

PoliticsJOE Podcast
PoliticsJOE
This is PoliticsJOE's podcast - the only explicitly anti-nonce podcast in the UK.Reporting on British politics with a sense of humour, the podcast is a recorded version of the conversations we have after work.So pull up a stool, pour yourself a cold one, and laugh through the misery alongside us. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Dec 19, 2025 • 26min
Labour Minister slates Tories for failing grooming gang victims | Josh MacAlister interview
Josh MacAlister, the UK's Children's Minister and former head of a major care system review, dives into the newly launched Child Protection Authority aimed at boosting national accountability. He discusses the importance of multi-agency collaboration to spot risks early and the creation of a register for home-educated children. MacAlister reveals a £2.4 billion investment for social care and critiques tech companies for inadequate responses to online grooming. He also emphasizes the urgent need for systemic reforms in the care system to protect vulnerable children.

Dec 18, 2025 • 46min
Ian Hislop reviews the chaos of 2025
As another year draws to a close, we are joined for another therapy session by none other than Ian Hislop.The editor of Private Eye took time out of his busy schedule to run through the insanity that has been the year in politics.From the rise of Nigel Farage's Reform and Zack Polanski's Green Party, to the complete and utter collapse in support for Keir Starmer's Labour government, this year in British politics gives ample ground for Ian to reflect on the year that has been.Elsewhere the royals have had a year to forget with Andrew losing all of his titles for his friendship with Jeffrey Epstein. Another Epstein link had Britain's Ambassador to the US lose his job, even though Peter Mandelson certainly had a mutual friend with Donald Trump through his meetings with the New York financier.Ian also gives his take on how the fiasco that was the founding of Jeremy Corbyn and Zarah Sultana's Your Party, and how Donald Trump has managed to alienate the globe by throwing the might of the White House around on the world stage.Subscribe to How to Rebuild Britain now: https://linktr.ee/howtorebuildbritain Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 17, 2025 • 26min
Pressure piles on Starmer as strikes go ahead | PoliticsJOE reacts to PMQs
The discussion kicks off with a light-hearted take on the PMQs, filled with puns and sharp barbs. The panel critiques Kemi Badenoch's attacks on Keir Starmer regarding union influence amid looming doctor strikes. They delve into the implications of recent union leadership changes and analyze the motives behind ongoing strikes, highlighting public sympathy challenges. The conversation shifts to economic pressures on young workers, inflation impacts, and the contentious debate over banning strikes. Hunger strikes in prisons are also raised, sparking concerns over welfare and media indifference.

Dec 16, 2025 • 32min
Reacting to Keir Starmer at the Liaison Committee
In a lively discussion, hosts Ava and Laura dissect Keir Starmer's appearance at the Liaison Committee, giving his government record a thorough review. They tackle the contentious topic of BMA strikes, debating their necessity against the backdrop of NHS winter readiness. The duo highlights Starmer's comments on vaccinations and workforce retention, while critiquing government spending priorities and the toll on frontline care. They also dive into media dynamics, political fallout from farming policies, and the impact of public perception on Labour’s positioning.

Dec 15, 2025 • 28min
Is Bonnie Blue Reform's next MP?
Join Ava and Laura on Facetime as they react to Bonnie Blue's endorsement of Reform UK. Subscribe to How to Rebuild Britain now: https://linktr.ee/howtorebuildbritain Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 11, 2025 • 28min
Rayner v Streeting: The fight to oust Starmer
Hot political gossip ignites as Angela Rayner emerges as a potential challenger to Wes Streeting amidst murmurs of leadership bids. The duo dissect how party dynamics and union influences may shape the future of Labour. They delve into Rayner's bold push for the Employment Rights Bill and ponder if Streeting can captivate supporters or if he's merely a Starmer clone. The hosts also highlight the intriguing candidates from northern England and explore the popularity of key figures like Ed Miliband. Tune in for insights and playful banter!

Dec 10, 2025 • 45min
PMQs reaction
Ava and Laura react to one of Keir Starmer and Kemi Badenoch's sharper exchanges in recent weeks, and hear questions from Rachael Maskell, Ed Davey, and Sojan Joseph.Subscribe to How to Rebuild Britain now: https://linktr.ee/howtorebuildbritain Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 9, 2025 • 30min
Going deep on the new nationalised trains
John Elledge, an author and self-described train nerd, delves into Labour's nationalisation of rail through the Great British Railways reforms. He discusses the new Union Jack livery and the unified ticketing system. Elledge explains the limitations of nationalisation, the complexities of rail costs, and why managing demand through pricing is crucial to avoid overcrowding. The duo also highlights HS2's real goal of enhancing train capacity and tackles the importance of integrating train services for a better passenger experience.

Dec 8, 2025 • 39min
What I didn't get to say on the BBC
Ava shares insights from her BBC appearance, highlighting key topics she wished to discuss. The duo dives into Helen Whately's controversial claims about Motability and challenges misconceptions around ADHD's role in claims. They critique the notion of luxury in accessible vehicles and tackle grievance politics with an examination of misleading statistics. Ava debunks the inflated £71,000 benefits claim and warns how PIP cuts impact employment. The hosts propose innovative housing solutions and link youth mental health to housing market issues.

Dec 4, 2025 • 47min
Answering your questions about Your Party conference
Dive into the spicy dynamics behind Your Party conference! From the dramatic Zara Sultana boycott to the tension-filled Corbyn-Sultana feud, the hosts spill the tea on factional splits. They dissect the contrasting media portrayals and real conference vibes, while pondering the future of collective leadership. Discussions also touch on electoral strategies, potential Green defections, and how to win back disillusioned voters. Join in on the behind-the-scenes gossip and political intrigue!


