Strong Message Here

In the first episode of the new series, Armando Iannucci and guest co-host, Ria Lina look at the use and abuse of political language. The political summer is often called 'silly season', but with global conflict and rising tensions at home, Armando and Ria look at the language that defined recent months including Keir Starmer's "Phase 2" and the word "plastic".Armando’s erstwhile partner in de-baffling political lexicon, Helen Lewis is away working in the United States in the Autumn and so her seat will be kept warm by a rotating cast of co-hosts.Got a question for Armando? Email us at strongmessagehere@bbc.co.ukListen to Strong Message Here on Radio 4 at 9:45, and an extended version is available on BBC Sounds.Recorded at The Sound Company Production Coordinator: Caroline Barlow Sound editing by Chris Maclean Executive Producer: Richard MorrisProduced by Gwyn Rhys Davies. A BBC Studios Production for Radio 4.

Dive into the whimsical world of Terry Pratchett as two fans dissect 'Going Postal.' They explore how Pratchett's humor and satire breathe life into a failing postal service, boasting a cast of quirky characters. The conversation highlights the surreal absurdities of bureaucracy, all while reveling in the power of storytelling. Along the way, they discuss the broader significance of fantasy literature and how Pratchett's works resonate with readers through timeless themes and unforgettable narratives.

Armando has been watch Tehran on Apple TV. This multi-language show about spy agencies in Iran and Israel sheds gives you a glimpse in to life on the ground in these countries that you can't get from headlines alone. Like the Post Office scandal in the UK, why does it sometimes take a dramatisation to mobilise the public, and bring about change?Join Helen and Armando over the summer for more cultural recommendations, available weekly on BBC Sounds.Production Coordinator: Sarah Nicholls Executive Producer: Pete Strauss Sound Editing: Chris Maclean Recorded at The Sound CompanyStrong Message Here: Strong Recommend is produced by Gwyn Rhys Davies, and is a BBC Studios production for Radio 4.

If you're interested in fantasy, and fancy taking on a responsibility equivalent to a part-time job, Helen recommends Elden Ring. A wildly popular Japanese video game which allows you to live in a world created by George RR Martin. With place and character names reminiscent of Lord of the Rings, we ask why that is the accepted register of fantasy. Could it be the detail and care which Tolkien gave to his languages, and the sounds of words denoting a sense of place, building a rich landscape? And with companies coming out of Silicon Valley with names like 'Palantir' and 'Mithril', why are the Tech-Right so obsessed with his creations?Helen also grills Armando on his video-gaming history (whatever the audio equivalent of a 'blink' is, do that, and you'll miss it).Join Helen and Armando over the summer for more cultural recommendations, available weekly on BBC Sounds.Production Coordinator: Sarah Nicholls Executive Producer: Pete Strauss Sound Editing: Chris Maclean Recorded at The Sound CompanyStrong Message Here: Strong Recommend is produced by Gwyn Rhys Davies and is a BBC Studios production for Radio 4.

In 1998, a Japanese man was filmed in solitary confinement for our entertainment. Naked as the day he was born, which led to his suggestive nickname, the Japanese people were gripped by Tomoaki Hamatsu's journey. Today, can we see how reality TV has infected our storytelling and our language? Whether it's someone in Big Brother proudly declaring they'll 'say it to your face' or an Apprentice-host-turned-President telling you 'you're fired' - are these reality shows replacing the art of storytelling?And Armando asks 'what is structured reality?', 'What is America's Next Top Model, and, more generally, 'What?!'.Join Helen and Armando over the summer for more cultural recommendations, available weekly on BBC Sounds.Production Coordinator: Sarah Nicholls Executive Producer: Pete Strauss Sound Editing: Chris Maclean Recorded at The Sound CompanyStrong Message Here: Strong Recommend is produced by Gwyn Rhys Davies and is a BBC Studios production for Radio 4.

Dive into the fascinating world of shamanism and its relevance today. Explore how traditional practices inform modern spirituality and leadership. The discussion challenges whether ayahuasca retreats are ego-driven or enlightening. Discover the connections between ritual, authority, and our fascination with figures like Thatcher. Unpack the shift from medical authority to patient empowerment and question our ongoing search for spiritual experiences in a contemporary context. This conversation blends ancient wisdom with modern cultural critiques.

Fancy trying a new author, but don't know where to start? Armando recommends a short novel by Penelope Fitzgerald, and Helen shares a tip on how to try on a new author for size before committing.Join Helen and Armando over the summer for more cultural recommendations, available weekly on BBC Sounds.Production Coordinator: Sarah Nicholls Executive Producer: Pete Strauss Sound Editing: Chris Maclean Recorded at The Sound CompanyStrong Message Here: Strong Recommend is produced by Gwyn Rhys Davies and is a BBC Studios production for Radio 4.

The podcast dives into the vibrant world of theatre with a focus on the new production of Evita at the London Palladium. It highlights an exhilarating moment that captivates both audiences near the venue and those inside. The speakers discuss innovative directing techniques that bridge the gap between performers and the public, fostering audience engagement. Humorous stories from the stage reveal the challenges comedians face with crowd reactions, making a case for the immersive power of live performance. Don't miss their cultural insights!

Armando Iannucci and Helen Lewis dive into the labyrinth of political language through the lens of Shakespeare's 'Richard II.' They explore the protagonist's internal struggles with identity and madness, revealing the emotional depth behind the text. The conversation highlights themes of despair and power while drawing intriguing parallels to modern politics. With a mix of humor and insightful analysis, they uncover Shakespeare's political courage and its relevance today, making for a compelling discussion.

Dive into the fascinating world of taxonomy with insights from Carl Linnaeus and Comte de Buffon. Discover the quirky tensions between rigid classifications and flexible interpretations of species. The discussion takes a turn as it unpacks the historical roots of racial classifications and their lingering effects today. You’ll also explore how taxonomy connects with art and music, highlighting humorous takes on big cat hybrids and the impact of seminal texts on cultural canons.