The Brendan O'Neill Show

Matthew Syed, a columnist for The Times and author known for his keen insights on culture and politics, dives into the UK’s economic decline and the pressing need for strategic reform. He critiques rising debt and the dangers of quantitative easing, while contrasting China’s nimble regulations with Western inefficiencies. Syed also addresses shifting political allegiances, the complexities of patriotism versus tax flight, and the impact of identity politics on social cohesion. His take on the decline of wokeness and call for a focus on growth is particularly thought-provoking.

Helen Joyce, the Director of Advocacy at Sex Matters, dives deep into the controversial issues surrounding puberty blockers and their irreversible effects on children. She critiques flawed trial designs that sidestep ethical standards, revealing the ideological pressures that lead to such experimentation. Joyce emphasizes the troubling promise made to children—unachievable social outcomes—and highlights the significant risks of fertility loss and mental health issues. She discusses societal implications and warns against the persistence of trans ideology affecting women's and gay rights.

Rabbi Daniel Rowe, a senior educator at Aish UK in Jerusalem, discusses the evolving landscape of antisemitism and Jewish identity. He highlights how recent global events foster a stronger connection among young Jews to their faith. Rowe examines the surge in antisemitism following October 7 and critiques the fine line between legitimate criticism of Israel and antisemitism. He also explores the resilience of Israel amid challenges, urging clearer communications to counteract Western perceptions, and expresses cautious optimism for future peace in the region.

Heather Mac Donald, a Thomas W. Smith fellow at the Manhattan Institute and author, discusses the implications of Zohran Mamdani's election for New York City. She critiques his policy proposals, arguing they ignore market realities and could exacerbate crime and poverty. Mac Donald highlights Mamdani's elitist background versus his claims to champion the working class and critiques the support he garnered from younger, college-educated voters. She warns that his administration may fuel anti-Israel sentiments and accelerate the Democratic Party's shift leftward.

In this engaging conversation, Paul Coleman, executive director of ADF International and author of Censored, dives into Europe's alarming free-speech crisis. He discusses Britain's alarming shift toward censorship and the chilling ramifications of the Paivi Rasanen case, where quoting the Bible became criminalized. Coleman highlights the rising influence of vague hate-speech laws and how they threaten religious expression. He also explores geopolitical tensions over online speech regulation, emphasizing the urgent need for reform to protect free speech across Europe.

Eli Lake, a columnist at The Free Press and host of the Breaking History podcast, dives into the complexities of modern socialism. He explores Zohran Mamdani's potential impact on American socialist politics. Lake contrasts the rise of 'hipster' socialists with traditional working-class beliefs and discusses the historical tension between democratic and revolutionary socialism. He examines the implications of Mamdani's anti-Israel stance on his support, and the troubling dynamics of radical movements today, advocating for open debate over censorship.

Daniel McCarthy – editor of Modern Age – on the impotence of the No Kings protests, the perils of Zohran Mamdani and why the working class backs Trump on trade and borders. Order Brendan O’Neill’s After the Pogrom now from: 🇬🇧 📕 Amazon UK:  https://www.amazon.co.uk/After-Pogrom-October-Israel-Civilisation/dp/1068719303/  🇺🇸 📕 Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/After-Pogrom-October-Israel-Civilisation/dp/1068719303/  Support spiked: https://www.spiked-online.com/support/  Sign up to spiked’s newsletters: https://www.spiked-online.com/newsletters/  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Natasha Hausdorff – barrister and legal director at the UK Lawyers for Israel Charitable Trust – on the return of the hostages, the evils of Hamas and the corruption of the UN.  See the spiked podcast and Last Orders live at the Battle of Ideas festival on 18 and 19 October. Get 20 per cent off with the promo code SPIKED: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/battle-of-ideas-festival-2025-tickets-1055046124359?discount=SPIKED  Order Brendan O’Neill’s After the Pogrom now from: 🇬🇧 📕 Amazon UK:  https://www.amazon.co.uk/After-Pogrom-October-Israel-Civilisation/dp/1068719303/  🇺🇸 📕 Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/After-Pogrom-October-Israel-Civilisation/dp/1068719303/  Support spiked: https://www.spiked-online.com/support/  Sign up to spiked’s newsletters:https://www.spiked-online.com/newsletters/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jonathan Sacerdoti, a writer and broadcaster specializing in Israel and antisemitism, shares his insights on the alarming rise of antisemitism since October 7th. He discusses the Manchester synagogue attack and the profound fears it evoked within the Jewish community. Sacerdoti links public protests with rising violence, highlighting the dangerous normalization of hate rhetoric. He critiques the media’s role in distorting narratives and examines the implications of political recognition of Palestine. Their conversation paints a stark picture of contemporary antisemitism and its effects on society.

Yossi Cohen, the former chief of Mossad and author of The Sword of Freedom, dives into the complexities of Israeli security. He reveals the challenges of writing his memoir while keeping operational secrets intact. Cohen contrasts the agency’s feared reputation with its actual high-risk intelligence work. He discusses lessons learned from events like October 7th, explores his proposals for humanitarian corridors in Gaza, and shares insights on unity and leadership needed for Israel's future, all with a focus on strengthening global communication.