor. You can watch the extended version of this roundtable video online at standard.co.uk. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this preview of our Brave New World series, Evgeny talks to psychologist and researcher Bill Richards, whose book Sacred Knowledge: Psychedelics and Religious Experiences is considered a seminal work in the field and is now in its 10th edition. To hear the whole interview, and listen to previous editions, search 'Brave New World Evening Standard' in your podcast provider. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A red Ford Escort Cabriolet XR3i draped topped with a giant doily is among art works nominated for this year’s Turner Prize - as Britain’s prestigious contemporary creative competition marks its 40th anniversary.Four shortlisted artists to win the £25,000 prize include three Londoners whose work ranges from traditional drawing to more eccentric installations.But as the Turner Prize turns 40, is it still relevant?Analysis and background with Evening Standard arts correspondent Robert Dex. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rishi Sunak’s controversial Rwanda Bill was today brought into stark focus following the deaths of at least five migrants - including a child - who were packed into a small boat with more than 100 people trying to cross the English Channel.French police and coastguard said the fatalities included three men, a woman and a seven-year-old girl.The Channel tragedy came after late-night votes in Parliament, as Sunak finally saw his Safety of Rwanda (Asylum and Immigration) Bill getting voted through, which will set in motion plans for deporting asylum seekers who entered the UK "illegally" to east-central Africa .But what’s next, what are the legal hurdles - and what happens to the legislation if Labour wins power?With the latest from Westminster, Mark Blunden is joined in the House of Commons by the Evening Standard’s political editor Nicholas Cecil. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mayor Sadiq Khan started the week in hot water over river safety - after his manifesto stated he planned to make the capital’s waterways, including the Thames, so clean they would be “swimmable” within a decade.At the same time, Thames Water, which is battling a budget black hole, warns customer bills could rocket by almost half.The Standard podcast is joined by Evening Standard business editor Jonathan Prynn and former lifeguard Brendon Prince, founder of Above Water, a water safety and drowning awareness charity. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s bonus episode is from our How to be a CEO business podcast. David Marsland meets with Octopus Money CEO Ruth Handcock.To hear the full episode search How to be a CEO wherever you find your podcasts, or hit this link.Ruth will also be appearing at the Watercooler Event, which is being held alongside the Evening Standard’s SME Expo at Excel London on the 23rd and 24th of April.Tickets are free. Click the links to find out more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There’s less than two weeks to go until Londoners cast their ballots and a new exclusive YouGov poll for The Standard has revealed the gap is closing between Sadiq Khan and Susan Hall. The Tory contender is on 27 per cent, up three points from February, and her Labour rival is on 46 per cent, down three points. Ross Lydall, our City Hall Editor & Transport Editor, explains the significance of the polls and discusses the candidates' latest announcements as election day draws near. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

An exclusive poll by Ipsos for The Standard has revealed Rishi Sunak’s rating as Prime Minister has slumped to the worst ever for a leader of a major party.It comes as pressure piles on the PM to call a date for the next general election, with the survey finding more than half of Britons want one held by the end of the summer. Gideon Skinner, Head of Political Research at Ipsos, explains the key findings from the poll and gives his analysis. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This year marks the 33rd edition of the awards, with categories ranging from best house and best flat, through to best regeneration projects and low carbon homes. The longest serving judge on the panel, Stephen Lee, explains what the awards are all about, which categories he’s most looking forward to this year, and describes some of his favourite entries from previous years.You can enter this year’s New Homes Awards here.Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A high court judge has ruled that a prayer ban at one of the highest-performing state schools in England - run by ‘Britain’s strictest headteacher’ - was not unlawful.Following the decision, Katharine Birbalsingh, who founded Michaela Community School, a free school in Brent, posted on social media saying it was a "victory for all schools".It comes on the same day that primary school places are announced. Almost 10,000 children failed to get a place at their first choice primary school despite a drop in applications partly caused by families fleeing London.The Evening Standard’s Education Editor Anna Davis shares her insight & analysis.Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sadiq Khan’s expansion of London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone out to the capital’s outer roads is one of his most controversial policies.The Mayor says the charging scheme will improve air quality and health, but critics claim it's a stealth tax on Londoners hampering their choice to drive.In this episode of the Standard’s series focussing on the 2024 race for City Hall, Hamish MacBain explores both sides of the argument at two of London’s busiest traffic locations.Hear interviews with Imperial College London pollution expert Professor Frank Kelly by the A501, Marylebone Road, and motoring journalist Shahzad Sheikh - AKA YouTuber the BrownCarGuy, by the A10, Shoreditch High Street. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In a special episode taken from our business show, How to be a CEO, the Evening Standard's business editor Jonathan Prynn speaks with 2011 The Apprentice winner Tom Pellereau, whose business is thriving, 13 years later.To hear the full interview just search How to be a CEO wherever you find your podcasts, or via this link: lnk.to/TAWjEL Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Independent candidate Andreas Michli evicted from hustings. Disruption halts debate for 20 minutes. Sadiq Khan & Susan Hall’s feisty exchanges. Our City Hall Editor Ross Lydall explains the drama at the first hustings in the race for City Hall, and discusses which of the candidates came out on top.Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this preview edition of our Brave New World series, Evgeny meets Wim Hof to learn more about the Dutch athlete’s ‘Method’; a combination of breathing and cold-water immersion that he claims can have health and psychological benefits. Rita Ora also joins the show and talks about her own experience using Wim’s techniques as part of her wellness routines.To hear the whole show, and listen to previous episodes, search 'Brave New World Evening Standard' in your podcast provider. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Report finds children have been let down by NHS care and have been receiving treatment that’s not based on evidence. Dr Hilary Cass calls for long-term research into use of hormone treatments. How Dr Cass received abuse from both sides during the review. Our Health Reporter Daniel Keane explains the Cass Report’s key recommendations for the NHS. In this episode:Why was the Cass Report commissioned?The need for more research & studies into gender careReport highlights a need to ‘dial down’ anger in gender debate, and put children firstHow soon will the NHS implement the report’s recommendations?Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The foreign secretary’s ‘surprise’ visit to see Donald Trump. Calls for $60billion of extra aid for Ukraine. What else is Lord Cameron hoping to achieve in the US? Our Deputy Political Editor Jitendra Joshi discusses the foreign secretary’s plan to secure more cash for Ukraine, and what else he plans to gain from his trip over the pond. In this episode:David Cameron & Donald Trump’s history explainedHow Lord Cameron will ‘appeal to Trump’s vanity’Trump’s attempts to undermine Joe Biden in the run-up to the US electionHow $60billion funding will help Ukraine “go on the offensive” in 2025Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week’s episode of Who Wants to be a London Mayor, Hamish Macbain heads to a London Renters Union rally to look at the capital’s ongoing housing crisis.Londoners face fierce competition for accommodation and endlessly soaring rents, the waiting lists for social housing is in the hundreds of thousands, and there’s widespread poor conditions even if you manage to secure a home. Can the next Mayor of London do more to tackle these issues? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Taken from our How to be a CEO podcast, here's an extract taken with solo round the world sailor Pip Hare.Pip's 30 year journey to become a round the globe sailorWhat is “flow state” and how did it help her accomplish her dream?Why she’s the ultimate home worker, and the advice she can give to businessesTo hear the whole interview just search How to be a CEO wherever you find your podcasts, or via this link: lnk.to/TAWjEL.Pip’s going to be appearing at the Watercooler, a two day event about workplace wellbeing being held alongside the Evening Standard’s SME Expo on April 23rd and 24th at Excel London. To register and get FREE tickets to the Watercooler go to watercoolerevent.com, and and to learn more about the SME Expo, head to smexpo.co.uk.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This edition of The Standard podcast examines the current state of London’s property market - from the top of the ‘prime’ action, to areas attracting first-time buyers.What factors are impacting decision-making, and is it possible to negotiate anything resembling a bargain right now?The latest Halifax figures show an average UK drop in property prices of almost £3,000 per transaction - but in London, Nationwide says prices are up 1.2 per cent. Why?We’re joined by Alex Goldstein, managing director of Alex Goldstein Property Consultants, and India Block, deputy editor of the Standard’s Homes & Property section. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this preview of our Brave New World series, Evgeny Lebedev talks to Jonathan Haidt. Together they look at the impact of tech and social media on the child and adolescent brain. Jonathan's new book, 'The Anxious Generation' is available now. To hear the whole interview, search 'Brave New World Evening Standard' on your podcast provider. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Standard podcast is in Westminster as we focus on the critical pound in our pocket.The Evening Standard’s reports that disposable income for households in the capital is set to rise by a meagre £110 on average this year’ with National Insurance cuts and stealth taxes.But South East England will be the hardest hit by the combination of Chancellor Jeremy Hunt’s fiscal changes.Plus, Professor Tony Travers, of the London School of Economics, warns the Tories risk a “near death experience” in London following a shock poll showing the party having zero post-election MPs in the capital.For the latest political and economic insights, Mark Blunden is joined by Evening Standard political editor Nicholas Cecil at Parliament. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

London’s ‘Superloop’ spans some 85 miles of road - just 30 miles shy of the length of the M25.Now, a new south London section of the capital’s orbital bus network is being proposed by Labour Mayor Sadiq Khan - but his Tory rival, Susan Hall, says Khan should focus on delivering an unfunded £10 billion Bakerloo line extension.It comes as commuters brace for days of fresh travel misery as a wave of train and Underground strikes were announced.For the latest, Mark Blunden’s joined on this episode aboard a route SL1 bus, linking Walthamstow Central and North Finchley, by the Standard's transport editor, Ross Lydall. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mayor Sadiq Khan’s critics say he’s failed to get a grip on London’s knife crime epidemic - so, what more can be done?In this episode of Who Wants to be a London Mayor, Hamish MacBain is joined by Evening Standard crime correspondent Anthony France.Their discussion includes the Labour mayor’s record on law and order, his Tory rival Susan Hall’s policies, police numbers, and the effectiveness of stop and search.We also feature a special investigation and film commissioned by ES Magazine focussing on Londoners impacted by the capital’s knife crisis. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What is biohacking and are you already doing it without realising? Evgeny spends a day with the ‘world’s fittest man’, Ben Greenfield, to learn how exercise, diet and light contribute to wellness. To hear the whole episode search 'Brave New World Evening Standard' in your podcast provider. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is the City’s status as a leading financial centre under threat?There are fears over the London stock market as more major companies are tipped to leave.A huge gap in the value of similar companies in London and New York is putting pressure on chief executives to switch their listing - something that could be devastating to the capital. The Standard’s Financial Editor, Simon English, shares his analysis. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Looks like we’re going to have to wait a little longer to find out what will happen to Julian Assange. The Wikileaks founder faces a delay to the decision on whether he can bring an appeal against his extradition to the US. However, UK judges did block his immediate transfer for trial on hacking and espionage charges.  The Standard’s courts correspondent, Tristan Kirk, explains the ruling and where things go from here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hamish MacBain visits London Youth, a charity running for 135 years, in episode four of Who Wants to be a London Mayor.He meets with Hanna, 18, and Elizabeth, 17, who are members of their youth board, and asks what young Londoners want from their next mayor.The charity worked with Partnership For Young London on their Young Londoners’ Manifesto 2024, which includes a series of requests for the London Mayor. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kickstarting a season of shows looking at the SME market, we speak to Theo Paphitis, the former Dragon's Den star whose retail group includes companies like Ryman Stationery, Robert Dyas, Boux Avenue and London Graphic Centre. He's also the man behind the phenomenally popular Small Business Sunday network, which he started from his kitchen table in 2010. Search How to be a CEO or hit this link, to hear the full episode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sadiq Khan 24 points ahead of main rival Susan Hall. But poll suggests majority of Londoners believe mayor’s done badly on crime, homelessness and housing. The bill designed to reverse the ULEZ expansion gets second reading. Our Chief Political Correspondent Rachael Burford explains why the poll results are bitter-sweet for Sadiq Khan, and why MP Graham Johnson’s ULEZ result is more about point-scoring than real action. In this episode:Why the latest poll may be bitter-sweet for Sadiq KhanWhat MP Gareth Johnson’s ULEZ bill meansWhy the bill won’t impact the mayoral electionIs the bill likely to become law?Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Wandsworth council tax the lowest in London at £961-a-year. Neighbouring Kingston taxes residents the most at £2,374. Just how badly are councils struggling? Are Sadiq Khan’s tax hikes behind the latest rise? Our Local Democracy Reporter Noah Vickers explains the capital’s council tax rises, and discusses what needs to be done to better support local authorities in London. In this episode:Are many London councils struggling financially?Why is there such a disparity between local authorities' tax rates?What can the government do to support them?Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fastest 12-month fall in inflation since 1978. Chancellor Jeremy Hunt hints at further National Insurance cuts. When will the Bank of England cut interest rates? Financial journalist Michael Hunter explains how significant the latest drop in inflation is, and what it means for our pockets. In this episode:How significant is this drop in inflation?What has caused it?How soon could the BoE cut interest rates?Why falling inflation doesn’t mean an imminent drop in pricesFollow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sadiq’s calls for rent controls in the capital. Labour leader fails to directly back ULEZ expansion. Will Keir and Sadiq need better synergy to win their respective elections? Our Local Democracy Reporter Noah Vickers discusses his interview with Sadiq Khan and Sir Keir Starmer at the mayor's re-election campaign launch on Monday, and considers whether they will need better synergy to win their respective elections. In this episode:Noah’s key take-aways from Sadiq’s re-election campaign launchIs Sadiq’s 40,000-council home target legitimate?Which of Sadiq’s policies does Keir Starmer disagree with?Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In episode three of the mayoral election series, ES Magazine’s Deputy Editor, Hamish MacBain, asks is this year's election a done deal?Hamish is joined by Ross Lydall, our City Hall Editor & Transport Editor, and Noah Vickers, our Local Democracy Reporter to discuss the polls, Sadiq Khan's popularity, and his main rival Conservative candidate Susan Hall.Ross & Noah also discuss the prospect of the other candidates causing a stir, and whether votes for them could impact Sadiq's bid for an historic third term as London's Mayor.Every Monday until election day on 2nd May, we’ll be looking at the key issues and talking points that matter most to Londoners before choosing our next mayor. Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our chief theatre critic meets director Ola Ince at The Globe for her new revival of Othello and she tells him why she decided to relocate the Shakespeare tragedy from 16th century Venice to the Metropolitan Police of the present day. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In highlights from the Evening Standard’s Rugby Podcast, Lawrence Dallaglio is joined by former Ireland centre, Gordon D’Arcy, to review England’s Six Nations win over the defending champions in a magnificent game at Twickenham, as the pair also look ahead to Super Saturday and the final round of the tournament. Plus Steve Cording and Nick Purewal from the Evening Standard are on hand to debate the predicted winners and losers and offer insights into the progress of the home nations.  To hear the full episode search Evening Standard Rugby Podcast with Lawrence Dallaglio. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Evgeny meets ‘anti-ageing poster boy’ Bryan Johnson, the entrepreneur whose ‘Project Blueprint’ aims to extend the human lifespan. He also talks to the 46-year-old’s doctor Oliver Zolman, who details how they’re approaching a controversial area of emerging science. To hear the whole episode search 'Brave New World Evening Standard' in your podcast provider. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump have both secured their parties’ nominations to seal the first White House election rematch in almost 70 years.Both candidates dominated Tuesday’s primaries in swing-state Georgia, deep-red Mississippi and Democratic-leaning Washington.The Standard podcast examines the issues set to frame this blockbuster 2024 race for the White House.Insight with Evening Standard deputy political editor Jitendra Joshi. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Princess of Wales is said to be “saddened” over the doctored photo which has engulfed the royal family in controversy.Kate has publicly taken the blame for the manipulated image released by Kensington Palace and issued a personal apology for the “confusion”.In this episode of the Standard podcast, we’ll examine what happened, why it’s hit the front pages and balancing privacy with transparency of the royal family’s business.Kate underwent surgery at the London Clinic on January 16, but details of her condition have been kept private, and she is not expected to return to official duties until after Easter.Latest with Evening Standard reporter Robert Dex. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This second episode of Who Wants to be a London Mayor - a special series for The Standard podcast - focusses on transport, from road to rail.ES Magazine deputy editor Hamish MacBain meets a cabbie, rides London’s deepest Tube and hears voters’ commuting concerns.Hamish is joined by black cab driver Suzanne Sullivan, Campaign for Better Transport’s Michael Solomon Williams and a cast of Londoners, who reveal their verdicts on the capital’s public transport.Every Monday until City Hall election day on 2 May, we’re looking at the key issues before the capital chooses its next mayor. Follow us on X or Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Taken from our theatre podcast, joining us from the launch of their new musical, Why Am I So Single?, Lucy Moss and Toby Marlow, the creators of Six the musical, talk to our chief theatre critic Nick Curtis.To hear the full episode of The Standard Theatre Podcast click this link: lnk.to/zHhmCd.This interview took place in February 2024.For all the latest theatre and culture news head to https://www.standard.co.uk/culture. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

To mark International Women’s Day 2024, Becky Laxton-Bass, Company Director of Women of London, takes us on a trip back in time to discuss the pivotal events and pioneering female figures from around the capital that helped shape history. Becky also shares some stories of lesser known groundbreaking women, discusses the dangers of lost stories, and explains why more needs to be done to ensure women’s history is always remembered.Read more from The Standard about IWD here: https://www.standard.co.uk/topic/international-womens-day Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We take a deep dive into all the housing and property related announcements from Chancellor Jeremy Hunt’s Budget with India Block, The Standard’s Homes & Property Deputy Editor. Stamp duty, non-dom status, capital gains tax, regeneration schemes and a crackdown on short-term rentals - they were all in there, but what exactly does it all mean for you?Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Everything you need to know about the 2024 Budget and how it affects you. Chancellor Jeremy Hunt comes out swinging with billions of pounds of personal tax cuts to boost his party’s electoral hopes - and box in Labour and the Liberal Democrats. The Standard’s Political Editor, Nicholas Cecil, discusses whether or not it’s a blockbuster Budget for the Conservatives, and if it’s enough to win over voters ahead of the upcoming general election. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Once one of the biggest shows on television, Celebrity Big Brother UK is back after six long years. Sharon Osbourne, Louis Walsh and even Kate Middleton’s uncle, Gary Goldsmith, are in the house this time around, but can the reboot deliver the same reality TV gold of its predecessor? Emily Phillips, Associate Editor of ES Magazine, gives her verdict on the lineup and whether or not CBBUK has a place in TV in 2024.Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the first episode of a special series for The Standard podcast called ‘Who Wants to be a London Mayor’, ES Magazine’s Deputy Editor, Hamish MacBain, asks what’s the point of the position? Hamish is joined by Ross Lydall, our City Hall Editor & Transport Editor, and Noah Vickers, our Local Democracy Reporter to discuss the history and powers of the role.Every Monday between now and election day on 2nd May, we’ll be looking at the key issues and talking points that matter most to Londoners before choosing our next mayor. Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From The Standard Theatre Podcast Nancy and the Nicks review Jez Butterworth and Sam Mendes's production of The Hills of California at the Harold Pinter Theatre. To hear the full episode, which includes their interview with Felicity Huffman for Hir, click this link. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Businesses set to offer Friday discounts and deals. Which restaurants are promoting offers? Will cut-price deals tempt more people back into the city. Our City Hall & Transport Editor Ross Lydall reveals the businesses offering deals on Fridays so far, and discusses whether cut-price fares, food and drink will tempt people back into the office. In this episode:Revealed: The business offering deals alreadyWhy cafés and restaurants are ‘piggybacking’ off the mayor’s cut-price faresWill cheaper train and tube tickets win Sadiq Khan votes?The special Friday deal that would tempt Ross back to the cityFollow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this preview edition of our Brave New World, series Evgeny Lebedev describes his experience at a psychedelic retreat in Costa Rica where he encountered Ayahuasca, a plant-based brew used by indigenous healers. Psychedelics researcher Professor David Nutt also returns to the show to explain what’s happening to the mind when DMT is used and how some believe it can help with recovery from trauma. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

London buskers audition to perform on the tube for the first time since pre-pandemic. TfL’s search for talent whose music “reflects the sounds of London”. Why busking on the tube is unlike any other gig. We speak with hopeful musicians hoping to secure a licence to perform on the London Underground. Plus, judge Anjali Perin explains what kind of musicians they’re looking for. In this episode:Audio and interviews with buskers: Francesco Masone, Cedar Rose Johnson, Aaron Wiggett and Hide TakemotoJudge Anjali Perin describes how buskers need to ‘adapt’ to changing mood on the tubeFollow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Latest YouGov poll shows the Labour candidate is on 49% and his Tory rival Susan Hall is on 24%. Patrick Diamond, Professor of Public Policy at Queen Mary University of London, outlines the three key areas that could impact Sadiq Khan's campaign, and explains why there needs to be a ‘more constructive relationship’ between London's mayor and central government. In this episode:Which key areas could dent Sadiq’s reelection hopes?How a Labour government could boost investment in LondonHow important will ULEZ be in the mayoral election race?What is Susan Hall’s ‘trump card’?Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sadiq Khan and Susan Hall each release statements calling for unity. Rishi Sunak condemns Lee Anderson’s remarks, but refuses to call them ‘Islamophobic’. Our Political Editor Nicholas Cecil discusses the mayoral candidates’ calls for unity, the ‘tense’ nature of UK politics in 2024, and why social media is making political division worse. In this episode:The Lee Anderson fallout explainedWhy UK politics are ‘very heated’ at the momentWhat next for Lee Anderson?How the Gaza conflict will continue to impact UK politicsFollow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Anaïs Mitchell, the creator of Hadestown, joins us to chat the musical's return to London, and in a very special first for The Standard Theatre podcast, Mitchell played two songs from the show such as Way Down Hadestown. (To hear both songs listen to the full episode on The Standard Theatre Podcast.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Households in Britain will soon potentially be saving over £200 on those sky-high energy bills.Gas and electricity charges are set to fall by 12.3 per cent in April to their lowest level since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine two years ago.Regulator Ofgem announced the cap for the average annual household dual fuel bill will be £1,690 - that’s a saving of £238 over one year, which applies to the April to June quarter.Plus, how City economists predict cutting the energy tariff cap will help inflation drop to as low as two per cent in April.Evening Standard business editor Jonathan Prynn has the latest in this episode of The Standard podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

House of Commons speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle faced a no confidence motion signed by some 59 MPs in a neutrality row over a Gaza ceasefire vote.He was under pressure over his handling of a tinderbox debate on an SNP motion that resulted in the passing of a Labour amendment - potentially helping Sir Keir Starmer head-off a rebellion among his own MPs.Chaos descended on the chamber as the motion was approved, with Scottish National Party and Conservative MPs walking out in protest.It came as crowds of protesters outside beamed pro-Palestine slogans on to Big Ben.Sir Lindsay said his actions were meant to help protect the safety of a number of MPs being targeted by activists. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Popping up 600ft above London’s skyline, the BT Tower has been a West End landmark since the 1960s.Now, the once high-tech monolith that began its life as the Post Office Tower is being transformed into a hotel in a £275 million sale.BT has agreed to sell the nearly 60-year-old, Grade-II listed tower to American chain MCR Hotels, offering future punters the chance to sleep in the clouds.To find out more about this end of an era - and the beginning of a new one, we’re joined in the studio by the Evening Standard’s business editor Jonathan Prynn. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A headteacher warns school closures are creating “ghost areas” across London and destroying communities as so many families leave the capital.The Evening Standard’s education editor Anna Davis joins us in the studio after interviewing Helen Connor, executive head of Rhyl Community Primary in Camden, who says London risks “dying from its roots” as growing numbers of families cannot afford to stay in the city.It comes after research revealed 8,000 fewer children will need school places in London over the next four years.London Councils - the parent body for the capital’s local authorities - blames a falling birth rate, Brexit, the pandemic, the cost-of-living crisis and lack of affordable housing.Plus, latest on the government’s classroom mobile phones crackdown. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s one of the glitziest weeks in London’s style and entertainment calendar - as this year’s Bafta awards ceremony dovetails with the 40th anniversary of London Fashion Week.On Sunday night, celebrities headed to the annual gala at the Southbank’s Royal Festival Hall.But who were the sharpest dressed stars on the red carpet - and what are the trends to look out for later this year?Plus, as the 40th anniversary of London Fashion Week kicks off, hold on to your loafers and suits for the post-pandemic return of “officecore”.Insight with Evening Standard fashion director Victoria Moss. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This special cut is taken from The Standard Theatre Podcast, our chief theatre critic Nick Curtis meets former Desperate Housewives star Felicity Huffman to discuss her role in Hir at the Park Theatre. To hear the full episode click this link, or search for The Standard Theatre Podcast.For all the latest news head to standard.co.uk, or pick up a paper! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It was a double by-election bloodbath for the Conservatives as the party suffered defeats at the ballot box just months before Britain goes to the polls.Rishi Sunak lost both the Kingswood and Wellingborough constituencies in a humiliating night for the Conservatives - with celebrations for Labour as Sir Keir Starmer’s party scooped both seats.To analyse what this means for the parties’ general election strategy as we hurtle towards May, we’re joined by the Evening Standard’s political editor Nicholas Cecil. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Could psychedelics be used to help tackle mental health issues like depression and addiction? In this preview episode of Brave New World, Evgeny Lebedev speaks to Professor David Nutt, one the leading researchers in this controversial field. He also speaks to Buzzfeed journalist Lara Parker who used ketamine assisted therapy to treat clinical depression. To hear the whole interview, including additional interviews with pioneers Robin Carhart-Harris and Amanda Feilding, search 'Brave New World Evening Standard' on your podcast provider. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A special Valentine’s Day cutdown episode from our sister podcast, London Love Stories with Katie Strick. Featuring an exclusive interview with none other than the mayor of London, Sadiq Khan. Listen to the full episode here: https://pod.fo/e/21d28e Find more episodes of London Love Stories with Katie Strick here: https://podfollow.com/london-love-stories-with-katie-strick Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer’s judgement has come under fire over a delay in withdrawing his party’s support for its Rochdale by-election candidate, Azhar Ali, over remarks he made about Israel.It comes as The Standard reveals Labour faces a “brutal” battle in the party’s new London heartlands amid growing “movement” of local independent candidates enraged at the response to Gaza - with shadow health secretary, Wes Streeting’s Ilford North seat top of the list of targets.The Standard’s chief political correspondent, Rachael Burford, shares her analysis.Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pressure is mounting on the Government to investigate the controversial single justice procedure, as The Standard uncovers more criminal cases brought against sick and vulnerable people.Our courts correspondent, Tristan Kirk, discusses our long-running investigation into this ‘behind closed doors justice’. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Check out The Standard Theatre Podcast's review of Plaza Suite at the Savoy Theatre. Starring Sarah Jessica Parker and Matthew Broderick, it's the show we've all been waiting for...Click here to find the full episode which includes their interview with Ola Ince for Othello at The Globe and a review of Till the Stars Come Down at The National Theatre.For all the latest news head to standard.co.uk/news, or pick up a paper! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tube staff report more than 756,000 fare dodger cases in 2023. TfL reveals 56% rise in fare dodger prosecutions compared with 2022…but 10,000 fewer are prosecuted each year than at pre-pandemic levels. Fare evasions cost TfL £130m a year in lost income. Our Transport Editor Ross Lydall discusses the TfL figures, and explains why fare dodging is still a big problem. Plus Ross reveals the tube line with the highest dust levels on the underground. In this episode:Why TfL’s prosecution figures aren’t all they’re cracked up to beHow tube staff use tech to report fare dodgersBusiest train stations ‘notorious’ spot for fare dodgingWhy dust levels on the underground are improvingFollow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Labour under fire after cutting the budget for UK clean energy plans. Critics call the decision ‘economically illiterate’. Scale back reportedly due to 'tougher economic circumstances'. Our Deputy Political Editor Jitendra Joshi examines why Labour has cut funding to its green energy plans, and sustainability expert Juliet Kinsman explains why it's bad timing, as global temperatures exceed the agreed 1.5C limit for 12 months. In this episode:What has prompted Labour to change tack?How green policies are working in the USWhy we’re failing to limit global temperatures to 1.5CHow government policies, climate change and migration are all linkedFollow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Data shows 24% of Londoners hate their commute. Average London commute takes 38 minutes. Central Line commuters affected by disruption ‘virtually every day’ since December. Our Arts Correspondent Robert Dex dissects the survey into commuters' woes, and our Transport Editor Ross Lydall reveals the latest from TfL on the Central Line chaos. In this episode:Strikes, train shortages and delays hit LondonersHow Covid has changed our attitudes to commutingWhat has caused the Central Line chaos?TfL’s update on Central Line’s return to normalFollow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

PM Rishi Sunak reveals cancer was 'caught early'. Buckingham Palace keeps cancer type private. President Joe Biden sends his well wishes. Our Royal Editor Robert Jobson discusses the King’s diagnosis, Prince William stepping in to cover public duties, and whether Prince Harry’s UK visit could prompt a family reconciliation. In this episode:How work-a-holic Charles will cope with being off-dutyWill the Royal Family announce more details about his condition?Why the King needs to ‘take it easy’Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Anti-FGM campaigner Nimco Ali sits down with the Evening Standard's Alexandra Jones to talk about her eleven year battle to end the practice worldwide. To mark the UN International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, they talk about:Why ending FGM by 2030 is a ‘tangible reality’How 70 million girls born between now and 2030 are at risk of the practiceHow her family reacted when she began her activism in the Evening Standard 11 years agoHow at seven year’s old she “shocked” her teachers by telling them she was a survivor of FGMThe death threats and "emotional punch in the gut" she received through her campaigning.What it meant to go from being ignored as a child to being an adult with the Prime Minister’s backing.The positive steps the world can take to finally end FGMRead more from Nimco Ali in the Evening Standard newspaper, or standard.co.uk Hit your follow button so you never miss an episode of the Standard podcast, and please leave us a rating and review. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Taylor teases new 2024 album in Grammy acceptance speech. Jay-Z calls out the Grammys over Beyoncé album award snub. Why this year’s female-dominated ceremony is a positive sign. Our Celebrities Correspondent Lizzie Edmonds gives us the lowdown on the drama at this year's ceremony, and reveals whether she thinks Taylor Swift is unstoppable. Also in this episode:Could Taylor Swift secure a fifth album of the year Grammy award?Is Miley Cyrus finally getting the recognition she deserves?Have the Grammys maintained their credibility?Dua Lipa’s hope for an equal space for women in the industryFollow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is a special cut taken from our theatre podcast: Packed with Nineties hit music, we review the musical take on Cruel Intentions at The Other Palace, which is based on the 1999 blockbuster movie that starred Reece Witherspoon and Buffy actress Sarah Michelle Gellar. Plus, we revisit Six the musical as the show celebrates its sixth year on stage, and is now on at the Vaudeville theatre. Click here to listen to the full episode, or search for The Standard Theatre Podcast. This podcast is hosted by Nancy Durrant, Nick Clark and Nick Curtis. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The 66th Grammys are coming to Los Angeles on Sunday night - and we’ve got a round-up of the main contenders.Female musicians are set to win big at the celebrated night for musicians, songwriters, composers and producersWomen leading the Recording Academy’s 2024 nominations include SZA, Dua Lipa, Lana Del Ray and Miley Cyrus.Taylor Swift is hoping to scoop a 13th Grammy and take home the hotly-contest album of the year for a record-breaking fourth time, with her Midnights LP.Live performances include Joni Mitchell - singing at the event for the first time at the age of 80 - plus Billy Joel, Travis Scott and Burna Boy. For latest pre-awards nominations news, we’re joined by the Evening Standard celebrity correspondent Lizzie Edmonds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is it possible to live forever – and would you even want to? Evgeny Lebedev is joined by David Walliams to explore the science and ethics of age reversal. He also meets longevity pioneer Dr David Sinclair, who gives advice on how to extend lifespans - and tells David Walliams how to reverse his biological clock. This is a preview of our Brave New World series. To hear the whole episode search 'Brave New World Evening Standard' on your podcast provider. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The people of Britain have delivered a damning verdict on Brexit four years on from leaving the European Union.An exclusive Ipsos poll for the Evening Standard found 57 per cent of British adults believe Brexit has been more of a failure, with just 13 per cent saying more of a success.There are also warnings new red tape impacting fresh produce entering Britain from the eurozone will add £330 million a year in business costs and drive up prices for UK consumers or even lead to shortages.To discover more, we’re joined by Evening Standard deputy political editor Jitendra Joshi, who’s been reporting on the latest post-Brexit economic developments. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Thousands of commuters defied union attempts to shut down key routes into London - but there was little sign of an end to the rail strikes.Train drivers in the Aslef union walked out at South Western Railway, Southern and Thameslink in the ongoing 20-month pay rise saga.We’ve got the latest with Evening Standard transport editor Ross Lydall, who’s been reporting from Waterloo station.Then, in part two, escape the polluted centre for London’s glorious green spaces - which have been valued at £8 billion by the City of London Corporation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The parent body for London’s local authorities reveals an exodus of families from the capital is driving increasing numbers of schools to close. A London Councils report says 8,000 fewer youngsters will need classroom places over the next four years due to a falling birth rate, families leaving the capital due to Brexit, the pandemic and cost-of-living crisis.It means some schools, which are funded according to the number of pupils they have, will be forced to either close or to balance their budgets by cutting teachers, narrowing the curriculum or offering fewer pupil clubs.We’re joined by Evening Standard’s education editor Anna Davis. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tuppence Middleton (Downton Abbey) chats to our theatre podcast about her role as Elizabeth Taylor in The Motive and the Cue, directed by Oscar-winner Sam Mendes. Middleton, who stars opposite Johnny Flynn and Mark Gatiss, tells us about being in a play about putting on a play (Hamlet on Broadway in the Sixties), her experiences with obsessive compulsive disorder, and her new memoir. This is a cut-down, to hear the full episode click here.You can hear The Standard Theatre Podcast's interview with Mark Gatiss by clicking here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There are growing calls for urgent action to tackle the capital’s issue with knife crime.Figures recently released from the Office for National Statistics, show a 22 per cent rise in knife crime in the capital in the 12 months to the end of September last year. It comes after the body of a teenager, 19-year-old Tyler Donnelly, was discovered by joggers in a park in Feltham on Thursday, he had been stabbed to death. Our Crime Correspondent, Anthony France, shares his insight. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How The Traitors became Britain’s most talked about TV series. The BBC has said that series 2 has broken records to become the biggest entertainment show in two years in the UK - and it’s easy to see why. It’s given us some of the best TV moments of the year and we’re only in January. From truly Oscar-worthy traitors, a shocking secret son revelation, and an infamous poison chalice incident.El Hunt, our Commissioning Editor at the Standard, and unofficial The Traitors correspondent, discusses the standout moments of the series, explains the secret to its popularity, and gives predictions as to who will come out on top. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A much-loved LGBTQ+ venue in east London is about to close its doors for the final time.Based in the heart of Haggerston, The Glory has been a staple for the community for nine years. The place to go for those looking for the best up and coming drag performances, off the wall parties and quirky club nights - or even, just those who fancy a quiet pint in a friendly pub. The Glory founders, John Sizzle and Jonny Woo, share how it became the iconic venue it is today, discuss the struggles faced by the hospitality industry currently, and reveal details about their next project, ‘The Divine’.Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The countdown is on to the London mayoral election, but with 2nd May fast approaching, is it all still to play for? Ross Lydall, the Standard’s City Hall Editor & Transport Editor, explains the key issues the candidates will be battling over, and whether it’s expected to be a record-breaking third term for Labour’s Sadiq Khan, or if the Conservative's Susan Hall can make history as the first female Mayor of London.Also in this episode:The details behind Sadiq's 'fare freeze'Who the main candidates are and what they stand forHow the change to the voting system could impact the electionKey dates for the calendar for the candidatesFollow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The clean-up continues from Storm Isha after gusts of up to 99mph battered parts of the United Kingdom.A pensioner was crushed to death in Scotland by a falling tree and tens of thousands of homes were left without electricity.Areas of the north of England, Scotland and Northern Ireland experienced their strongest winds in two decades.In London, Tube passengers faced travel disruption on TfL services from debris blocking tracks and mainline commuter routes into the capital also suffered delays.To discover more about the aftermath of Storm Isha, why the government must act on flood defences and the health impact of living in saturated homes, the Standard podcast’s joined by Sanjay Johal, community engagement manager at the National Flood Forum support charity. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jared Harris (Mad Men, Chernobyl) and Joe Cole (Gangs of London, Peaky Blinders), joined The Standard Theatre Podcast, at the Young Vic to talk about their time in Harold Panter’s The Homecoming, directed by Matthew Dunster.To hear the full episode click here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oppenheimer received 13 Bafta nominations. Will it set a new awards record? How Barbie ‘won’ at the box office. Why Bradley Cooper could be a big winner at the Baftas & Oscars. Will Saltburn secure a Bafta? Our Arts Correspondent Robert Dex discusses which films will do the best during this year’s awards season. In this episode:Barbie Vs Oppenheimer - who will win?How voters could ‘spread to love’Does a big marketing budget = awards?Why epic blockbusters will hog the limelight this yearFollow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Previewing our Brave New World series, in which Evgeny Lebedev delves deep into the ideas of thought leaders, scientists, and intellectuals who are shaping the future and transforming our culture. Tune in each week for captivating interviews with some of the brightest minds of our time, and explore the realms of longevity, neuroscience, biohacking and psychedelics like never before. For the full version of this interview search 'Brave New World Evening Standard' on your podcast provider.Our first episode features Dr Gabor Maté, a renowned physician and best-selling author recognised for his ground-breaking work in the fields of addiction and mental health. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is Sadiq Khan set for a smooth victory? How significant is Ulez for London voters? Will national politics influence voters? Our City Hall Editor Ross Lydall explains how he believes the 2024 mayoral election will unfold, and considers the factors that will make or break Sadiq Khan’s attempt to secure an historic third term as mayor. In this episode:Why this year’s mayoral election could be quite straight forwardCould national politics influence voters?Why the ULEZ expansion could be ‘the dog that may never bark’What would Ross do if he became Mayor?Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hospitality industry rakes in £46 billion to beat pre-pandemic income. How Beyoncé and The Weeknd brought huge numbers to the capital. Why are indy venues struggling to stay afloat? Our Local Democracy Reporter Noah Vickers explains the capital’s economic boost, and Arts Correspondent Robert Dex explains why smaller music venues are on a knife-edge. In this episode:Post-pandemic boom down to increased public confidenceWhy inflation suggests the sector’s still behindHow big events like Glasto hamper small music venuesWhy London’s at risk of losing musical talentFollow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The best way to deal with Blue Monday 2024? Book your escape! Our Lifestyle Director Suzannah Ramsdale reveals where to go on holiday this year: The under-the-radar Greek island to explore, Sweden’s eco-friendly floating cabins, the new 2,090-mile bike trail across the Balkans and more. In this episode:‘Cool-cations’: why people are heading to cooler destinations Why Bhutan is the place to go for a truly eco-escapeThe Caribbean island everyone forgets aboutWhy London could have a bumper year for tourismFollow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Culture editor, Nancy Durrant, and chief theatre critic, Nick Curtis, review Macbeth starring David Tennant at the Donmar Warehouse.This is a special cut-down episode taken from The Standard Theatre Podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Catherine Tate’s famed for her eponymous sketch show, roles in the American version of The Office and as Donna Noble, Doctor Who’s outspoken companion.Now, Bloomsbury-born Tate is bringing a very London story to life - the Enfield poltergeist.Tate’s appearing in The Enfield Haunting at the Ambassadors Theatre, co-starring David Threlfall, famous as Frank Gallagher in Channel’s 4’s Shameless.In this special edition of the Standard podcast, you’ll hear the Evening Standard’s chief theatre critic and co-host of our Theatre Podcast, Nick Curtis, in conversation with Tate on-stage at the West End playhouse.They also discuss BBC’s Doctor Who, her years of collaboration with David Tennant, the sci-fi show’s reboot with new Time Lord played by Ncuti Gatwa, plus a certain well-known catchphrase. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

London is in the grip of a shoplifting epidemic with a huge spike in crimes over the past year.In this episode, the Evening Standard's crime correspondent Anthony France reports how store theft in the capital now costs retailers over £9 million each month as offences soared by almost 50 per cent.The head of the British Retail Consortium says “violence, abuse and theft are all significantly up on pre-Covid levels”.At the same time, Londoners with high-value watches continue to be targeted in increasingly violent robberies - and we’ll have more on this in part two of the Standard podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rishi Sunak reveals the Government will introduce emergency legislation to exonerate and compensate hundreds of sub-postmasters wrongly convicted in the Horizon IT scandal.The Standard podcast hears the latest developments in part one with our political editor Nicholas Cecil at Parliament. Then in part two, senior features writer Katie Strick recounts the harrowing story of an innocent London former Post Office manager who was among victims jailed and later exonerated.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan appears to have signalled the start of the 2024 race for City Hall.The mayor’s promised free school meals for all primary school children in the capital to continue as his £140 million flagship policy if he wins a third mayoral termKhan's pledge is echoed by his Conservative rival Susan Hall to help parents struggling with the cost of living crisis.It’s marks a countdown to the mayoral elections in 2 May, which includes the capital's voters going to the polls to elect London Assembly members.The announcement came after a week of Tube strikes by the RMT union in a pay dispute was only averted on Sunday after £30 million was found - but no one’s giving a straight answer about where the mystery money’s come from.The Standard podcast has the latest from City Hall editor Ross Lydall and local democracy reporter Noah Vickers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hollywood stars were out for the 81st Golden Globes - and we’ve got the highlights and red carpet gossip for you.The ceremony’s short-notice host was comedian Jo Koy, taking the helm for the first time - but some of his jokes fell pretty flat, with one particular lead balloon sparking a ‘death stare’ from Taylor Swift in the celeb-packed audience.So, who went home from the Beverly Hills Hilton with another trophy for the cabinet, and who left the three-hour ceremony disappointed?Plus, discover the contents of the celeb goody bags reportedly worth $500,000.The Standard podcast’s joined by Evening Standard celebrity correspondent Tina Campbell. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oklahoma! actor Patrick Vaill - who plays scientist Dr Brenner as a young man in the stage adaptation of Stranger Things: The First Shadow at the Phoenix Theatre - joins us to discuss everything from the ‘Upside Down’.This interview is taken from The Standard Theatre Podcast and was recorded in December when the West End show opened.Vaill’s role was made famous in the Netflix sci-fi horror series by Hollywood star Matthew Modine - who’s also a Standard Theatre podcast alum.To hear Vaill’s full interview, click here.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Heavy rain and flooding have been causing chaos in London.On Thursday, a RNLI lifeboat, Met Police, and fire brigade vessels, had to rush to Temple Pier because a party boat sank that was moored there.Ten fire engines and around 70 firefighters were called to Hackney Road in east London because of severe flooding after a canal burst its banks.The Standard news reporter William Mata has been interviewing local residents and businesses impacted by the “knee-high” flood water. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Court documents relating to the paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein have been made public.The Standard’s Deputy Political Editor, Jitendra Joshi, discusses the names, allegations and what it all means. The documents mainly consist of previously unseen legal arguments from the defamation case Virginia Guiffre, Epstein's main accuser, made against his former lover Ghislaine Maxwell in 2015. Last month, a US judge ruled documents relating to Epstein, which include the names of more than 170 people, should be made public. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Will the longest strike in NHS history bring services to a standstill? Junior doctors in England - who make up roughly half the doctor workforce - walked out across the country at 7am this morning. It’s the start of a six-day walkout over pay involving thousands of medics in the British Medical Association.The Standard’s Health Reporter, Daniel Keane, explains everything you need to know. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Evening Standard’s astrologer, Shelley von Strunckel, explains what this year has in store for all of us. Why 2024 is all about ‘breakthroughs’ and what each star sign can expect in the coming 12 months. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s the highlight of London’s arts calendar - the Standard’s pop culture review of 2023.Listen to what’s made our very ad hoc list of the cream of this year’s pop culture.From ‘Barbenheimer’ to Beckhams, double denim, warp-speed Tik Toks and Paltrow’s ski case to ‘Taylornomics’, Stormzy & Maya return, S Club reunited, Rihanna and ‘rizz’.You’ll hear Evening Standard producer Mark Blunden speaking with two leading commentators in this space - Standard arts writer and commissioning editor Vicky Jessop, and celebrity correspondent Tina Campbell. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is a festive cutdown taken from our Theatre podcast. Hear Nancy and the Nick’s reveal some of their top West End shows from 2023 and what they’re looking forward to in 2024. To hear the full episode hit this link: lnk.to/zHhmCdMerry Christmas, and have a happy New Year, with only the best kind of drama. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A special festive edition of London Love Stories with Katie Strick for The Standard podcast. Legendary British filmmaker Richard Curtis discusses his love affair with the capital and how it inspired his career. He also shares exclusive behind the scenes gems about Love Actually, Notting Hill, Four Weddings and a Funeral, About Time and Bridget Jones’s Diary. Want to hear more? Listen to London Love Stories with Katie Strick here: https://podfollow.com/london-love-stories-with-katie-strick Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The total raised by the Evening Standard’s Winter Survival Appeal in partnership with Comic Relief has swelled to £2.4 million - thanks to a final surge in public donations to £200,000.With one million children in extreme poverty and at severe risk of being inadequately fed, clothed or kept warm this winter, the funds raised have been hailed by struggling charities and parents as a lifesaver, providing food and essentials to families in crisis.You can hear much more about some of the 20 outstanding charities and social enterprises being funded in this episode.The Standard podcast’s joined for a special episode by our campaigns editor David Cohen. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It was a “nightmare” before Christmas at Hyde Park Corner tube station with “unsafe” scenes caused by train delays and “staggering levels of criminal and antisocial behaviour” from some people apparently returning from the Winter Wonderland event. TfL is investigating after a station worker described how dozens of people at a time barging through ticket barriers, plus threats to assault staff when asked to stop vaping in the station, during the incident earlier this month.It came as new laws went on the statute books requiring minimum service levels on strike days - just in time for a potential New Year strike by RMT members.You can hear Evening Standard transport editor Ross Lydall’s interview with transport secretary Mark Harper on strike strategy, plus his latest analysis on the Hyde Park Corner station chaos. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

NHS bosses are warning London hospitals are under “extraordinary pressure” due to a “high volume of sick people” as junior doctors began their 26th day of strike action.Members of the British Medical Association began a 72-hour walkout from 7am on Wednesday in hospitals across England in a bitter dispute over pay.Hospital bosses in the capital say the strikes came at “the worst possible time” with rising demand for emergency services during the festive period.More than 1.1 million appointments have already been cancelled in the past year due to industrial action in the NHS.Junior doctors are demanding a 35 per cent pay rise to correct a real-terms fall in income since 2008.The BMA announced the strike earlier this month after talks between junior doctors and the Government broke down.Analysis, plus impact on London A&Es, with Evening Standard health reporter Daniel Keane. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Two emergencies are unfolding in China and Iceland.At least 126 people were reportedly killed in a magnitude 6.2 earthquake in a freezing, mountainous region of north-western China, on the Tibetan Plateau.Search and rescue operations are under way in the country’s Gansu and neighbouring Qinghai provinces, as rescuers work in sub-zero temperatures.Meanwhile, thousands of miles away, the long-grumbling volcano erupted on south-west Iceland’s Reykjanes peninsula after weeks of intense earthquake activity - but without casualties.The eruption shot lava and smoke more than 330ft into the air. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Baroness Mone has admitted that she stands to profit from a contract between the Government and PPE firm Medpro, but insisted that she and her husband Doug Barrowman have “no case to answer”.The Conservative peer confessed to lying to the press after she repeatedly denied her links to a company that made million of pounds during the Covid pandemic.The discuss the scandal, the investigation and what’s next for Baroness Mone, The Standard podcast’s joined by Evening Standard health reporter Daniel Keane. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bernadette Peters and Lea Salonga sit down with our Deputy Culture Editor, Nick Clark backstage at the Gielgud Theatre. The West End and Broadway legends are currently starring in Stephen Sondheim's Old Friends. This is taken from The Standard Theatre Podcast, click here to find out more.For all the latest news visit standard.co.uk. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How Alex Batty was found after six years. The British boy went missing in October 2017 when he was 11 years old. This week, the now teenager was picked up by a lorry driver after 'walking in the French mountains for days'. Our crime reporter John Dunne explains the details behind this incredible story. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After six seasons, 60 episodes and three incarnations of the Queen, Netflix’s The Crown is abdicating its throne. But, will fans be satisfied with its ending? Columnist Melanie McDonagh gives her verdict.In part two, our senior feature writer & editor, Katie Strick, discusses the newest episode of London Love Stories with Katie Strick featuring none other than the much-loved filmmaker Richard Curtis.For details on the Evening Standard’s Winter Survival Appeal visit comicrelief.com/wintersurvival Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A ‘historic deal’ has been reached at the COP28 climate change summit in Dubai. For the first time, the agreement calls on all countries to ‘move away’ from using fossil fuels, but is it enough?Sustainability expert and presenter of our Sustainable Travel podcast series, Juliet Kinsman, shares her insight. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Storm clouds gathered over 10 Downing Street as Rishi Sunak tried desperately to quell mutiny among Conservative party rebels ahead of a make-or-break immigration vote on his flagship Rwanda asylum bill.It came as the Prime Minister saw his public ratings on managing immigration hit a new low in an Ipsos UK survey for the Standard.Analysis with Standard political editor Nicolas Cecil.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rishi Sunak won’t like Mondays like this oneThe Prime Minister will have woken up at Number 10 battling two fronts, as his decision-making is probed at the Covid-19 Inquiry in Paddington before facing a crunch vote on Tuesday over his highly divisive Safety of Rwanda (Asylum and Immigration) Bill.The next two days are arguably the most critical of Sunak’s barely year-long premiership.Insight with the Standard’s courts correspondent Tristan Kirk and chief political correspondent Rachael Burford. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is a special cut down episode from our latest podcast London Love Stories with Katie Strick.A real-life Sliding Doors meet-cute. Host Katie Strick meets Londoners Aaron and Rachel, who fell in love and moved in together just five weeks after a chance encounter on the Tube.Make sure you're following London Love Stories with Katie Strick wherever you get your podcasts to hear more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Was a 25-year-old ‘bodge job’ to blame? Passengers left without lighting, heating or toilets. Rachel Riley & James Blunt among those stuck. Our Editor-in-chief Dylan Jones describes his experience stranded on the Elizabeth line, and our travel editor Ross Lydall reveals what may have caused the travel chaos. Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

PM defends Rwanda asylum bill at tetchy emergency press conference. Why the Rwanda deal can’t be ‘pushed’ any further. What will happen if MPs block the PM’s Rwanda bill? Our Political Editor Nicholas Cecil discusses the Prime Minister's future ahead of the crucial vote on the Rwanda asylum bill next week. In this episode:The PM’s immigration policy explainedWhy did Rishi Sunak seem agitated at the press conference?Why the PM didn’t opt for the ‘back me or sack me’ routeHow the updated Rwanda bill impacts people’s human rightsFollow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The former prime minister questioned over 5,000 missing WhatsApp messages. How has Mr Johnson dealt with the questioning so far? Why the Covid Inquiry won’t lead to any form of punishment. Our Health Reporter Daniel Keane discusses Boris Johnson’s first day at the Covid Inquiry. In this episode:Have there been any revelations from day one?The full story behind the missing WhatsApp messagesWhat could arise on day two of Boris Johnson's questioningThe true lessons to come from Covid explainedFollow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We speak with Tom Hanks and co-writer Christopher Riley about their new show chronicling the Apollo missions of the ‘60s: The Moonwalkers. They tell us why they chose Lightroom in London as the venue for the show and how original footage from the moon was remastered to create the visuals. Plus, Andy Saunders, the man who remastered original footage from the missions explains how he did it. In this episode:How the idea for the show was bornTom explains his ‘fascination’ with the ‘60s moon landingsWhy the Lightroom venue is uniquely positioned to tell the storyHow original Apollo footage was frozen in liquid nitrogen to protect itWhat to expect from The MoonwalkersFollow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Who has caused a stir in the fashion world of 2023? The woman behind the rise of a high street brand at top spot. Why TV show costume designers have made the list. Our Fashion Editor Victoria Moss reveals the names on the Standard’s top 100 fashion power list, and discusses the fashion trends that got them there. In this episode:What’s the criteria for this year’s list?The most surprising names revealedHow Beyoncé and Taylor have set fashion trendsWho’s going to make a name for themselves in 2024?Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dust off your crystal balls and look to the future of travel: bikini beach holidays in the Baltics, sewage-powered flights abroad, and rail miles instead of air miles?Our sustainable-travel expert Juliet Kinsman talks to Jon Weeks about how extreme weather is already impacting ski resorts and island retreats, how eco-laws can help us help the planet, and why cheaper renewable energy should leave us feeling optimistic about the future.Plus, the Evening Standard's Lifestyle Director, Suzannah Ramsdale reveals the beaches slowly getting shorter, why a rise in demand for cruises is a bad thing, and explains why she thinks the UK is the destination of the future.Check out Juliet's accompanying article on how climate change will transform your summer holiday here.Plus, find out what else we're exploring as part of our Sustainable Travel campaign here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The King’s warning over climate inaction. $5 trillion needed each year to “drive the transformation we need”. What was different about Charles’s speech this year? Our Royal Editor Robert Jobson discusses how King’s speech was received, and whether he was distracted by the saga around Omid Scobie’s new book. Plus our Political Editor Nicholas Cecil explains the key points from the speech, and where the UK stands in the mission to tackle climate change.Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Without free speech, is it truth that is at stake? Philosopher Sam Harris and Evgeny Lebedev discuss one of the most important questions of our time.As part of The Standard's free speech inquiry, Harris and Lebedev discuss the Israeli-Gaza conflict, the battle with fake news, the future of media, and the importance of free ideas. This episode comes ahead of Brave New World, a new Standard podcast hosted by Lord Lebedev on the future of humanity – and the scientists, thinkers and innovators, who are rising to the occasion to lead us into it, which is launching in January.Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Crime on London’s transport network surges 30% in six months. TfL reports robbery on the Tube is up 107%. Which areas are the worst for crime? Our City Hall & Transport Editor Ross Lydall talks through the TfL data, why we’ve seen such a spike, and how it’s impacting passenger numbers. In this episode:Thefts, abuse, violence and robberies: the crimes explainedTory mayoral candidate Susan Hall ‘bang on target’ with tube thefts warningThe tube line deemed ‘worst’ for crimeHow passengers are avoiding the tube because of high crime ratesFollow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Patient recovers from the UK’s first confirmed human case of a new strain of swine flu. Health officials track down close contacts to measure spread. Should we be worried about this new strain? Our Health Reporter Daniel Keane explains what has happened, and whether this new strain could lead to the next pandemic. In this episode:Do we know how this person contracted it?Dr Andrew Catchpole’s 'Don’t panic but stay alert' advice explainedWhat scientists are saying about this new strainWhy we need to ‘keep an eye’ on developmentsPlus: The latest on ‘mystery’ respiratory illness in ChinaFollow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ahead of the film's release in cinemas tomorrow. How will Timothee Chalamet’s Wonka compare with Johnny Depp’s and Gene Wilder’s? Film Critic for the Standard Nick Howell’s discusses his expectations for the new movie, how it’ll compare with its predecessors, and what it needs to do to win over British hearts. In this episode:Another Wonka? Go ahead and do it!Is this a Wonka origin story?The all-star cast examinedWhy Paul King is up against good competitionIs Wonka just part one of a wider franchise?Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, it's the big question: why do we “need” to travel?Juliet Kinsman and Jon Weeks discuss how travel can significantly support local communities, and even help destinations impacted by extreme weather get back on their feet. Juliet reveals all about her time spent in Mallorca investigating the behind-the-scenes sustainability of Iberostar resorts, the sponsor of this podcast series.Global Director of Sustainability at Iberostar, Dr Megan Morikawa talks about the importance of protecting oceans and local environments, and their journey to zero waste, including the Winnow AI-powered tech in their kitchens which has reduced their food waste by 28%. Find out what else we're exploring as part of our Sustainable Travel campaign here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As climate change heats up London and the capital’s population grows, we’re going to need some upgrades to the deepest-level sweaty, stifling Tube carriages.The Piccadilly Line is the first deep-level route - that’s over 20 metres below ground - to get proper air-conditioning in the coming years, as part of a redesign with futuristic new rolling stock.So sweltering commuters on the Heathrow airport to Cockfosters route cutting through the West End should have the same level of comfort as Overground and Elizabeth Line passengers.At the test facility of design contractor Siemens, near the German town of Mönchengladbach, the Standard’s transport editor Ross Lydall tests the next generation of air-cooled, walk-through London Underground trains.He also examines Transport for London's infrastructure and financial challenges to come. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is a special edition of the Standard, in support of the Evening Standard and Comic Relief’s Winter Survival Campaign.The cost of living crisis has become so entrenched that for many, Christmas is effectively cancelled.According to the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, the number of UK families categorised as destitute has more than doubled in the last five years.In the Rowntree study, 3.8 million people - including 1 million children - are at severe risk of being inadequately fed, clothed, cleaned or kept warm.There is increasing alarm at the impact this severe hardship is having on children as the cost of living crisis enters a second winter.That is why the Evening Standard has today combined forces with Comic Relief to launch our Winter Survival Appeal Christmas campaign, with Comic Relief pledging £500,000 to get us underway.The money will be given to charities in London and across the UK that help people struggling with food insecurity as well as children’s health and well-being.To make a donation, visit comicrelief.com/wintersurvival Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jeremy Hunt reveals his Autumn Statement to MPs in the House of Commons.The Chancellor’s package of economic measures to boost growth, cut taxes and secure the pensions triple lock marked a highly political mid-financial year speech.His key statement was delivered with an eye on a looming general election expected next year. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chancellor Jeremy Hunt is set to unveil his much-anticipated Autumn Statement - so what do we know, what about those tax cuts and plans for economic growth?Chief Secretary to the Treasury Laura Trott has already raised expectations of a easing the tax burden for households, as well as for businesses.In this episode, we examine the Conservative government’s financials and their pre-election policy gymnastics, with Evening Standard political editor Nicholas Cecil and Jo Michell, professor of economics at the University of the West of England’s Bristol Business School. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stars of London’s stage celebrated in Mayfair at the 67th annual Evening Standard Theatre Awards.Tom Hiddleston, Sheila Atim, Hayley Atwell, Jenna Coleman and David Tennant joined Sir Elton John and Boy George among celebrities attending Sunday’s Claridge’s extravaganza.The event was hosted by the Standard proprietor Lord Lebedev with help from Ian McKellen, and presented by Susan Wokoma.Find out who triumphed, with the Standard’s culture team. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Are you a fully fledged eco-nomad or merely eco-curious? Do you belong to the B-Corp Bleisure tribe or the 'Greener-Than-Thou Family'? This week our Sustainable Travel podcast series gets personal about what it means to be a more responsible traveller. Juliet Kinsman and Jon Weeks reveal there is significantly more than one way to engage with sustainability, and the way you do it says much about which tribe you belong to.  Zina Bencheikh of Intrepid Travel explains B-Corp accreditation, and why B-Corp businesses are likely to appeal most to ethical explorers.Plus, Tracey Poggio, chair of ANTOR (Association of National Tourist Offices and Representatives) explains how destinations can learn from each other's experiences to become more eco, and the task she gives her children every time they travel abroad.Find out what type of traveller you are via Anna Hart's accompanying article here.Find out what else we're exploring as part of our Sustainable Travel campaign here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why some critics have given one or two star reviews of Season Six Part One. How The Crown is ‘attempting the impossible’. Did it do Diana’s story justice? Why the Netflix show's better than some critics think. The Standard’s Melanie McDonagh shares her review of Season 6 Part One, and explains why she’s not looking forward to Part Two. In this episode:Elizabeth Debicki’s ‘moving’ portrayal of Princess DianaHow the actors captured the 'internal selves' of their charactersThe historical accuracies compared with dramatised elementsWhy Season Six Part Two isn’t on Melanie’s to-watch listFollow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Standard’s senior feature writer and editor, Katie Strick, reveals what she’s learnt whilst hosting the capital’s newest dating and relationships podcast - London Love Stories with Katie Strick.Katie meets real couples from around the capital, who share their uplifting real stories of romance - along with the dating lessons and relationship wisdom they’ve learnt along the way. How dating app culture has impacted our city, the secrets to making it work, the importance of timing, the role choice plays in everything, and why ultimately in life you make your own luck. Listen to episode 1 of London Love Stories with Katie Strick here: Locked Eyes On The District LineListen to episode 2 of London Love Stories with Katie Strick here: You Had Me At 999 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rwanda policy deemed unlawful after 18 months of legal battles. The ‘powerful’ evidence that Rwanda isn’t safe. What will the government do now? Our Courts Correspondent Tristan Kirk explains what the Supreme Court’s ruling means for the Rwanda Policy, and how Conservative MPs and the government might respond. In this episode:Why judges deemed the policy unlawfulHow the policy went through the legal processWhy MPs would be wrong to suggest leaving the EU convention of human rightsHow will the government react to this ruling?Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our monarch celebrates his milestone birthday with the launch of a food-poverty campaign. King Charles’s choice to continue his royal work on his birthday. Why he’s in a rush to ‘make up for lost time’. The Standard’s Robert Dex describes how the King celebrated his birthday, and columnist Melanie McDonagh discusses how King Charles has featured on the Evening Standard front pages over the years. In this episode:The King’s ‘fascinating’ work examinedHis relationship with Prince HarryWill Charles pass the environmental campaign baton to Prince William? Charles’s ‘awkward’ look on becoming a young PrinceToday’s front page cover explainedFollow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Suella Braverman sacked as Home Secretary in Rishi Sunak’s cabinet reshuffle. A surprise return for David Cameron. Is his appointment democratically legitimate? Our Political Editor Nicholas Cecil explains the controversy around Mr Cameron’s return, and what Suella Braverman might do next. In this episode:Did Suella orchestrate her sacking to begin leadership bid?How David Cameron’s return stole the headlinesWhy MPs might be frustrated with the former PM’s returnIs this a sign of the Conservatives going more centrist?Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Where to go and why some spots are better...you might be surprised by what makes some places greener.Our sustainable travel expert Juliet Kinsman and Jon Weeks discuss what makes some countries and regions a better choice if you’re striving to be an eco-friendly adventurer and Juliet explains why the key to more economically and environmentally sustainable trips can be venturing off-season.In part two, Randy Durband, CEO of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council, explains how they determine which destinations are doing the right thing, the importance of 'speaking up' and how they're targeting mainstream travel firms to make sustainable changes.Find out what else we're exploring as part of our Sustainable Travel campaign here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tens of thousands of protesters are expected to take to the streets of London on Saturday to demand a ceasefire in Gaza.The demonstration coincides with Armistice Day, when a number of large events are already due to take place. Including a two-minute silence at the Cenotaph in Westminster for fallen servicemen and women. Nicholas Cecil, our Political Editor, discusses the division of opinions from different sides of the political spectrum, as well as the backlash over the Home Secretary’s public criticism of the police.In part two, John Dunne, the Standard’s crime reporter, analyses the scale of the task the Met faces when it comes to policing London this weekend. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

John Lewis reveals its venus flytrap mascot. Dancing dolls, a raccoon and singing oven gloves. Bublé, Reynolds and Astley: this year’s celeb-filled features. How brands are ripping off the same story line. Are people getting sick of annual xmas ads? Our Culture Writer Vicky Jessop reviews this year’s Christmas TV ads, and considers how they’ve evolved over the years. In this episode:Clothing brand Barbour’s Shaun the Sheep collabHow this year’s ads are ‘celebrities galore’John Lewis’s venus flytrap character reviewedHas this year been a stand-out year for Xmas ads? Check out our new weekly podcast series featuring London love stories with Katie Strick here.Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

London’s 54 super luxury restaurants are up from 37 last year. The £900 14 oz Tajima beef waygu steak. Restaurant clientele explained: Lambo owners, awkward couples and celebs. Business Editor Jonathan Prynn and Going Out Editor David Ellis discuss the recent rise in hyper-luxurious restaurants, and how food culture is changing. In this episode:More & more high-end restaurants opening ‘every year’Showboating, crowds, and quiet couples Why celebs avoid some high-end establishmentsOmakase: the rise in high-end Japanese sushiThe world’s wealthiest people ‘like to spend time in London’Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

King Charles III delivers first King’s Speech. Smoking, criminal sentencing and tackling consumer rip-offs. Rishi Sunak’s last-minute edit. King Charles’s body language observed. Our Politics team, Nicholas Cecil, Rachael Burford and Jitendra Joshi explain the highlights. In this episode:How will the King’s Speech be received by the public?The government's proposed leaseholds shake-upCriminal charges changingWhat happened to Suella Braverman’s proposed tent ban?Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sadiq Khan leads his Tory rival Susan Hall 50% to 25% in an exclusive poll. Our Political Editor Nicholas Cecil discusses the latest poll results and Sadiq Khan’s chances of securing a third term as London Mayor. In this episode:Is Sadiq riding the wave of Labour’s popularity? Why Susan Hall’s ULEZ campaign might not help her in the long runWhat could go wrong for Mr Khan in the next six months?Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How can we see more of the world for less?Our sustainable travel expert Juliet Kinsman joins Jon Weeks in the studio for another uplifting conversation about what it means to seek out greener getaways - reminding us they can be eco-friendly and also economical. In part two award-winning writer and broadcaster Phoebe Smith shares tips on how our travel money can stretch further in some destinations while also helping the places we visit.Phoebe explains why we should avoid the typical ‘instagrammable’ destinations, and reveals the benefits of asking questions while on holiday. Check out the wild camping enthusiast's feature “How to travel sustainably on a budget” here, and find out what else we're exploring as part of our Sustainable Travel campaign here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rick Astley’s famed for hits including Never Gonna Give You Up - which sparked the Rickrolling internet meme craze.But recently, the 1980s star enjoyed a renaissance thanks to a collaboration as frontman with indie band Blossoms, as a tribute supergroup playing The Smiths’ back catalogue.In this episode, you’ll hear Astley in conversation with Evening Standard commissioning editor and writer El Hunt.They discuss the Rickrolling web phenomenon, how a chance encounter with Simon Pegg led to a blockbuster music video, gigging with Foo Fighters, his views on Morrissey, researching the competition, Astley’s ninth studio album Are We There Yet? - and much more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Thousands of homes were left without power, rail lines brought down and hundreds of schools closed as Storm Ciarán caused chaos across the south of England.Amid 100mph gales, torrential downpours and monster waves around the coast, nearly 9,000 homes in Cornwall had their electricity cut, while major incidents were declared in Hampshire, the Isle of Wight and in the Channel Islands, where roofs were blown off with Jersey residents told to evacuate their homes.In London, pictures show flooding around Brent Cross as cars drove through considerable standing water.What can be done to protect properties from future extreme weather?Standard reporter Anthony France has the latest on Storm Ciarán, then we speak with with resilience and recovery expert Mary Long-Dhonau OBE - AKA ‘Flood Mary’. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Elon Musk jetted into the UK to join US vice president Kamala Harris for an international conference focussing on the threats and opportunities of artificial intelligence.The AI Safety Summit at the Second World War top secret code-breaking HQ at Bletchley Park in Buckinghamshire, features tech moguls and politicians representing countries including Germany, Japan and China.In this episode of the Standard podcast, we’ll look at the significance of the Bletchley Park conference, future legislation - and how close we are to passing the Turing ‘intelligence’ test.We're joined by Dr Jeni Tennison, executive director of Connected by Data, who’s a specialist in data and AI governance. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s been one month since the launch of London’s expanded Ultra Low Emission Zone - and we examine how much cash has been generated as part of Mayor Sadiq Khan’s flagship pollution-fighting scheme. About £26 million has been generated from more than 57,000 daily vehicles - but what’s the extra money being spent on?Transport for London says the Ulez expansion has cut the number of older, more polluting vehicles driven by nearly half, and reduced the overall amount of traffic.The £12.50-a-day levy for vehicles not meeting emissions requirements is enforced by a network of surveillance cameras ringing the capital - and Ulez refuseniks can expect a £180 fine.Plus, transport news extra with the latest on the government’s railway ticket office closures u-turn, with the Standard’s transport editor Ross Lydall. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When the Standard launched its first ever fertility survey we had an idea about what the results would tell us.  We thought we’d hear from people concerned about reproductive health and access to fertility treatment. We did! But that wasn’t top of the list… it was money. We partnered up with Peanut, the app and online community for prospective parents, and asked 400 people what they were thinking about when considering starting a family. Over a third told us they felt pressured to remain childfree, even though they wanted one, because of financial instability. It’s the cost-of-living. It’s being unable to buy a house. That’s what’s stopping, or delaying people having children. And that’s before they take into account how much childcare itself will take out of their pocket. In this episode we speak to our Executive features editor Alexandra Jones and we’re also joined by Gemma Bolton who’s being treated for fertility complications. You can read more from our survey at standard.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Travel journalist Juliet Kinsman and Jon Weeks discuss how to be a climate friendly traveller for episode one of the Standard's sustainable travel series, sponsored by Iberostar Hotels and Resorts. In this episode we explore how to be a climate friendly traveller, and speak with Mark Maslin, Professor of Earth System Science at UCL and author of 'How To Save Our Planet: The Facts' about planning a sustainable holiday, choosing the right destination, and his best travel experience.In this episode:Seeing sustainable travel as 'being helpful'Why longer term holidays could be the more environmentally friendly optionChoosing local food ahead of imported optionsUsing reusable water bottles and choosing anti-plastic hotelsEmpowering women through your spendingFind out what else we're exploring as part of our Sustainable Travel campaign here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rachael Burford, our Chief Political Correspondent, takes us behind the controversy over the Met police’s use of live facial recognition technology.The faces of thousands of fans on their way to watch Arsenal v Tottenham were scanned by live facial recognition last month. In a bid to catch criminals and supporters barred from attending games because of their previous behaviour.Now, the Standard can reveal that this type of technology, which was used by the Met Police at a Premier League football match for the first time, has resulted in three arrests.However, concerns have been raised over the use of this technology. Privacy campaigners say by using these methods police are treating football fans like suspects. Claiming “it erodes public freedoms, wastes public money” and is “not an efficient crime-fighting tool.” Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Katie Strick, our senior feature writer and editor, on the shocking rise of LGBTQ+ hate crime in London.In August, there was the late-night incident at the Two Brewers, followed by the Brixton bus stop assault on a couple heading home from Black Pride.Since then, there have been several more similar incidents in the capital, with a man in his 50s the victim of physical homophobic assault on a bus in Clapham, and two men in their 20s reportedly assaulted by six men on High Road in Chadwell Heath.Also in this episode, Robbie de Santos from the charity Stonewall, reveals how the LGBTQ+ community is feeling in the wake of this highly concerning trend. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rishi Sunak marks one year as Prime Minister but a poll for the Standard suggests people think Sir Keir Starmer is the candidate for change at the next general election. Director of Politics at Ipsos, Keiran Pedley, takes us behind the findings and reveals whether public opinion has changed over the past 12 months. In part two, our Political Editor, Nicholas Cecil, on what Rishi Sunak exclusively told the Standard on his first anniversary as PM. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Travel journalist Juliet Kinsman joins us as we preview the launch of our Sustainable Travel series on the Standard daily podcast. From this weekend, we'll be talking to experts across the globe, getting advice on how and where to take holidays without ruining the environment. In this episode we look at places like Sacred Valley in Peru, get advice on low economic impact flying, and learn how tourism can be transformative for local communities. The Sustainable travel series, sponsored by Iberostar Hotels and Resorts, starts on Saturday October 28th. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of The Standard contains bad language and sex, drug and alcohol references throughout.Before writing the hit movie 'Kinky Boots,' Geoff Deane had been a chart-busting pop star with Modern Romance in the 1980s. His memoir 'From Mohair Suits to Kinky Boots' charts his journey from being a Brick Lane Market trader to world touring musician, journalist and Hollywood screenwriter. For the next three days, Standard.co.uk is running extracts from the book, but you can hear Geoff read this chapter right now. 'An Okie from Muskogee' recalls the 80s gay club scene in London and the US, and how Geoff found himself and Boys Town Gang singer Cynthia Manley being pursued by police on a desert road outside Los Angeles. From Mohair Suits to Kinky Boots: How Music, Clothes and Going Out Shaped My Life and Upset My Mother by Geoff Deane is published by Muswell Press (£16.99). This audiobook version is published by WG Howes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Taken from The Standard Theatre Podcast, hear deputy culture editor Nick Clark chat to Bafta-winner Joseph Fiennes for his role as Gareth Southgate in Dear England.This play has just opened in the West End after a sell-out run at the National Theatre.To hear the full episode click this link.For all the latest news head to standard.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Rugby World Cup semi-finals 2023 are here. Only four teams remain in the competition and this weekend sees New Zealand face Argentina, while England take on the title holders, South Africa. The Springboks are the favourites but if this tournament has taught us anything it’s that nothing is guaranteed.The Standard’s Rugby Correspondent, Nick Purewal, joins us from France to discuss England's chances, the team power ranking, and whether or not this is the best South Africa team ever.In part two, we hear from the Evening Standard’s Rugby Podcast with Lawrence Dallaglio, as they look ahead to the semifinals, with Irish rugby legend Brian O’Driscoll. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nick Curtis, Nancy Durrant and Nick Clark from our culture team run through the incredible shortlist for the 67th Evening Standard Theatre Awards. Showcasing the best productions and performances to grace the capital over the past 12 months. Find out all the details about the event, the stars attending, and most importantly, who is in the running for a highly coveted prize.Be sure to listen to the Standard's Theatre Podcast for all the latest news, reviews and interviews straight from Theatreland. New episodes drop every Sunday, make sure you follow so you never miss a thing. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When Afua Hirsch hit forty years old, she had an encounter that made her rethink her own, and society’s, attitudes towards body image and ancestry. That’s now the basis of her new book Decolonising My Body, which follows her year-long journey through what she calls “Radical Unlearning”.In this episode of the Standard, Sagal Mohammed talks to Afua about her book, and we have an exclusive extract from the audiobook version involving a life-changing encounter with Oprah Winfrey. You can find the video of this interview on our Youtube channel and there's also a further extract from the book at standard.co.ukExtracted from ‘Decolonising My Body: a Radical Exploration of Rituals and Beauty’, by Afua Hirsch, published by Square Peg at £20. Copyright Afua Hirsch 2023 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US President Joe Biden will travel to Israel on Wednesday as concerns grow that the Israel-Hamas conflict could expand into a larger regional conflict.It’s whilst the unfolding humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip becomes more dire, the UN says a million Gazans have already been displaced by Israeli airstrikes. Power is out, drinking water is running scarce, and fuel supplies for hospital generators are low.Our Defence Editor, Robert Fox, shares his insight. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There is a growing humanitarian crisis at the crossing point between the Gaza Strip and Egypt as more than a million people, including many Britons, desperately head south to flee air raids and threatened imminent Israeli invasion.Rafah border crossing is currently the Palestinians’ only route out of the enclave, with Hamas, Egypt and Israel all having a degree of control over who can pass through it.Anthony Blinken, the US secretary of state, said on Sunday the crossing would open to allow aid in and evacuation of some foreign passport holders - but Cairo says Tel Aviv’s not cooperating.Now, thousands of people have gathered at the border in a bid to flee Gaza, which has been cut off since Hamas gunmen launched a wave of deadly, torturous terror attacks and hostage snatches in Israel to spark the crisis.Latest with Evening Standard political editor Nicholas Cecil.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is a cut down bonus episode taken from our business podcast, How to be a CEO.Charlie Bigham is the founder of the food company that bears his own name. Created in 1996 in his own kitchen, it now employs 700 people and sells dishes from chicken and mushroom pies you put in the oven to pan-fried Pad Thais. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s two decades since the launch of the contemporary art fair that secured London’s place at the centre of the modern creative world.Frieze London celebrates 20 years since its first event for high-end art buyers who’ve got at least a few thousand - and much more - to splurge.As well as the contemporary fair in Regent’s Park with works by artists including Tracey Emin, Damien Hirst, Yinka Shonibare and Grayson Perry.Meanwhile, this year’s event marks a new campaign backed by the Standard to salute the capital’s successes in the arts, called London Creates.It was established to promote the our visual arts scene and is being supported by Mayor Sadiq Khan and artists including, Gilbert and George.The influential Spitalfields-based duo contributed two special collector’s editions Evening Standard ‘Art for All’ front pages.This episode with Frieze London director Eva Langret and Evening Standard arts correspondent Robert Dex. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

London relatives of pensioners kidnapped by Hamas in Israel told how their elderly parents were forced from their beds and taken to Gaza as hostages.Noam Sagi, whose 75-year-old mother, Ada, along with Sharone Lifschitz’s mum and dad, aged 83 and 85, were kidnapped as squads of heavily-armed Hamas gunmen launched terror attacks across southern Israel.The British-Israelis spoke out to highlight the desperate plight of 17 Britons, including children, are dead or missing - while at the London press conference it was revealed a six-month-old baby is among Hamas captives.As Israel’s war with Hamas escalates with retaliatory rockets pounding the Gaza Strip and infrastructure’s cut off for Palestinians living there, what now the military strategy - and chances of rescuing what’s believed to be around 150 hostages? In-depth analysis with Evening Standard defence editor Robert Fox. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The glamour of international air travel is bouncing back - and Heathrow Airport bosses say they’ve got the passenger numbers to prove it.LHR revealed on Wednesday that the number of travellers was back above pre-pandemic levels for the first time.Airport bosses say more than seven million passengers took off or landed over September, soaring past 2019’s figures of nearly 6.8 million travellers.The Leader podcast’s joined by Evening Standard business editor Jonathan Prynn.Plus, latest on a major fire sparked by an exploding car at Luton Airport, where five people were taken to hospital and firefighters spent 12 hours battling the flames.Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service say their current hypothesis is the blaze started accidentally in the £20million Terminal Car Park Two. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This edition of the Leader podcast examines safety concerns for Jewish Londoners following the weekend’s attacks that saw squads of heavily-armed Hamas gunmen launch a massive terror attack in southern Israel.More than 10 Britons are feared dead or missing - among over 900 hundred now believed to have been killed - with Hamas threatening to kill hostages if Israeli forces continue bombarding the Gaza Strip, with more than 700 Palestinians already dead and descent into war.We’re joined by Marie van der Zyl, president of the Board of Deputies of British Jews, to discuss their work in this crisis and Evening Standard crime correspondent Anthony France on the Met police response. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s day two of Labour’s conference in Liverpool as the party faithful congregate in the hope it will be their final gathering before Sir Keir Starmer’s installed in Downing Street.After the weekend’s devastating attacks in Israel, we ask about reaction on the conference floor and among the shadow cabinet.There’s also been domestic big picture speeches, including shadow chancellor Rachel Reeves on the economy.For the latest from the conference floor in Liverpool, the Leader podcast’s joined by Evening Standard political editor Nicolas Cecil. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is a repeat taken from our Let Girls Learn series. This is episode is brought to you from Zimbabwe with journalist Farai Shawn Matiashe. Street Set Football Club in Bulawayo, equips girls not only with skills in dribbling and passing, but also helps them to navigate adolescence in an environment where early marriage, teen pregnancy and drug abuse are rife. Farai finds out from those involved and families who have benefited from the organisation about the difference it’s making to the community. You can find out more about this story online at www.standard.co.uk/optimist/let-girls-learn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Mozambique’s brutal civil war, nearly all of the wildlife in Gorongosa National Park was destroyed by soldiers and poachers. We discover how an unusual rewilding project - with women’s empowerment at its heart – has helped nature to roar back to life.Ros Russell presents a special episode as part of the Let Girls Learn series, where the Evening Standard is hearing stories from around the globe that shine a light on innovations and solutions that are helping girls to fulfil their right to healthy, productive futures. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Will the ‘Paris bed bug infestation’ hit London?The Deputy Mayor of Paris, has warned that the French Capital is in the midst of a 'bed bug infestation', calling it  “widespread”, and adding that “in reality no one is safe”. There are now growing concerns in London that the creepy critters could soon be on their way here. Eurostar has announced preventative methods are in place to stop the spread of the pests.Dr Richard Naylor, entomologist, and director of the Bed Bug Foundation - which provides free advice on what to do about the pests, explains just how worried we should be about the insects. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Evening Standard’s Political Editor, Nicholas Cecil, gives his analysis of Rishi Sunak’s high-anticipated speech at the Conservative Party conference.From the cancelling of the Manchester leg of HS2 for a new ‘Northern Network’ and redevelopment around Euston Station, to a proposed change in the legal age of smoking, and the replacement of A-levels. Nicholas Cecil, runs through the key announcements, breaks down all the reaction so far, and gives his thoughts on where this all leaves the Conservatives now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is the Birmingham to Manchester leg of HS2 about to be scrapped? The Prime Minister has refused to confirm a decision either way but speculation is rife around potential changes to High Speed Rail 2. In part one, our Deputy Political Editor, Jitendra Joshi, discusses why Rishi Sunak is considering the amendments, and what the political ramifications could be of this move. In part two, Ross Lydall, the Evening Standard’s City Hall Editor and Transport Editor, explains what the potential changes could mean for Londoners. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Conservative Party conference is officially underway. The Chancellor has announced an increase to the National Living Wage and tougher sanctions for people on benefits who do not take steps to find work. But, despite usually being high on the Tory priority list, Jeremy Hunt has said tax cuts won't be coming this year.The Evening Standard’s Political Editor, Nicholas Cecil, shares his insight from the conference in Manchester. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is a cut down of the full interview with BT Business CEO Bas Burger, on our How to be a CEO podcast. To hear the full thing click here.When BT Business was officially launched in April this year, Bas Burger was the man entrusted to take the reigns. He’s in charge of 24,000 people, and a multi-billion pound strategy to make the UK’s broadband infrastructure fit for the future. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sir Michael Gambon described as a ‘titan of the stage and film’. How his mischievous side came out during interviews. Dumbledore versus his earlier film and theatre roles. How London’s theatres will pay tribute. Nick Curtis, our Chief Theatre Critic, discusses Sir Michael Gambon’s career, character, and how he will be remembered.Follow us on Twitter or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Double-whammy strikes warning for Wednesday 4th October. Commuters expected to write off most of next week. RMT Union’s Mick Lynch warns staff cuts will lead to more disruption. Our City Hall Editor & Transport Editor Ross Lydall explains the October tube strikes, and how intermittent action is changing work culture in London. In this episode:Most lines affected but good news for Elizabeth Line travellersTube staffing issues explainedIs Sadiq Khan between a rock and a hard place?How low staff numbers are impacting small stationsAre strikes impacting season ticket purchases?Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A huge UK oil and gas field, Rosebank, has just been given the green light for development and production.The controversial decision has been made despite widespread criticism. The field contains up to 350 million barrels of oil and is currently one of the largest untapped discoveries in UK waters.We’re joined by Jess Ralston, head of energy at the Energy & Climate Intelligence Unit think tank. She shares her analysis on what this means for the UK. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The outcry over armed police officers continues as Sir Mark Rowley appears at the first meeting of the new policing board.The Scotland Yard chief admitted that there is "significantly less" armed police cover than normal in London, and the force was facing "difficult choices''. It’s after hundreds of officers stood down from firearms duties following a murder charge against one of their colleagues.The Evening Standard’s Home Affairs Editor, Martin Bentham, explains how we got to this point, the protections currently in place for armed police, and whether this is going to be an ongoing issue moving forward. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

New data reveals that hybrid working has become a permanent way of life, and millions less rail journeys are being made in and out of the capital on weekdays. The stats come as Sadiq Khan calls on Londoners to return to the office and make the most our of our great city. Ross Lydall, our City Hall Editor & Transport Editor, takes us behind the data and looks at the potential repercussions of this new normal.In part two, the Evening Standard’s Financial Editor, Simon English, discusses what this all means for the City’s economy and why there's now a change of tone from the capital's big banks. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special ‘Let Girls Learn’ episode, we’re finding out about life for pregnant teenagers in Freetown, Sierra Leone. Being a girl here can be tough, they can often be exploited for sex by men and boys offering them ways to jump the extremely long queue for the water pump line, something known locally as ‘water for water’. Teenage pregnancy can be common here but the girls are often rejected by their families, making them extremely vulnerable.The Evening Standard’s Radhika Aligh visits the 2YoungLives project in the capital Freetown to hear how a mentoring scheme is helping young mothers in the community.In the #LetGirlsLearn series, we’re aiming to shine a light on innovations and solutions that are helping girls to fulfil their right to education and healthy, productive futures around the globe.You can find out more online at www.standard.co.uk/optimist/let-girls-learn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s the end of the line for one of London’s iconic public transport fares - the day Travelcard.The special tickets offering unlimited journeys on Tubes and buses are being withdrawn after 40 years by Mayor Sadiq Khan from January in a bid to raise Transport for London an extra £40 million annually. Some 65,000 daily Travelcards are bought on most days, and these will be cut in a push for passengers to instead use contactless or Oyster.The Leader podcast is joined by the Evening Standard’s transport editor, Ross Lydall, and Dr James Fowler, a University of Essex Business School lecturer and author of Strategy and Managed Decline: London Transport 1948-87.We discuss the Travelcard’s history, the cut's wider financial impact on London's economy and the European cities offering best value public transport. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s day two of King Charles’ French trip - and he’s made history as the first British monarch to address the Senate in Paris.The symbolic tour is his first visit across La Manche since Brexit, and he’s set out his hopes for improving Franco-British relations.His speech, in French, focused on combating climate change - potentially leaving him on a crash course with Rishi Sunak after the PM put the brakes on Britain’s plans to cut carbon emissions?The historic address to the French parliament’s upper chamber came after the king and queen Camilla dined on blue lobster and lychee-flavoured cheeses at a celebrity-packed black tie banquet hosted by President Emmanuel Macron in the Palace of Versailles’ Hall of Mirrors.The Leader podcast is joined by Professor Peter Jackson from the University of Glasgow, an expert on Franco-British relations, along with historian and royal commentator Dr Ed Owens, who’s author of After Elizabeth: Can the Monarchy Save Itself? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rishi Sunak is to weaken some of the government’s key green commitments in a major policy shift.The Prime Minister reckons it’s possible to meet 2050 net zero carbon emissions goals but in a “more proportionate way”.With an eye on a general election expected next year, Sunak risks triggering a feud with Conservative party members who are progressive on green issues.His speech on Tuesday was pushed forward after a leak to the BBC suggested major u-turn include delaying a ban on the sales of new petrol and diesel cars by five years, and the phasing out of gas boilers.While the government’s 2030 target for banning new internal combustion engine cars could also reportedly be pushed back by half a decade.The Leader podcast’s joined by Luke Murphy, associate director for energy and climate at the Institute for Public Policy Research think tank. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Exclusive Ipsos poll for the Standard finds six in ten adults want the next election to take place before the end of next June. Rishi Sunak V Keir Starmer: who’s in the driving seat? Does an earlier or later election benefit the Conservatives? Ipsos Director of Politics Keiran Pedley discusses the survey results, and when the PM might call the next general election. In this episode:Why there’s still everything to play for ahead of the general electionChances of a hung parliament explainedSunak V Starmer: popularity ratingsWhy the ball is in Labour’s court to convince the public to vote for themFollow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sir Ian McKellen and Roger Allam discuss their new play Frank & Percy at The Other Palace, London. Talking to our culture editors, Nancy Durrant and Nick Clark, Allam describes the show as a 'gay rom com', and McKellen says it ‘will appeal to anyone’. This episode is a cut down version of an in-depth interview from the The Evening Standard Theatre Podcast, to hear the full interview click here. For all the latest news head to standard.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is a special episode taken from our business podcast, How to be a CEO.Tjodolf Sommestad is the President of King Games, creators of Candy Crush. One of the earliest 'freemium' games, over the last decade it's become the most downloaded match game in the world, with three billion downloads across platforms. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kate Winslet, Stormzy, Victoria Beckham and Princess Beatrice all feature at Vogue World event. Burberry’s Bond Street takeover and more. How emerging designers are dealing with the cost of living crisis. Our Fashion Director Victoria Moss discusses the up-and-coming fashion designers to look out for this year, and why London Fashion Week is so significant for the city. In this episode:How Burberry’s taking over parts of LondonThe home-grown emerging talent featuring at the eventDesigner’s innovative ways of dealing with the cost of living crisisHow LFW boosts London’s economy and imageFollow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

More than half of all London roads now have 20mph limits. Do the stats back the low-speed zones? Air quality, MPG and community benefits explained. Our City Hall and Transport Editor Ross Lydall and Jeremy Leach from 20’s Plenty For Us discuss the rationale behind the 20mph zones, and whether they’re working for London. In this episode:How do we know that 20mph zones work?Why London drivers are opposed to the low-speed zonesMayor Sadiq Khan’s ambitions targets for collisionsCould 20 become the new 30 everywhere?Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is Vladimir Putin trying to secure arms from Kim Jong Un? Reports North Korea want Russian satellite technology in return. How will western leaders respond? Our Defence Editor Robert Fox describes the significance of these talks, and considers what they may lead to. In this episode:Why the meeting was a ‘marriage driven by necessity’What weaponry could North Korea provide for Russia?How a successful satellite would make North Korea more dangerousCould the consequences of this meeting affect upcoming US and UK elections?Should we be worried about this meeting?Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sir Mark Rowley: still ‘hundreds’ of Met officers who should’ve been sacked. London crime stats for the past 12 months revealed. Why the Daniel Khalife re-arrest showed ‘what the Met Police can do’. Our Home Affairs Editor Martin Bentham and our Crime Correspondent Anthony France discuss the Met Police Chief’s first twelve months as commissioner, and look ahead to what he’ll have to deal with next. In this episode:‘No sign’ of government officials losing confidence in Sir MarkHow the Met Police will be used as a ‘political football’ ahead of the general electionThe Met Chief’s priorities for the next yearHow crime figures stack up over the last 12 monthsSir Mark’s mission to ‘cut the cancer’ of rogue officers out of the forceFollow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Despite the grim economic outlook, London’s enjoying an unprecedented boom in luxury hotel launches that will see thousands of lavish new rooms opening over the next two years.The Standard’s front page reports at least 13 high-end hotels are scheduled to open by 2025, many from world-renowned operators launching in the capital for the first time, while others get major refurbishments to tempt elite customers from their cash.It comes as the £1.1 billion Peninsula London near Hyde Park Corner prepares to open its doors, with the starting price at £1,300-a-night - but does that include breakfast?The Peninsula will be followed by the £1.5 billion Raffles London, which has been built in Whitehall’s cavernous former War Office building, rebranded Raffles London at The Owo, The Leader podcast is joined by Evening Standard business editor Jonathan Prynn and John O’Ceallaigh, founder of luxury travel consultancy Lute. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special episode we’re finding out how vital school supplies are giving Ukrainian children ‘the routine of a regular, normal day’.The Evening Standard’s Kate Rice visits UNICEF’s giant warehouse in Copenhagen to find out how a simple ‘School in a Box’ is helping Ukrainian students return to the classroom. Then we travel to a high school in Oleksandria in central Ukraine to hear 15-year-old Sofia and her teacher Valentyna discuss their experiences of the war and the difference these vital supplies are making. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Recorded live from the Evening Standard Art Prize announcement at Cromwell place. We talk to the winner of the competition, Iman Sidonie-Samuels and CEO & Artistic Director of Cromwell Place, Helen Nisbet, who was also the head judge. We also talk to Frédéric Malle, the perfume publisher who supported the event, about his own art collection and what he believes its true value is.  Iman Sidonie-Samuels won for her work 3049 Calls, 19,401 Minutes, made from 81 paper phone bills collected from her grandmother’s house in St Lucia. Work by all 12 shortlisted artists will be displayed at Cromwell Place until Sunday 10th of September.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

An Evening Standard investigation's revealed a staggering 2.9 million tons of good-to-eat farm produce is being dumped in landfill, incinerated or sent to waste treatment plants that produce biogas as soaring numbers of people go hungry nationwide.  In this episode of The Leader podcast, our Investigations Editor, David Cohen tells us what he's discovered, and how a crisis is leading to children and mothers resorting to shoplifting to feed themselves.  We also speak to the CEO of food redistribution charity FareShare, George Wright, who is calling for government subsidies to help the farming industry cover the cost of extracting surplus crops to be sent to people who need them.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After a disappointing July and August, we’re finally getting some sunshine, and with it a heatwave driven economic boost for the capital. But, is it enough to make up for a subpar summer? Hospitality bosses and economists are welcoming the unexpected boost in sales for September as temperatures climb towards 32C, and Londoners head to beer gardens to make the most of the weather. The Evening Standard’s Daniel Keane explains how the post summer heat is benefiting London’s economy, why we’re finally getting the sunshine now, and shares top tips for staying safe in the sun. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Following an Evening Standard investigation into the single justice procedure, Tristan Kirk, our courts correspondent, reveals the truth behind this 'conveyor belt' system. Some of the scandals uncovered are a sick pensioner convicted of breaking the Covid lockdown with a visit to his allotment, parents unlawfully fined in dark corners of the justice system over truancy allegations, and women who attended the vigil for Sarah Everard prosecuted while oblivious to criminal cases against them. We take an in-depth look at what is happening with our courts system and how it’s being used to prosecute Londoners 'behind closed doors'. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As the new term officially begins, there’s a row over who will shoulder the burden of paying to repair all the schools affected by the concrete crisis. The start of the new academic year saw dozens of schools in England fully, or partially closed, due to potentially unsafe reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete - also known as RAAC.Now, the government is under pressure to publish a full list of buildings that are impacted, and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has hit back at those blaming him for the crisis.The Evening Standard’s Deputy Political Editor, Jitendra Joshi, shares his insight from Westminster. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After taking WordPress from a small blogging site in the 2000s to an all-in-one website creation platform, which is now the backbone of around a third of all websites, Matt Mullenweg has now set his sights on social media. Now as CEO of Tumblr, Matt reveals his plans to revamp the site, welcome disillusioned ex-Twitter and Reddit users, and create a social site that is, at its core, open-source. In this episode:Matt’s battleplan for making Tumblr betterHow social media sites copy features from competitorsMaking Tumblr’s algorithm open-sourceHow AI will play a role in improving TumblrListen to the full interview here.For more news, interviews and analysis go to standard.co.uk/business. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s a nightmare start of term for many pupils heading back to class on Monday - with warnings that over 100 schools, nurseries and colleges in England have been built with ageing concrete leaving buildings at risk of collapse.Now thousands of children face a return to lockdown-style online learning at home or in temporary cabins.The new crisis follows years of underinvestment in school infrastructure and follows reports of sewage bubbling up through floors and one classroom baking in over 30C heat.Now, some headteachers will have to relocate children to other classrooms or temporary cabins after potentially crumbling steel-reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (Raac) was found, which was used in school construction between the 1950s and 1990s.The Department for Education, which will fund the work, has not given a timeline for replacing the Raac, and school leaders have called for an “urgent plan” to fix buildings.So, how’s it come to this and what now for lessons after the trials of learning through the pandemic?The Leader podcast’s joined by Julie McCulloch, director of policy at the Association of School and College Leaders, and Billy Huband-Thompson, policy associate for The Centre for Education & Youth.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We examine Ukraine’s long-range drone war penetrating deep inside Russian territory - both in the air and underwater.But first, there’s more on Rishi Sunak’s mini cabinet reshuffle and Energy Secretary Grant Shapps being parachuted into the Ministry of Defence.The former six-day Home Secretary replaces Ben Wallace, who was the longest serving defence chief of this latest Conservative government, having worked under three prime ministers.The Leader podcast’s joined by Professor Tim Willasey-Wilsey, visiting professor of war studies at King’s College London to discuss what the appointment means for British defence strategy.In part two, Professor Willasey-Wilsey tells us about his research trip to Ukraine where he met commanders in charge of the programme for building vast squadrons of drones to bomb Russian targets. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Britain’s air traffic control data meltdown has left thousands of Britons marooned in foreign airports.It’s forced the relatively lucky ones to pay for hotel rooms, while other passengers bed down on floors in terminals - with many running low on prescription medication.Nats (National Air Traffic Control Services) blames a vague “technical glitch” caused by a rogue flight plan.But was this catastrophic IT failure linked to Nats' ageing digital infrastructure?The Leader podcast’s joined by Evening Standard business editor Jonathan Prynn and travel consultant Paul Charles, who’s CEO of Mayfair-based The PC Agency, and was formerly Virgin’s Atlantic’s communications director. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Cometh the day, cometh the Ulez as London Mayor Sadiq Khan’s flagship scheme to fight pollution in the capital goes live.It means drivers crossing the boundary into outer London will have to pay a £12.50 fee if their cars don’t meet exhaust emissions requirements.There have been protests against the expanded Ultra low emissions zone, now boundaried by the North Circular and South Circular, while vandals also targeted enforcement cameras.Supporters say it’s crucial for improving Londoners’ respiratory health but critics call it an anti-car tax, saying the scheme will hit the poorest, hard-working Londoners who rely on a daily runabout vehicle. The Leader podcast’s joined by the Standard's local democracy reporter covering City Hall, Noah Vickers, along with Karina Fernandez, a mother of two young sons and a campaigner for clean air group Mums for Lungs, plus Brian Mooney, spokesman for the Alliance of British Drivers in London. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We're in El Salvador with local journalist, Julia Gavarrete, takes us to ‘the Power of the Red Butterflies’ project in Chalatenango, where they are aiming to dispel myths around female bodies.  Menstruation is viewed here as a subject only for women, it’s seen as dirty and believed that when someone is experiencing one, they should hide themselves away. In the Evening Standard’s #LetGirlsLearn series, we’re aiming to shine a light on innovations and solutions that are helping girls to fulfil their right to education and healthy, productive futures around the globe.You can find out more online at www.standard.co.uk/optimist/let-girls-learn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Over a million people are set to attend Notting Hill Carnival this bank holiday weekend, as the event marks Windrush 75, but could train strikes dampen the festivities?The Evening Standard’s Arts Correspondent, Robert Dex, explains why this year’s carnival is extra special, how the train strikes could potentially impact the festivities, and reveals what the Mayor of London had to say in his exclusive op ed for the newspaper about the event.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Evening Standard’s Defence Editor, Robert Fox, explains the significance of the reported death of Yevgeny Prigozhin, and what this means for the future of the Wagner group. He also discusses the latest developments with the Russia/ Ukraine war, as well as his predictions on what Vladimir Putin will do next. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When a restaurant has been open more than half a century, closing doesn’t come easily. “Emotionally I’m drained,” Michel Roux Jr's told the Evening Standard newspaper “I'm knackered.” Last Friday, he announced that 56 years after its first, Le Gavroche would run its final service in January of next year. In this episode we speak to our Reveller editor David Ellis, who hasn't just eaten in the famous dining room - he's cooked in the kitchen there too!  For more news, analysis and opinion pick up the Evening Standard newspaper or go to standard.co.uk. The Leader podcast is released every weekday at 4pm, follow on your podcast provider to get it delivered straight away. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A YouGov poll of 1,000 Londoners suggests that the Mayor of London’s popularity is languishing in the suburbs, with a negative rating of -24. The results come ahead of the controversial expansion of the Ultra Low Emission Zone across Greater London next week. The question is though, with the Mayoral elections coming up in 2024, does Sadiq Khan have enough time to win back the suburbs? The Evening Standard’s Deputy Political Editor, Jitendra Joshi, shares his analysis from Westminster.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Should England get an open-bus parade? Is the extra bank holiday dream over? Are plans already underway to recognise the Lionesses’ efforts? Our Arts Correspondent Robert Dex explains why the celebration should be about much more than just England’s performances throughout the World Cup, and describes what an appropriate celebration would look like. In this episode:Will the royals & government want to provide a hero’s welcome for the Lionesses?Should they be allowed an open-top bus parade?Will England get a good reception when they land in the UK?Why the squad deserve ‘some form of celebration’Will this team’s legacy last?What needs to happen to elevate the women’s game even furtherFollow us on Twitter or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you've ever had a text reminding you about a hospital appointment, there's a good chance it'll have come via DrDoctor. The platform was built in 2012 and allows patients to book or cancel visits. When co-founder Tom Whicher was developing the idea, the concept of sharing data, and using AI in healthcare was controversial. Now, it's commonplace and the company started this year by winning £10 million of funding. So, how did they do that?To listen to the full episode click here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How England is building up to the final. Will we get an extra bank holiday? Drama over VIPs attending the final. Can England exploit Spain’s weaknesses? Our Arts Correspondent Robert Dex examines how the country’s preparing for the final, and our Football Writer Simon Collings explains how England can beat Spain. In this episode:How England is preparing for the game on SundayAre we expecting an economic boost from the final?Drama around which key figures will fly to Australia explainedAre we in line for an extra bank holiday if we win?How England women are preparing for the finalWho will be the key players for both sides?How England can exploit Spain’s weaknessesFollow us on Twitter or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Top grades plunge by record 25% as pre-pandemic grading standards return. 2023 A-levels cohort called ‘the unluckiest year’. Approximately 19,000 expected to secure their place through clearing. Our Education Editor Anna Davis examines the drop in top grades this year, and whether the return to pre-pandemic grading came at the right time. In this episode:What does the return to ‘pre-pandemic grading’ mean?Should the change have happened this early?Why Education Minister Gillian Keegan said we need to ‘protect the value’ of grades Are we expecting a ‘clearing frenzy’?Why next year’s cohort face even tougher examsFollow us on Twitter or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lionesses fans across London erupted in cheers, hugs and dancing as England secured their place in the World Cup final after a stunning victory over host nation Australia. A superb display with goals from Ella Toone, Lauren Hemp and Alessia Russo ensured England reached their first World Cup final, beating the Matildas 3-1 in Sydney.From Australia, the Evening Standard's Simon Collings joins the show to tell us about the reaction, and what the team faces as they prepare for Spain on Sunday.For the latest Women's World Cup news and analysis, go to standard.co.uk. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

England’s semi-final day dubbed ‘Work From Home Wednesday’ with 11am kick-off. Businesses urged to be ‘flexible’ with staff for the match. Is England’s football-first culture here to stay? Our Arts Correspondent Robert Dex discusses our culture of prioritising football, how TV champions women's football and why the women's game is growing. Plus girls football coach Paul Oades from Millie Bright's grassroots club Killamarsh Dynamos calls for changes to PE and more exposure to matches. In this episode:Why WFH Wednesday comes as no surpriseIs there something to be said for the office morale-boost of live football?Why the England vs Australia rivalry could tempt in more viewersDoes more football = more time off work?Why girls should be offered more sports in PEHow football team culture boosts the confidence of young girlsFollow us on Twitter or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sir Keir Starmer urged to shake up his top team. Why do senior Labour MPs want Angela Rayner in a new role? How a potential reshuffle could be a boost for Labour. From Westminster, our Chief Political Correspondent Rachael Burford analyses Sir Keir Starmer’s options for his number two. In this episode:Why does Angela Rayner’s cause Sir Keir Starmer a headache?The new cabinet role Labour MPs want her to take onWhen might Sir Keir carry out a reshuffle?Could a reshuffle benefit Labour’s image?Follow us on Twitter or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On a small farm in Chinsali, in Zambia’s far northeast, girls are learning new farming techniques in the hopes of saving our planet.Ros Russell presents a special episode as part of the Let Girls Learn series, where the Evening Standard is hearing stories from around the globe that shine a light on innovations and solutions that are helping girls to fulfil their right to healthy, productive futures.You can learn more about Let Girls Learn on the Evening Standard website here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Evening Standard's sports team takes over the podcast ahead of an extraordinary weekend of football. The Premier League kicks off without Harry Kane after Tottenham agreed a £100million deal with Bayern Munich. Meanwhile pressure's growing on Mikel Arteta at Arsenal following the club's multi-million pound player buys in the pre-season.  And in Australia, England face Columbia in the quarter finals of the Women's World Cup. But they'll have to do it without Lauren James who was sent off in their last 16 game against Nigeria. This episode is hosted by our chief football correspondent Dan Kilpatrick with the Evening Standard's Nizaar Kinsella in London and Simon Collings reporting from Australia. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rail passengers on commuter routes into London could face hefty fare increases in the new year forecast to add hundreds of pounds to season tickets even while inflation is falling.It comes amid growing passenger criticism of services often hobbled by strikes, delays, cancellations and timetable cutbacks.Yearly national rail ticket price rises are normally closely linked to Retail Price Index inflation, as measured the previous July.But last year as inflation soared, ministers ditched the RPI formula - plus or minus one per cent - to avoid a massive 12.3 per cent increase.Instead, they pegged that fare rise to average earnings growth and came up with a ticket hike figure of 5.9 per cent, delayed from January until March.At the time, the Government insisted the new method of calculation was “for this year only” - and now faces a similar dilemma, with the RPI in June at 10.7 per cent, which has since fallen slightly.The Department for Transport says ministers seek to “strike a balance between supporting mainline passengers and keeping our railways running”, however officials are still weighing up how to levy the new year fare hikes.The Leader podcast’s joined by Christian Wolmar, transport journalist and presenter of the Calling All Stations podcast, who’s written an analysis on the subject for Thursday’s Evening Standard.So, is it still possible to find commuter season ticket bargains? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There is fresh turmoil among London’s Conservatives as the party launches a probe into its electoral operations in the capital.Voters will likely go to the polls both nationally and in London in 2024. Now the internal review, news of which was broken by LBC, comes just weeks after Susan Hall’s selection as the Conservatives’ London mayoral candidate.The investigation will focus on the “structures, processes, and organisation of the Conservative Party in London”, but senior Tories also want party chairman Greg Hands to ensure the inquiry covers the selection process to choose their London mayoral candidate.However, Richard Barnes, the former Conservative deputy mayor of London, told LBC that the probe risked “totally undermining her position”.It comes after the Conservatives’ surprise by-election win, by 495 votes, last month in Boris Johnson’s former constituency of Uxbridge and South Ruislip.For the latest, The Leader podcast is joined by Evening Standard political editor Nicholas Cecil. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

New UN climate chief Professor Jim Skea issues warning to world leaders in exclusive interview. Politicians “will be judged” on delivery of net zero strategy. Leaders urged to “stick to” shift from petrol and diesel cars to EVs. Our Political Editor Nicholas Cecil explains the warnings issued by new IPCC Chair Professor Jim Skea, that climate change is happening faster than experts predicted.  In this episode:Warning climate change is happening faster than expectedHow opening new oil reserves leads to “very difficult choices” for future governmentsJust Stop Oil ‘keep fossil fuels on the agenda’ but risk ‘alienating’ publicHow cities have more power to make change than governmentsWill leaders listen to Professor Skea’s warnings?Follow us on Twitter or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There’s just weeks to go until London’s expanded Ultra Low Emission Zone is brought into force.So, how ready is the capital for the biggest - and most expensive - set of rules impacting motorists since the Congestion Charge? It comes after hundreds of doctors urged politicians to toughen their stance on plans to tackle toxic air, saying they witness the “devastating health consequences” of pollution every day in the consulting room.Now, London’s getting ready for the city-wide, £12,50 daily charge for owners whose vehicles do not meet exhaust emissions requirements from 29 August.Critics say it will unfairly penalise poorer motorists living in outer London, who cannot rely on suburban public transport.So, what further measures do cities like London need to take for to cut toxic air - and reduce deaths and illness linked to pollution?To discover more, The Leader podcast is joined by Oliver Lord, head of UK for the Clean Cities Campaign. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rafael Oliveira is International Markets President at Kraft Heinz, which has operations in more than 50 countries. Now based in London, he started life in Rio de Janeiro where he says the democracy of the beach taught him how to negotiate with people from different backgrounds. To hear the full How to be a CEO episode, click this link. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Donald Trump has pleaded not guilty to charges of orchestrating a plot to overturn his 2020 election loss - in what prosecutors call an effort to undermine American democracy. It’s the third time the former president's pleaded not guilty in a court in four months, and faces federal charges with a possible 20-year jail term attached, while pushing on with hopes of becoming Republican candidate in the 2024 White House race.Trump once more slammed the legal process as politically-motivated after the short arraignment at a Washington DC court hearing.It took place half a mile from the Capitol, the building his supporters stormed on 6 January 2021 in a bid to stop Congress from certifying defeat to Joe Biden.For the latest, The Leader podcast is joined from parliament by Evening Standard deputy political editor Jitendra Joshi.We discuss legal icebergs ahead, the intersection with campaigning for the Republican presidential nomination and how a Trump re-match against Biden could shape up. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Evening Standard investigation reveals cocaine seizures in London soared over 1,500 per cent in the past decade.Usage has become so prevalent that there’s even cocaine traces in the capital’s waste water amid a “glut” of the Class A drug.Metropolitan Police data shows officers seized over a ton of powdered cocaine with an estimated street value of £105 million last year - the most on record.Experts say the drug, once a preserve of the wealthy and middle classes, is now so common it is viewed as more “socially acceptable” despite links to violent crime, heart attacks, stroke and depression - coupled with its smuggling journey of violence and misery to the UK.So who’s fuelling London’s cocaine boom, are police struggling to get a grip on the menace - and is it time for a rethink in drugs strategy?The Leader podcast is joined by Evening Standard crime correspondent Anthony France.We discuss violent gang links to the drug trade, county lines connections, how smugglers are busted and cocaine’s pervasiveness despite the health risks. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We've all heard about the 'book bans' in US states like Florida, where schools and libraries are pulling titles from their shelves following complaints from parents about 'controversial' content. Could that happen in the UK? Ruth Anderson, CEO of Index on Censorship, tells us why she thinks "of course" it could. We also talk about cancel culture, freedom of expression in countries around the world, and how political division can erode free speech. The Evening Standard's launched a major inquiry into the state of free speech in the UK. You can read more about that here.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan says the capital’s tourist economy is “roaring back” to life after Covid - but is it, and who’s paying a fortune for those inflated entry ticket, food and drink prices?Research released by City Hall shows two million more international visitors are forecast to arrive in London in 2023, compared with last year, which is projected to produce an extra £674 million in revenue.It comes after London’s music and film industry enjoyed a bumper July, with more than one million people attending live music shows or boosting cinemas’ busiest weekend in four years with the release of the Barbie and Oppenheimer films-.Some of the biggest events to come this summer include Notting Hill Carnival, All Points East festival in Victoria Park featuring the likes of Stormzy and The Strokes, plus London Fashion Week.And what about getting all these extra passengers around the capital? Transport for London is also testing in Germany new Piccadilly line train to replace rolling stock that’s been in service since 1975.To find out more, The Leader podcast joined by Noah Vickers, the Standard’s local democracy reporter covering City Hall. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A new poll suggests that three quarters of Britons say long NHS waiting lists, rising taxes, strikes and inflation fuelling the cost-of-living crisis are making the UK a “worse place to live”. The Ipsos survey for the Evening Standard will make uncomfortable reading for the Conservatives as Rishi Sunak receives his lowest satisfaction rating as Prime Minister.The Government has also sunk to a record low on how its stewardship of the economy is perceived.It also scored dismally on taxation, public expenditure, improving the health service, dealing with crime and managing immigration.So, how do the Tories compare against Labour with an election on the horizon?The Leader podcast’s joined by Keiran Pedley, research director at Ipsos. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is a bonus episode taken from the Evening Standard’s year-long series of specials called ‘Let Girls Learn’, we’re going to Duhok in Iraqi Kurdistan.  The Lotus Flower is a non-profit organisation that supports women and girls impacted by conflict and displacement. Their centres also offer classes such as; English, yoga, art and music.The Evening Standard’s Charline Bou Mansour finds out how Yazidi girls are using activities such as boxing to recover from the trauma of ISIS brutality, defying some of the traditions of their community to build new futures.In the #LetGirlsLearn series, we’re aiming to shine a light on innovations and solutions that are helping girls to fulfil their right to education and healthy, productive lives around the globe.You can find out more online at www.standard.co.uk/optimist/let-girls-learn  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sadiq Khan’s decision to expand Ulez found to be ‘within his powers’. Five Tory councils vow to continue the fight against “tax on living in outer London”. How many people actually support the expansion? Why the Mayor’s plan does have its flaws. Our City Hall Editor Ross Lydall discusses the big win for Sadiq Khan, and what people really think about the expansion. In this episode:Why the ruling was a ‘comprehensive victory’ for Mr KhanWhat the latest polls show about public opinion on the Ulez expansionWhy there’s an ‘almost 0% chance’ Sadiq will change the Ulez planWhat precedent this ruling sets for councils and eco-measuresThe TfL research that shows Ulez expansion may not be the best way to cut air pollutionCan the outer London councils still fight the expansion plans?Follow us on Twitter or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak reveals proposals to fix London's housing crisis. Is he right to blame Mayor Sadiq Khan for high house prices? Our Political Editor Nicholas Cecil and our City Hall Editor Ross Lydall discuss the 'political attack' from Rishi Sunak, Mayor Sadiq Khan's response, and explain why the housing figures don't match up with the PM's criticism. In this episode:What is Rishi Sunak proposing?Should the PM be getting involved in the first place?Sadiq Khan’s response to ‘pathetic gesture politics’Why the PM’s plan could pose a risk to his reputationThe London Mayor’s housing numbers explainedAre more family homes needed in London?Why the PM’s criticism has left Ross puzzledFollow us on Twitter or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dame Alison Rose: the most powerful woman in UK banking resigns. Nigel Farage calls for more resignations at Coutts & NatWest. Should we have a right to a bank account in 2023? Our Financial Editor Simon English discusses Dame Alison Rose’s resignation, whether there will be more resignations, and what the debacle means for banks in general. In this episode:Dame Rose’s ‘rare mistake’ explainedWill we see more resignations at Coutts & NatWest?How bank account closures are ‘more common than we realised’Banks will now ‘talk a lot less about social purpose’Does this mark the beginning of the end for Coutts?How Dame Rose was a ‘breath of fresh air’ for bankingDid sexism in the city play a role in her resignation?Follow us on Twitter or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Barbenheimer movies led to UK cinema’s biggest weekend since 2019. Why Barbie’s success wasn’t just down to marketing. What can Hollywood do to get us back to the cinema? Our Chief Film Critic Charlotte O’Sullivan dissects the success of Barbie and Oppenheimer and considers whether it will spark a comeback for UK cinema. In this episode:How Barbie and Oppenheimer both appeal to male & female audiencesWhy Barbie’s success isn’t down to marketing aloneDouble-header film clashes need to ‘have equal weight’How Barbenheimer beat Mission Impossible 7Why Mario Bros is getting ‘no credit’ for saving cinemaBoth movie's low budgets explainedWhat upcoming 2023 movies is Charlotte excited about?Follow us on Twitter or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Family describes ash falling in their drinks. Holidayers ‘stranded’ by airlines and travel firms. ‘Hundreds’ sent to sleep in sports centres and schools. Brits praise Rhodes locals for offering help. Our Senior News Correspondent Anthony France describes the story of Laura and Marc Hall who were evacuated from their hotel. Plus, our Chief Political Correspondent Rachael Burford explains who is more likely to get compensation, and how Brits can seek support. In this episode:Laura and Marc Hall’s anniversary holiday chaosHow holiday makers have heaped praise on Rhodes localsWill people treat the wildfires as a ‘wake-up call’ on climate change?Repatriation flights explainedPackage holidays or individual bookings - which is better for compensation?Should Brits travel to Rhodes now?Follow us on Twitter or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in full swing, the next generation of female footballers are set to be inspired by top athletes from around the globe. However, this isn’t the only way that the sport is making a difference to people’s lives.In this special Let Girls Learn episode, we’re off to India, to one of Mumbai’s poorest districts where a football project is helping girls complete their education – something their mothers never got the chance to do. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Thousands of NHS consultants are striking across England, causing large-scale disruption to patient care.Senior doctors and hospital dentists in the British Medical Association walked out for 48 hours until 7am on Saturday in a pay dispute.BMA consultants, like junior doctors, are seeking a 35 per cent pay rise to correct a real terms fall - the Government’s offering six per centThousands of operations, procedures and appointments have been cancelled and are being rescheduled after the biggest consultant pickets in a decade.It comes just two days after junior doctors staged a five-day walkout, the longest in NHS history.The Leader podcast hears the latest from Evening Standard health reporter Daniel Keane. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.