This BBC Global News Podcast delves into the US midterm elections, highlighting crucial topics like the economy and democracy, the impact of swing states, and the rise of disinformation campaigns tied to Russia. It also covers the recent dismissal of Israel's Defence Minister, the ongoing conflict in Lebanon that has led to significant civilian casualties, the conviction of a people-smuggling ring operating in the English Channel, and the auction of a piece of Queen Elizabeth II's wedding cake. To wrap up, the podcast shares a delightful story about the birth of a pygmy hippo at Edinburgh Zoo.