The Christian Science Monitor Daily Podcast

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Friday, October 23, 2026 - The Christian Science Monitor Daily Oct 23, 2026

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International observers are unlikely to have a direct effect on how U.S. elections are run. But their presence can be steadying and their analysis can help voters understand what went right and how the country’s electoral system could improve. Also: today’s stories, including why Israel’s election choices will be felt far beyond its borders; a look at how states and other nations offer a roadmap as childcare costs climb; and why side hustles are changing the way young people in the UK see work and careers. Join the Monitor's Linda Feldmann for today's news.

Thursday, October 22, 2026 - The Christian Science Monitor Daily Oct 22, 2026

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Most Americans support regulating artificial intelligence in areas such as safety and transparency. But the White House favors development over restrictions, and Congress hasn’t acted on AI, putting the focus for now on a commitment by leading companies to establish standards and guardrails. Also: Today’s stories, including why Arab voters may shape Israel’s next government coalition; how Somaliland’s mission to earn recognition from other countries could be turning into a case of “be careful what you wish for”; and a look at what the youth in India’s democracy say they won’t compromise on. Join the Monitor's Tim Backshall for today's news.

Wednesday, October 21, 2026 - The Christian Science Monitor Daily Oct 21, 2026

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Protests against the increasing cost of living and benefit reforms seem common in Europe these days. Experts say that it is as much about voters’ distrust in government as it is a sign of failing institutions – a subtle but important distinction. Also: today’s stories, including why some seeing interference in Brazil’s tight presidential election are pointing fingers at the United States; how Elon Musk's campaign donations echo and differ from those of Gilded Age tycoons; and a look at a stained glass maker who is sharing the knowledge of an ancient Damascene art form. Join the Monitor's Chris Sherman for today's news.

Tuesday, October 20, 2026 - The Christian Science Monitor Daily Oct 20, 2026

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The latest round of student protests in France reached a new peak after peaceful Saturday marches turned violent overnight. Though political leaders are trading blame for the rioting, it is clear that the French public is broadly unhappy with the state of their country. Also: today’s stories, including why the AI industry's race for influence includes $100 million in campaign cash; the possibility of holding a new constitutional convention; and how cities in India are responding to tech firms building AI-ready data centers. Join the Monitor's Ira Porter for today's news.

Saturday, October 17, 2026 - The Christian Science Monitor Daily Oct 17, 2026

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No one is likely to be happier about President Donald Trump’s latest apparent fallout with Ukraine than Russia. But the Kremlin is taking the shift with a grain of salt, even as it hopes the war might have permanently turned a corner. Also: today’s stories, including what the Iran war reveals about the successful use of power; a look at the gourd growers raising giant pumpkins in New England; and a review of Yiyun Li’s historical novel that examines the nature of ambition. Join the Monitor's Ira Porter for today's news.

Friday, October 16, 2026 - The Christian Science Monitor Daily Oct 16, 2026

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As U.S. leaders become increasingly open about patronage-style politics, Mexico is trying to shed its longtime system of clientelism. Its experience shows that transactional relationships evolve rather than fully disappear. Also: today’s stories, including how US intel and Starlink outages leave Ukraine vulnerable to Russian attack; why the US government is tightening the flow of highly skilled foreign workers in the tech industry; and how perseverance drives Angel Reese – and the WNBA – into the 2026 championship. Join the Monitor's Clay Collins for today's news.

Thursday, October 15, 2026 - The Christian Science Monitor Daily Oct 15, 2026

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The Jerusalem holy site known to Jews as the Temple Mount and to Muslims as the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound has been governed for many years by an understanding between Israel and Jordan. That long-standing arrangement is now at risk of falling apart. Also: today’s stories, including why President Trump finds his hands mostly tied while trying to curb soaring fuel costs; how Minnesota could serve as an example as New York considers changing its sexual assault law; and what’s behind the raid on the home of Democratic Rep. Ilhan Omar. Join the Monitor's Matthew Bell for today's news.

Wednesday, October 14, 2026 - The Christian Science Monitor Daily Oct 14, 2026

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The Houthi attacks on Saudi airports that killed Muslim pilgrims and shut down air travel to the kingdom represent the first real threats to Saudi civilians’ sense of security in many years, and have led to rising calls for decisive military action in Yemen. Also: today’s stories, including why thousands of students in France are protesting about what they see as a failing education system; how Thunder Bay is emerging as a symbol of Canada’s drive to strengthen its economic independence; and a look at the impact of the Memphis Safe Task Force after one year in Memphis, Tennessee. Join the Monitor's Chris Sherman for today's news.

Saturday, October 10, 2026 - The Christian Science Monitor Daily Oct 10, 2026

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In Afghanistan, courageous teachers and students are finding ways to educate girls right under the Taliban’s nose. These underground networks reflect Afghans’ hopes for a better future. Also: today’s stories, including the recent issues that are reigniting debate over the role of the death penalty in the U.S. justice system; how an ICE shooting in New York highlights the varying levels of cooperation that immigration officials have achieved across the United States; and a look at one mechanic-turned-wood-carver in Taiwan who found creativity amid crisis. Join the Monitor's Clay Collins for today's news.

Friday, October 9, 2026 - The Christian Science Monitor Daily Oct 09, 2026

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Some members of Congress have been criticized for staying on the job so long that they lose touch with issues affecting many Americans. Retirements and other departures, however, are opening the door for younger lawmakers who may prioritize different issues. Also: today’s stories, including why Russian gas isn’t getting pricier, but is getting harder to buy; why an alleged sexual assault at Cornell ignited a cultural firestorm; and a look at a Boston artist inviting neighbors to speak for the trees. Join the Monitor's Ira Porter for today's news.

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