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
Mar 21, 2025 • 52min
4. I Guess That's Why They Call It Blue Labour
The discussion navigates the balance between the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict and Labour Party welfare reforms. An amusing story involving a nun adds a light-hearted touch to the serious topics. They analyze Labour's shift to centrist politics, reflecting on historical impacts. The hosts also delve into how TikTok algorithms influence global elections and the intersection of humor with history and politics. Listeners are invited to share their own humorous takes on historical events as the conversation unfolds.
Mar 18, 2025 • 49min
3. I Know Him So Welfare
Iain and Tessa dive deep into the turmoil of welfare cuts and their societal implications. They tackle America's foreign policy with a focus on the Trump-Putin dynamic and its effects on Eastern Europe. A lively debate unfolds over Meghan Markle's Netflix series, revealing the contrasts in public perception versus personal experiences. They also address generational concerns about housing instability and the political landscape. Woven throughout are playful anecdotes and reflections on Scottish history, keeping the conversation engaging and insightful.
Mar 14, 2025 • 48min
2. Wake Me Up Before You Quango
Join Iain and Tessa as they tackle the proposed dismantling of NHS England to improve healthcare efficiency. They dissect Putin's response to ceasefire talks, drawing parallel lessons from history. The conversation humorously shifts to beauty standards while pondering the legacy of Churchill and its impact today. Expect insightful discussions around contemporary issues like public welfare, youth mental health, and the risks of repeating historical mistakes in the face of autocracy. Plus, a light-hearted look at book endorsements!
Mar 11, 2025 • 60min
1. It's Raining Strong Men
This podcast dives into the fascinating world of strong leaders like Stalin, Putin, and Churchill. The hosts explore how past and present figures impact modern politics, focusing on recent elections in Canada and Germany. A humorous take on Iain's castle stay adds a personal twist. They also tackle Zelensky's leadership amidst crises and examine royal relations and their implications for diplomacy. With anecdotes woven through political analysis, listeners get a lively mix of history, humor, and international relations.
Mar 3, 2025 • 2min
Introducing: Where Politics Meets History
If you enjoyed For The Many, you're going to love this new podcast: Where Politics Meets History.Join Iain Dale with his new podcast pal, historian Dr Tessa Dunlop, as they delve through the biggest news of the week, but setting it in its historical context. Nothing is ever new, the wheel keeps turning, and our pair will guide you through what's happening now, and when it happened before! Expect laughs, fascinating facts... and maybe the occasional row!Listen and subscribe on Global Player or wherever you get your podcasts.
Oct 23, 2024 • 1h 1min
500. The End
Iain and Jacqui are reunited for this, their final episode. There are tears. There is laughter. And the producer plays a few clips (badly - apologies). You really don't want to miss it.
Oct 21, 2024 • 1h 39min
499. Parasocial Relationship - with Tessa Dunlop
Iain is joined by the wonderful historian and commentator Tessa Dunlop for this one - they talk about Moldova, Wes Streeting's family tree, Tessa's dream about Iain, reparations, the Royal visit to New Zealand and much else too!
Oct 17, 2024 • 1h 32min
498. Funky House - with Rosena Allin-Khan
Iain is joined by the tremendous Labour MP Rosena Allin-Khan for this ep! They discuss ozempic and the NHS, Christopher Chope's remarks about Kemi Badenoch being a mother, England getting a German manager and lots more besides.
Oct 14, 2024 • 1h 20min
497. Rude Health - with Lynne Featherstone
Iain is joined for this one by the Lib Dem peer Baroness Featherstone for this 'un. They talk about Labour's first hundred days in government, the death of Alex Salmond, Lynne's legacy on equal marriage, the future of the Lib Dems, international investment and more!
Oct 10, 2024 • 1h 22min
496. Fascinated by Gay Men - with Joanna Cherry
Iain is joined by lawyer and former SNP MP Joanna Cherry for this ep! They talk about the twists and turns of the Tory leadership contest, Joanna's departure from Parliament, Yvette Cooper and Taylor Swift, renters' rights, assisted dying and more.
