The game's afoot! A new investigative podcast has sent shockwaves through the world of social media, exposing alleged Russian state interference in Western online spaces. 'Influenced: The Tenet Media Plot' is a six-part thriller that delves deep into the intricate web of a company revealed to be a front for the Kremlin – and its surprising connections to prominent right-wing commentators.
At the centre of the storm is Canadian YouTuber Lauren Southern, who shares her jaw-dropping experience of being unwittingly linked to the Russian-backed entity. Her candid reflections on feeling like a "dumb spy movie" participant are a gripping reminder that even in the digital age, human emotions can get caught up in the high-stakes game of geopolitics.
But 'Influenced' is just one of several new podcasts hitting the airwaves like a knockout punch. Another contender is 'SPLBERG', a true-crime tale that's as wild as it is nostalgic. This 90s-inspired podcast revisits the bizarre case of Jonathan Taylor Spielberg, who convinced his classmates he was Steven Spielberg's nephew – and gets exclusive access to the individual at its heart.
For foodies and industry insiders alike, 'Staying Open' offers a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges facing the UK's culinary scene. This intimate series of "kitchen table chats" with chefs and founders tackles everything from menu development to managing addiction in an industry often associated with excess.
Meanwhile, other new podcasts are making waves across different genres. 'The Last 12 Weeks' is a thought-provoking series that follows the final efforts of lawyers trying to prove the innocence of David Wood, sentenced to death in 1992 for multiple murders in Texas – and now facing an execution date. And 'First America', hosted by Cherokee Nation citizen Rebecca Nagle, shines a light on the often-overlooked contributions of Indigenous people to US history.
These podcasts are just a few of the many new releases vying for attention in this crowded landscape. With their unique perspectives and gripping storytelling, they're sure to keep you hooked – so grab your earbuds and get ready for the next big listen!