Intelligence Squared
Intelligence Squared
Intelligence Squared is the home of lively debate and deep-dive discussion. Follow Intelligence Squared wherever you get your podcasts and enjoy four regular episodes per week taking you to the heart of the issues that matter in the company of the world’s great minds. We’d love to hear your feedback and what you think we should talk about next, who we should have on and what our future debates should be. Send us an email or voice note with your thoughts to podcasts@intelligencesquared.com or Tweet us @intelligence2. And if you’d like to support our mission to foster honest debate and compelling conversations, as well as ad-free podcasts, exclusive bonus content, early access and much more, become a supporter of Intelligence Squared today. Just visit intelligencesquared.com/membership to find out more.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jun 17, 2025 • 50min
Is Britain in Denial About the Far Right? With Harry Shukman
In this engaging discussion, Harry Shukman, a journalist and researcher at HOPE not hate, shares insights from his undercover investigation into Britain's far right. He reveals the normalization of extremist ideologies like eugenics and Holocaust denial, often intertwined with big tech and media. The conversation explores the challenges of infiltrating these groups and the emotional struggles of those seeking belonging. Shukman’s revelations illuminate the dangerous dynamics beneath the surface of British society, prompting a broader reflection on extremism.
48 snips
Jun 15, 2025 • 38min
The Power of Good Conversation, with Jefferson Fisher (Part Two)
Jefferson Fisher, a trial lawyer turned communication expert with a global following, shares insightful strategies for effective conversation. He discusses managing disrespect in dialogues and highlights the importance of pauses for active listening. Fisher delves into the complexities of silence and ghosting, urging self-awareness in relationships. He also addresses navigating interruptions and dishonesty with composure, providing practical tips for clearer communication and fostering healthier connections in both personal and professional spheres.
26 snips
Jun 14, 2025 • 38min
The Power of Good Conversation, with Jefferson Fisher (Part One)
Jefferson Fisher, a trial lawyer turned communication expert and author of 'The Next Conversation,' dives into the essence of effective communication. He explores how modern dialogues can feel divisive and shares practical strategies to enhance conversational skills. Fisher emphasizes the importance of empathy and understanding in conversations, urging listeners to shift focus from winning arguments to fostering connections. He also shares insights on managing emotional reactions during discussions, highlighting techniques for calm engagement.
Jun 12, 2025 • 40min
Sotheby's Talks | Shakespeare: A Man For All Time, with Tracy-Ann Oberman
In this engaging discussion, Emma Smith, a Professor of Shakespeare Studies at Oxford, and Tracy-Ann Oberman, an acclaimed actor known for her modern take on Shylock, delve into the complexities of Shakespeare's works. They explore how textual variations influence interpretations across generations. Oberman shares her unique perspective on Shylock, connecting it to contemporary issues of identity and societal rejection. The conversation also highlights the intricacies of Shakespeare's characters and the lasting impact of his wordplay, making his works timeless.
5 snips
Jun 11, 2025 • 55min
Is Nvidia the most important company in the world? With Stephen Witt
Stephen Witt, an insightful author known for exploring technology and culture, joins the conversation to discuss Nvidia's meteoric rise to becoming the most valuable company globally. He delves into how Nvidia transitioned from gaming hardware to AI leadership, driven by CEO Jensen Huang's visionary strategy. Witt highlights the synergy between parallel computing and AI, and addresses the ongoing debate around AI safety, presenting both challenges and opportunities. This dynamic discussion examines Nvidia's transformative impact on society and the tech industry.
12 snips
Jun 8, 2025 • 38min
An Evening with Adam Buxton and Caitlin Moran (Part Two)
Adam Buxton, a celebrated comedian and podcaster, joins bestselling author Caitlin Moran for a lively discussion. They delve into the humorous truths of parenting, sharing relatable anecdotes and the chaotic reality behind the idealized views of family life. Adam recounts his creative collaboration with Joe Cornish and an imaginative baking competition inspired by 'Alien.' The duo reflects on the evolution of family dynamics, the ups and downs of fame, and their authentic journey through the challenges of creativity and personal growth.
4 snips
Jun 7, 2025 • 39min
An Evening with Adam Buxton and Caitlin Moran (Part One)
Join Adam Buxton, a beloved UK comedian and podcaster known for his surreal humor, as he chats with Caitlin Moran, a bestselling author celebrated for her sharp wit and feminist insights. They dive into Adam's memoir, sharing hilarious and heartfelt stories about his creative partnership with Joe Cornish and encounters with icons like David Bowie. The conversation touches on family life, the absurdities of fame, reflections on loss, and the emotional complexities of parenting, all wrapped in laughter and poignant moments.
Jun 5, 2025 • 41min
How has resistance shaped Britain? With Steve McQueen (Part Two)
Steve McQueen, an acclaimed British filmmaker known for '12 Years a Slave' and 'Small Axe', dives into the history of resistance in Britain. He discusses how collective action has shaped modern identity, highlighting movements from women's suffrage to LGBTQ+ rights. McQueen emphasizes the role of art in re-examining colonial legacies and fostering dialogue about societal issues. He reflects on the power of storytelling to bridge divides and inspire activism, showcasing how the past informs today's struggles for change.
Jun 3, 2025 • 40min
How has resistance shaped Britain? With Steve McQueen (Part One)
In this engaging discussion, acclaimed filmmaker and artist Steve McQueen, known for '12 Years a Slave', shares insights alongside award-winning journalist Gary Younge. They explore the profound impact of resistance on Britain's social landscape, tracing movements from the suffrage era to recent protests. McQueen highlights the role of photography in activism, uncovering overlooked stories of change-makers. Together, they reflect on community resilience, the significance of collective action, and the ongoing struggles for justice that resonate through art and history.
22 snips
Jun 1, 2025 • 38min
Understanding Xi: Is China’s President a Threat to the World? (Part Two)
Rana Mitter, a distinguished historian from Harvard Kennedy School and former director of Oxford's China Centre, delves into the complexities of Xi Jinping's regime. He discusses Xi's militaristic posturing and geopolitical maneuvers, particularly regarding Taiwan and China's relationship with Russia. Mitter examines the purges within the Communist Party and Xi's consolidation of power, as well as the potential future landscape of China after Xi. The conversation also touches on the global implications of Xi's ideology and the West's diplomatic approach.
