The Audio Long Read Inside the rise and fall of Podemos: ‘We believed we had a stake in the future’
Jan 5, 2026
Explore the meteoric rise of the leftist party from Spain's anti-austerity protests to a governing coalition. Hear a firsthand account of personal attacks, media scandals, and the internal conflicts that shaped its journey. Delve into the leadership style that secured early victories yet ultimately constrained growth. Discover the lessons learned from their fall, including the consequences of neglecting local organization. Reflect on the bittersweet goodbye from politics and the lessons on the challenges of maintaining momentum in political movements.
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From Activist To Brussels Advisor
- Lilith Verstrynge describes joining Podemos as a fresh graduate and working for its MEPs in Brussels.
- She learned policy on the job and felt motivated by the promise of doing "real politics."
Tabloid Smear Backfired
- Verstrynge recounts a smear that claimed she was hired because she was Pablo Iglesias' lover.
- The attack backfired and she was later placed high on the Madrid regional ballot.
Sleeping In Puerta Del Sol
- She describes sleeping in the Puerta del Sol during the 2011 Indignados protests and joining Podemos in 2014.
- The movement made politics feel urgent and convinced many young people they had a stake in the future.