Guests on the podcast discuss a range of interesting topics, from the Church of England's potential apology for Christianity to private landowners as conservationists, ayahuasca experiences in Colombia, warnings against pathological niceness in immigration debates, and a play at the Olivier about Nye Bevan.

David Butterfield, a former Classics teacher at Cambridge, shares insights on the troubling decline of university education, critiquing administrative influences and grade inflation. Author Philip Womack recounts his experiences with university bureaucracy, while Kate Andrews discusses Trump's comedic revival, emphasizing his unique rhetorical style. Philip Collins adds depth on Trump's humor in politics, and Jack Marsh reveals how AI is transforming Delftware ceramics, merging tradition with technology for innovative artistic expression.

Kate Andrews, a political journalist for The Spectator, joins the discussion to dissect the UK's upcoming spending review. She highlights the Chancellor's more personal approach to fiscal policy and his focus on tackling waste while safeguarding essential services like the NHS. The conversation dives into the historical context of austerity, the internal dynamics within the Labour Party regarding budget critiques, and the global trends favoring efficient government spending. Andrews offers a compelling analysis of the implications for public trust and economic confidence.

Katy Balls and Kate Andrews discuss the recent leadership interviews, highlighting audience frustration with Sunak and Starmer's responses on policy, taxes, and leadership potential. They also analyze public perception of the Partygate scandal handling and the challenges facing Rishi Sunak amidst current world events.

In this discussion, analyst Kate Andrews dives into the whirlwind of 'Kamalamania' since Kamala Harris's candidacy emerged. She critiques the authenticity of the hype, particularly spotlighting how platforms like TikTok fuel this frenzy. The conversation also tackles the complexities of converting social media buzz into actual voter support. Andrews illuminates the dynamic between Harris and Biden and speculates on potential debates with Trump, emphasizing how public perception is shaped by both cringe-worthy moments and relatable gaffes in today's political arena.

Natasha Feroze discusses calls for Joe Biden to step down, Kamala Harris potential implications, and the J.D. Vance-Trump economic policies. They analyze the support for Biden and Harris, speculate on future plans, and explore the transformation of the Republican Party into the Trump party.

Andy is joined by Ian Smith, Holly Walsh, Andy Parsons and from The Spectator, Kate Andrews. This week the panel discuss the war in Ukraine one year on, Keir Starmer's missions, and the editing of Dahl.Hosted and written by Andy Zaltzman with additional material from Alice Fraser, Catherine Brinkworth, Jade Gebbie, and Will Hall.Producer: Sam Holmes Executive Producer: Richard Morris Production Co-ordinator: Becky Carewe-Jeffries Sound Editor: Marc Willcox

Katy Balls chats with Kate Andrews, an economic analyst known for her sharp insights on fiscal policy, and Michael Gove, a veteran politician with a wealth of experience in government. They unpack Rachel Reeves' first Labour budget in 14 years, which includes a staggering £40 billion tax increase. Key discussions focus on the hike in National Insurance, changes to capital gains tax, and the freeze on income tax thresholds. The duo critiques whether these measures will truly stimulate growth and how public trust might be eroded amid these tough fiscal decisions.

In this discussion, political journalist and commentator Kate Andrews shares her insights on the upcoming budget and its implications for Labour's first year in office. With the Prime Minister warning of ‘painful decisions,’ expectations are low. Andrews dives into the anticipated fiscal measures, Labour’s proposed tax changes, and the delicate nature of their political strategy. Additionally, she touches on the suspension of MP Mike Amesbury and what it could mean for Labour’s reputation and potential by-elections.

Join Kate Andrews, The Spectator's Economics Editor, Tim Stanley, a Telegraph political commentator, James Kanagasooriam, a skilled pollster, and Nigel Farage, the leader of Reform UK and Trump ally, as they dive into the electrifying climate of the upcoming US election. They explore the shifting dynamics of Kamala Harris and Trump's newfound momentum. Discover insights into how humor and entertainment shape Trump's appeal, the complexities of voter demographics, and the implications for UK-US relations. It's a riveting discussion that blends politics with personal anecdotes!