The New Statesman: politics and culture
The New Statesman
Helping you make sense of politics, culture and world affairs – every weekday.Anoosh Chakelian, Andrew Marr and the New Statesman team bring you sharp reporting, clear analysis and thoughtful conversations to help you understand what’s really going on in Westminster and beyond.The New Statesman is Britain’s leading source of news and commentary on politics and culture with a progressive perspective. On the podcast, our journalists and expert guests cut through the noise of the headlines to explain the forces shaping our world. From the battles inside the Labour Party to the future of the Conservatives, from the rise of Reform UK to the debates that dominate Parliament, we provide the clarity you need to follow UK politics.But the story doesn’t stop at Westminster. Each week we take you around the globe, covering world news and international current affairs — from the war in Ukraine and the leadership of Volodymyr Zelensky, to Russia under Vladimir Putin, to the conflict in Israel and Gaza, and the impact of Donald Trump on American and international politics. Our interviews bring leading thinkers and cultural figures into the conversation, while our Saturday episodes explore books, literature, film and wider culture.Whether you want to stay on top of UK news, understand the shifts in global politics, or dive into the ideas that drive our culture, the New Statesman podcast is your essential daily listen.--START HERE:▶︎ Kemi Badenoch isn't working | Cover Story with Tom McTague▶︎ Do billionaires really benefit the UK?▶︎ One year of Labour rule: can things still only get better?--LISTEN AD-FREE:📱Download and subscribe in the New Statesman app to enjoy all our episodes without the ads.--MORE FROM THE NEW STATESMAN:❓ Ask a question - we answer them on the podcast every Friday⏰ Get our daily politics newsletter in your inbox every morning✍️ Enjoy the best of our writing via email every Saturday--JOIN US:⭐️ Get full access to all our reporting and analysis - and get our magazine delivered to your door every week - with a print + digital subscription--Host:Anoosh ChakelianRegular contributors and co-hosts:Tom McTague, Editor-in-chiefWill Lloyd, Deputy editorAndrew Marr, Political editorGeorge Eaton, Senior editor, politicsHannah Barnes, Associate editorRachel Cunliffe, Associate political editorWill Dunn, Business editorMegan Gibson, Foreign editorKatie Stallard, Global affairs editorTanjil Rashid, Culture editorKate Mossman, Senior writerProduction team:Senior podcast producer: Catharine HughesVideo producer: Rob Le MareExecutive producer: Chris Stone Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jan 8, 2025 • 28min
The end of America's global dominance
Robert D. Kaplan, an author and geopolitical expert, along with economist George Magnus, discuss the shifting dynamics of global power. They delve into the decline of U.S. presidential leadership and its implications for international relations, contrasting it with China’s economic ascent. The rise of BRICS is highlighted, emphasizing its challenge to U.S. dollar dominance and the quest for a new payment system. Kaplan and Magnus explore how these changes might create opportunities for democratic renewal in America amidst increasing global multipolarity.
Jan 6, 2025 • 32min
Mackenzie Crook on talking to ghosts and playing skinny weirdos
Mackenzie Crook, a BAFTA award-winning writer, director, and actor known for his work in The Office and Detectorists, shares insights from his diverse career and his new book 'If Nick Drake Came to My House.' He reflects on how childhood memories influence his writing and the challenges of artistic pursuit. Crook also reminisces about auditioning for iconic roles in British comedy and discusses the joy of collaboration in theater. The conversation cleverly intertwines culture, comedy, and the storytelling power of music.
Jan 1, 2025 • 33sec
The New Statesman - trailer
Submit a question for us to answer on a future podcast: www.newstatesman.com/youaskusGet our free daily politics newsletter, Morning Call: morningcall.substack.comSubscribe to the New Statesman. Get your first five weeks for just £5 at www.newstatesman.com/feb25LISTEN AD-FREE:📱Download the New Statesman app MORE FROM THE NEW STATESMAN:❓ Ask a question – we answer them every Friday⏰ Get our daily politics newsletter every morning✍️ Enjoy the best of our writing via email every SaturdayJOIN US:⭐️ Get full access to all our reporting and analysis with a print + digital subscription Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Dec 30, 2024 • 30min
The world in 2025
Katie Stallard, New Statesman senior editor in Washington, D.C., discusses the prospects of Trump's potential second presidency, focusing on aggressive policies like tariffs and their economic implications. Wolfgang Munchau analyzes political turmoil in Europe, highlighting the rise of far-right parties and challenges in France and Germany. They also touch on Russia’s ongoing conflict with Ukraine and broader geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, exploring how these dynamics may shape the world by 2025.
Dec 23, 2024 • 22min
Politics 2024: The good, the bad, and the ugly
Freddie Hayward, US correspondent for the New Statesman, joins Andrew Marr to dissect the rollercoaster that was 2024 in UK politics. They dive into the year's biggest political blunders, recounting a particularly disastrous public appearance. The conversation reveals unexpected alliances and criticizes the chaotic Conservative leadership campaign. Offering a humorous take, they explore both the entertaining and serious sides of UK political spectacles, highlighting memorable moments and future challenges on the horizon.
Dec 20, 2024 • 19min
What Musk's money could do for Reform UK
George Eaton, Senior Editor at The New Statesman, and Rachel Cunliffe, Associate Political Editor, delve into Elon Musk's potential influence on Reform UK. They explore the Children's Wellbeing and Schools Bill, highlighting the critical need for tracking missing and homeschooled children to enhance safety. Additionally, they discuss how super donors like Musk may shape UK electoral strategies and the complex political landscape influenced by fluctuating party support and accountability in public services.
Dec 19, 2024 • 28min
Emily Thornberry: I won't be on the welcome committee for Trump
Emily Thornberry, Chair of the Foreign Affairs Select Committee, shares insights on Labour's foreign policy goals and her perspective on controversial leaders. She critiques Donald Trump’s impact on UK relations, emphasizing the need for pragmatism. Thornberry also discusses challenges facing the Labour Party, including media scrutiny and internal tensions, alongside the implications of Prince Andrew's ties to a Chinese spy. The conversation sheds light on the delicate balance between domestic politics and global challenges.
6 snips
Dec 18, 2024 • 35min
Torsten Bell: Is Britain's decline reversible?
Torsten Bell, Labour MP for Swansea West and former chief executive of the Resolution Foundation, joins business editor Will Dunn to delve into Britain's economic landscape. They discuss the alarming rise in inequality and stagnant wages, emphasizing the urgent need for effective policy changes. Bell also highlights the impact of declining interest rates on asset prices and ownership trends, drawing parallels with Victorian Britain. They critically examine taxation complexities and the feasibility of introducing a wealth tax, pushing for more progressive reforms to address systemic challenges.
Dec 16, 2024 • 30min
How Paddington became the spokesbear for Britain
Amelia Tait, a New Statesman contributor who explored Paddington Bear's commercial success, joins Jon Foster, a screenwriter with over a decade of experience in the iconic franchise. They discuss how Paddington has evolved into a symbol of British identity, uniting various social and political themes. The duo delves into the nostalgic allure of his character, his role in modern branding, and how he helps navigate cultural complexities. They also touch on the timeless charm of Paddington and the delightful whimsy he brings to British politeness.
17 snips
Dec 13, 2024 • 17min
France's centre has collapsed, is the UK's next?
The discussion centers on the shifting political landscape in France and its potential impact on the UK. It delves into Heidi Alexander's cabinet role amid Labour's internal struggles. The rise of the populist right and the challenges faced by centrist politics are also examined. Additionally, the podcast highlights political fragmentation in both countries and the emergence of reform parties, stressing the need for Labour to address public discontent related to fiscal strength and national security.
