Where Politics Meets History
Global
Join broadcaster Iain Dale and historian Dr Tessa Dunlop as they take a fresh look at the biggest news of the week - through the lens of history. Because nothing is ever truly new, and history has a habit of repeating itself.
With wit, insight, and the occasional good-natured row, Iain and Tessa explore how today’s headlines echo the past, unearthing fascinating stories and unexpected parallels. Expect sharp analysis, engaging debate, and plenty of laughs along the way.
Subscribe now on Global Player or wherever you get your podcasts.
For advertising opportunities on this podcast email: dax@global.com
With wit, insight, and the occasional good-natured row, Iain and Tessa explore how today’s headlines echo the past, unearthing fascinating stories and unexpected parallels. Expect sharp analysis, engaging debate, and plenty of laughs along the way.
Subscribe now on Global Player or wherever you get your podcasts.
For advertising opportunities on this podcast email: dax@global.com
Episodes
Mentioned books
Nov 28, 2025 • 58min
76. If Books Could Kill
Dive into lively discussions about a budget that leaves both hosts unimpressed! They explore the impact of frozen tax thresholds on middle earners and dissect the effects of higher rates on freelancers' motivation. The spotlight shifts to France's reintroduction of limited military service versus Britain's historical avoidance of conscription. Plus, a heartfelt take on declining book reading rates and childhood literary memories reveals the joy of deep reading amidst a digital world. It's a mix of politics, history, and nostalgia!
Nov 25, 2025 • 60min
75. Let's Get Fiscal
Iain and Tessa talk the upcoming Budget (and Budgets throughout history!), whether Trump's peace plan for Ukraine will be a success... and an odd gift Iain received in Frinton-on-Sea.Send your questions and voice notes to 07557 187929 or wherepoliticsmeetshistory@global.com
Nov 21, 2025 • 1h 1min
74. One Way Streeting
Iain and Tessa reconvene to talk about the UK's changing immigration policy (and Tessa's idea involving military service), potential challengers to Keir Starmer's leadership, how much of a threat we face from Russia - and the politics and history of chocolate!Send your questions and voice notes to 07557 187929 or wherepoliticsmeetshistory@global.com
Nov 18, 2025 • 55min
73. Denmark My Words
Iain and Tessa talk Shabana Mahmood's asylum shakeup, Trump suing the BBC and a very ill-conceived moustache.Send your questions and voice notes to 07557 187929 or wherepoliticsmeetshistory@global.com
Nov 14, 2025 • 52min
72. It's Too Late To Apologise
Iain and Tessa return as more revelations come out regarding the BBC and Trump. Meanwhile, further information is released about the US Presidents relationship with Jeffrey Epstein.Send your questions and voice notes to 07557 187929 or wherepoliticsmeetshistory@global.com
Nov 11, 2025 • 58min
71. BBC You Later Alligator
Davie is gone and Trump is gunning for Auntie Beeb! Iain and Tessa discuss if the BBC can survive this latest controversy... or if it even should? Send your questions and voice notes to 07557 187929 or wherepoliticsmeetshistory@global.com
Nov 7, 2025 • 54min
70. COPs and Robbers
Iain and Tessa link up to talk COP30, mistaken prisoner releases, potential taxes on electric cars (which gets Iain's dander up immensely) - and poppy pressure.Send your questions and voice notes to 07557 187929 or wherepoliticsmeetshistory@global.com.
Nov 4, 2025 • 56min
69. New York, New York Votes
Iain and Tessa connect remotely to talk Farage's plans for the economy, Zohran Mamdani's success in New York, the Huntingdon stabbing and the heroism of the passengers and guard, and more.Send your questions and voice notes to 07557 187929 or wherepoliticsmeetshistory@global.com.
Oct 31, 2025 • 48min
68. Xi's the One
Iain and Tessa are back to discuss the relationship between China and the US after Trump meets Xi, whether Rachel Reeves is in serious trouble or not, what it means to receive the 'Freedom of the City of London'... and Rachel Johnson makes a surprise appearance!Send your questions and voice notes to 07557 187929 or wherepoliticsmeetshistory@global.com.
Oct 28, 2025 • 49min
67. My Wage
Iain and Tessa lock horns on representation in media after Reform MP Sarah Pochin's comments on race, they discuss the new Japanese PM, the minimum wage, the use of exclamation marks and more!!!!Send your questions and voice notes to 07557 187929 or wherepoliticsmeetshistory@global.com.
