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
76 snips
Jan 10, 2025 • 38min
What went wrong with capitalism?
Explore the pressing challenges of the UK's economy, from rising borrowing costs to the impacts of external influences. Delve into the phenomenon of 'zombie companies' that hinder innovation and growth, revealing the faults in systemic support structures. Discuss the evolution of government intervention in capitalism and how historical shifts have shaped today's economic landscape. Insights on successful regulatory reforms in other countries highlight potential solutions to slow growth and high housing costs, questioning the fairness of current fiscal policies.
Jan 10, 2025 • 23min
Weekend Edition - The Sports Agents
In this talk, former England cricketer Steve Harmison shares gripping stories from his career, including the heavy death threats he faced in 2003 over a potential boycott against Zimbabwe. He discusses the tension surrounding a possible boycott of an upcoming match against Afghanistan, linking it to greater political pressures in sports. The conversation also sheds light on the plight of Afghan female cricketers and the complexities of making impactful decisions in the world of cricket amidst challenging circumstances.
68 snips
Jan 9, 2025 • 38min
Why is Liz Truss threatening to sue Keir Starmer?
Mark Littlewood, a key ally of Liz Truss, discusses her legal threat against Keir Starmer over claims that she "crashed the economy." They explore the implications for free speech in politics and the chilling effect of such legal actions. Littlewood also examines the economic fallout from Truss's policies, reflecting on the political backlash she faces. The conversation touches on the challenges of market instability and accountability in leadership, questioning the broader impact of these tensions on the UK's economic landscape.
54 snips
Jan 8, 2025 • 50min
Mark Zuckerberg goes MAGA
Mark Zuckerberg, Founder and CEO of Meta, talks about the company's controversial decision to scrap its fact-checking operation, marking a significant shift in content moderation. He reflects on the influence of political pressures from the incoming administration. The discussion raises critical questions about the implications for truth online and the future governance of social media. Additionally, Wes Streeting weighs in on political interference and the emergence of populist tactics within the Conservative Party, further highlighting the complicated intersection of technology and politics.
36 snips
Jan 7, 2025 • 32min
The journalist who exposed the grooming scandal breaks his silence
Andrew Norfolk, Chief Investigative Reporter at The Times, is renowned for exposing the Rotherham child sexual exploitation scandal. In this compelling discussion, he reflects on the challenges of covering the grooming scandal and the political misuse of victim narratives. Norfolk reveals systemic failures in law enforcement and social services and highlights alarming instances where victims are treated as offenders. He emphasizes the urgent need for a thorough inquiry to address the deep-rooted cultural dynamics and ensure justice for vulnerable girls.
49 snips
Jan 6, 2025 • 38min
How Keir Starmer called out Elon Musk
Keir Starmer calls out misinformation related to grooming gangs, indirectly targeting Elon Musk. The discussion reveals Musk's declining support for Nigel Farage and critiques Kemi Badenoch's alignment with Musk’s uninformed inquiries. The episode dives into the dangers of misinformation in politics, emphasizing the need for accountability among leaders. Additionally, it touches on cultural divides and the evolving rhetoric of the Conservative Party amidst the sensitive topic of child sexual abuse. Humor and historical references color the analysis of Musk's impact on British politics.
46 snips
Jan 2, 2025 • 35min
What if...Boris Johnson had backed remain during the Brexit referendum?
What if Boris Johnson had backed the Remain campaign during Brexit? This intriguing scenario explores how his decision might have shifted public opinion and financial markets. The discussion also dives into the historical significance of Hong Kong's handover and the ongoing struggles for democracy there. Additionally, there's speculation on the impact of Rishi Sunak's early election call and whether it could have altered the political landscape for the Conservatives and their rivals.
22 snips
Dec 31, 2024 • 31min
What if...George Bush had lost to Al Gore in 2000?
What if Al Gore had won the 2000 election? The hosts explore how U.S. foreign policy and climate change initiatives might have shifted. They also delve into the fierce 2016 Democratic primary between Hillary Clinton and Bernie Sanders, questioning how a Sanders nomination could have changed the election's trajectory. Finally, they speculate on Joe Biden's debate tactics against Trump—could a quick nap have altered the dynamic? Expect thought-provoking scenarios that challenge the course of American politics!
30 snips
Dec 26, 2024 • 33min
What if...Dominic Cummings hadn’t tested his eyesight by driving to Barnard Castle?
What if Dominic Cummings had never tested his eyesight by driving to Barnard Castle? The discussion unpacks the potential shifts in the Conservative Party and the ripple effects on British politics. Imagine if David Miliband had become Labour leader instead of Ed—how different would Brexit be? They also delve into the chilling implications of a successful IRA assassination of Margaret Thatcher in 1984. Each 'what if' explores how small decisions can lead to monumental changes in history and political landscapes.
33 snips
Dec 24, 2024 • 36min
What if...Scotland had voted YES to independence?
What if Scotland had voted for independence in 2014? The discussion reveals potential shifts in UK and European politics, especially regarding younger voters. Then, the impact of Rupert Murdoch’s acquisition of The Sun is explored, considering how it shaped the UK media landscape. The conversation also highlights the media's influence on political perceptions, particularly during the 2010 elections, showcasing a chaotic incident that transformed immigration discourse. Join this fascinating exploration of missed opportunities and their far-reaching consequences.
