Actor and comedian Michael Palin discusses his journey in comedy, growing up with a father who stuttered, creating iconic Monty Python sketches, transitioning to documentary making, and advocating for environmental action.

Robert Kagan discusses the radicalization of the Republican Party into a vehicle for Trump's agenda with Edward Luce. They delve into American history, conservatism, Reagan's legacy, and compare Trump's leadership to historical demagogues. They also speculate on the consequences of a Biden victory and potential split within the Republican Party.

Rebecca Achieng Ajulu-Bushell, the first Black woman to represent Great Britain in swimming, shares her journey from athletic success to advocacy. The podcast explores the challenges of balancing mental health, identity, and expectations in sports, as well as her efforts in creating opportunities for black talent in various industries.

Writer and historian Agnes Arnold-Forster discusses her book 'Nostalgia: A History of a Dangerous Emotion' with scholar Merve Emre. They explore the complexities of nostalgia, its historical evolution, societal impacts, and political dimensions. The podcast delves into the intersection of nostalgia with psychology, capitalism, and AI, revealing how this emotion shapes our perceptions of the past and present.

Military historian Max Hastings discusses Operation Biting's significance in WWII, revealing intel and special forces impact on modern conflicts. Joined by Margaret MacMillan, they highlight the role of AI tools in streamlining collaboration and recount Gilbert Renault's pivotal role in the French Resistance.

Military historian Max Hastings discusses Operation Biting, a WWII raid to capture Hitler's radar, highlighting the role of intelligence and special forces. Joined by Margaret MacMillan, they explore the impact of this mission on the war and its relevance to modern conflicts. The conversation delves into the strategic significance of radar technology in WWII and Churchill's interest in successful missions for morale. They also touch on the contrasting realities of war and the need for genuine global response.

Economic expert Keyu Jin discusses China's economic challenges in 2024, from slow growth to property market troubles. The impact on global relations and potential outcomes for the US and Taiwan are highlighted. Insights into China's interconnections with the world and the push for the RMB as a global currency are also explored.

Debate between Left and Right politics featuring key politicians discussing societal beliefs, wealth accumulation, defense of tradition, and socialist ideologies. Topics include challenges in the Labour movement, principles of left-wing politics, family values, wealth inequality, and regulations for accountability.

Former soldier and counterinsurgency adviser David Kilcullen discusses Western interventions and guerrilla warfare evolution. Topics include Chinese economic penetration, cyber warfare, information manipulation, and involving civilians in military policy.

Acclaimed writer Olivia Laing explores the concept of the garden as a personal paradise, delving into themes of utopia, resistance, and anti-capitalism. The discussion covers historical contexts, the allure of garden lists, and the impact of capitalism on environmental sustainability.