A fresh wave of audio drama and documentary series offers something for every listener this week, from intimate celebrity conversations to high-stakes political thrillers and investigations into how technology is reshaping creative industries.
What makes the Dominic Chianese podcast special?
The Sopranos actor Dominic Chianese, now 95, has teamed up with his son Dominic Chianese Jr, 62, to create an intimate father-and-son series that draws on decades of entertainment industry experience. According to podcast listings, the show launched on 1 September 2026 with three episodes, including one titled "The Sopranos Reunion: Artie, Charmaine & Uncle Junior Tell the Stories You Never Heard." The series offers candid reflections on Chianese Sr's career, including his revelation that he initially believed The Sopranos was intended as satire rather than serious drama, and how he approached his first scenes as crime boss Junior with comedic intent.
Chianese Sr speaks warmly of his experience working alongside James Gandolfini, describing the late actor as occupying
"the same stratosphere as Al Pacino ... acting with him was so easy because he was so real and so believable". The podcast is available widely with new episodes continuing to roll out.
Which new political thriller deserves attention?
The Rest Is … stable has produced a new action-driven political drama centred on escalating tensions between Britain and Russia. The creators have positioned the series as
"a British Bourne", blending dramatic storytelling with contributions from real-life defence specialists. This approach creates an immersive soundscape that deliberately blurs the boundary between fictional narrative and contemporary geopolitical reality. The writing quality and expert consultation elevate the listening experience beyond typical thriller fare. Episodes arrive weekly on widely available platforms.
How does the 9/11 and organised crime podcast connect to The Sopranos?
Michael Imperioli and Steve Schirripa, both known for their work on The Sopranos, have collaborated on UnderGround Zero: 9/11 & The Mob, a scripted drama exploring how New York's mafia networks capitalised on the chaos following the September 11 attacks. According to the production announcement, the series is based on an untold true story from the immediate aftermath of the attacks and was developed by iHeartPodcasts, Thoroughbred Studios, and Goldhawk Productions. The drama premiered on 1 September 2026 with all episodes available immediately. Imperioli takes on the role of Frank Sturiano, a courageous police officer, and his performance anchors a strong ensemble cast that elevates the material beyond typical crime fiction.
What does the weight and GLP-1 podcast explore?
Matter of Fat brings together journalist Rose Stokes, who has navigated personal weight challenges throughout her life, and Prof Giles Yeo, a scientist specialising in obesity research. The series examines how the emergence of GLP-1 medications has fundamentally altered contemporary attitudes toward weight management and body image. The pair dissect multiple dimensions of this shift, from the pharmacological mechanisms underlying these drugs to their aggressive marketing strategies and their own firsthand experiences of using them. The podcast takes a balanced, nuanced approach that avoids simplistic conclusions. New episodes arrive weekly across major platforms.
How is artificial intelligence affecting music composition for podcasts?
Mark Henry Phillips has spent two decades creating original music for acclaimed audio series including Serial and This American Life. His new investigation, available through Light Box, examines what artificial intelligence means for his profession and the broader creative landscape. Phillips addresses substantive concerns including copyright complications, the unsettling quality of much AI-generated audio, and the perspectives of musicians and producers directly affected by this technological transformation. The series launches on 15 September with a candid but measured tone that resists both hype and unnecessary pessimism, instead centring the voices of those navigating this significant industry shift.
What's coming next?
The Dominic & Junior podcast continues with additional episodes scheduled for 9 September 2026 and beyond. UnderGround Zero: 9/11 & The Mob is now fully available following its 1 September premiere. Matter of Fat and The Rest Is … stable both maintain weekly release schedules, while Light Box launches on 15 September 2026.
