
PoliticsJOE Podcast
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.
Latest episodes

Apr 14, 2025 • 52min
Labour all but nationalise British Steel, and on the campaign trail with the Greens
The discussion opens with the urgent nationalization of British Steel to protect jobs in Scunthorpe. The challenges of foreign investment and the implications for British sovereignty are critically examined. The Green Party's strategy shift ahead of elections highlights their attempts to connect with disillusioned voters. Political identity battles are explored, particularly the struggle of smaller parties like the Greens in a polarized landscape. There's a witty look at how current events shape perceptions, leading to a lively debate on future political trends.

8 snips
Apr 12, 2025 • 34min
Another round: Yanis Varoufakis on the tariff war
Yanis Varoufakis, a prominent economist and former finance minister of Greece, dives into the implications of Trump's tariff war on the global economy. He analyzes the ramifications this has on the British economy and discusses the ties between U.S. nationalism and leftist politics in the UK. The conversation also touches on historical tactics used by fascists to manipulate economic sentiments and critiques the current focus on paper profits that jeopardizes British industry. Varoufakis warns of the broader implications for America’s standing in the international arena.

Apr 11, 2025 • 14min
Report: The end of British steel?
The podcast dives deep into the urgent crisis facing British Steel, where plant closures threaten thousands of jobs. It explores the idea of nationalization as a potential lifeline amidst economic pressures and global competition. The discussion highlights the profound impact on local communities, struggling under the decline of the steelworks. As British Steel grapples with challenges from Chinese ownership and environmental regulations, the debate intensifies around government intervention in failing industries. Will Labour step in to save the day?

Apr 10, 2025 • 28min
Is Starmer about to destroy British industry?
Explore the challenges of the British labor market as innovative hiring practices take center stage. Delve into the political responses to the nationalization of steelworks, highlighting its impact on local economies, especially in Scunthorpe. The discussion navigates the complexities of blending political ideologies and their influence on voter bases. As Britain grapples with industrial decline, hear about community initiatives from a football club supporting local steel workers, blending hearty support with humor.

Apr 9, 2025 • 46min
Labour are in deep trouble, and Farage's deepening MAGA link
Oli and Ava dive into the Labour Party's controversial decision to abandon a national inquiry into rape gangs, blending humor with serious critiques of political correctness. They explore Nigel Farage's surprising call for nationalizing the steel industry while connecting his approach to broader populist trends. The hosts share personal commuting struggles and reflect on the impact of social media on mental health and public perception. With witty anecdotes and nostalgic reflections, they tackle the complexities of modern politics in a light-hearted yet insightful way.

Apr 8, 2025 • 29min
Trump picks a fight with China, and bankers are panicking
The podcast dives into the chaos surrounding recent tariff talks between the U.S. and China, triggering wild fluctuations in the stock market. It examines the historical backdrop of U.S.-China relations and how recent trade policies could reshape global economic dynamics. There’s a critical look at bankers' worries over potential recessions and the disconnect between market volatility and everyday realities. The conversation ultimately warns about the risks of trade wars and emphasizes the complexities of globalization on local economies.

Apr 7, 2025 • 58min
Donald Trump is destroying the global economy
The hosts dive into the chaotic impact of a prominent political leader's controversial tariff decisions on the global economy. They navigate the humorous side of market mayhem, discussing meme coins and the struggles of individual investors. Corruption ties into foreign transactions and trade relations, raising concerns for everyday Americans amidst a significant market decline. The conversation also critiques the UK government’s response to global trade shifts, before wrapping up with quirky consumer trends in recessionary times.

Apr 5, 2025 • 44min
Another round: How to spot an incel (with Meadhbh Park)
Meadhbh Park, an academic and author of "Blackpilled," dives deep into the world of incels and their ideologies. She discusses how mainstream media has shaped the blackpill ideology and the psychology behind incel culture. The conversation highlights the complexities of masculinity and the dangers of toxic beliefs, as well as the impact of figures like Andrew Tate. Park emphasizes the importance of empathy in understanding young men grappling with rejection and loneliness, advocating for healthier discussions around masculinity in today's society.

Apr 4, 2025 • 27min
Renters' rights deep dive with Alex Sobel MP
Labour MP Alex Sobel, known for championing renters' rights, dives into the urgent need for reform in the UK's private rental sector. He discusses his amendment to ban no-fault evictions and limit upfront rent payments, making it easier for tenants to secure homes. Sobel reveals the complexities faced by disadvantaged renters and the pressing call for improved regulations. He also tackles the influence of landlord MPs on legislation, emphasizing the struggle for safe living conditions as the country confronts a challenging housing landscape.

Apr 3, 2025 • 8min
Living in an abandoned hospital to escape the housing crisis
In this engaging discussion, 27-year-old musician Szofia Rozsa shares her unique experience living in a decommissioned NHS hospital in London. As rents skyrocket, Szofia reveals the perks and challenges of being a property guardian in an abandoned building. She discusses the sense of community among fellow guardians and how this unconventional lifestyle has granted her the creative space to thrive as an artist. Szofia contrasts her previous high-rent struggles with her newfound freedom, offering insights into a bold solution to the housing crisis.