The Explanation

Епизоди

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  The President's Path: Trump and the AI data centre debate 14.08.2026 16мин

  Sumi Somaskanda, Bernd Debusmann and Courtney Subramanian discuss how AI data centres are becoming an important issue for voters ahead of the midterms. They look at concerns about the energy use and environmental impact of these facilities, and why the Trump administration sees them as key to competing with China. Every weekend, The President’s Path explores the state of US politics - in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what’s on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: path@bbc.co.uk
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  The Media Show: James May's YouTube move 13.08.2026 22мин

  For years, YouTube was largely seen as the home of creators who built their audiences online. But increasingly it's becoming a destination for established TV presenters too. James May, best known for Top Gear and The Grand Tour, joins Katie Razzall alongside producer Lucy Brown to discuss building their YouTube channel, Planet Gin. Holly Graham, Chief Commercial Officer at Little Dot Studios, explains what it takes to build a successful YouTube brand and whether television success translates online.Last month, The Times' Chief Sports Reporter Martyn Ziegler revealed that FIFA president Gianni Infantino had been exploring plans to sell stakes in the World Cup to private investors. Martyn explains how he broke the story, while Tariq Panja, Global Sports Correspondent at The New York Times, discusses the growing role of investigative journalism in football.The resignation of University of Cambridge professor Jason Arday has become one of the biggest stories in British academia. Jack Grove, investigations editor at Times Higher Education, explains how he first uncovered concerns about Arday and why legal threats prevented publication at the time.Presenter: Katie Razzall Producer: Dan Hardoon Assistant Producer: Lucy Wai Researcher: Ruth Waites Technical Coordinator: Akik Rahman Sound: Robin Schroder
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  The President's Path: Is Trump the AI president? 07.08.2026 15мин

  Sumi Somaskanda and Bernd Debusmann discuss President Trump's efforts to balance AI innovation and regulation, the divisions within his cabinet over AI policy, and the challenges posed by China's rapid AI development. Every weekend, The President’s Path explores the state of US politics - in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what’s on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: path@bbc.co.uk Senior producer: James Kraft Editor: James Kraft Executive producer: Gareth Bebb
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  The Media Show: Alternative Hollywood 06.08.2026 22мин

  More film studios are making films for audiences they believe are not well served by mainstream Hollywood. Many are aimed at Christian viewers or people with more traditional values, and some have become major box office successes. The trend reflects changes in how films are funded, promoted, and distributed to different audiences. Max Tani, Media Editor at Semafor, Kelly Merryman Hoogstraten, CEO of Wonder Project, and Brandon Purdie, Head of Theatrical and Brand Development at Angel Studios, outline different perspectives from across the industry. Prison radio is developing in different ways around the world, with stations giving prisoners the chance to learn broadcasting skills and share information inside prisons. Garth St Clair, co-founder of Rise Maximum Radio in Trinidad and Tobago, and Ninna Gaensler-Debs, co-director of Uncuffed in California, describe how prison broadcasting works in their organisations.Presenter: Ros Atkins Producer: Laura Cain
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  The President's Path: Does Zelensky have the upper hand in the Ukraine war? 31.07.2026 16мин

  Caitríona Perry and Bernd Debusmann discuss President Zelensky's visit to Washington, where he pushed for greater US support to bolster Ukraine's air defences. They examine whether relations between Trump and Zelensky are warming, and what this renewed diplomatic effort, along with a new package of sanctions on Russia, could mean for the war in Ukraine.Every weekend, The President’s Path explores the state of US politics — in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what’s on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: path@bbc.co.uk
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  The Media Show: Interviewing Elon Musk 30.07.2026 22мин

  The Economist's interview with Elon Musk attracted global attention before Musk then described interviewer Zanny Minton Beddoes as a "traitor to the West". The interview followed 90 minutes of conversation for The Insider, The Economist's video series. Zanny Minton Beddoes, Editor-in-Chief of The Economist, explains how the interview came about and the reaction after it was published.Huge wildfires in France and Spain have dominated news coverage across Europe, creating difficult and sometimes dangerous conditions for journalists reporting from the scene. Sadiya Chowdhury, Correspondent at Sky News, explains her approach and Mehdi Lebouachera, Global Director at AFP, gives the backstory to a photograph that appeared on front pages around the world.Presenters: Ros Atkins Producers: Lucy Wai and Dan Hardoon Researcher: Lizzie Harris Technical Coordinator: Mark Dickins Sound: Joe McCartney
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  The President's Path: The US-Saudi nuclear deal 24.07.2026 16мин

  Sumi Somaskanda, Caitríona Perry and Bernd Debusmann discuss what we know about the US-Saudi Arabia nuclear deal, the implications for the fragile balance of power in the Middle East, and the fact that Israel could now make or break the agreement. Every weekend, The President’s Path explores the state of US politics — in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what’s on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: path@bbc.co.uk
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  The Media Show: Can an AI actor win over Hollywood? 23.07.2026 22мин

  An AI-generated actor called Tilly Norwood has been cast in the lead role of a forthcoming film, adding to the debate about artificial intelligence in filmmaking. The announcement follows criticism from actors including Emily Blunt and objections from the US performers' union. Eline Van der Velden, founder and CEO of Particle6, explains why she created Tilly Norwood, while Jake Kanter, International Investigations Editor at Deadline, sets out the reaction from the film industry. Andy Burnham has become the UK's new Prime Minister, and his approach to the media is already attracting attention. His team has relied more on social media, online creators and direct communication than on traditional broadcast interviews. Lizzy Buchan, Political Editor of the Daily Mirror, Tom Nicholas, creator of the Slow News Day YouTube channel, and broadcaster Andrew Neil, presenter of The Andrew Neil Report, assess what this could mean for political journalism and public accountability.Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Content Producer: Lucy Wai Assistant Producer: Laura Cain Researcher: Ruth Waites Technical Coordinator: Samuel Iyiola Sound: Robin Schroder
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  The President's Path: Trump accuses China of US election 'meddling' 17.07.2026 16мин

  Sumi Somaskanda, Caitríona Perry and Bernd Debusmann give their immediate reaction straight after Trump's primetime address, discussing the president's claims of Chinese interference in the 2020 election, the political response, and what the speech could mean for the upcoming midterm elections. Every weekend, The President’s Path explores the state of US politics — in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what’s on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at path@bbc.co.uk
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  The Media Show: Trump's New York Times subpoenas 16.07.2026 22мин

  The Trump administration has issued subpoenas to several New York Times journalists following reporting about alleged security concerns involving President Trump's new Air Force One, a plane donated by Qatar. The case has prompted debate over the balance between protecting national security and safeguarding press freedom. Claire Atkinson, founder of The Media Mix newsletter, outlines the latest developments.The BBC's latest annual report comes as the corporation warns that public service media is facing a period of jeopardy. The figures show a further fall in licence fee-paying households, alongside changing audience habits and continued financial pressures as charter renewal negotiations continue. Rhodri Talfan Davies, the BBC's Deputy Director-General, sets out the corporation's position. Broadcaster and author Iain Dale reflects on a career spanning politics, publishing, blogging and radio following the publication of his memoir Have I Said Too Much?. The interview covers the enduring appeal of the radio phone-in, the influence of social media on broadcasting, and changing relationships between politicians and traditional media.Presenter: Katie Razzall Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Content Producer: Lucy Wai Researcher: Ruth Waites Technical Coordinator: Samuel Iyiola Sound: Allyson Purcell-Davis
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  The President's Path: US-Iran conflict reignites 10.07.2026 16мин

  Sumi Somaskanda, Caitriona Perry and Bernd Debusmann examine the renewed fighting between the US and Iran, and the potential political implications for Americans and President Trump’s political future. Every weekend, The President’s Path explores the state of US politics - in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what’s on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: path@bbc.co.ukSenior producer: James Kraft  Editor: James Kraft  Executive producer: Anna Holford
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  The Media Show: Farage's fight with the Media 09.07.2026 22мин

  Nigel Farage has accused parts of the British media of mounting a politically motivated campaign against him after reports about his financial interests prompted an investigation by Parliament's Standards Commissioner. Gabriel Pogrund, editor of the Insight investigations team at The Sunday Times, outlines the reporting behind their story, while journalist Michael Crick and Brendan O'Neill of Spiked discuss the political and journalistic issues.A High Court judgement has dismissed all claims brought by Prince Harry and six other claimants against Associated Newspapers over allegations that journalists used unlawful methods to obtain information. The ruling marks a significant moment in the long-running legal and political legacy of Britain's phone-hacking and press intrusion scandals. Susan Aslan, media lawyer, outlines the legal significance of the judgement. Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Producer: Tim Bano Content producer: Lucy Wai Researcher: Ruth Waites Technical co-ordinator: Mark Dickins Sound engineer: Sarlota Hadroj Touzimska
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  The President's Path: America at 250 03.07.2026 24мин

  Sumi Somaskanda, Caitriona Perry and Bernd Debusmann reflect on where America is at, 250 years in. The team discusses a visit to the Great American State Fair in Washington DC, gauges the mood with the latest polling, and evaluates what the American dream means as we look ahead to the future.Every weekend, The President’s Path explores the state of US politics — in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what’s on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: path@bbc.co.uk Senior Producer: James Kraft Editor: James Kraft Executive Producer: Anna Holford
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  The Media Show: The Murray brothers' media game 02.07.2026 22мин

  Wimbledon is under way and some of the sport's biggest names are increasingly becoming media businesses in their own right. Jamie Murray has joined the BBC's Wimbledon coverage as an analysis expert while launching a new YouTube channel, The Set, with his brother Andy. Jamie Murray explains why they decided to create their own platform, and Catherine Whitaker, co-host of The Tennis Podcast, looks at what more player-led media means for broadcasters and sports journalism.Netflix has added two more seasons of the Russian children's cartoon Masha and the Bear, prompting criticism from Ukraine. The country's Centre for Countering Disinformation says the programme is a form of Russian soft power, while its producers have previously said they receive no funding from the Russian state. Oleksandra Zhylina, a master's student at Charles University specialising in propaganda and disinformation, outlines the concerns. Clare Denning, Russia specialist at BBC Monitoring, explains why the debate has grown.More journalists are leaving traditional news organisations to build their own subscription businesses. Lachlan Cartwright has reported for the New York Post, Vanity Fair and The Hollywood Reporter before launching Breaker Media. Lachlan Cartwright explains why he went independent and how he is building a media business around exclusive reporting.This audio was edited on 2 July to add: “Since the programme was recorded, a spokesperson for the producers of Masha and the Bear has been quoted in news coverage as saying that their client ‘categorically rejects the false and defamatory suggestion that Masha and the Bear is associated with propaganda’.Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Producer: Lucy Wai Assistant Producer: Tim Bano Researcher: Ruth Waites Technical Coordinator: Akik Rahman Sound: Robin Schroder
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  The President's Path: Has Trump taken over America’s big birthday? 26.06.2026 25мин

  Sumi Somaskanda, Caitriona Perry and Bernd Debusmann look at the preparations and events to mark America’s 250th anniversary. As the country looks to the big day, there are questions around just who is throwing the party – and what this milestone looks like, in the context of big current political divisions. Every weekend, The President’s Path explores the state of US politics - in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what’s on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: path@bbc.co.uk Senior producer: Ellyn Duncan Editor: James Kraft Executive producer: Anna Holford
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  Unspun World: Has Britain become ungovernable? 26.06.2026 26мин

  John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC’s unparalleled range of experts across the world, examines the factors behind the latest resignation of a British prime minister, explores the state of US politics and society on the eve of the country’s 250th birthday, and analyses the results of the Colombian presidential election.Producer: Kate Cornell Executive producer: Benedick Watt Commissioning editors: Silvia Costeloe and Paul Royall
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  The Media Show: How Shop workers became content 25.06.2026 22мин

  The shop workers union USDAW says the filming of retail staff by customers for social media has become increasingly common, with concerns about videos being uploaded without workers' consent. The issue is highlighted by the experience of a shop worker who appeared in content created by former television presenter Michael Barrymore, now a social media creator with millions of followers across TikTok and YouTube. Jayne Allport, National Officer at USDAW, outlines the union's concerns. The resignation of Sir Keir Starmer has intensified scrutiny of Labour's relationship with the media, with attention turning to Andy Burnham as a potential future leader. Burnham's years as Mayor of Greater Manchester have provided a public record of his dealings with journalists. Joshi Herrmann, founder and editor of The Mill, reflects on Burnham's approach to media engagement. Online romance fraud continues to affect victims around the world, with organised groups in Nigeria responsible for many high-profile scams. A new book traces the origins and evolution of the so-called Yahoo Boys, named after an early generation of fraudsters who relied on Yahoo email accounts. Carlos Barragán, a New York Times reporter, recounts his reporting from Lagos. BBC Radio 4 Long Wave closes this month, bringing to an end a century of long-wave broadcasting in the UK. The network's transmitters at Droitwich, Westerglen and Burghead are due to cease operation as listening habits continue to shift towards digital platforms. Jeffrey Borinsky, broadcasting historian, reflects on the history and legacy of Long Wave radio.Production team Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Content Producer: Lucy Wai Apprentice researcher: Cameron Taylor Technical Coordinator: Luke Sweeney Sound: Mark Pickett
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  The President's Path: What did America actually win in the Iran deal? 19.06.2026 25мин

  Caitríona Perry is joined by White House reporter Bernd Buzman and CBS News political director Fin Gomez to unpack the memorandum of understanding with Iran, signed with a flourish by President Trump before G7 leaders at Versailles. With a 60-day clock now running toward bigger talks, they ask what America has actually gained — given the Strait of Hormuz was open and petrol cheaper before Operation Epic Fury began.The team digs into the unresolved nuclear question, the daunting task of diluting Iran's enriched uranium on a timeline that took the Obama administration 20 months, and the politics driving it all: JD Vance positioning himself as the face of the deal, midterm pressures and an uneasy MAGA base.They also weigh a renewed push on Ukraine, rumours swirling around Cuba, and a strikingly public rift between Trump and Netanyahu. Could the flashpoint in Lebanon yet unravel the whole Iran deal?
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  Unspun World: Winners and losers of the US-Iran agreement 19.06.2026 26мин

  John Simpson, in discussion with the BBC’s unparalleled range of experts across the world, examines the new deal aimed at ending the war between the US and Iran, analyses Ukraine’s bid to join the European Union, and looks at the worsening situation for women in Afghanistan under Taliban rule.
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  The Media Show: Citizen journalists at protests - reporting or activism? 18.06.2026 22мин

  Following the sentencing of 13 people for violent disorder during protests in Southampton, attention has turned to the role of content creators who film demonstrations and public disorder. The judge cited the usefulness of footage filmed by so-called “citizen journalists”. Siddharth Venkataramakrishnan of the Institute for Strategic Dialogue and content creator Wesley Winter give their perspective on the issue. The BBC has begun setting out changes as part of plans to deliver significant savings across the organisation. The measures include the closure of several programmes across radio and current affairs output, alongside wider reductions in staffing. Jonathan Munro, Global Director of BBC News, outlines the changes. Norma Percy has spent years getting to the heart of some of the biggest moments in recent history. Her documentaries have been celebrated for talking directly to the people who made the decisions. As the BBC airs her latest film - about Brexit - she reflects on her storied career and the future of documentary making.Presenters: Katie Razzall and Ros Atkins Producers: Lisa Jenkinson and Lucy Wai Researcher: Ruth Waites Technical Coordinator: Jack Sharp Sound: Rebecca Millar