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
Feb 6, 2023 • 45min
Up in the Air: The Future of BBC World Service and Britain's Soft Power
Emma Robertson, a historian and co-author of a comprehensive BBC World Service history, joins former BBC Arabic head Hosam El Sokkari and BBC anchor Mahmoud Al-Mossallami, who shares reflections on his final broadcast. They discuss the significant shift in BBC World Service history, emphasizing the emotional ties audiences have with the BBC Arabic service. The conversation touches on the service's evolution, its role in international broadcasting, and the challenges it faces in a digital age. The implications for Britain's soft power and global influence are also explored.
Feb 5, 2023 • 1h 29min
The Sunday Debate: Were pre-Brexit predictions correct?
Nick Clegg, Former Deputy Prime Minister and leader of the Liberal Democrats, debates Gisela Stuart, Labour MP and Vote Leave co-chair, on the validity of pre-Brexit predictions. They explore the economic impacts, national sovereignty issues, and shifts in public sentiment since the referendum. The discussion dives into immigration policies post-Brexit and the complexities of trade negotiations. Engaging anecdotes and audience reactions add depth to their contrasting views on the legacy and future of the UK's relationship with the EU.
Feb 3, 2023 • 48min
Ian Hislop on Satire and Becoming the Most Sued Man in England
Ian Hislop, a prominent journalist and satirist, has edited Private Eye for 37 years and is dubbed the most sued man in England. He shares how his global childhood shaped his unique perspective on satire. From his prestigious boarding school experience to pivotal moments in the 1980s alternative comedy scene, Hislop reflects on the evolution of British humor. He also delves into the tumultuous legal battles faced by satire, highlighting a notorious libel case that underscores the challenges of commenting on public figures in today’s landscape.
Feb 1, 2023 • 41min
Muppets in Moscow: The Story of Making Sesame Street in Russia
Natasha Lance Rogoff, an award-winning producer and filmmaker, shares her journey as the executive producer of Ulitsa Sezam, bringing Sesame Street to post-Soviet Russia. She discusses the cultural shifts and challenges of adapting beloved characters for a new audience during a turbulent time. The conversation highlights the innovative blend of folklore, music, and educational values to resonate with Russian children. Natasha also reflects on the enduring impact of the show and envisions a future where the Muppets could return to Moscow.
Jan 30, 2023 • 59min
How Putin’s Wars Shaped Modern Russia
Mark Galeotti, a leading expert on modern Russia and author of the insightful book 'Putin’s Wars,' discusses how Vladimir Putin's conflicts have reshaped the country. Galeotti highlights the evolution of Putin's military strategies, from Chechnya to Syria, and how these actions reflect his ideology of defending Russia's dignity. He also delves into the annexation of Crimea and the miscalculations that sparked further tensions in Ukraine, ultimately revealing the unpredictable nature of geopolitical decisions in today's world.
4 snips
Jan 29, 2023 • 1h 6min
The Sunday Debate: The West Should Pay Reparations For Slavery
Join Kehinde Andrews, a Professor of Black Studies, and Esther Stanford-Xosei, a dedicated reparations activist, as they passionately argue for reparations for slavery. They delve into the historical injustices and lingering economic disparities tied to slavery's legacy. Katharine Birbalsingh, headmistress of Michaela Community School, counters, emphasizing potential social tensions and the complexities of accountability. The debate explores whether acknowledging past wrongs can spur healing or reopen old wounds, making for a lively and provocative discussion.
Jan 27, 2023 • 25min
How the Egyptian Pound Hit an All-Time Low
Vivian Yee, Cairo Bureau Chief for The New York Times, and Gregg Carlstrom, Middle East correspondent for The Economist, delve into Egypt's severe economic crisis. They discuss how the Egyptian pound's historic drop and soaring inflation are affecting everyday life, turning essentials into luxuries. The conversation highlights the role of the military in the economy, the impact of global events like Ukraine’s war, and the skepticism surrounding the IMF's interventions. Will President El-Sisi find a viable solution, or is unrest looming on the horizon?
12 snips
Jan 25, 2023 • 57min
How to Manage Your Money In the Cost of Living Crisis
Paul Lewis, a seasoned journalist and author famed for his expertise on personal finance from BBC Radio 4's Money Box, shares invaluable insights on navigating today’s financial landscape. He discusses effective debt management, the pros and cons of Buy Now, Pay Later services, and highlights the importance of financial literacy for the youth. Paul also emphasizes strategies for requesting pay raises and sheds light on the often-misunderstood world of cryptocurrency and smart meters, offering practical advice to empower listeners in managing their finances.
5 snips
Jan 23, 2023 • 54min
Debunking the False Promises of the Wellness Industry
Rina Raphael, a health and wellness journalist and author of "The Gospel of Wellness," explores the dark side of the $4.4 trillion wellness industry. She highlights how misleading claims target women, pushing them into a cycle of sacrifice in pursuit of an ideal self. Raphael discusses the psychological impact of wellness consumerism and the need for a shift towards authentic, evidence-based solutions. The conversation touches on food label deception, the societal pressures on women's health, and the importance of community in achieving genuine wellbeing.
Jan 22, 2023 • 36min
The Sunday Debate: What is the legacy of Pope Benedict XVI?
Massimo Faggioli, a Professor of Theology at Villanova University, joins writer Mathew Walther to discuss the complex legacy of Pope Benedict XVI. They delve into Benedict's groundbreaking resignation in 2013 and its reverberations in the Catholic Church, exploring how his conservative views shaped modern religious leadership. The conversation also addresses his controversial handling of abuse scandals and the lasting impact of his papacy on 1.3 billion Catholics, highlighting ongoing debates about tradition versus modernity.
