Best of the Spectator

Freddy Gray hosts Ed West, a journalist and author known for his insights on culture, and Richard Hanania, a thought-provoking writer. They dive into Elon Musk's recent interview with Donald Trump and the influence of Twitter on political discourse in the UK and USA. Key topics include the complexities of Trump's public persona, the intersection of tech and politics, and the shifting dynamics of social media power. The conversation also touches on humor, free speech, and the evolving landscape of political campaigns.

Svitlana Morenets, a political writer for The Spectator, and Mark Galeotti, a historian specializing in Russian affairs, delve into President Zelensky's territorial ambitions amid the Ukraine-Russia conflict. They discuss Ukraine's recent military victories and the implications for global power dynamics. Additionally, they explore the intriguing resurgence of the banking industry and the grim realities of falling fertility rates worldwide, raising concerns about demographic shifts. Lastly, they touch on nostalgia's complex emotional landscape and its cultural significance in modern society.

Adam Higginbotham, an author renowned for his exploration of historical disasters, delves into the Challenger space shuttle tragedy. He recounts the fateful day and its lasting impact on America, highlighting the bravery of the seven astronauts. The conversation emphasizes the engineering flaws, particularly the notorious O-rings, that culminated in disaster. Higginbotham also discusses commercial pressures that compromised safety and how this event reshaped public perception of NASA and its legacy in space exploration.

Romy Gill, a celebrated British-Indian chef and food writer awarded an MBE for her contributions to hospitality, shares her culinary journey. She reminisces about the joy of long train journeys filled with family meals in India and reflects on traditional dishes. Romy discusses the evolution of Indian cuisine in the UK and emphasizes the magic of essential spices like cumin and turmeric in home cooking. She offers insights on cooking techniques and reveals her excitement for her upcoming cookbook, blending cultural heritage with modern flavors.

Gus Carter shares his on-the-ground insights from Rotherham, revealing community tensions surrounding immigration. Paul Wood delves into the fragile balance of power in the Middle East, analyzing the risks of escalating conflict. Jonathan Aitken discusses the gripping drama of Nixon's resignation and its echoes in today's political landscape. Laura Gascoigne reviews an art exhibition showcasing the East Anglian School's legacy, while Flora Watkins presents the debate over ragwort's ecological benefits versus its dangers to livestock.

Gus Carter, a reporter from Rotherham and Birmingham, shares firsthand accounts from locals about the recent riots, revealing deep community frustrations and varying perspectives on immigration and crime. Lara joins him to discuss favorite magazine pieces, including Flora Watkin's notes on ragwort. Edmund West shares his journey with autism and how technology aids daily life. The discussion also highlights concerns about declining children's reading habits and the lasting impact of beloved literary characters on personal development.

Nathan Thrall, a Pulitzer Prize-winning author, shares gripping insights into the lives of Palestinians living under Israeli occupation. He discusses the tragic story of Abed Salama, a father who lost his child in a bus crash, illustrating the daily struggles faced by his community. Thrall argues for labeling Israel as an 'apartheid state,' backed by human rights findings. He also highlights how complex bureaucratic systems shape identities and freedoms, and stresses the need for accountability to bring about meaningful change in the conflict.

Discover the alarming food safety issues plaguing China as cooking oil contamination scandals reveal a troubling history of negligence and corruption. From melamine-laced milk to fuel oil in cooking containers, the podcast sheds light on the deep public mistrust borne from these crises. Experts delve into governmental failures, the impact of consumer behavior amid rapid economic changes, and the privileged food supply catering to the elite. This engaging discussion also tackles the intricate ties between food safety, political credibility, and the realities of corruption in modern China.

In the short time since Joe Biden has stepped aside for Kamala Harris's candidacy, the Democratic party has totally switched on the gears for 'Kamalamania'. On this episode, Freddy Gray talks to Kate Andrews about the disingenuousness of the hype, how social media drives it (and in particular, TikTok), and whether the enthusiasm for Kamala really has or will cut through to voters.Produced by Natasha Feroze and Cindy Yu.

On this week’s Spectator Out Loud: James Heale interviews Woody Johnson, the former American Ambassador to the UK, about a possible second Trump term (1:19); Lara Prendergast reflects on the issue of smartphones for children and what lessons we could learn from Keir Starmer’s approach to privacy (6:35); reviewing Patrick Bishop’s book ‘Paris ’44: The Shame and the Glory’, Patrick Marnham argues the liberation of Paris was hard won (12:37); Laura Gascoigne examines Ukraine’s avant garde movement in light of the Russian invasion (20:34); and, Michael Simmons provides his notes on venn diagrams (28:33).   Presented by Patrick Gibbons.