Best of the Spectator

Eva Dou, a tech reporter for the Washington Post and author of 'The House of Huawei', dives into the controversial world of Huawei, a telecom giant founded by ex-military engineer Ren Zhengfei. She discusses the company's rapid rise and the scrutiny from the U.S. amid trade wars. Dou explores Huawei's unconventional path and resilience, detailing its unique corporate culture and strategic global outreach. The conversation also touches on espionage allegations, political tensions, and how Huawei is adapting to survive amidst geopolitical challenges.

In a gripping discussion, Amy Wax, a tenured law professor at the University of Pennsylvania known for her provocative views, joins Freddy Gray to delve into the state of education in America. They tackle Ron DeSantis's push for classical education, arguing for a curriculum that balances critical perspectives with American exceptionalism. Wax critiques the current dominance of 'woke' ideologies and discusses strategies for reform, including reinstating fundamental teaching techniques and considering the relevance of the Department of Education.

Paul Wood discusses the alarming resurgence of ISIS and the US's strange partnership with the Taliban in combating this threat. Philip Hensher reviews a new biography of the Brothers Grimm, emphasizing how words can wield immense power and shape cultures. Damian Thompson shares his unconventional way of handling election anxiety—watching videos of plane crashes to distract himself from the chaos. Together, these guests paint a vivid picture of contemporary challenges and cultural reflections.

Isabel Hardman, Assistant Editor at The Spectator, sheds light on the complexities of public inquiries, questioning their effectiveness in delivering justice. Raja Miah, an anti-grooming gang campaigner, passionately argues for a nationwide inquiry, citing the failures of past investigations. They explore whether these inquiries genuinely hold power accountable or merely distract from needed legislative changes. The discussion also touches on restoring public trust in institutions and the emotional toll on victims when inquiries fall short.

Freddy Gray converses with Gideon Rachman, Chief Foreign Correspondent for the Financial Times, on the transformative impact of Donald Trump’s potential return in 2025. They explore five possible scenarios of an 'America First' strategy, raising questions about global power dynamics and the U.S.'s role. The discussion includes the implications of Trump's tariffs, the resolution of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, and whether China is the true antagonist in today's geopolitical landscape. Rachman highlights the risks of accidental wars and the challenges facing global governance.

Julie Bindel, a seasoned journalist, discusses the ongoing crisis of grooming gangs in the UK, emphasizing the urgent need for justice for victims. Elisabeth Dampier shares her controversial reasons for supporting Germany's AfD party, linking it to broader political trends. Damian Thompson reveals his obsession with airplane crash videos on YouTube, diving into the educational insights they offer. Together with Petter Hörnfeldt, they navigate the delicate balance between fascination and respect in discussing aviation disasters.

Rachel Cooke, a writer and editor of 'The Virago Book of Friendship,' dives into the intricate world of female friendships in literature. She shares fascinating anecdotes, including Mary McCarthy's poignant depiction of Hannah Arendt and the dramatic fallout between Susan Sontag and her disciple. Cooke explores how historical and literary perspectives shape our understanding of women's camaraderie, emphasizing emotional depth and the evolving societal views on these relationships.

Katy Balls, the Political Editor for The Spectator, delves into the chaos surrounding Elon Musk's influence on British politics. She discusses how Musk's tweets have stirred tension between Nigel Farage and the Reform UK party, probing the unpredictable nature of Musk's endorsements. The conversation shifts to how both Labour and Tory responses reflect a broader cultural divide and showcase the disconnect between political leaders and public sentiment. Ultimately, they question whether anyone can truly trust Musk's shifting loyalties.

Dame Sarah Storey, Britain’s most successful Paralympian, shares her journey from swimming to cycling while grappling with bullying and funding disparities. She discusses collaborating with local leaders to enhance cycling infrastructure and her ambitions for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics. Listeners will also enjoy her humorous take on how she stores her impressive collection of medals and her upcoming challenge on Dancing on Ice. With insights into the challenges female athletes face, Sarah inspires with her resilience and commitment to advocacy.

James MacMillan, a renowned composer, shares his diary entries connecting the beauty of football with music, offering personal anecdotes and thought-provoking insights on the relationship between music and religion. Sebastian Morello delves into the profound ties between hunting and Christianity, exploring ethical practices and humanity’s bond with nature. Together, they provoke critical reflections on culture and faith, making for a captivating discussion on the interplay between tradition, art, and the human experience.