Best of the Spectator

Join John Porteous, Managing Director at Charles Stanley, and former Treasury official James Nation as they navigate the chaos of a recently leaked Budget. They discuss the implications for long-term financial planning, dissecting the government's fiscal strategy. John highlights winners like ISAs, while James raises concerns about potential UK brain drain. The duo also stresses the importance of financial education and the need for stable investment frameworks amid shifting policies. It's a lively conversation about what this Budget means for your wallet!

Tom Gilbey, a charismatic winemaker and author of 'Thirsty,' shares his fascinating journey into the world of wine. He recounts growing up in a family deeply rooted in winemaking, his viral fame stemming from a quirky video, and the thriving English sparkling wine industry. Tom explains his fun approach to wine education and offers practical pairing tips, like matching dry manzanilla sherry with Ibérico ham. He also shares his unconventional Christmas turkey cooking method, making wine accessible and enjoyable for all.

Christopher Caldwell, a journalist and author known for his insights into American politics, dives into the complex legacy of the baby boomer generation. He discusses how boomers harnessed the resources of other generations while enjoying unique privileges. Caldwell explores the growing resentment millennials feel towards boomers, highlighting cultural divides and housing challenges. He argues that as boomers age, the digital-native cohort may rise to prominence, reshaping cultural leadership and addressing generational tensions.

Writers reveal their picks for the greatest artwork of the 21st century. From Kate Bush's iconic performances to the dramatic brilliance of 'Jerusalem,' the conversation sparkles. TV is hailed as the new art form, with 'Black Mirror' and 'Station Eleven' leading the charge. Ambitious pieces like Michael Finnissy's piano epic and Stockhausen's opera cycle also make the cut. Even architecture gets a nod with the innovative Ocado center, while choreographic masterpieces like 'Flight Pattern' humanize pressing global issues.

In this discussion, Tom Baldwin, a journalist and biographer of Keir Starmer, and Tim Shipman, political editor at The Spectator, explore the nuances of Labour's strategy. They debate whether Starmer should shift left economically and how internal party dynamics impact voter perceptions. Baldwin critiques the obsession with 'super-advisers' that clouds Labour's message, while Shipman highlights Starmer's challenges in effectively communicating his values. The conversation also touches on the importance of personal storytelling in politics.

Matthew Parris, a sharp political commentator known for his reflections on mental health, joins Rupert Hawksley, opinion editor at The Spectator, and Igor Toronyi-Lalic, arts editor, for a thought-provoking discussion. They dive into the implications of Labour's welfare increasing budget and explore the artistic value of an inefficient state. The trio also debates the greatest artwork of the 21st century, sharing perspectives on everything from television shows to impactful music. Finally, they pay tribute to the late Tom Stoppard, revealing his lasting influence on culture.

James Geary, a writer and aphorism scholar, dives into the enchanting world of aphorisms, drawing from his book, The World in a Phrase. He distinguishes aphorisms from proverbs, discussing their declarative nature and literary devices like paradox and chiasmus. Geary shares his lifelong obsession with collecting these witty nuggets, tracing their roots from the I Ching to modern American expressions. He reflects on the impact of social media on contemporary aphorisms, emphasizing their role as prompts for deeper reflection amid a sea of quick quips.

Rachel Reeves faces severe scrutiny as Labour's Budget crumbles, sparking debates about her future. Was Starmer's unusual nursery press conference a strategy or a sign of panic? The podcast dives into the implications of the OBR chair's resignation and its potential impact on Reeves. Meanwhile, chaos erupts within the far-left factions as Zarah Sultana's vision clashes with old guard Corbynites. As Christmas approaches, the hosts also share quirky rules for gifting and their favorite book recommendations.

Tim Stanley, a columnist from The Daily Telegraph, and Ed West, a cultural commentator from 'The Wrong Side of History', dive into why America is fixated on Britain’s perceived decline. They discuss how this fascination reflects political projections linked to figures like Trump and Brexit. The guests explore media narratives that amplify stories of decline, the historical context of Anglo-American relations, and contrasting views on free speech and crime. With insights on immigration and social democracy, they highlight British choices post-WWII and their impact on contemporary perceptions.

Dr. Moira Gilchrist, the Chief Communications Officer at Philip Morris International, and Charlie Weimers, a Member of the European Parliament from Sweden, dive into the debate on nicotine pouches. They discuss PMI's ambitious goal to shift to smoke-free products by 2030 and weigh in on Sweden's success with snus in reducing smoking rates. The conversation highlights the nuances of youth usage concerns, the impact of regulatory measures, and the science behind nicotine alternatives. What does this mean for the future of tobacco control in Europe?