This Is Why cover art

This Is Why

This Is Why

By: Sky News
Listen for free

Season's Savings | £0.99/mo for 3 months

£5.99/mo after 3 months - terms apply. Cancel monthly
The world’s a pretty confusing place right now – so how do you make sense of it all? This Is Why  takes one story every day, explains how we got here and why it matters to you. Sky News’ Niall Paterson speaks to experts and correspondents from around the world, getting simple answers to some complex questions. Available every weekday afternoon. This Is Why is a Sky News podcast – if you have a question, contact us: why@sky.ukCopyright Sky News Daily Politics & Government
Episodes
  • Why is Ed Sheeran fighting for his reputation?
    Sep 25 2026

    Ed Sheeran is used to thousands of people singing his songs back at him. But last week, he found himself addressing his audience in a very different way.

    After Macklemore left Sheeran’s tour following his comments about the war in Gaza, other performers on the bill also pulled out. Sheeran returned to the stage in Philadelphia. Looking visibly upset, he addressed the crowd and apologised.

    But for a singer who has built his career on being the ‘nice guy’, can Ed Sheeran come back from this? Or has this controversy permanently damaged the image he’s spent years building?

    Niall Paterson is joined by musician and journalist John Robb.

    John’s memoir Punk Rock Ruined My Life is available to buy now.

    Have you got a question for Niall? Email us: why@sky.uk

    Show More Show Less
    17 mins
  • Why the RAF Fairford plot doesn’t add up
    Sep 28 2026

    Who are you more likely to believe, Donald Trump or a farmer from the Cotswolds?

    Five UK nationals have been arrested on suspicion of explosives and terrorism offences after a major incident was declared at an RAF airbase in Gloucestershire over the weekend.

    But they were later released on bail, as counter-terror police remain “open-minded” about whether the incident is linked to a foreign state such as Iran.

    So, why did the US president claim the group had been “under investigation” for a long time – while a local resident insists she was the one who alerted the police after spotting a group of masked men?

    What do we know about this investigation? And what does it tell us about how the UK is being targeted by proxies?

    Niall Paterson is joined by Sky’s home affairs editor Jason Farrell.

    Have you got a question for Niall? Email us: why@sky.uk

    Show More Show Less
    16 mins
  • Why is Trump pulling troops out of Iraq (while at war with Iran)?
    Sep 30 2026

    Since the fall of Saddam Hussein more than two decades ago, the US has had a near-continuous military presence in Iraq... until now.

    The last troops have been withdrawn, ending a process started by Joe Biden and endorsed by Donald Trump. But the timing of the departure has been questioned - with the US still at war with Iran.

    According to Iraqi security experts, the withdrawal could give Tehran and its proxies free rein, while also risking a comeback from the Islamic State terror group.

    So, why have Americans decided to leave Iraq now? And what will it mean for the future of the country - and stability of the wider region?

    Niall Paterson is joined by Sky's military analyst Robert Clark, who served in the British military in Iraq and Afghanistan.

    There is more exclusive analysis and content on the conflict in the Middle East on the new Sky News Defence Insider app.

    Sky News Defence Insider is a subscription app designed for audiences seeking deeper insight into defence, security and global affairs.

    Download and subscribe here.

    Paid subscription required for full access. UK only. 18+. T&Cs apply.

    Show More Show Less
    18 mins
adbl_web_anon_alc_button_suppression_t1
All stars
Most relevant
I watched the coverage on tv by Stuart and couldn’t believe what we were seeing. Words are inadequate & I find it hard to understand how we have come to this dire situation. I cannot praise the filming team enough for risking their own safety to making sure the world knows how horrendous the real situation is It was hard to watch and I have been moved to tears by the broadcasts & can only imagine how they must all be processing this. The filming was outstanding on every level & clearly amazing teamwork. I’ve never listened to a podcast before so thank you for inspiring me to find & listen to the extra story behind the scenes.

Outstanding coverage

Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.

I'm cutting down on my TV consumption and this podcast really keeps me in the loop. it's also really high quility. 5 stars from me!

Really good podcast

Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.