Ed Stocker, Monocle's Europe editor based in London, joins Chris Lord, the executive editor, to tackle huge political shifts in Europe, including the challenges faced by new French Prime Minister François Bayrou. They delve into Spain's political turmoil with Catalan separatists and discuss cultural nuances in Japanese dining, particularly attitudes toward leftovers. The conversation also highlights Jumeirah's exciting expansion into Africa, showcasing the evolving luxury travel market and the brand's commitment to authentic experiences.

Carol Walker, a Times radio presenter and former BBC correspondent, joins Sean Kemp, a political strategist and former advisor to the Liberal Democrats. They dive into South Korea's political crisis, discussing the implications of President Yoon Seok-yol's potential impeachment and its effects on governance. The pair also explore the UK’s shifting attitudes towards Brexit, highlighting new public sentiments. Additionally, they debate whether Time Magazine's Person of the Year holds real significance in today's political climate.

Germany's chancellor, Olaf Scholz, has requested a confidence vote, setting in motion the process for the country to hold early elections next year. What happened to the EU's powerhouse? Plus: the fate of Syrian refugees in Europe, Maori tribes' plea to King Charles III and how the way we watch television is changing..See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Julie Norman, an expert in Middle Eastern politics from UCL, and Sean Ryan, a China economy specialist, dive into the implications of Syria's leadership by a former terrorist group. They discuss the challenges this presents for Western governments. The conversation also touches on Netanyahu's political struggles amid rising tensions in the region. Shifting gears, they analyze China's economic changes and the need for fiscal stimulus to combat unemployment, offering insights into the complex interplay of politics and economy in both regions.

Giorgia Scaturro, a London-based Italian reporter specializing in international affairs, and Robin Brant, a former BBC China correspondent, delve into the fallout of the Assad regime's potential collapse and its ramifications for Europe. They discuss the complexities of refugee movements and the need for political solutions respecting minority rights. Karthik Ramanna, a public policy expert from Oxford, sheds light on managing outrage in today's polarized world, linking it to broader societal challenges. The conversation touches on Italy's dynamic politics and trade tensions in the EU.

Bucharest-based journalist Alison Muttler provides expert insights as Romania's constitutional court annuls the first round of the presidential election due to irregularities. She discusses the potential political turmoil, including allegations of foreign influence and the implications for democracy in the country. Additionally, the conversation shifts to Mercer’s rankings of expat cities, with Zurich emerging as a top destination, highlighting what makes these places appealing for expatriates.

Latika Burke, a writer at large for The Nightly specializing in international affairs, and political journalist Theo Usherwood delve into the power dynamics of parliament. They discuss France's no-confidence motion against Prime Minister Michel Barnier and South Korea's bold veto against martial law. The conversation shifts to UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer's ambitious plans for reform, reflecting on broader themes of governance, public trust, and rising populism. Their insights offer a compelling look at contemporary political turbulence.

Julie Norman, a politics expert from UCL, and Stephen DL, a prominent Russia analyst, dive into Russia's military strategies amid ongoing conflicts in Syria. They discuss whether Russia can sustain its interests while juggling commitments in Ukraine and the implications of rebel advances. The conversation also touches on the escalating U.S.-China trade tensions over semiconductors and the diplomatic efforts led by France and Saudi Arabia in the Israel-Palestine conflict, revealing the complexities of international relations in the region.

Rainbow Murray, a Politics Professor at Queen Mary University, and Kerry Brown, Director of the Lau China Institute, analyze South Korea's surprising martial law declaration amid escalating public dissent. They discuss the implications for President Yoon's leadership and the military's loyalty. The conversation also touches on NATO's discussions regarding Ukraine's membership and protests in Georgia seeking EU integration. Lastly, they explore the rapidly evolving role of AI in advertising and the challenges it poses to traditional creative processes.

Political journalist Terry Stiasny and communications consultant Simon Brook dive into President Biden’s controversial pardon for his son, Hunter, exploring themes of nepotism and political satire. They discuss France’s government facing turmoil over budget decisions and the broader implications for European governance. The conversation touches on Ireland’s economic dependence on the U.S. and rising public dissatisfaction with services in the UK, reflecting on how these interconnected issues shape political sentiments.