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The Bugle
Celebrating The Bugle's best moments, this daily show takes us back through the some of the greatest stories the The Bugle has deemed newsworthy.Featuring the best moments from Andy Zaltzman, John Oliver and guest Co-hostsWe are listener funded, support what we do hereThis is a Bugle Podcasts production. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jun 20, 2025 • 12min
New Year’s Revelations
In January 2018 Donald Trump was far from starting afresh for the New Year. Instead opting to stay with his tried and tested approach to leadership. Alice Fraser and Hari Kondabolu joined Andy for Bugle issue 4055 – New Year’s Revelations.Hear more of our shows, buy our book, and help keep us alive by supporting us here: thebuglepodcast.com/This episode was produced by Chris Skinner and Laura Turner Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 17, 2025 • 9min
Black Holes and Brexit
Let’s go back now to April 2019. Alice joined Andy for a Brexit heavy live Bugle. Thankfully there was also some Unicorn news to lighten the mood.Hear more of our shows, buy our book, and help keep us alive by supporting us here: thebuglepodcast.com/This episode was produced by Chris Skinner and Laura Turner Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

6 snips
Jun 13, 2025 • 13min
Does Boris think he’s Scarface?
This discussion humorously critiques Boris Johnson's character, likening him to cinematic icons while examining the absurdity of politics. The hosts dive into the dark humor of leadership failures and chaotic resignations, painting vivid imagery of political incompetence. They explore public perception, media narratives, and the absurdity of scandal, all while sharing hilarious anecdotes and exaggerated metaphors. The satire shines through as they reflect on the peculiarities of political rhetoric and accountability.

Jun 10, 2025 • 10min
Five Year Piggiversary
In September 2020 Andy, Josh and Tiff turned their attention to Trump’s trampling of RBG’s legacy. It’s Bugle issue 4166 - Five Year Piggiversary.Hear more of our shows, buy our book, and help keep us alive by supporting us here: thebuglepodcast.com/This episode was produced by Chris Skinner and Laura Turner Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

4 snips
Jun 6, 2025 • 10min
Nazi Game Shows
In a comedic twist on current events, the discussion tackles the shifting political landscape in France. The rise of the far-right party sparks conversations about democracy and political fragmentation. Surreal takes on governance reveal the quirky negotiations that happen behind closed doors. With a humorous look at grassroots representation, listeners meet newly elected MP Rachel Kiki and learn about the disconnect between politics and everyday life. The absurdity of manipulating votes through humor showcases how politics can be both ridiculous and impactful.

4 snips
Jun 3, 2025 • 11min
Not Enough Boffins
In April 2020, the hosts engage in lively discussions about current events, merging humor with serious commentary on NASA's Mars achievements and the COVID-19 pandemic. They hilariously dissect geopolitical tensions, focusing on Vladimir Putin's antics and drawing parallels to personal relationships. The absurdity of modern diplomacy gets a comedic twist as they liken international conflicts to sports rivalries. They even introduce an amusing statue of Putin in Prague, adding a lighthearted touch to serious global issues.

6 snips
May 30, 2025 • 10min
Putin The Tooth In
Dive into the quirks of Russian politics with a humorous critique of Putin's eternal reign. Explore the absurdity of democracy in Russia, juxtaposed with sports and vanity. The hosts compare Putin's strategies to those of Boris Johnson and Donald Trump, raising eyebrows over legitimacy in recent elections. Enjoy witty observations on leadership failures and bizarre reading habits, all while contemplating fitness solutions and data protection. It's a wild ride through political satire and cultural commentary!

6 snips
May 27, 2025 • 11min
Joe Biden’s Solution
In a thought-provoking discussion, Tom Ballard, an Australian comedian and podcaster, delves into the socio-political climate of June 2020 amidst America’s unrest. He examines the complexities of policing and justice, including the chaotic protests and the historical roots of police brutality. The conversation critiques proposals for reform and highlights the economic disparities behind looting, juxtaposing the actions of the wealthy with those of marginalized communities. Ballard's insights blend humor with deep social commentary, making for a compelling listen.

8 snips
May 23, 2025 • 10min
Space Jam
Travel back to July 2021 as political antics take center stage! The show dives deep into Donald Trump’s chaotic relationship with Europe, peppered with sharp satire. Expect a hilarious comparison of a political tour to a disaster movie, revealing comedic misunderstandings of Brexit and NATO. Concerning remarks on U.S.-Montenegro relations highlight a baffling lack of geopolitical knowledge. Plus, the surprising invitation of an international figure to the White House raises eyebrows and prompts discussions on security in the political realm.

4 snips
May 20, 2025 • 11min
Evolution Special
Join comedian Nish Kumar, known for his sharp wit and hosting The Mash Report, as he dives into the quirks of human evolution. He hilariously breaks down our ongoing adaptations and the odd physiological changes like losing wisdom teeth. The discussion amusingly compares crab behaviors to human societal habits, especially influenced by social media. They also critique the chaotic management of the COVID-19 response, envisioning it as a turning point filled with absurdities. Expect laughs while pondering our evolutionary journey!