Best of the Spectator

Laura King, affectionately known as the 'Caviar Queen', is the UK’s top caviar expert and owner of King’s Fine Food. She shares her unexpected journey from journalism to the caviar industry, digging into the origins and types of caviar. The conversation features a sensory tasting, comparing varieties like Belgian savruga to wild caviar. Unique food pairings are explored, including the surprising combination of white chocolate and caviar, making it a delightful discussion for both caviar lovers and curious gourmets.

James Kanagasooriam, a contributor to The Spectator, analyzes the global shift towards right-wing politics and its implications for Britain. Canadian psychologist Jordan Peterson discusses faith, family, and the psychological depth of biblical narratives in his latest book. Consultant psychiatrist Max Pemberton raises concerns about the alarming trend of overdiagnosing ADHD, questioning societal and commercial influences in mental health. These captivating discussions delve into contemporary political and psychological issues shaping our world.

The discussion kicks off with a look at how Nigel Farage's return could reshape the political landscape in 2025. Immigration tops voter concerns, impacting Farage and the Reform Party's strategy. The evolving friendship between key political figures and Donald Trump takes center stage, revealing the importance of personal relationships in politics. Leadership dynamics within Reform and the financial challenges smaller parties face are also examined. Will 2025 be the year Farage finally emerges as a significant threat?

Orhan Pamuk, a Nobel Prize-winning Turkish novelist, discusses his artistic journey from aspiring painter to renowned writer. He shares insights from his new illustrated notebooks, blending words and images. His reflections include the emotional impact of absence in art, the intimate process of writing, and the complexities of crafting narratives. Pamuk also candidly addresses the tension between fame and solitude, revealing the struggles of maintaining artistic integrity amidst public recognition and political discourse.

Join James Heale, political correspondent for The Spectator and an expert on Jimmy Carter, as he delves into the late president's remarkable yet complex legacy. They discuss how Carter's idealism influenced his presidency and compare his era to Joe Biden’s. The conversation covers Carter's impactful post-presidential humanitarian work, notably combating disease, and examines controversial decisions like the Panama Canal Treaty. Hear insights on the Iran hostage crisis's lasting effects and the evolving perceptions of their legacies within the Democratic Party.

This discussion dives into the fallout from abuse scandals that have led to high-profile resignations within the Church of England. The conversation reveals parallels with the Catholic Church's troubling handling of similar issues. Cover-ups involving Cardinal Godfrey Daniels and Father Marco Rupnik are exposed, highlighting the ethical dilemmas faced by church leaders. The episode also uncovers the controversial reinstatement of a convicted priest in Argentina, emphasizing the urgent need for accountability and transparency across both churches.

Katy Balls, Political editor for The Spectator, shares keen insights on British politics, while Patrick Maguire, a columnist for The Times and author, adds depth to the discussion. They delve into the shifting political landscape ahead of the pivotal 2025 elections, highlighting Labour's challenges and the impact of smaller parties like Reform UK. The conversation anticipates rising tensions, potential new political movements, and how figures like Jeremy Corbyn and Donald Trump could redefine party dynamics, making 2025 a year of dramatic change.

Victor Davis Hanson, a distinguished historian at the Hoover Institute and author, joins Freddy Gray to dissect the tumultuous political landscape of 2024. They delve into explosive events like Trump’s attempted assassination, Biden's resignation, and the reverberating effects on American foreign policy. The conversation highlights the Republican resurgence, Trump's strategic future, and the evolving narrative of the American dream amidst political chaos. They also ponder the implications of geopolitical tensions and the challenges facing the Democratic Party.

Annie Nightingale, Britain’s first female DJ and a legend at Radio 1, shares her vibrant journey through pop culture. She reveals Beatles' secrets and discusses the struggles she faced as a woman in the male-dominated music scene. Annie reflects on her passion for astronomy and how it intertwines with her broadcasting career. With humor, she revisits iconic interviews and her evolution as a presenter. Passionate about discovering new sounds, she embraces the challenge of navigating today's vast musical landscape.

Cindy Yu, a Contributor to The Spectator, sheds light on the intense work ethic in China, discussing the personal sacrifices tied to corporate culture. Igor Toronyi-Lalic dives into Marguerite Duras' unique cinematic style, influenced by her struggles. Mary Wakefield explores the unsettling Giselle Pellico case, revealing uncomfortable truths about consent. Fraser Nelson reflects on his 15-year tenure as editor, while Michael Gove shares insights from his time at the editor's desk, marking a transition in leadership.