What happens when we pause in the midst of the news stream – and give the people we all have an opinion about time and space to explain themselves? This is explored by host and journalist Abdel Aziz Mahmoud in “Spotlight,” Podimo's new weekly interview format. Here, the microphone is placed in front of the people who currently shape the media landscape – and who make Denmark think, share, and discuss.

This week's guest in the spotlight

Each week, Abdel invites a controversial guest to the studio – a person who is in the middle of a debate, has become the center of public interest, or in some way occupies our thoughts. These are people we know from headlines and comment sections, but who either do not speak out, or perhaps have said too much. In “Spotlight,” they have the opportunity to nuance, explain, regret – or stand firm.

Among the first guests is entrepreneur and influencer Cathrine Wichmand, who has been in the spotlight over the past week and the so-called diversity consultant, Joan Rang Christensen, who got caught in a shitstorm but chose not to comment – until now. Both articulate their stories, how it is to be at the center of public attention – and the dilemmas and human consequences that it brings.

Experience from “Dato” carried forward. Abdel brings the experiences from his time as the host of the popular news format “Dato” with him – a program that built a dedicated listener base with its ability to combine timeliness and reflection. The most important tools and lessons from here are now carried forward into the weekly format “Spotlight.”

“Even though I have been a journalist for over 20 years, I am currently speechless at the speed and direction that a media storm can develop. In just a few days, social media can both start and end a career. I am curious about what we can actually learn when the storm has settled?” says Abdel Aziz Mahmoud.

With his journalistic experience, his ability to ask the tough questions and create intimacy in the studio, Abdel invites listeners right up close to those who are shaping the debate in Denmark right now.

“Spotlight” is released every Wednesday at Podimo. The first episode will be available from April 24, 2025.

You can listen to the podcast on Podimo or on your preferred audio platform.