Jenny Mathers, a Senior Lecturer in International Politics, joins Latika Burke, a geopolitics journalist, and Julie Norman, a US politics expert, to discuss Zelensky's European tour aimed at securing Western military support amid an ongoing winter war. They delve into the strain on U.S.-Israel relations and the implications of recent conflicts in Gaza. Hasan Anderson reports live from Istanbul's Quality of Life Conference, while musician Kazzy Lambist shares inspirations from his latest album. TV critic Scott Bryan reviews the shifting landscape of entertainment and streaming.

Stephen Diel, a Russia analyst, shares compelling insights into the tragic Azerbaijan Airlines crash, discussing its impact and ongoing investigations. Scott Bryan, a TV critic, sheds light on holiday viewing trends, emphasizing the resurgence of UK cinema and the role of streaming services. They also touch on the intriguing political landscape, including military involvements overseas and Somalia's airport ambitions, while celebrating the legacies of notable figures like Manmohan Singh and M.T. Vasudevan Nair.

Suzanne Lynch, an expert on European politics, joins Andrew Bulkeley, who sheds light on Germany's political turmoil. They discuss how a potential Trump return could reshape EU dynamics, particularly regarding Ukraine. Scott Bryan analyzes the media's portrayal of these elections, while Samantha See shares insights from the World Architecture Festival. Greece's Minister of Tourism, Olga Kefalogianni, highlights innovative strategies for sustainable tourism amidst these geopolitical shifts.

Rick Astley, the iconic singer-songwriter behind "Never Gonna Give You Up," shares insights from his memoir, reflecting on his unexpected rise to fame. Barbara Walker, a Turner Prize-nominated artist, discusses her powerful exhibition "Being Here," capturing the Black British experience. TV critic Scott Bryan and columnist Sonia Sodha examine the 25th anniversary of "The West Wing," exploring its lasting impact on political culture and discourse. Tune in for personal stories, artistic journeys, and cultural reflections!

Professional TV critic Scott Bryan shares his favorite shows of 2024, excluding Shogun. Actors Ebon Moss-Bachrach and Lionel Boyce discuss The Bear. Topics include societal impact of TV dramas, successful series comebacks, and comparisons between Renegade and Baby Reindeer.