Rory Stewart, a politician, diplomat, professor, explorer, and successful podcaster, discusses his highs and lows, including contemplating suicide due to a major mistake. He shares his verdicts on multiple Prime Ministers and his disillusionment with modern politics. The podcast also explores the challenges politicians face in navigating scandals and emphasizes the importance of empathy and resilience in difficult times. Stewart reflects on the unrealistic expectations placed on political leaders and the complexities they face. Lastly, the hosts discuss wisdom, power, humility, and offer support for those in need.
Being brutally honest about flaws is essential for achieving real change.
Navigating the middle ground between caution and scandalous outrage is a challenge for politicians.
Deep dives
The high expectations and counterproductivity of having high expectations
In the podcast, the conversation starts with discussing the high expectations that Rory Stewart has for himself and others. While some may view high expectations as a driving force, it is also acknowledged that they can sometimes be counterproductive. Stewart reflects on the importance of being brutally honest about what is wrong in order to achieve real change.
The danger of dismissing criticism and avoiding honest narratives
Stewart emphasizes the need to confront shortcomings and not shy away from pointing out flaws, even when it goes against the majority or challenges the status quo. He shares personal examples, such as his criticism of the government's handling of COVID-19 and his stance on Afghanistan, which were met with dismissal and negative labeling.
The challenges of public scrutiny and the impact on mental well-being
Stewart opens up about a low point in his career when he faced intense backlash and personal attacks from the media. He highlights the pressure and strain that politicians face under public scrutiny, leading to self-doubt, depression, and thoughts of self-harm. He also expresses empathy for others who experience public disgrace and the harsh treatment they often endure.
The realities of leadership and the limitations of change
Reflecting on his experience as a candidate for Conservative Party leadership, Stewart acknowledges the difficulty of effecting real change within the constraints of political systems. He questions the promises made by politicians, acknowledging that bold transformations are often unrealistic and that navigating the middle ground between cautious recitation and scandalous outrage is a challenge.
Rory Stewart is a man of many talents. He’s been a politician, diplomat, professor, explorer and now a highly-successful podcaster.In this conversation we talk about his highs and lows, and the shame he felt at his mistakes – one so bad he considered suicide.
He also gives his verdicts on the many Prime Ministers he’s worked with, explains why he’s so disillusioned with modern politics, and what we might do to make it better.
This episode was produced by Red Bicycle.
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode