Pick of the week
Boiling Point
The LA Times was among the billionaire-backed news outlets that refused to endorse a candidate in the run-up to the US election, leading to fears about Trump’s grip on the press. Gladly, its new show does not pull its punches when it comes to his disregard for the planet. Climate columnist Sammy Roth and expert guests discuss how California – and the world – can face up to policy rollbacks, and avoid disasters like the devastating LA fires. Hannah J Davies
Widely available, episodes weekly
British Scandal: Julian Assange
More not-so-serious true crime, with Alice Levine and Matt Forde tackling the story of the WikiLeaks founder. If you’re looking for a proper primer then steer clear. But if you want something irreverent then this pod – complete with gags about Chelsea Manning and some questionable Aussie accents – may appeal. HJD
Widely available, episodes weekly
We Started Here
This new series from EastEnder Lacey Turner highlights the talent who had their first breaks in soaps, from multiple Bafta-winner Jimmy McGovern to A Very British Scandal writer Sarah Phelps. Ex-colleague Jessie Wallace is the first to chat about how people still shout Kat Slater catchphrases at her in the street. It could really do with explaining what it’s talking about for non-soap fans a bit better, but it’s still a fun listen. AD
Widely available, episodes weekly
We Came to the Forest
This true-crime series tells the story of when Georgia police shot dead environmental protestor Tortuguita, real name Manuel Terán, through immersive, personal accounts from those close to the event. It starts with an emotive chat with Vienna, their ex-partner. Alexi Duggins
Widely available, episodes weekly
Scratch & Win
Outside Las Vegas, gambling was an illegal “realm of gangsters” in the US until a few decades ago. Ian Coss explores the unlikely story of the most successful state lottery – Massachusetts – and its transformation from vice to something that the US and its government collectively decided to accept, starting with the mafia in 70s Boston. Hollie Richardson
Widely available, episodes weekly
