Best of the Spectator

Discover the creative minds behind remarkable innovations tackling climate change and promoting social good. From vertical farming to groundbreaking carbon capture technologies, hear about startups making a real difference. Learn how waste glass is being recycled to solve water management issues and explore advancements in energy storage using old electric vehicle batteries. Plus, find out how initiatives are empowering women in tech and combating vaping in schools—paving the way for a sustainable and equitable future.

William Finlater, an undergraduate from St Andrews University, uncovers the Church of Scotland's drastic decision to sell off hundreds of churches at low prices due to plummeting membership. He highlights the emotional conflict between treating these sacred spaces as mere assets versus their significance to communities. Joining him is Michael Gove, former Sunday school teacher and Spectator's new editor, who reflects on the church’s historical struggles and the challenges of adapting to modern secularism while maintaining its architectural heritage.

Philip Womack, a Shakespeare scholar, delves into the struggles modern students face with classic texts and reading lists. Ian Thomson shares personal tales of Albania’s transformation post-Hoxha, contrasting its rich history with newfound tourism. Silkie Carlo raises alarms about the alarming rise of supermarket surveillance technologies. Francis Young reminisces about the tradition of Halloween fairies, linking folklore to ancestral beliefs. Finally, Rory Sutherland discusses the balancing act between earning potential and quality of life, hinting at a potential migration crisis in pursuit of better living standards.

Join Kate Andrews, The Spectator's Economics Editor, Tim Stanley, a Telegraph political commentator, James Kanagasooriam, a skilled pollster, and Nigel Farage, the leader of Reform UK and Trump ally, as they dive into the electrifying climate of the upcoming US election. They explore the shifting dynamics of Kamala Harris and Trump's newfound momentum. Discover insights into how humor and entertainment shape Trump's appeal, the complexities of voter demographics, and the implications for UK-US relations. It's a riveting discussion that blends politics with personal anecdotes!

Daisy Cooper, Deputy Leader of the Liberal Democrats and MP for St Albans, shares her journey from aspiring conductor to influential politician. She reflects on her rise in the political arena and discusses her ambitions for future leadership. Daisy dives into the dynamics of having 72 colleagues in Parliament, revealing insights on the Liberal Democrats' strategies and responses to the current Labour government and Conservative race. With a background in law and a stint at a Commonwealth think tank, she offers a unique perspective on governance and accountability.

David Butterfield, a former Classics teacher at Cambridge, shares insights on the troubling decline of university education, critiquing administrative influences and grade inflation. Author Philip Womack recounts his experiences with university bureaucracy, while Kate Andrews discusses Trump's comedic revival, emphasizing his unique rhetorical style. Philip Collins adds depth on Trump's humor in politics, and Jack Marsh reveals how AI is transforming Delftware ceramics, merging tradition with technology for innovative artistic expression.

James Heale, Political correspondent for The Spectator, offers keen insights into the Labour Party's alleged interference in the U.S. elections. He discusses the controversy surrounding nearly 100 Labour activists heading to the States, igniting a fierce response from Donald Trump's campaign. The conversation also touches on Labour's evolving foreign policy, especially towards China, and internal tensions regarding Trump's influence. Heale explores the shifting perceptions of Trump's presidency and how foreign involvement in U.S. politics complicates everything.

Rachel Clarke, a palliative care doctor and author of "The Story of a Heart," shares her deep insights into the emotional nuances of organ donation. She tells the moving story of 9-year-old Keira, whose heart donation allowed a dying stranger, Max, to live. The conversation navigates the complexities of balancing professionalism with empathy in healthcare. Clarke also reflects on the evolution of brain death and the vital roles played by specialist nurses in facilitating organ donations. Her unique perspective brings to light the courage amidst tragedy.

Tim Spector, a leading professor of genetic epidemiology, delves into the world of personalized nutrition and gut health. He shares how a skiing accident transformed his perspective on diet and wellness. Listeners are treated to nostalgic tales of his Australian upbringing, contrasting simple meals with his culinary journey in the UK. Spector advocates for enjoying food while embracing healthier cooking practices, highlighting moderation in indulgences like ham-flavored crisps. His insights emphasize sustainability and creativity in our eating habits.

Jonny Ohlson, founder of synthetic DNA firm Touchlight, shares his insights on cutting-edge bioscience. Nicholas Hardie, entrepreneur and non-executive director at Moorfields Eye Hospital, discusses the complexities of healthcare delivery in the UK. Michelle White, from Rathbones, provides a wealth management perspective on supporting health innovation. They explore exciting advances in cancer therapeutics, innovative technologies for non-invasive detection, and the overwhelming bureaucratic challenges innovators face within the NHS.