

The News Agents
Global
Emily Maitlis, Jon Sopel and Lewis Goodall – three of the UK’s top journalists – host an award-winning daily news podcast: The News Agents.
They’re not just here to tell you what's happening, but why. Expect astute analysis and explanation of the day's news – and a healthy dose of scepticism and the ability to laugh at it all when needed.
Episodes are available every weekday afternoon. You can listen to The News Agents on Alexa, just say "Alexa ask Global Player to play The News Agents"
The News Agents is a Global Player Original podcast.
For advertising opportunities on this podcast email: dax@global.com
You can visit our website here https://www.thenewsagents.co.uk/
They’re not just here to tell you what's happening, but why. Expect astute analysis and explanation of the day's news – and a healthy dose of scepticism and the ability to laugh at it all when needed.
Episodes are available every weekday afternoon. You can listen to The News Agents on Alexa, just say "Alexa ask Global Player to play The News Agents"
The News Agents is a Global Player Original podcast.
For advertising opportunities on this podcast email: dax@global.com
You can visit our website here https://www.thenewsagents.co.uk/
Episodes
Mentioned books

56 snips
Apr 17, 2025 • 37min
Matthew Freud knows the secrets of Britain's most powerful people
Matthew Freud, a British public relations executive and founder of Freud Communications, rarely steps into the spotlight. In this conversation, he shares his insights on navigating crises for A-listers and politicians amidst a turbulent media landscape. Freud discusses the influence of family legacies and names, referencing the hit series 'Succession.' He highlights the importance of authenticity in sustainability conversations and unpacks the ethical complexities behind public personas, touching on the stories of sports figures like Mo Farah.

4 snips
Apr 17, 2025 • 25min
Weekend Edition - The Sports Agents
Roschon Johnson, a Chicago Bears running back drafted in the fourth round of the 2023 NFL Draft, shares his emotional journey leading to that life-changing phone call. He reveals the intensity of background checks and the massive playbook he had to learn, underscoring the pressure young athletes face in the NFL. The conversation also touches on the excitement around the upcoming draft, highlighting the anticipation and anxiety that comes with being a hopeful player in a competitive landscape.

100 snips
Apr 16, 2025 • 29min
What is a woman? A landmark ruling
A landmark Supreme Court ruling has redefined the term "woman" as strictly referring to biological women, igniting debates over women's rights and transgender protections. The ruling raises questions about its real-world impact on trans individuals and fuels ongoing culture wars. The complexities of gender identity laws are explored, alongside the confusion surrounding public perceptions and the media's role in these discussions. The fallout from a notable legal case also underscores the intersections of gender identity, societal challenges, and legal boundaries.

87 snips
Apr 15, 2025 • 30min
Has Trump given up on Ukraine?
The podcast dives into the chaotic aftermath of a deadly missile strike in Ukraine, highlighting the fractured U.S. diplomatic stance. There's a sharp critique of Trump's handling of the Ukraine-Russia relationship and whether he understands Putin's intentions. The discussion also touches on NATO's role and the need for Europe to step up amidst ongoing aggression. Additionally, the hosts delve into themes of censorship and totalitarianism, exploring the psychological underpinnings of regime control, alongside lively conversations about significant literary works.

65 snips
Apr 14, 2025 • 36min
Is China trying to sabotage British Steel?
Victor Gao, Vice President of the Centre for China and Globalisation, dives into the fraught relationship between the UK and China, particularly regarding British steel. He examines allegations of sabotage by the Chinese company Jingye and the government's strategies to protect local manufacturing. The conversation also touches on China's recent halt on critical mineral exports and its implications for UK industries. Throughout, Gao advocates for collaboration over suspicion, highlighting the complexities of navigating these geopolitical tensions.

105 snips
Apr 11, 2025 • 40min
SPECIAL REPORT: Will Keir Starmer save British Steel?
Parliament's recall signals urgency as British Steel faces closure. Scunthorpe's fate hangs by a thread, threatening 2,700 jobs and more. Keir Starmer's vision for a revitalized state poses questions about the future of globalization and national industries. The local community's resilience shines amid looming job losses and demands for government action. Discussions revolve around domestic steel's role in national security and the transformative potential of prioritizing workers' needs over outdated economic policies.

Apr 11, 2025 • 25min
Weekend Edition - The Sports Agents
Jordon Ibe, a former Liverpool winger now playing in England's seventh tier, discusses his battle with mental health and the pressures of success after a promising start. John McAvoy, a former armed robber turned world record-setting rower, shares his incredible journey of redemption and transformation through sports. They explore the harsh realities athletes face, the impact of circumstances on careers, and the ethics of accepting redemption in competitive environments, highlighting both personal trials and broader societal issues.

105 snips
Apr 10, 2025 • 32min
Trump's u-turn: "A power trip on a global scale"
The podcast dives into the chaotic reversal of Trump's tariff policy, highlighting confusion within his team and the market's optimistic response. It raises questions about insider trading and accountability amidst U.S.-China trade tensions. Trump's ongoing quest for vengeance against critics underlines the chilling effect on dissenting voices. Additionally, it spotlights the uncertain future of British steel and the impact of globalization, all while blending political insights with a touch of humor.

85 snips
Apr 9, 2025 • 32min
Trump’s Liz Truss moment: “It could be cataclysmic”
Global trade tensions escalate as U.S. tariffs against China spark fears of an economic collapse, sending shockwaves through stock and bond markets. The faltering U.S. confidence makes Greece seem like a safer investment, prompting comparisons to historical figures like Liz Truss. Meanwhile, the Birmingham bin strikes highlight a deeper equal pay crisis, exposing the ramifications of local authority budget cuts and the struggles for gender parity in the face of fiscal hardship. Unforeseen labor actions hinge on fragile employment rights, complicating the scenario further.

68 snips
Apr 8, 2025 • 30min
"China gives Trump the middle finger"
Joining the discussion is Luke Tryl, a pollster from More in Common, renowned for his insights into voter behavior in the UK. He analyzes the escalating trade war between the U.S. and China, exploring its broad economic implications. Luke also shares fascinating data on how British public opinion towards the U.S. is shifting, especially during the Trump presidency. With local elections on the horizon, he discusses rising political dynamics and the popularity of leader Starmer, ultimately reflecting on the UK's changing views and diplomatic desires.