Best of the Spectator

The podcast dives into the scandal surrounding Prince Andrew as Virginia Giuffre's new book raises fresh questions about his role in the Epstein saga. Discussion shifts to Birmingham's tumultuous sectarian politics, reflecting on multicultural integration challenges. Moving to the cultural scene, the hosts critique the British Museum's over-the-top gala ambitions, pondering what a truly British celebration would look like. Expect insightful commentary on privilege, royal responsibilities, and the balance between tradition and modernity.

Dive into a delightful mix of quirky topics, from William Moore's take on why jeans became symbols of cultural defiance to Laura Freeman's insights into British comforts found in Paris. Discover how Justin Marozzi links boxer shorts to dignity and psychological comfort, while Mark Mason highlights fascinating 'seconds' in history. Michael Simmons reminisces about the late-night joy of doner kebabs, and Fergus Butler-Gallie explores the origins of Friday the 13th superstition. Plus, enjoy a playful look at rude place names and Margaret Mitchell's reflections on pet lobsters.

In this engaging discussion, Kate Andrews, Deputy US editor at The Spectator and astute American politics commentator, analyzes the recent whirlwind of Trump's foreign and domestic maneuvers. She highlights his surprising success with a Gaza peace plan and evaluates how his charm emerges during victories. The conversation dives into Trump’s controversial foreign interventions, the economic pressures at home, and the Democrats' struggle to mount an effective opposition. Kate even reflects on Trump’s cryptic remarks about spirituality, revealing a nuanced side to his ever-controversial persona.

Gyles Brandreth, a multifaceted broadcaster, writer, and former MP, shares his rich tapestry of food memories from childhood to his adult life. He hilariously recalls quirky dishes like cold baked beans and fish finger sandwiches, and reflects on his boarding school gourmet experiences. Gyles also touches upon his experiences dining with future culinary legends and the challenges of being an MP. Plus, he shares insights from his new biography on A.A. Milne, highlighting the joy of storytelling and food.

Charles Moore, biographer of Margaret Thatcher, and Peggy Noonan, former speechwriter for Ronald Reagan, dive into the unique bond between two iconic leaders. They explore how shared ideals and temperaments united them, despite rifts over nuclear disarmament and military interventions like Grenada and the Falklands. Their authentic connections to the public and commitment to defeating the Soviet Union are highlighted, along with the enduring lessons of their partnership for modern leadership and transatlantic relations.

Nick Boles, a former British politician, passionately argues that Ukraine must remain a fortress of European freedom. He shares his personal experiences from visits to Poland and Ukraine. James Ball critiques Eliezer Yudkowsky's perspective on AI, calling it alarmist and speculative. Andrew Rosenheim delves into John Le Carré’s meticulous writing process through his archives. Arabella Byrne highlights the sustainability and unexpected treasures of skip diving, while Rory Sutherland discusses the cultural risks of emasculation in contrast to feminisation.

This week, political editor Tim Shipman reveals shocking insights into UK-China relations, including a major data hub sold to the Chinese. Freddy Gray discusses J.D. Vance's unstoppable rise in the Republican landscape. Meanwhile, Igor Toronyi-Lalic reflects on the decline of costume craftsmanship in the arts. The guests also debate parenting styles, questioning whether French discipline outshines British creativity. With a mix of political intrigue and cultural commentary, this discussion offers a captivating glimpse into current affairs.

The podcast dives into Westminster's espionage scandal as two men accused of spying for China see their case collapse. Was it incompetence or a strategic retreat from Beijing's influence? Michael and Maddie also tackle the controversial role of Jonathan Powell in the matter. They ponder the implications of past UK-China relations and the potential danger of appeasement. Finally, they explore Donald Trump's unexpected Gaza peace deal and reveal how reality TV like The Traitors reflects darker human traits, pondering which politicians would play the ultimate traitors.

Joining the discussion is Everett Worthington, a Commonwealth Professor Emeritus and clinical psychologist renowned for his extensive research on forgiveness. He shares his personal journey of forgiving his mother’s murderer, highlighting the complexity of public acts of forgiveness. The conversation explores the 'injustice gap' between forgiveness and remorse, contrasting quick forgiveness with longstanding grudges. Worthington also offers practical steps towards forgiveness and discusses decisional versus emotional forgiveness, revealing profound insights on healing and mercy.

Ben Domenech, a conservative writer and editor at The Spectator, discusses Trump's aggressive new campaign against Mexican cartels. He explores why MAGA has seized upon this issue, the implications for U.S.-Mexico relations, and how it could influence Trump's foreign policy for a potential second term. Domenech breaks down the tensions within the GOP regarding interventionism, the impact of China in Latin America, and what increased U.S. military actions might resemble, including drone strikes and special forces operations.