Peter Mandelson, a former Labour architect and political strategist, joins Polly McKenzie, ex-Director of Policy for Nick Clegg, and Danny Finkelstein, Tory Peer and Times columnist. They dive into whether blame-shifting is effective in politics, particularly for Starmer. The trio discusses the balance between addressing historical governance failures and presenting a forward-thinking narrative. They also tackle the surge in UK migration, analyzing its implications and the need for clear strategies in governance and accountability.

James Cleverly, a rising star in Tory politics, shares his vision for leadership, impressing with a compelling speech that captivates audience attention. Former Chancellor George Osborne offers keen insights from the Conservative Party Conference, while seasoned politicians Michael Gove and Danny Finkelstein provide sharp analysis of candidates' performances. They discuss the art of political oratory, the importance of emotional connections in speeches, and the optimistic strategies needed for successful governance. It's a lively debate on what it takes to lead the party.

This episode covers Labour's internal struggles, Trump's relationship with Putin, and the challenges of home ownership. The panelists add humor to discussions on Valentine's Day, NATO unity, and alternative career paths post-election. The podcast also delves into food delivery worker issues and creative housing solutions.