Strong Message Here

Ria Lina is a sharp-witted comedian and commentator known for her humorous takes on politics, while Tim Shipman is a seasoned political editor and author who dives deep into British politics. Together, they explore the recent renouncement of Prince Andrew's titles, blending humor with a critique of his responses. They also dissect the COVID inquiry's focus on sensational WhatsApps rather than useful lessons. Tim reveals the confusion within government language regarding the China threat, and they share insights on how politicians evade accountability in inquiries.

Stewart Lee, a renowned stand-up comedian and writer, joins to dissect the complexities of political language. He tackles the trend of hyperbolic speech and its performance effect on rhetoric. The conversation dives into the ethical quandaries of comedians in politically charged environments, while also questioning Trump’s bold peace claims amidst ongoing conflicts. Stewart warns about the manipulation of language, especially in AI, and discusses the challenge of nuanced dialogue amid the chaos of extreme rhetoric.

Join Natalie Haynes, a witty classicist and comedian, as she dives into the art of repetition in rhetoric. From Keir Starmer's motto about his father's toolmaking to the infamous 'education, education, education' mantra by Tony Blair, they explore what makes repetition resonate or irk audiences. Engage with their sharp insights on political alliteration, branding blunders like the misspelled 'Britian' chocolate, and the manipulative use of phrases like 'Boris Wave.' Haynes critiques modern propaganda, highlighting the power of repeated narratives.

Adam Fleming, journalist and host of BBC's Newscast, shares insights from the Labour Party conference. He discusses whether message discipline stifles debate and the importance of unplanned moments in speeches. Fleming reflects on the challenges of conference reporting and why negative stories dominate the news cycle. He highlights the nuances of political language and how leaders often speak in jargon that disconnects them from the public. Fleming also analyzes the impact of specific phrases in speeches and their hidden meanings.

Stewart Lee returns to the show, to join Armando in discussing 'hurty words'. With Jimmy Kimmel's suspension, and in the wake of Charlie Kirk's murder, free speech is in the spotlight again. Those who railed against 'cancel culture' are now getting into 'consequence culture'. We also discuss how Marvel's superheroes might respond to the actions of their new owners, and whether you can pray in your own homes in this country anymore (spoiler alert, you can).Listen to Strong Message Here on Radio 4, Thursdays at 9:45, and an extended version is available on BBC Sounds.Produced by Gwyn Rhys Davies. A BBC Studios Production for Radio 4.

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.