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Best of Today Podcast

English, Current Affairs, 1 season, 108 episodes, 2 days, 25 minutes
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Insight, analysis and expert debate as key policy makers are challenged on the latest news stories. From BBC Radio 4's Today programme
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Martha's Rule to start in hospitals

NHS England will roll out Martha's Rule from April to give patients and families access to a rapid review if they are worried about a condition getting worse.Merope Mills spoke to Today in September about her daughter Martha, who died just before her 14th birthday from sepsis following an abdominal injury. In the inquest after her death, the coroner ruled that Martha could have survived if she’d received better care.Now Martha’s Rule is coming into force. Merope Mills speaks to Today's Martha Kearney about plans for it come into effect in at least 100 hospitals in England.
2/21/202416 minutes, 44 seconds
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Bernie Sanders: It's OK to be angry about capitalism

Bernie Sanders has twice run for the Democratic presidential nomination. The left-wing senator speaks to Today's Mishal Husain about his new book 'It's OK To Be Angry About Capitalism'.Listen to the Today programme on Radio 4 and BBC Sounds: 6-9am Monday-Friday; and 7-9am on Saturdays.
2/19/20247 minutes, 24 seconds
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The Today Debate: Is justice delayed, justice denied?

The Today Debate is about taking a subject and pulling it apart with more time than we have in the morning.Amid a significant backlog in crown courts in England and Wales and related problems in the system in Scotland and Northern Ireland, Today presenter Mishal Husain asks if justice delayed is justice denied?Joining Mishal on the Today debate panel are Claire Waxman, the Independent Victims' Commissioner for London; Charlie Taylor; His Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Prisons for England and Wales; Joanna Hardy-Susskind, a barrister at Red Lion Chambers; Lord Falconer, Labour Peer and former Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice and Sir Max Hill, who was the director of Public Prosecutions for England and Wales until October last year.
2/13/202436 minutes, 31 seconds
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How To Have Sex director talks to sixth formers about consent

Molly Manning Walker’s first feature film How to Have Sex – which explores what it means to consent in a sexual encounter - is going to be used by the charity Schools Consent Project as part of their sex education workshops. The Today programme went to Plumstead Manor School in London to hear Molly talk to four sixth form pupils, who told her they got much of their information about sex from social media. The film has been nominated for four Baftas.If you have been affected by sexual abuse or violence, details of help and support is available at bbc.co.uk/actionline, or you can call for free, at any time to hear recorded information on 0800 077 077
2/13/20246 minutes, 1 second
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Matt Smith: The Crown star discusses his West End return

After numerous roles in high-profile televsion programmes like HBO's House of the Dragon and Netflix's The Crown, Matt Smith is returning to the West End in Henrik Ibsen's An Enemy of the People.Speaking to Today's Martha Kearney, the actor says he found the prospect of being on stage "frightening" at first, but wanted to work with German director Thomas Ostermeier.Martha also spoke to Thomas, who said the production of the play is about "becoming as attractive as a rock concert".Listen to the Today programme on Radio 4 and BBC Sounds: 6-9am Monday-Friday; and 7-9am on Saturdays.
2/7/202410 minutes, 27 seconds
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The parents calling for a 'smartphone-free childhood'

The mother of murdered teenager Brianna Ghey is calling for a social media ban for under-16s and 'drastic action' from the government to protect children online.There is now a campaign group on WhatsApp called 'Parents united for a smartphone free childhood'. The Today programme brought together three parents to discuss their experiences tackling social media usage within their families.Listen to the Today programme on Radio 4 and BBC Sounds: 6-9am Monday-Friday; and 7-9am on Saturdays.
2/7/202410 minutes, 56 seconds
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King Charles III: 'He will be determined to do everything to recover fast'

King Charles is stepping back from public engagements after starting treatment for cancer.On Monday, Buckingham Palace announced the cancer was found during the King's recent treatment for a benign enlarged prostate. It has not revealed what type of cancer is involved. Speaking to Today's Nick Robinson, friend and former adviser Dame Julia Cleverdon said the King 'will be determined to do everything he can to recover fast'.Nick also spoke to Lord Michael Dobbs, a Conservative peer who knows King Charles and Queen Camilla, and has suffered from prostate cancer himself.Listen to the Today programme on Radio 4 and BBC Sounds: 6-9am Monday-Friday; and 7-9am on Saturdays.
2/6/202413 minutes, 2 seconds
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Sarah Snook: Beauty ‘has an expiry date’

Sarah Snook, who played Shiv Roy in Jesse Armstrong’s award-winning series “Succession”, said of her latest role: “it’s a fascinating story… what does one do with unlimited power gained through youth and beauty?”Snook spoke to Today’s Nick Robinson about the challenges of playing all 26 characters in the one woman play: “There’s nothing like live theatre… it’s for the soul, it enriches you”.She also discussed beauty standards in the film industry: “I think it’s a slippery slope. Defining oneself in that realm has an expiry date… I think a person’s beauty and their own body is their own jurisdiction, they should be able to make decisions about that themselves”. Sarah Snook also said she thought fellow Australian actress Margot Robbie deserved an Oscar nomination for her portrayal of Barbie in Greta Gerwig’s 2023 film: “I was so proud of Margot when I saw the film, it was the first outing I had as a new mum and I was away from my daughter for three hours. I spent the entire Barbie film crying… and I don’t think that was just because of the hormones. I think it was because of the greatness of the film, I loved it so much. So I am disappointed for her but really proud as a fellow Aussie”.Listen to Today on BBC Radio 4 and BBC Sounds: 6-9am weekdays and 7-9am on Saturdays.
1/25/20249 minutes, 20 seconds
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Theresa May: 'During PMQs my blood sugar went up'

When Theresa May was diagnosed with type 1 in her 50s, she told the consultant: "I'm too old. I can't be”. Lady May says she would also eat Jelly Babies when her blood sugar dropped during meetings.The former Prime Minister has now chaired a parliamentary inquiry into the life-threatening consequences of having both type 1 diabetes and an eating disorder.She speaks to Today's Justin Webb why a joined-up approach by the NHS is needed so that healthcare professionals are aware of the 'conflicting pressures' on people with type 1 and an eating disorder. She also discusses her experience while in government of managing her blood sugar levels.
1/23/202412 minutes, 25 seconds
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Jesse Armstrong: Succession and what's next

Succession was the big winner at this week's Emmys - it was crowned best drama series and there were awards for its stars.Its British creator, Jesse Armstrong, speaks to Today's Nick Robinson about the show's success, his fears over a partisan media and what could be his next project.(Photo: Jesse Armstrong at the Emmys with the Succession cast. Credit: Reuters)
1/20/202415 minutes, 39 seconds
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Post Office Horizon Scandal: 'It reaches into the very farthest corners of your life'

Former sub-postmaster Lee Castleton talks about the impact the Post Office Horizon scandal had on his life after he was pursued and bankrupted by the Post Office.Speaking to Today's Mishal Husain, Lee says: "It was devastating. My children were bullied."We would get stopped in the street by people saying terrible things, awful things, like that I'd stolen money from old people, saying that I'd stolen pension money."Lee, who was not convicted of criminal charges but lost a civil case against the the Post Office, also said he'd like to see some speed on a decision from the government, as it looks to find a route to overturn convictions of those affected by the scandal.Listen to Today on BBC Radio 4 and BBC Sounds: 6-9am weekdays and 7-9am on Saturdays.
1/10/20248 minutes, 48 seconds
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Saudi ambassador on Israel-Gaza

The US Secretary of State is in Israel as he seeks to calm tensions across the Middle East - on a trip which has also seen him visit Saudi Arabia.Prince Khalid bin Bandar Al Saud, Saudi Arabia's ambassador to the UK, speaks to Today's Mishal Husain about the Israel-Gaza conflict and wider issues in the region.When Hamas attacked Israel on October 7, Saudi Arabia was on the brink of a historic normalisation deal with Israel. The Saudi ambassador talks to Today about how the key Middle East power broker views Israel and Palestine in the wake of the war.Listen to Today on BBC Radio 4 and BBC Sounds: 6-9am weekdays and 7-9am on Saturdays.
1/9/202411 minutes, 34 seconds
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Dame Emma Walmsley Guest Edits Today

The last of our Christmas guest editors is the CEO of the global biopharma company GSK, Dame Emma Walmsley.She wanted her programme to look to the year ahead with optimism. In these highlights from her programme hear Dame Emma in conversation with the Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby, who urges politicians not to treat their opponents as enemies but as fellow human beings.Dame Emma also speaks to the Health Minister for Singapore; visits Kew Gardens and she asks former guest editor and Nobel Laureate Sir Paul Nurse to discuss with a group of students, the scientific and technological advances they are most excited for in 2024. Simon Jack interviews Dame Emma to end her programme and she chooses a special piece of music.
1/1/20241 hour, 14 minutes, 34 seconds
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Professor Jason Arday Guest Edits Today

Professor Jason Arday is our latest Christmas guest editor. This year he was appointed as Cambridge’s youngest Black professor. A significant accolade by any measure but even more so when you consider that Professor Arday was diagnosed with autism and global developmental delay aged just three and didn't learn to speak until he was nine or read and write until he was eighteen. He uses his programme to look at improving adult literacy and he speaks to the head of Universal Records about championing neurodiversity in the workplace. Professor Arday also indulges his passion for 90s music with a discussion including Blur drummer Dave Rowntree and as a fan of a sharp suit, he champions the tailoring industry.
12/30/202353 minutes, 11 seconds
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Andrew Malkinson Guest Edits Today

Andrew Malkinson is Today's latest Christmas guest editor. He spent 17 years in prison for a crime he didn't commit before being cleared in July. He uses his programme to look at justice and how one can cope with being locked up unjustly. He speaks to John McCarthy, who was held hostage for more than five years in the 1980s. While in prison, the world of astronomy and space offered Andrew a sense of release and sanctuary from the immediate confines of his daily experience and a way to expand his world. So as part of his guest edit, he visits Jodrell Bank observatory. And he tells Today's Justin Webb about the months since his conviction was overturned and how he still feels anger.
12/29/202349 minutes, 45 seconds
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Ellie Goulding Guest Edits Today

The singer and UN environment ambassador Ellie Goulding is the latest Today programme Christmas guest editor. Ellie uses her programme to explore her twin passions of music and nature, including looking at rewilding projectsShe tells Today's Martha Kearney that nature has helped her through difficult times in her life, including postnatal depression. Ellie interviews fellow musicians Brian Eno and Chris Martin about the music industry's environmental impact. And she goes back to her sixth form college in Hereford and answers students questions, including about whether the music industry has changed for the better since the Me Too movement began.
12/28/202346 minutes, 38 seconds
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James May Guest Edits Today

James May, The Grand Tour and former Top Gear presenter, is Today’s latest Christmas guest editor. He looks at the future of driverless cars and why a culture change may be needed to end conflict between cyclists and motorists.James believes hobbies are good for people’s wellbeing so the Today team assembled a get together with hobby-mad listeners, including comedian Al Murray. He also looks at whether coffee culture is eroding the place of tea and gets a poetry lesson from Succession star Dame Harriet Walter. Here James shares highlights from his programme.
12/27/202344 minutes, 51 seconds
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Hanif Kureishi Guest Edits Today

The writer Hanif Kureishi - who is our second Christmas guest editor this year - had a life changing accident which paralysed him on Boxing Day 2022. He uses his programme to explore his adjustment to becoming disabled, including its impact on his family and his friendships. Hanif first enjoyed professional success as a writer 1985 with My Beautiful Laundrette, which was Oscar nominated, and he later wrote the novel the Buddha of Suburbia - which became a BBC series - and My Son The Fanatic. In his programme, he speaks about how he has developed with his son Carlo a new way of producing and publishing his work. He also has a long conversation with Today presenter Mishal Husain just before he returns home from hospital.
12/26/20231 hour, 5 minutes, 31 seconds
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Dr Nicola Fox Guest Edits Today

Dr Nicola Fox, Associate Administrator for the Science Mission Directorate NASA is the first of our Christmas guest editors this year.Her programme looks ahead to the launch of the Peregrine Lunar Lander next year which will start the ground work for sending a crewed mission back to the Moon.Dr Fox, who revealed she was a fan of Duran Duran on her recent Desert Island Discs, talks to band member Nick Rhodes about the influence of space on music. She talks to her counterpart at the European Space Agency, Carole Mundell, about her path into a top space job and she confronts the writers of the last Bond film.Dr Fox also speaks to Today Presenter Nick Robinson about why her father's interest in space inspired her and why she cries every time a space mission launches.
12/23/202339 minutes, 49 seconds
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Stuart Broad: After the Ashes

Stuart Broad announced his decision to retire following the 2023 Ashes. Today's Simon Jack speaks to the England bowling ace about his new book 'Broadly Speaking', which takes a look inside his cricket career and life. (Photo Credit: Action Images via Reuters/Paul Childs)
11/4/202314 minutes, 57 seconds
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What happens next in Gaza?

UN aid workers in Gaza have warned they will be forced to end their operation in the territory tonight because of a lack of fuel. The UN Relief and Works Agency provides aid to 600,000 displaced people in Gaza. Israel has allowed lorries containing food, water and medicine into Gaza but is blocking fuel over fears it could be used by Hamas, following the devastating series of attacks. Today's Nick Robinson speaks to former Gaza City resident Najla Shawa, who works for Oxfam, and Major General Rupert Jones, who was the deputy commander of the US-led coalition to defeat ISIS in Iraq in 2016. Nick also speaks to the BBC's International Editor Jeremy Bowen and Sir Mark Lyall Grant, former UK Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the UN and former National Security Adviser.
10/25/202318 minutes, 33 seconds
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'To see my mum again is an incredible thing'

The daughter of Yocheved Lifschitz, one of the hostages freed last night, has visited her mother in hospital in Israel and has told Today she "seems OK". In an interview with Today presenter Mishal Husain, Sharone Lifschitz said: "The nurses are just having a chat, they say she is very sharp and is very keen to share the information, pass on the information to families of other hostages that she was with." Yocheved Lifschitz was held for 16 days after being abducted from her home in a kibbutz in southern Israel amid scenes of death and destruction. Today's Nick Robinson also spoke to BBC Correspondent in Gaza Rushdi Abualouf. And Noam Sagi joined Nick and Mishal in the studio. His mother, Ada Sagi, was taken hostage in the kibbutz of Nir Oz, near Israel's border with Gaza.
10/24/202323 minutes, 27 seconds
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Emma Raducanu on her return to tennis

Emma Raducanu burst onto the world stage back in 2021 when she went from being an almost unknown 18 year old tennis player to winning the US Open. She became the first British woman to secure a Grand Slam singles title since Virginia Wade at the 1977 Wimbledon Championships. The media interest in Emma has been huge worldwide due to her stratospheric rise, but her tennis career has been put on hold after three procedures on both wrists and an ankle left her on the side-lines for the past six months. Today's sport presenter Karthi Gnanasegaram speaks to former British number one Emma Raducanu about her much anticipated return to competitive action. (Photo: Robert Prange/Getty Images)
10/20/202311 minutes, 19 seconds
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Danny Boyle and 'civic pride' about the new Aviva studios

The Aviva studios, the biggest cultural investment in the UK since Tate Modern open today in Manchester. Speaking to Today's Martha Kearney, director Danny Boyle who's been working on a show at the venue says: "The very famous son of Manchester Tony Wilson said that his fatal flaw was an excess of civic pride. And I feel a bit of that this morning." Martha also spoke to John McGrath who is Artistic Director and Chief Executive of the centre, which was originally called Factory International.
10/18/20237 minutes, 3 seconds
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Former CIA Director on Biden’s Israel visit

Former Director of the CIA General David Petraeus says that President Biden's upcoming trip to the Middle East will give him the chance to ask some difficult questions "behind closed doors". Speaking to Today's Justin Webb, General Petraeus said: "Going to Israel shows how important this is to the President, and to the US." The US says that President Biden will travel to Israel on Wednesday and discuss how the country will conduct its operations in a way that "minimises civilian casualties".
10/17/20239 minutes, 16 seconds
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Michael Caine: I'm retiring from film

In the summer of 2014, Bernard Jordan made global headlines. He had staged a “great escape” from his care home to join fellow war veterans on a beach in Normandy, commemorating their fallen comrades at the D-Day Landings 70th anniversary. It was a story that captured the imagination of the world as Bernie embodied the defiant, “can-do” spirit of a generation that was fast disappearing. But of course, it wasn’t the whole story. It was an inspirational but sanitised retelling of one man’s need to come to terms with the lasting trauma of war. That story is now in the cinemas in The Great Escaper, starring Sir Michael Caine and the late Glenda Jackson Today's Martha Kearney speaks to Sir Michael and the film's director Oliver Parker. Photo: Martha Kearney and Michael Caine)
10/14/202316 minutes, 50 seconds
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Nick Robinson interviews Sir Keir Starmer

Sir Keir Starmer says he is prepared to "bulldoze" planning rules to get more homes built in England. Speaking to Today's Nick Robinson after his speech at the Labour Party conference in Liverpool, which saw a protester mount the stage and throw glitter over him, the Labour leader says the party is going to have to ignore local opposition to new building projects but that it's "not going to be a crude exercise". He also spoke about the ongoing conflict between Israel and Gaza, and proposed funding to the NHS under a Labour government.
10/11/202318 minutes, 32 seconds
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Israel-Gaza: What's next in the conflict?

Today's Martha Kearney broadcasts from Jerusalem as the conflict in Israel and Gaza continues. She speaks to Yossi Schnaider who has had six family members - including two young children - taken hostage by Hamas; and Najla Shawa from Oxfam, who had to evacuate her home in Gaza with her family overnight. Also on Today, Martha spoke to former Israeli Justice Minister Yossi Beilin and Rushdi Abualouf, a BBC reporter in Gaza.
10/10/202321 minutes, 24 seconds
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Nick Robinson interviews Prime Minister Rishi Sunak

Rishi Sunak defends his plan to ban smoking for younger generation. Speaking to Today's Nick Robinson after making his first speech as leader at the Conservative Party conference in Manchester, the Prime Minister says he "made a choice about whether to save lives or sit back." He also spoke about the cancellation of the HS2 West Midlands to Manchester line, and his education reform which will see A-levels scrapped.
10/5/202321 minutes, 53 seconds
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Conservative Party conference: Why is HS2 set to be scrapped?

Former Transport Secretary Grant Shapps says Covid is to blame for cancellation of the HS2 Birmingham to Manchester line, which the Prime Minister is expected to announce later today. Speaking to Today's Nick Robinson at the Conservative Party Conference in Manchester ahead of Rishi Sunak's speech, current Defence Secretary Mr Shapps says that 'Coronavirus is not something anyone could have predicted'. He added that the money could be invested in other transport links in the north of England. We also hear analysis from the BBC's Political Editor Chris Mason.
10/4/202314 minutes, 14 seconds
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Conservative Party conference: What do the Tories stand for?

It's the penultimate day of the Conservative Party Conference in Manchester and the question on everybody's lips: What do the Tories stand for? That is what Rishi Sunak hopes to answer in his big speech on Wednesday. At the conference, Today's Nick Robinson speaks to former Prime Minister Liz Truss, former Home Secretary Dame Priti Patel and Conservative MP Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg. He also spoke to GB News presenter Nigel Farage, who says he able to reshape politics on the right 'more effectively' than if he were to stand for election.
10/3/20238 minutes, 59 seconds
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Conservative Party conference: Chancellor says he 'can't answer' on HS2's future

Jeremy Hunt says he 'can't answer' when asked about the future of the HS2 high-speed rail project, which has been recently plagued by rumours that it will be reduced. Speaking to Today's Nick Robinson at the Conservative Party conference in Manchester, the Chancellor said:"I do have to answer the question as to why it costs 10 times more to build high-speed rail in this country as across the Channel in France." Mr Hunt also spoke about raising the national living wage and getting people back into the workforce.
10/2/202314 minutes, 14 seconds
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Amol Rajan Interviews Chief Executive of GB News

Laurence Fox's on-air comments about a female journalist were "way past the limits of acceptance" and should have been properly challenged by host Dan Wootton, the boss of GB News has told Today. In an interview with Amol Rajan, Angelos Frangopoulos said he was "appalled" by the comments. Fox and Wootton have been suspended and the channel being investigated by Ofcom, which received 7,300 complaints. Fox sparked the controversy when he asked what "self-respecting man" would "climb into bed" with Ava Evans. "They are not in keeping with the values of us as a business and as a media company," Mr Frangopoulos said. He added "Obviously, we took action immediately. "There is a process that needs to be followed, and we expect that that process will be completed very soon." Fox said on Thursday he was "sorry for demeaning" Evans, while Wootton apologised and said he should have intervened.
9/29/202314 minutes, 18 seconds
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Cracked Actor: Alan Yentob on documenting Bowie

Alan Yentob joins Today to mark the 50th anniversary of the documentary 'Cracked Actor'. The film follows David Bowie during one of the most prolific and fecund periods of his career as he toured America for his 1973 Diamond Dogs tour. The result, called Cracked Actor, was part of the BBC's Omnibus strand, and described by Rolling Stone magazine as the "greatest rockumentary" ever. The film chronicled the star post-Ziggy and pre-Berlin, as Bowie was redefining both himself and popular music. On the film's 50th birthday, a book is published today, called The Fly in the Milk: David Bowie, Cracked Actor. Today's Amol Rajan is joined by the film's director, Alan Yentob, to discuss David Bowie, making documentaries, and the controversies that arise when working with the biggest stars. Photo credit: Alan Ballard, BBC
9/28/20237 minutes, 59 seconds
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Rosebank: UK's largest untapped oil field approved

Regulators have given the go-ahead to develop the UK's largest untapped oil and gas field in the North Sea. Rosebank, located 80 miles west of Shetland, is estimated to contain 500 million barrels of oil. Last month a cross-party group of 50 MPs and peers wrote to the energy secretary arguing it would be "deeply irresponsible" to back the scheme when the government should be driving down carbon emissions. Today's Martha Kearney speaks to Green Party MP Caroline Lucas, who opposes Rosebank, and Gilad Myerson, executive chairman of Ithaca Energy which has a 20 per cent stake in the project. (Image credit: Andrew Perry/PA Wire)
9/27/20238 minutes, 7 seconds
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The Today Debate: Drug deaths in Scotland - is decriminalisation the answer?

The Today Debate is about taking an issue and pulling it apart with more time than we could ever have during the morning. Join Today presenter Mishal Husain, as in front of a live audience in Glasgow, a panel of guests discuss the problem of drug abuse and drug deaths in Scotland. Together they look at different approaches and ask whether decriminalisation is the answer. The panel includes people with personal experience of addiction and those who have seen loved ones derailed. We will also be joined by people working on the frontline and Police Scotland. If you need help with any of the issues raised in the programme there's advice and support on the BBC Action Line website https://www.bbc.co.uk/actionline
9/27/202336 minutes, 22 seconds
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The clinic where users would take their own drugs

Drug users in Glasgow would be able to bring their own drugs and take them in a setting where there is healthcare support, under plans being considered in Scotland. It would be the first such space in the UK. The clinic would be close to the city centre, where there is already an NHS prescription service for people who are addicted to heroin. The Scottish government sees it as a significant moment in its effort to tackle drug deaths in Scotland - it also wants to decriminalise possessing drugs for personal use. Today's Mishal Husain visited the existing service and saw how the new clinic would work. She also spoke to BBC Scotland Editor James Cook, and Austin Smith from the Scottish Drugs Forum. Image credit: Getty Images
9/26/202315 minutes, 33 seconds
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Introducing The Today Podcast

Introducing The Today Podcast. A new weekly podcast from the team behind the UK's most influential radio news programme. Join Amol, Nick and guests every Thursday as they give their take on the biggest stories of the week, with insights from behind the scenes at Radio 4's Today. The first episode of The Today Podcast drops on October 5th. Subscribe on BBC Sounds. Get in touch by sending us a message or voice note via WhatsApp to +44 330 123 4346 or email Today@bbc.co.uk The Today Podcast is presented by Amol Rajan and Nick Robinson. The producers are Tom Smithard and Stephanie Mitcalf. The editors are Jonathan Aspinwall and Louisa Lewis. The executive producer is Owenna Griffiths.
9/25/20233 minutes, 24 seconds
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Rishi Sunak defends rowing back on key green policies

Rishi Sunak insists the UK will still hit net zero by 2050, despite announcing a major shift on green policies in a speech yesterday. Speaking to Today's Nick Robinson, the PM says he is "absolutely not slowing down efforts to combat climate change". Despite warnings the government might miss legally-binding net zero targets, Rishi Sunak also said: "For too long in this debate there hasn't been enough honesty about what's involved." When asked if net zero can be achieved by 2050 if gas boilers can be installed up to 2035 according to the new policy, the PM says: "Both in the cars and vans that we drive, and how we heat our homes, over time to deliver net zero, those things have to change, but we can do that in a measured way." We also hear analysis from the BBC's Political Editor Chris Mason.
9/21/202324 minutes, 3 seconds
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A delay to net zero?

Rishi Sunak is considering weakening some of the government's key green commitments in a major policy shift. It could include delaying a ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars and phasing out gas boilers, multiple sources have told the BBC. The prime minister did not deny the reports, saying he was committed to reaching net zero carbon emissions by 2050 but in a "more proportionate way". Home Secretary Suella Braverman told Today’s Justin Webb the “costs of achieving some of these arbitrary targets has to be taken into account”. While Sir Alok Sharma, who headed COP26 in Glasgow, spoke to Nick Robinson about what he wants to hear from the prime minister. By: John Walton Credit: PA Location: London, United Kingdom
9/20/202313 minutes, 3 seconds
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American prisoners returning from Iran

Five dual nationals jailed for years in Iran and widely regarded as hostages are on their way home to the United States. The last pieces in a controversial swap mediated by Qatar fell into place when $6bn (£4.8bn) of Iranian funds held in South Korea, paid by the US, reached banks in Doha. The US also granted clemency to 5 Iranian nationals, who were mainly being held on charges of violating US sanctions. Today’s Mishal Husain spoke to Elika Ashoori, the daughter of Anoosheh Ashoori who was released earlier this year from Iran alongside Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe. She said: “Personally I am happy for the families. But also on a broader level, it’s highly frustrating. “I do believe that these deals, as long as they’re happening, they’re validating this practice of hostage diplomacy.” We also hear some expert analysis from the BBC’s Chief International Correspondent Lyse Doucet.
9/19/20237 minutes, 32 seconds
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Russell Brand: Broadcasters launch investigations

Investigations have been launched by the BBC and Channel 4 after comedian and actor Russell Brand was accused of rape and sexual assault. The allegations were made in a joint investigation by the Sunday Times, the Times and Channel 4's Dispatches released over the weekend. Russell Brand has denied the allegations, saying his relationships have been "always consensual" - and appeared at a gig on Saturday night. Speaking to Today's Mishal Husain, Conservative MP Caroline Nokes, who chairs the Women and Equalities Committee, called the allegations "incredibly shocking and criminal". Nick Robinson also spoke to former Editor of the Sun David Yelland and Lorraine Heggessey, former BBC One controller, who said that during Brand's time on BBC Radio, there was "an inability to rein him in" after he made inappropriate remarks about a newsreader.
9/18/202317 minutes, 46 seconds
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Italy pleas for help with more than 8,000 migrants arriving on Lampedusa

Italy's Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini says overcrowded iron boats filled with migrants from Africa arriving on the island of Lampedusa is an ‘act of war’ . The UN migration agency says around eight and a half thousand people arrived in nearly two hundred boats between Monday and Wednesday this week. Today’s Nick Robinson speaks to Laurence Hart, Head of Mission in Italy at the International Organisation of Migrants who explains how unusual it is to have this amount of migrants arrive on the island. Italy's PM Georgia Meloni was elected with a promise to curb illegal migration. Nick also speaks to Nicola Proccacini, a close ally of Georgia Meloni who chairs the European Conservatives and Reformists Group in the European Parliament. Image credit: EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock
9/16/202311 minutes, 46 seconds
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Irvine Welsh on Crime, drugs and Trainspotting

Irvine Welsh's TV series Crime is returning for a second series, based on his books ‘Crime’ and ‘Night of the Long Knives’. The best-selling author speaks to Today's Martha Kearney about writing for TV, 30 years of Trainspotting and his thoughts about the relationship Scotland has with drugs.
9/15/202316 minutes, 59 seconds
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Met Police: Patsy Stevenson says apology is 'lip service'

Two of the women arrested at a vigil for Sarah Everard in March 2021 have been paid damages and received letters of apology from the Metropolitan Police. Patsy Stevenson and Dania Al-Obeid took legal action against the force over their arrests at the south London protest during Covid restrictions. When asked by Today's Nick Robinson about whether she thinks the Met is learning from what happened at the vigil, Patsy Stevenson said: "No, it will always be lip service. "Time and time again we see an incident happen, the police do a lot of PR damage. And then they get a new commissioner in. "Where is this reform?"
9/14/20239 minutes, 51 seconds
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Libya floods: 'It's like doomsday'

At least 5,300 people are dead in the Libyan city of Derna after Storm Daniel on Sunday, which resulted in a dam bursting and a river of floodwater sweeping through the streets. With 10,000 people reported missing, the death toll is expected to rise. Today's Martha Kearney spoke to Libyan journalist Johr Ali about his friend, whose entire family was taken by the storm. Justin Webb also spoke to the BBC's International Editor Jeremy Bowen, who said getting aid to the people in need is made harder by the political tensions in the north African country, and to Dr Anas Barghathy, who travelled to the Derna region to volunteer.
9/13/202314 minutes, 49 seconds
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Martha's Rule: 'I'm looking at it from the perspective of patients'

Merope Mills says she will meet Health Secretary Steve Barclay this week to discuss her calls for new patient rights. In an exclusive interview with the Today programme earlier this month, Merope Mills advocated for the NHS to adopt the patient rights policy Martha's Rule, following the preventable death of her 13-year-old daughter Martha from sepsis in 2021. Speaking to the programme on 11 September, NHS England's Medical Director Sir Stephen Powis said he supports the policy, which would allow a patient or their family a statutory right to get a second opinion if they have concerns about care. But speaking to Today’s Mishal Husain about the reaction to her call, Merope says she worries the NHS is looking at things from the perspective of hospitals rather than the view of patients.
9/12/202314 minutes, 8 seconds
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NHS England prepared to support 'Martha's Rule'

Martha Mills was 13 years old when she died in hospital two years ago, after failures by doctors to spot and treat her sepsis. Her mother Merope previously spoke to Today and called for hospitals to implement 'Martha's Rule', where patients and their families would be given the right to an urgent second opinion, if they feel their concerns are not being taken seriously by medical staff. The Health Secretary Steve Barclay then said in the House of Commons that he was looking at introducing a Martha's Rule to the NHS. Labour responded to our interview by saying if the government doesn't act, they will write the rule into the NHS constitution. Today's Mishal Husain speaks to NHS England's National Medical Director, Professor Sir Stephen Powis, responds to that interview by Merope Mills and her call for 'Martha's Rule'.
9/11/202313 minutes, 3 seconds
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Young Ones reunite for new play

Adrian Edmondson and Nigel Planer, two of the cast from the 1980s sitcom The Young Ones, have reunited to write a new play. ‘It's Headed Straight Towards Us’ follows two bickering actors and the hapless runner on the film they’re shooting in Iceland, as a volcanic eruption causes their trailer to subside and cuts off the only route of escape. Today’s Martha Kearney speaks to Adrian and Nigel about the idea behind their new play and their experiences on The Young Ones. Credit: GettyImages
9/8/20237 minutes, 30 seconds
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‘The rescue boat was too small’

In June a vessel carrying hundreds of migrants sank 50 miles off the Greek coast. It is thought as many as 600 people drowned as the over-crowded ship sank in the deepest part of the Mediterranean Sea. However questions have been raised about the involvement of the Greek Coast Guard about their involvement in the tragedy. As part of a Radio 4 documentary, BBC Europe correspondent Nick Beake has been trying to find out more about those who managed to escape death on the fatal voyage. Today’s Katya Adler spoke to Nick Beake and to Gillian Triggs, Assistant High Commissioner with the UN refugee agency the UNHCR. (Image, Migrants on board ship, Credit, Hellenic Coast Guard/ Reuters)
9/7/20239 minutes, 57 seconds
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Martha’s Rule: How to support patients seeking second opinion

Martha Mills died after failures in her treatment at King's College Hospital. Martha’s mother, Merope, is calling for hospitals around the country to bring in "Martha's rule", which would give parents, carers and patients the right to call for an urgent second clinical opinion from other experts at the same hospital if they have concerns about their current care. The government has said it will explore the introduction of Martha's rule in UK hospitals. Today’s Nick Robinson spoke to Dr Sanjiv Sharma, Medical Director at Great Ormond Street Hospital and Matthew Taylor, Chief executive of the NHS Confederation. Nick Robinson also spoke to Sir Robert Francis, chair of the Francis Report and chair of the Freedom to Speak Up Review, published in 2015. (Image, Merope and Martha Mills, Credit Merope Mills)
9/6/202311 minutes, 50 seconds
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Labour backs ‘Martha's rule’

Thirteen-year-old Martha Mills died after failures by doctors to spot sepsis, and her mother Merope told Today on Monday about her call for hospitals around the country to bring in "Martha's rule". This would give parents, carers and patients the right to call for an urgent second clinical opinion from other experts at the same hospital if they have concerns about their current care. The government said yesterday that it would explore the introduction of "Martha's rule" in UK hospitals. Today’s Martha Kearney spoke to Wes Streeting, Labour's Shadow Health Secretary and Rob Behrens, Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman. (Image, Merope Mills, Credit BBC)
9/5/202314 minutes, 38 seconds
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Concrete crisis: School repair budgets cut despite warning

More than 150 schools in England have been identified as having a type of potentially dangerous concrete – RAAC (reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete) – with many now closing buildings or classrooms to make them safe. The government has not yet published a list of which schools are affected as it says it wants parents to hear from headteachers and principals about closures first. The Chancellor Jeremy Hunt has said the government "will spend what it takes" to make schools safe from RAAC. Today’s Nick Robinson spoke to Peter Smith, head teacher at Farlingaye High School in Suffolk and Jonathan Slater, who was Permanent Secretary at the Department for Education until the summer of 2020. Nick Robinson also spoke to Gillian Keegan, the Education Secretary. (Image, Parks Primary School, Leicester, Credit Jacob King/ PA)
9/4/202321 minutes, 37 seconds
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Martha's Rule: Challenging culture will make our hospitals safer

Martha Mills was 13 years old when she died in hospital two years ago, after failures by doctors to spot and treat her sepsis. Her parents are calling for hospitals to implement 'Martha's Rule', where patients and their families would be given the right to an urgent second opinion, if they feel their concerns are not being taken seriously by medical staff. Today's Mishal Husain speaks to Martha's mother Merope Mills. (Photo: Martha Mills, Credit: Merope Mills)
9/4/202329 minutes, 51 seconds
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'Life's Not Always a Beach' Guest Edit

Back in March, to mark 20 years of the Today guest editors we gave people the chance to apply in teams to make a programme with us. Thousands of you applied and this summer we have been featuring programmes guest edited by those successful teams of listeners. In the last in the series Vince, Fiona, Derek and Lucas invited us to Tenby in West Wales. For their programme they wanted us to look at what happens when the tourists go home from towns like theirs. They don’t think we spend enough time thinking about the challenges that face coastal communities, not just in Tenby, but across the UK.
9/3/202335 minutes, 46 seconds
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Sajid Javid: What can be done to help prevent suicide?

Former Health Secretary Sajid Javid lost his brother Tariq to suicide in 2018. It is the number one cause of death for young people and biggest killer of men under 50. In a personal report for the BBC Radio 4 Today programme, Sajid speaks to people in Bristol, where he grew up, whose lives have been affected by suicide and also speaks to the chief exec of the Samaritans and other mental health campaigners. He then tells Today's Martha Kearney what he thinks the government should be doing to help with suicide prevention. If you are suffering distress or despair and need support, including urgent support, a list of organisations that can help is available at bbc.co.uk/actionline, or you can call for free to hear recorded information on 0800 066 066
9/1/202316 minutes, 43 seconds
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Friendly Neighbours Guest Edit

Back in March, to mark 20 years of the Today guest editors we gave people the chance to apply in teams to make a programme with us. Thousands of you applied and every Saturday through August we’ll be featuring programmes guest edited by those successful teams of listeners. Today it was the turn of ‘Friendly Neighbours’. Sudi, Mike, Pol and Sophie are four friends and neighbours from the Kingsdown area of Bristol. At the heart of their community is the Dove Street Estate, a modernist high rise development built in the 1960s. They want to look at how we make sure that, when we are planning housing developments, we really think about the people and communities who will live there.
8/26/202333 minutes, 5 seconds
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George Osborne says thefts "damaging" for British Museum reputation

Chair of Trustees at the British Museum, George Osborne has told Today around 2,000 items have gone missing from the institution but adds they have started to recover some of them. Yesterday, the British Museum director Hartwig Fischer said he will step down from his role, after treasures were stolen from the London institution. In a statement, he said it was evident the museum "did not respond as comprehensively as it should have" when it was told about the thefts in 2021.
8/26/202311 minutes, 1 second
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Concert Band Guest Edit

Back in March, to mark 20 years of the Today guest editors we gave people the chance to apply in teams to make a programme with us. Thousands of you applied and every Saturday through August we’ll be featuring programmes guest edited by those successful teams of listeners. Today it was the turn of Anne, Moyra, Alan and Andrew who are all members of the Dunbartonshire Concert Band. They wanted to use their guest edit to explore the benefits of community music. They commissioned a special report on music education and they asked us to look at whether playing an instrument help keep your brain “fit” as you get older? Their programme features the violinist Nicola Benedetti.
8/19/202338 minutes, 10 seconds
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The Nicola Benedetti Interview

Our programme is guest edited by Moyra, Anne, Alan and Andrew, four members of the Dunbartonshire Concert Band. For their programme they wanted to look at the contribution community music makes to society. The were very keen to hear from the violinist Nicola Benedetti. Not only is she a world acclaimed violinist, but she has campaigned for years for better music provision – especially for children from underprivileged backgrounds. Nicola Benedetti is also “Big Sister” to a social change and music education programme called "The Big Noise" that provides free music tuition alongside free childcare and healthy food. The charity supports 3,500 children across Scotland. Nicola spoke to Today's Simon Jack for this special edition of Today.
8/19/202311 minutes, 18 seconds
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Good Grief Guest Edit

Back in March, to mark 20 years of the Today guest editors we gave people the chance to apply in teams to make a programme with us. Thousands of you applied and every Saturday through August we’ll be featuring programmes guest edited by those successful teams of listeners. Today it was the turn of Hannah, Cenya and Huzaifah. They are three friends who have all experienced the loss of someone close to them and want to talk about what good grief looks like. Their programme features the former England Cricket Captain Andrew Strauss who set up a foundation in memory of his wife, Ruth, who died of cancer. The Ruth Strauss Foundation supports families facing the death of a parent. If you need support with any of the issues raised in this podcast you can find organisations that can help at www.bbc.co.uk/actionline This guest edit of Today was produced by Laura Cooper, Hazel Morgan and Louisa Lewis.
8/12/202325 minutes, 20 seconds
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Messy Fostering Guest Edit

Back in March, to mark 20 years of the Today guest editors we gave people the chance to apply in teams to make a programme with us. Thousands of you applied and every Saturday through August we’ll be featuring programmes guest edited by those successful teams of listeners. Today it was the turn of Amy, Jo and Gig. They've called their team, Messy Fostering. Amy who’s now 23-years-old was fostered at 14 by Gig and ended up spending her summers with her teacher Jo. For them, it worked. But sometimes it doesn't and they wanted to use their guest edit to look at how we can stop foster placements breaking down and recruit and retain more foster families. Their programme features the poet and broadcaster Lemn Sissay, the Children's Minister Claire Coutinho and other young people who have been fostered. If you need support with any of the issues raised in this podcast you can find organisations that can help at www.bbc.co.uk/actionline This guest edit of Today was produced by Laura Cooper, Hazel Morgan and Louisa Lewis.
8/5/202336 minutes, 32 seconds
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How is Europe dealing with migration?

More than 1,000 migrants have crossed the English Channel in two days, according to government figures. Today's Nick Robinson reports on the journeys many migrants take before that - from North Africa to Europe. He starts in Tunisia, which is now the biggest departure point for migrants trying to reach Europe across the Mediterranean. (Image credit: BBC)
8/3/202311 minutes, 28 seconds
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Today Debate: Is the housing market broken?

The Today Debate is about taking a subject and pulling it apart with more time than we could ever have during the programme in the morning. Today presenter Mishal Husain is joined by a panel of guests in the BBC's Radio Theatre, where in front of a live audience, they discuss the current state of the housing market. On the panel are George Clarke, architect and broadcaster; David Simmonds the Conservative MP for Ruislip, Northwood and Pinner and Chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group on Housing and Planning; David O'Leary from the Home Builders Federation, which represents housebuilders in England and Wales; Claer Barrett, Consumer Editor for the Financial Times and Richard Fearon, Chief Executive of the Leeds Building Society.
7/5/202336 minutes, 35 seconds
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The Today Debate: Do we need a Monarchy?

The Today Debate is about taking a subject and pulling it apart with more time than we could ever have during the Today programme in the morning. Today presenter Mishal Husain was joined by a panel of guests in the BBC's Radio Theatre in Broadcasting House to look at the future of the Royal Family in 'The Today Debate: Do we need a Monarchy?' Joining her were Billy Bragg, the singer and songwriter; Juliet Samuel, a columnist for the Times; Polly Toynbee, a columnist at the Guardian; Charles Moore, former editor of the Telegraph and the Spectator, biographer of Margaret Thatcher and Jason Arday, an academic who works on inequality, race and education.
4/25/202336 minutes, 24 seconds
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How could Sheila Seleoane remain undiscovered for so long?

Sheila Seleoane lay dead for two and a half years before her body was found - despite repeated efforts to raise the alarm. Sheila was a 58-year-old medical secretary who died in her South London flat in August 2019. In a final report by the BBC's Harry Farley, he goes back to speak to her neighbours. Today's Martha Kearney speaks to Ian McDermott, chief executive of Peabody, the housing association which was Sheila’s landlord.
4/5/202314 minutes, 50 seconds
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How can a death go unnoticed in modern society?

Sheila Seleoane was found in her Peckham flat in February 2022 and had to be identified by dental records. Her neighbours initially made complains to their housing association, Peabody, about a foul stench and maggots in 2019 – but the housing association only made one “proactive attempt” to contact the tenant and cut off her gas. Miss Seleoane’s last known contact was with her GP in August 2019, and when her body was found, the cause of her death was unascertained due to the advanced state of composition of her body. But what was she like and who was she? In the second in a series of three, Harry Farley talks to Today’s Justin Webb about loneliness and isolation while living in an urban area.
4/4/20238 minutes, 6 seconds
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Why was my neighbour's body not found for two years?

Residents in a south London block of flats are considering legal action against a housing association, after their neighbour lay dead for two and a half years before her body was found, despite their efforts to raise the alarm. 58-year-old Sheila Seleoane, was a medical secretary, who was found in her flat in Peckham last year. For Sheila's neighbours though it had been obvious for a long time that something was wrong. This week we’re looking more closely at Shelia's story, to explore what happened and what it tells us about modern Britain. Harry Farley speaks to Today's Mishal Husain, and in the first of three reports, he asks why it took so long before Sheila was discovered?
4/3/20239 minutes, 59 seconds
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An experiment in "open justice" in the family courts

Judgements made in the family courts can affect families forever, including placing children in care or for adoption. After decades of calls for greater scrutiny of the family courts, at the end of January journalists gained access to report proceedings, in a landmark pilot scheme. Three court centres in Leeds, Carlisle and Cardiff allowed accredited journalists to report cases for the first time, providing the families involved remained anonymous. Our Correspondent Sanchia Berg spent several weeks in Leeds Family Court attending hearings. This week Today has featured a series of her reports, highlighting some of the issues that are usually hidden, including a mother's 'remarkable turnaround' to win back her baby. Today presenter Martha Kearney, also spoke to the judge who spearheaded the pilot, Justice Lieven.
3/10/202330 minutes, 54 seconds
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'I'm proud Polish people played a part'

Nick Robinson joins the crowds watching US President Joseph Biden's speech in Warsaw.
2/22/20239 minutes, 9 seconds
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Björn from ABBA's Eurovision highlights

Björn Ulvaeus has guest edited BBC Radio 4's Today and his programme included a lot of insights and encounters about Eurovision. Hear him talk to one of the British jurors who in 1974 gave ABBA's Waterloo "nul points" - and doesn't regret it! He also discusses with Erasure's Andy Bell, Radio 1's Adele Roberts and UK Eurovision presenter Rylan Clark the appeal of the contest and ABBA itself to the LGBT+ community. Bjorn also speaks to Martin Österdahl, executive supervisor of Eurovision, about whether it can move to be a fully global competition. (Photo: ABBA triumph at 1974 Eurovision. Credit: BBC)
1/31/202323 minutes, 40 seconds
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Sir Jeremy Fleming Guest Edits Today

Today's fourth Christmas guest editor this year is Sir Jeremy Fleming, director of GCHQ, the UK's largest but probably least known intelligence agency. Hear highlights from his programme which centres on the theme of data and trust, including how we all share our own personal information and how intelligence agencies across the world handle that data. Guests include Avril Haines, the United States director of national intelligence, Vint Cerf, one of the founding fathers of the internet, and multiple Olympic champion Sir Ben Ainslie, who discusses the use of data in his sport of sailing.
1/6/202338 minutes, 7 seconds
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Dame Sharon White Guest Edits Today

Today’s final Christmas guest editor this year is Dame Sharon White, chairman of the John Lewis Partnership and former head of telecoms regulator Ofcom. She was named as the most powerful black person in the country in the 2023 Power List. One of the key issues for her programme is how society can help more people who have been in care get into employment – and includes a report from the BBC’s Ashley John-Baptiste, who grew up in care. She also speaks to world renown choreographer Sir Matthew Bourne about how to attract a wider audience to ballet, and she interviews England rugby star Maro Itoje about his activism off the field.
1/2/20231 hour, 14 minutes, 39 seconds
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Anne-Marie Imafidon Guest Edits Today

Today’s sixth Christmas guest editor is Anne-Marie Imafidon – computer scientist, CEO and co-presenter of Countdown. Hear highlights of her programme, whose central theme is opportunity. She looks at how we work, how we fund science, and how we recognise the achievements of women which have been lost to history, such as Dr Gladys Mae West, whose maths work paved the way for GPS navigation. We also explore two of Anne-Marie’s big passions – Nigerian food and trainers.
12/31/20221 hour, 4 minutes, 30 seconds
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Björn Ulvaeus Guest Edits Today

Today's fifth Christmas guest editor is Björn Ulvaeus from ABBA. Hear highlights from his programme, which looks at the impact of Artificial Intelligence and technology on music, the future of democracy and of course Eurovision - the contest which launched Abba's global success nearly 50 years ago. Guests include Dave Stewart from the Eurythmics, the historian Noah Yuval Harari, Andy Bell from Erasure, the boss of Eurovision, as well as its UK presenter Rylan Clark, and former culture minister Lord Vaizey.
12/30/20221 hour, 19 minutes, 12 seconds
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Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe Guest Edits Today

Today's third guest editor this Christmas is Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, who was detained for six years in Iran - before being freed and coming home nine months ago. Hear highlights from her programme including the voices of families of current political prisoners in Iran and Nazanin speaking to chef Yotam Ottolenghi about why one of his recipes has a special resonance for her - and about the solidarity that can be found in food and cooking. Nazanin also has an emotional encounter with tennis ace Andy Murray - she tells him how, while in solitary confinement, she was able to watch him win Wimbledon in 2016 and the joy that brought her. With her husband Richard, she also reflects on trying to get back to normal life against the backdrop of the current uprising and arrests in Iran.
12/28/20221 hour, 12 minutes, 40 seconds
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Jamie Oliver Guest Edits Today

Today's second guest editor this Christmas is Jamie Oliver, the chef, entrepreneur and campaigner. Hear highlights from his programme in our Best of Today podcast, including interviews with former Prime Minister Tony Blair, and former Conservative Chancellor George Osborne about expanding free lunches in schools and providing a healthy array of options for students. Jamie Oliver has been open about his struggles in school with dyslexia. He says he was told he was taught alongside those with special needs. Jamie wanted to speak to the rapper Loyle Carner, who has ADHD about his struggles at school and what food means to him.
12/27/202241 minutes, 12 seconds
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Lord Botham Guest Edits Today

Today's first guest editor this Christmas is Lord Botham, Ian "Beefy" Botham, former England all-rounder, now crossbench peer and UK Trade Envoy to Australia. Hear highlights from his programme in our Best of Today podcast, including an interview with the current England Cricket captain Ben Stokes, about the future of the Test format of the game. It was a chance meeting after a freak injury in 1977 which first put Lord Botham on the path to nearly four decades of fundraising. He reflects on that moment and looks at advances in the treatment of childhood leukaemia, a cause for which he has raised millions of pounds, with the BBC's medical editor Fergus Walsh.
12/26/202240 minutes, 21 seconds
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Joanne Harris: My winter walk

The Today programme has asked some well-known faces to talk about the walks they do and why they’re so important to them at this time of year. Author Joanne Harris, best known for her novel Chocolat, describes her favourite walk from Almondbury, near Huddersfield, and up to Castle Hill. (Image credit: Simone Padovani/Awakening/Getty Images)
12/9/20223 minutes, 35 seconds
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Hunter Davies: My winter walk

The Today programme has asked some well-known faces to talk about the walks they do and why they’re so important to them as part of a winter walks series. Author Hunter Davies, best known for the only authorised biography of the Beatles, describes his favourite walk along Ryde Sands on the Isle of Wight. (Image Credit: Laura Palmer/BBC)
11/26/20223 minutes, 19 seconds
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Jojo Moyes: My winter walk

The Today programme has asked some well-known voices to tell us about their favourite walks at this time of year. Novelist and journalist Jojo Moyes - best known for 'Me Before You' - describes a walk where she is often accompanied by her dogs in Essex, and how it’s helped her when life is challenging. (Image Credit: Jojo Moyes)
11/22/20224 minutes, 20 seconds
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Michelle Gallen: My winter walk

The Today programme has asked some well-known faces to talk about the walks they do and why they’re so important to them as part of a winter walks series. Author Michelle Gallen, who wrote 'Big Girl, Small Town' and 'Factory Girls', describes her favourite walk near her childhood home in Castlederg, West Tyrone. (Image Credit: Deci Gallen)
11/17/20222 minutes, 56 seconds
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Michael Morpurgo: My winter walk

The Today programme has asked some well-known faces to talk about the walks they do and why they’re so important to them as part of a winter walks series. Author Michael Morpurgo, best known for children's novel War Horse, describes his favourite stroll near his home in Devon.
11/11/20224 minutes, 21 seconds
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Gillian Clarke: My winter walk

The Today programme has asked some well-known faces to talk about the walks they do and why they’re so important to them as part of a winter walks series. The poet, who was National Poet of Wales from 2008 to 2016, Gillian Clarke has chosen a path close to her home in Ceredigion.
11/10/20223 minutes, 26 seconds
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Kate Mosse: My winter walk

The Today programme invites some well known faces to speak about their favourite winter walk. Novelist and history writer Kate Mosse describes her walk through Fishbourne Marshes, near Chichester in West Sussex, from the old duck pond round to Bosham and back again. (Image credit: James Watkins/ BBC)
11/9/20223 minutes, 56 seconds
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Simon Armitage: My winter walk

The Today programme is inviting some famous faces to speak about their favourite winter walk. Poet Laureate Simon Armitage describes his walks up Pule Hill, the high point above Marsden and an exposed look-out post over Yorkshire, Lancashire and a high corner of Derbyshire. (Image, Simon Armistage, Credit, Emma Gibbs, BBC)
11/8/20223 minutes, 5 seconds
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Rory Kinnear: My winter walk

The Today programme is inviting some famous faces to describe their favourite winter walk. Actor Rory Kinnear lovingly tells of walking his son and daughter to school. (Image, Rory Kinnear, Credit, Sarah Jeynes, BBC)
11/7/20223 minutes, 55 seconds
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CEO of Ryanair Group, Michael O’Leary

Michael O’Leary has been Chief Executive of Ryanair since 1994, and was appointed CEO of Ryanair Holdings, Europe’s largest airline group, in 2019. He’s been speaking to Today’s business presenter Sean Farrington about his unhappiness with post-Brexit Britain, the impact of inflation on his business, and why we’ve probably seen the last of the €10 flight. (Image, Michael O'Leary; Credit, Getty Images)
8/11/202234 minutes, 50 seconds
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Chairman of John Lewis Partnership, Dame Sharon White

Dame Sharon White is the Chairman of John Lewis Partnership. Overseeing a team of 80,000 partners working at branches and offices of supermarket Waitrose and department store John Lewis around the country, White took over the retailer in February 2020. She talks to Today’s business presenter Sean Farrington about the number of people who have left the labour market since covid and the impact she believes it could have on the economy. (Image, Dame Sharon White, Credit, John Lewis Partnership)
8/9/202238 minutes, 14 seconds
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Jacky Wright’s Today Programme

Jacky Wright is the Chief Digital Officer and Corporate Vice President at Microsoft US. For her Today guest edit, she asked whether young people are being taught the skills they need for the workplaces and jobs of the future. She grew up in Tottenham, North London, and went back for the programme, asking A level students at a school there what they thought would make them employable. She also used the programme to explore what everyday life was like for the generation of multiracial children born during World War Two. Jacky spoke about the importance of role models with one of her own: Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, former President of Liberia and the first elected female head of state in Africa. And there was also time for her to talk about her love of CSI with the show’s creator Anthony Zuiker.
1/3/202235 minutes, 39 seconds
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Mina Smallman’s Today programme

Mina Smallman, guest edited our first Today programme of 2022. Mina is a former Church of England archdeacon and school principal, who began campaigning on violence against women and equity in how victims are seen after two of her daughters were murdered. Nicole Smallman and Bibaa Henry were murdered in a London park in 2020. For her programme Mina invited Mishal Husain to accompany her and her family and friends on a difficult visit back to the place where Nicole and Bibaa died, where a tree was being planted in their memory. Mina also used her programme to highlight the work of Victim Support and chaplains working in prisons, hospitals and rural communities. Photo: PA
1/1/202232 minutes, 41 seconds
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Dr Jane Goodall’s Today Programme

Dr Jane Goodall is a primatologist, founder of the Jane Goodall Institute and a UN Messenger of Peace. She is best known for revolutionising the world's understanding of chimpanzees. She used her Today guest edit to explore some of the ways we can inspire change to protect animals and our environment. She asked the BBC’s Climate Editor, Justin Rowlatt, to look at the links between poverty and climate change. The programme featured reporting from Tanzania where 30 years ago Jane challenged a group of students to take action to protect the wildlife in their towns and villages. Martha Kearney interviewed the Environment Minister Zac Goldsmith on Jane’s behalf, asking him about COP 26 and trophy hunting. There’s music from Notre Dame and Jane reflects on the reaction to her work and image in the 1960s. With Martha Kearney and Mishal Husain.
12/31/202136 minutes, 23 seconds
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General Sir Nick Carter’s Today Programme

General Sir Nick Carter is a retired senior army officer who served as the UK’s Chief of Defence Staff until November this year. He used his Today guest edit to focus on the fallout from the US military withdrawal from Afghanistan. He spoke to former Afghan President Ashraf Ghani, the man in charge of the country before the Taliban takeover. He also chatted with retired racing legend AP McCoy about what his own retirement might have in store for him. Finally, Sir Nick explored his deep love of whiskey with an international blind tasting.
12/30/20211 hour, 2 minutes, 48 seconds
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Raheem Sterling’s Today Programme

The England and Manchester City footballer, Raheem Sterling used his Today programme guest edit to look at the issue of social mobility, after launching his own foundation earlier this year. His programme featured reporting from Jamaica where he was born and North London where he grew up. For his programme he also sat down with England manager, Gareth Southgate, the man he credits for his transition from being a target for a hostile press to a young man now trying to be the role model which so many call on footballers to become. It also featured interviews with his mum Nadine and his sporting hero Usain Bolt. With Amol Rajan and Nick Robinson.
12/29/202152 minutes, 20 seconds
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Raheem Sterling and Gareth Southgate in conversation

Today programme guest editor, the England and Manchester City player, Raheem Sterling wanted discuss what he, his team mates and the country had learned following the Euros this summer. For his programme he sat down with England manager, Gareth Southgate, the man he credits for his transition from being a target for a hostile press to a young man now trying to be the role model which so many call on footballers to become. Nick Robinson travelled to St George’s Park to meet them both.
12/29/202134 minutes, 33 seconds
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James Rebanks’ Today Programme

James Rebanks is a Cumbrian sheep farmer and bestselling author. He used his Today programme guest edit to focus on the government's changes to farm subsidies and to look at whether urban farms can create healthy and happy communities. He discussed whether the British countryside is diverse enough and asked how it can attract a workforce that better reflects modern Britain. Finally, indoctrinated by his father who took him to his first game at Anfield when he was ten, James Rebanks wanted us to talk about Jurgen Klopp and his why he’s popular not only among Liverpool fans, but beyond. With Nick Robinson and Mishal Husain.
12/28/202135 minutes, 12 seconds
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Michael Dobbs’ Today Programme

Lord Dobbs, Michael Dobbs, is a Conservative Peer and author. He has written more than 20 books, but is best known for his political thriller House of Cards. He used his Today Programme guest edit to look at prostate cancer, after his diagnosis earlier this year. It’s a disease which killed his father and brother. His programme also featured a conversation with the Duchess of Cornwall about the importance of reading and a special retelling of the Christmas story from Joseph’s perspective, written and read by Marcus Brigstocke. Featuring Nick Robinson and Justin Webb.
12/27/202135 minutes, 20 seconds
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Bishop Rose Hudson-Wilkin’s Today programme

Bishop Rose Hudson-Wilkin, the Bishop of Dover, presents the highlights from her guest edit of Today. The South African concept ‘Ubuntu’ or “I am because you are” is at the heart of her programme, reflecting on our common humanity. She hears from students at a pupil referrals unit, the charity Justice Defenders who work to improve access to justice, and also a Uighur child refugee exiled in Turkey. Including Mishal Husain and Martha Kearney. (Image: Bishop Rose Hudson-Wilkin, credit: Jim Drew)
1/1/202147 minutes, 13 seconds
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Evan Spiegel’s Today programme

Snap CEO Evan Spiegel presents all the highlights from his guest edit for Today, on the theme of the future of the USA. He looks at what big ideas have shaped modern America and what will continue to define it, including justice reform, how society can make wiser investments and the balance of power between tech companies and government. Including Mishal Husain and Simon Jack. (Image: Evan Spiegel, credit: Snap Inc)
1/1/20211 hour, 4 minutes, 5 seconds
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Margaret Atwood’s Today programme

Twice Booker Prize-winning author Margaret Atwood guest edits Today, looking at the theme of change. She interviews climate activist (and 2019 Today guest editor) Greta Thunberg and speaks to The Prince of Wales about campaigning for the environment over several decades. Also, Margaret’s Booker Prize co-winner Bernardine Evaristo speaks to gal-dem founder Liv Little and birdwatcher extraordinaire Mya-Rose Craig, aka Birdgirl. Hosted by Margaret Atwood - including Martha Kearney and Mishal Husain. (Image: Margaret Atwood, credit: Luis Mora)
12/31/202055 minutes, 21 seconds
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Lewis Hamilton’s Today programme

Record-breaking Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton guest edits Today, looking at black British history, the environment, and the power of sport. Lewis speaks to historian Professor David Olusoga about the Black Lives Matter movement and black British historical figures who deserve more attention. We also hear from conservationist Dame Jane Goodall on animal extinction, and find out how motor racing is trying to become more environmentally friendly. Presented by Nick Robinson and Justin Webb. (Image: Lewis Hamilton)
12/30/202050 minutes, 3 seconds
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Sir Jeremy Farrar’s Today programme

Sir Jeremy Farrar, the director of the health research foundation Wellcome Trust, guest edits Today along the theme of uncertainty and clarity in complex times. Sir Jeremy speaks to Dr Anthony Fauci about mixing politics and science, and we hear from Erna Solberg, the Prime Minister of Norway, on leading in uncertain times. Author Elif Shafak gives a more literary take on uncertainty, and England cricketers Sir Andrew Strauss and Nat Sciver discuss how elite sport has adapted in 2020. Also, a special performance from the Wellcome Voices choir. With Nick Robinson and Simon Jack. (Image: Sir Jeremy Farrar, credit: Dave Guttridge, Francis Crick Institute)
12/28/202050 minutes, 10 seconds
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Prue Leith's Today programme

Highlights from Prue Leith's guest edit, presented by Prue herself. Including... a discussion of the issue of assisted dying and how hospitals are trying to improve their food. Also - two cherries on top of an already lovely cake - Prue having a singing lesson... and Olympic diver Tom Daley discussing craft and the new swimming trunks he has crocheted! Also featuring Justin Webb and Mishal Husain. Enjoy. (Image: Prue Leith Credit: Clive Holmes Agency)
12/24/202036 minutes, 23 seconds
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Today guest edits: George the Poet

All the highlights from podcaster and spoken word artist George the Poet's guest edited programme, including a reflection of identity in Uganda, DJ Target on the development of grime music, Ziggy Marley on legalising marijuana, economist Mariana Mazzucato on how society thinks about value, and are video games good for your brain? Presented by Martha Kearney and Sarah Smith, and additional sound design by Benbrick. (Image: George the Poet, credit: BBC)
12/31/20191 hour, 4 minutes, 14 seconds
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Today guest edits: Greta Thunberg

All the highlights from climate activist Greta Thunberg's guest edited programme, including Mishal Husain interviewing her father Svante Thunberg and Greta speaking to Sir David Attenborough for the first time. Also, outgoing Bank of England chief Mark Carney on how the financial sector can tackle climate change, Massive Attack’s Robert Del Naja on reducing the music industry’s carbon blueprint, and Shell’s Maarten Wetselaar on big energy’s environmental impact. Presented by Mishal Husain and Sarah Smith. (Image: Greta Thunberg, credit: BBC)
12/30/20191 hour, 9 minutes, 47 seconds
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Today guest edits: Charles Moore

All the highlights from Margaret Thatcher biographer and former Telegraph editor Charles Moore's guest edited programme. It includes US Special Representative on Iran Brian Hook on violent protests in the country, Charles' nephew Felix on being autistic and transgender, former Conservative leader Lord Michael Howard on why the judiciary needs to change, and Charles sets out the case against the BBC's funding model. Presented by Justin Webb and Nick Robinson. (Image: Charles Moore, credit: The Telegraph)
12/28/20191 hour, 1 minute, 6 seconds
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Today guest edits: Baroness Hale

All the highlights from Supreme Court President Baroness Hale's guest edited programme, including Baroness Hale in conversation with US Supreme Court Judge Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Clive Coleman going on a tour of the Supreme Court, a report on coercive control, a discussion about justice in opera with Sir Simon Keenlyside and Ian Bostridge and a Vogue editor on what your jewellery says about you. Presented by Nick Robinson and Justin Webb. (Image: Baroness Hale. Credit: BBC)
12/27/20191 hour, 13 minutes, 27 seconds
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Today guest edits: Grayson Perry

All the highlights from artist Grayson Perry's guest edited programme, including the former Archbishop of Canterbury Dr Rowan Williams on faith and political myths, how tinnitus affects singer-songwriter KT Tunstall's life and work, political satire with Guardian columnist Marina Hyde, and if there's a link between sexual fantasies and how you vote with Joe Twyman from Deltapoll. Presented by Justin Webb and Nick Robinson. (Image: Grayson Perry, credit: BBC)
12/26/201945 minutes, 37 seconds