The Rest Is Politics
Goalhanger
Alastair Campbell and Rory Stewart break down current affairs in the UK and abroad.The Rest Is Politics analyses the latest international news, provides debate on global issues, and reveals secrets from Westminster, whilst bringing back the lost art of disagreeing agreeably. With insider perspectives and expert analysis, The Rest Is Politics is the go-to podcast for anyone seeking intelligent, engaging discussions on British and global politics.The Rest Is Politics Plus: Join with a FREE TRIAL at therestispolitics.com for exclusive bonus content including Rory and Alastair’s first ever miniseries, early access to episodes and live show tickets, ad free listening, our exclusive newsletter, discount book prices on titles mentioned on the pod, and our members chatroom.For more Goalhanger Podcasts, head to www.goalhanger.com.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Mar 30, 2022 • 60min
5. Tribal politics, anonymous sources, and Malcolm Tucker
The hosts dive into the relevance of the British royal family and the Commonwealth in today's world. They analyze Joe Biden's communication skills amidst global crises, including the conflict in Ukraine. The conversation transitions into innovative solutions like direct cash transfers to empower communities in Rwanda. Personal loyalty in politics is dissected, contrasting charismatic leaders with their competent counterparts. With a touch of humor, they reflect on the satirical portrayal of politics in 'The Thick of It' through its iconic character, Malcolm Tucker.
Mar 23, 2022 • 1h 1min
4. Iraq, brave opposition, and powerful Chancellors
Rory shares his experiences from Iraq, linking the lessons learned to the current situation in Ukraine, emphasizing civilian impacts. The podcast explores sanctions on Belarus and their implications for global food security amidst geopolitical tensions. It dives into the power dynamics between Chancellors and Prime Ministers, highlighting how personal relationships affect governance. Also discussed are the psychological pressures in politics and the complex nature of party loyalty, showcasing how personal convictions can clash with party lines.
4 snips
Mar 16, 2022 • 1h 1min
3. Zelenskyy's humanity, Lebvedev's parties, and Eton
The podcast dives into the power dynamics of soft power in Ukraine amid geopolitical tensions. It contrasts leadership styles between Zelenskyy and Johnson, highlighting authenticity during crises. The hosts debate the societal impact of elite institutions like Eton, questioning their role in meritocracy. Insights on prison reform reveal stark contrasts in rehabilitation approaches between the UK and Norway. The conversation also reflects on the importance of empathy in politics and the implications of historical narratives on contemporary accountability.
Mar 14, 2022 • 33min
The Rest Is History: Young Putin, the KGB and the Soviet Union
Dive into the intricate history of Vladimir Putin's formative years in the Soviet Union. Explore whether he was more nationalist than communist and how this shaped his ideology. Discover the chaotic leadership shifts during Gorbachev's era and the impact of key Soviet figures. Unravel the turbulence around the USSR's collapse and how Putin navigated the tumultuous 1990s. From the Black Tom explosion to KGB insights, this discussion sheds light on the complexities of Russian politics and the alarming implications for global security.
11 snips
Mar 9, 2022 • 55min
2. Lying, vanity and friendship in politics
The podcast dives into the disparity between the British government's rhetoric and its action regarding Ukrainian refugees. It explores the personal traits of lying and vanity in politics and their effects on relationships and decision-making. The discussion critiques the honor system, spotlighting the knighthood given to Gavin Williamson as a symbol of outdated practices. Additionally, it reflects on the importance of language as a diplomatic tool and the complexities of post-Brexit political dynamics, intertwined with anecdotes of leadership and international cooperation.
9 snips
Mar 2, 2022 • 55min
1. Putin in person, Russian money in British politics, and Bono vs Blair
The podcast kicks off with insights on how Vladimir Putin behaves in person amidst the backdrop of the ongoing Ukraine crisis. It delves into the impact of Russian money on British politics, raising ethical questions about foreign donations. The conversation touches on the historical allure of Russia for the old left, highlighting personal anecdotes and complexities of political allegiances. Celebrity activism is also examined, focusing on its role in shaping political discourse and the relationship between sports and international relations.
