This week on Somewhere on Earth; The Global Tech
Podcast…

When the Internet turns against you. We hear how LGBTQ+
communities across Africa are being targeted with horrific abuse on social
platforms – while Big Tech looks the other way. We speak to Access Now’s Jaimee Kokonya on why being online is an act of bravery.

And… is your AI assistant spying on you? Research from University College London shows some popular browser extensions are harvesting
your most sensitive data. Professor Anna Maria Mandalari reveals which
extensions failed the test, which one passed, and how to protect yourself.



The tech stories that matter with Gareth Mitchell and Ania Lichtarowicz.

Out this Tuesday at 2100BST.



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Brazil Declared War on Phone Theft — Should the UK Do the Same?
The UK’s battle against mobile phone theft is being hindered by a standoff between law enforcement and major handset manufacturers. Police want to use IMEI blocking to quickly disable stolen devices, but Apple and Google disagree on the approach. The deadlock raises questions about privacy, data access, and the most effective way to render stolen phones useless.  While the UK remains stuck in debate, Brazil’s major players - from telecoms to government agencies - are working together to tackle phone theft head-on. Sao Paulo-based tech company Qintess has developed a multi-layered system: detecting cloned devices through call
pattern analysis, a secure app that lets users remotely lock stolen phones,
and a restricted IMEI list that instantly renders devices unusable. The result is a coordinated, nationwide shield against phone crime.

 

The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert Ania Lichtarowicz

 

More on this week's stories:

Safe Cell Phone App

Qintess

Apple and Google clash with Police over mobile phone theft



Production Manager: Liz Tuohy

Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz

For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/



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GigU: Empowering ride-hailing and delivery drivers to take back control
In Brazil, many ride-hailing and food delivery drivers face the harsh reality of low earnings — sometimes even paying to work. GigU is changing that. The startup’s app acts as a “smart co-pilot,” showing drivers whether a job will actually be profitable before they accept it. Co-founder Luiz Neves shares how this technology is helping gig workers earn more, gain independence, and stand up to industry giants — even sparking lawsuits from the very companies it’s challenging.


Voz Futura: Brazilian football star leads movement for positive news
The 24/7 news cycle can feel overwhelmingly negative, but a new Brazilian media venture wants to rewrite that narrative. Voz Futura, co-founded by professional international footballer Danilo Luiz and journalist Pedro Pirim Rodrigues, is dedicated to replacing damaging headlines with stories of hope, achievement, and progress. By
leveraging storytelling and technology, they aim to shift public perception, inspire communities, and make the media landscape a healthier space for all.



The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert Angelica Mari.

 

More on this week's stories:

GigU

Voz Futura

 

Production Manager: Liz Tuohy

Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz



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Medsi AI: The selfie and voice scan revolutionizing healthcare in Mexico

In this week’s episode, we explore an innovative health platform called Medsi AI that can measure your heart rate and assess mental well-being - just from a one-minute selfie and a short voice recording. Developed in Mexico to address a health system struggling to meet the needs of an ageing population, Medsi AI is working alongside the government to expand access to care. With over half of healthcare spending coming directly from individuals and millions without coverage, this cutting-edge tool offers a glimpse into the future of affordable, accessible health diagnostics.



Maes Negras: Creating opportunities for black mothers in Brazil

We also shine a light on Maes Negras, a Brazilian platform dedicated to helping black mothers secure employment, gain mentorship, and grow their businesses. Founded by Thais Lopes, the initiative offers a one-stop solution for career support, skill development, and networking opportunities. In a country where systemic barriers still limit opportunities for many, Maes Negras is building a pathway for economic empowerment and long-term success for one of Brazil’s most underrepresented communities.

The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert Angelica Mari.

 

More on this week's stories:

MedsiAI

Maes Negras

 

Production Manager: Liz Tuohy

Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz



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Blockchain Revolution: How the Hive community is bringing clean water to villages in Ghana

This week we meet McSamm who fell violently ill from contaminated water in rural Ghana. He didn’t just recover though, he revolutionized access to clean water. Partnering with Hive’s blockchain community, he raised funds to install 22 boreholes in remote villages. These often solar-powered systems (minimizing electricity costs) now deliver safe water to 300,000+ people - with villagers maintaining ownership and young people learning blockchain skills for future projects.



Jungle Guardians: Greenbug’s AI sound sensors battle illegal mining & wildfires in South America’s remote rainforests

Unusual noises and AI are stopping illegal logging and saving crops in Brazil. We met Greenbug founder Marcelo Vieira at Web Summit Rio and he revealed how Greenbug’s AI-powered acoustic sensors listen 24/7 for threats in ecosystems like the Amazon. These ‘digital guardians’ detect illegal mining equipment, smuggling boats, wildfires, and even invasive species - sending real-time alerts with geolocation to rangers and farmers before disasters escalate.



The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert is Ania Lichtarowicz.

 

Production Manager: Liz Tuohy

Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz

For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/

*(P.S. Got a story like Steve Clark’s? WhatsApp us: +44 7486 329 484)*



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No Internet for a year: Why Equatorial Guinea has kept Annobón island offline

For 12 months, the people of Annobón, an island province of Equatorial Guinea, have lived in a digital blackout - cut off from the world with no explanation. Why would a government deliberately silence its own citizens? In this episode of Somewhere on Earth, we speak with Tutu Alicante (EG Justice) and Felicia Anthonio (Access Now) about the shocking reality of one of the world’s longest-running internet shutdowns. Digital rights groups are now demanding action - but will the world listen? 



From oil giant to climate ally? How Petrobras is unlocking emissions data for the world

What if the key to fighting climate change wasn’t just more data - but making it accessible to everyone? In a groundbreaking partnership, Brazil’s Petrobras and tech hub CESAR have transformed dense emissions reports into an interactive public dashboard tracking G20 nations’ climate progress. Could making this complex scientific data easily accessible and understandable bring real change?

💡 Want more investigative journalism? Support Somewhere on Earth for $10US/month at Pod.fan or Buy Us a Coffee! The best way to help? Share this episode with a friend.

The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert is Ania Lichtarowicz.

 

More on this week's stories:

Access Now – Keep it On Campaign - Annobón

EG Justice

Petrobas/CESAR Climate Data Dashboard

 

Production Manager: Liz Tuohy

Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz

For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/



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Bridechilla x Somewhere on Earth - Episode 2

What happens when Bridechilla meets Somewhere on Earth? Tech, tradition, and a touch of tulle collide in the second of two special crossover episodes, exploring how technology is transforming weddings around the world. 

In Episode 2, hosts Gareth Mitchell and Leah Haslage dive into intimacy tech, virtual reality ceremonies and even hologram guests with award-winning body-tech pioneer and regular Somewhere on Earth studio expert Professor Ghislaine Boddington.  You’ll hear how today’s weddings are blending real-world love with digital innovation - from heartbeat-sharing smart rings to 360° livestreamed vows, and NFT wedding certificates in the metaverse.

Plus, a special field report from India with Somewhere on Earth studio expert  Chhavi Sachdev, revealing how the wedding tech boom is revolutionizing big fat Indian weddings.

The show is presented by Leah Haslage and Gareth Mitchell.

More on this week's stories:

Ghislaine Boddington

Bridechilla



Production Manager: Liz Tuohy

Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz



For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/



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What happens when one of the world’s top wedding podcasts teams up with a global tech show? Magic. Or at least a stress-free wedding planned with #AI.

In this special crossover episode of Bridechilla and Somewhere on Earth: The Global Tech Podcast, hosts Leah Haslage and Gareth Mitchell join forces to explore how artificial intelligence and tech tools are revolutionizing the wedding experience.

From AI-assisted guest lists to ChatGPT powered etiquette fixes, you'll learn:


How to use AI to streamline planning, clean up guest addresses, and handle tricky family conversations.



Budget-friendly tech hacks to keep your wedding spending in check.



How to build a custom playlist, write a speech with ChatGPT, and create your own wedding website or app.


Our guest Jaime Coast, an accomplished artist and wedding stationer, shares where AI shines (and where it shouldn’t) in design and planning.

Somewhere on Earth regular studio expert Angelica Mari brings us a report from Web Summit Rio, where she chats with Carolina Kia Takada about the new WhatsApp wedding AI assistant she has created, that’s helping couples plan their big day with ease.

Stay Tuned: In the next episode, we dive into intimate tech and weddings in the metaverse. Don’t miss it.



The programme is presented by Leah Haslage and Gareth Mitchell.

 

More on this week's stories:

⁠Cotton and Bow⁠

⁠Carolina Kia Takada⁠
⁠Bridechilla⁠

 

Production Manager: Liz Tuohy

Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz



For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/



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Meta’s Submarine Cable Megaproject

Meta’s Project Waterworth isn’t just another undersea cable - it’s an 50,000km+ behemoth set to link continents, with India’s data centres as a key hub. Doctoral researcher Anniki Mikelsaar from the Oxford Internet Institute breaks down its geopolitical stakes: Will it dodge regulatory battles? The project also raises questions about regulation and security. Who controls these underwater data highways? As demand for low-latency connections grows, Meta’s investment could redefine how the world stays online - and who profits from it.



AI vs. Diabetic Foot Ulcers

Diabetes can silently attack nerves, leading to foot ulcers that risk amputation. Enter LookInside, an AI app that diagnoses ulcers in seconds using smartphone scans. Founder Dr. Hermilio Carvalho explains how it could slash global healthcare costs—and why it’s part of a wave of AI tools fighting diabetes’ invisible threats.

Tinder’s double dating revolution

Swipe culture just got safer: Tinder’s Double Date lets users’ team up with a friend to match with pairs. Gareth cheers it as a no-brainer for safety, while Chhavi wonders: Could this kill awkward first-date small talk? Either way, it’s a bold step towards reimagining digital dating.



The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert is Chhavi Sachdev.



More on this week's stories:

Meta’s submarine cable – the longest ever

LookInside – Diagnosing diabetic foot ulcers with AI

Tinder Double Dating



For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/



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The rising energy cost of AI & how tech impacts sustainability

The growing demand for AI comes with a staggering energy price tag. Research by Alex de Vries reveals that AI could consume nearly half of global data centre power by the end of 2025, surpassing even cryptocurrency mining. As models like DeepSeek AI advance, so does their electricity consumption, raising urgent questions about sustainability. How can tech companies balance innovation with environmental responsibility? And could policy changes or more efficient hardware help reduce AI’s carbon footprint? Digiconomist Alex De Vries is on the show.



Fighting food waste with tech: The app rescuing surplus meals

Startups like Food to Save are tackling another global crisis: food waste. By connecting restaurants, bakeries and takeaways with unsold meals to people who need them, the app turns nearly expired - but perfectly safe - food into affordable "Surprise Bags." Could this model work worldwide? From Kenya’s food waste challenges to AI predicting food insecurity using satellite data, innovative solutions are emerging. Hear from Food to Save’s co-founder Lucas Infante on how tech can help reduce waste—one meal at a time.



The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert is Wairimu Gitahi.

 

More on this week's stories:

AI power demand rapidly escalating

Food to Save



Production Manager: Liz Tuohy

Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz



For the PodExtra version of the show please subscribe via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/



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If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

 

Contact us by email: [email protected]

 Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484

 

Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World
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