Page 94: The Private Eye Podcast

Jane Mackenzie, a privatised education correspondent, highlights the challenges of the government's catch-up tutoring programme after COVID-19, touching on funding issues and effectiveness. Ian Hislop, the sharp-witted journalist and Private Eye satirist, alongside writer Francis Wheen, dives deep into Robert Maxwell's controversial legacy, exploring his intimidating tactics and the media's complicated dance with this notorious figure. Their discussions also draw eerie parallels with contemporary media personalities, making for a thought-provoking listen.

In this discussion, Richard Brooks shares insights from his pilgrimage to Kent, revealing the hidden chaos surrounding Brexit logistics. Tim Minogue highlights the unintended consequences of Low Traffic Neighbourhoods, balancing traffic reduction with challenges for emergency services. Meanwhile, Francis Wheen reflects on the retirement of a notable journalist, examining the ethical dilemmas intertwined with media influence and state-sponsored narratives, particularly regarding China's presence in the UK.

In this lively discussion, Phil Hammond, a medical correspondent and COVID expert, shares insights on vaccine developments and rising skepticism. Richard Brooks and Solomon Hughes delve into the government's pandemic procurement failures, highlighting troubling outsourcing choices. Sarah Shannon uncovers the environmental impact of farmed salmon, revealing the complexities behind its appeal as a superfood. The conversation combines humor and serious investigation, creating an engaging exploration of health and environmental issues.

In this discussion, James Alefantis, owner of Comet Ping Pong, shares his harrowing experiences with conspiracy theories that hit close to home. He recounts a terrifying encounter when a gunman invaded his restaurant, illustrating the bravery of his staff. They dive into the absurdity of pizza conspiracies and the impact of misinformation, especially regarding the QAnon and Pizzagate scandals. Alefantis emphasizes the dangers of online harassment and the need for accountability from digital platforms, highlighting the resilience required to protect his community.

Episode 55. Eye hacks Tim Minogue and Adam Macqueen discuss the latest goings-on at BBC News, who's being sacked and who isn't (yet); Phil Hammond, aka MD, reveals what's going on at The Agency Formerly Known As Public Health England; and Ian Hislop provides some insight into the magazine trade, via the Eye's latest sales figures. Free advert for subscription with every download!

Richard Brooks reveals governmental lessons from COVID-19. Heather Mills and Sarah Shannon discuss sailors' struggles due to complacent shipowners. Francis Wheen reports on the Barclay brothers' bugging feud.

Episode 53. This month's podcast comes to you from the Paul Foot Awards 2020, featuring all the shortlisted entries for the best investigative journalism of the year. Includes cameos from Ian Hislop and Chief Judge Padraig Reidy, and sound effects from the star-studded Paul Foot Awards party, recorded last year as parties are no longer allowed. Free canapé with every download!

A podcast discussing the impact of COVID-19 on various aspects including healthcare, housing, education, and media. Topics covered include post-viral fatigue recovery, challenges faced by homeless migrants, risks of video lecturing, humorous journalism, and the portrayal of Boris Johnson in the media.

Episode 51. This month’s podcast is all about the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse and the Eye’s coverage of it. Featuring Adam Macqueen, Jane Mackenzie and Francis Wheen. Free tin of tomatoes with every download! (Only joking, there are none left.)

Rachael Claye and Peter Apps, writers for Private Eye, delve into the Grenfell Tower inquiry, exposing a tangled web of accountability failures that emerged from the fire tragedy. They dissect how 460 companies complicate responsibility, and the legal battles faced by the involved corporations. Francis Wheen, the magazine's Baroness Scotland correspondent, sheds light on the Commonwealth Secretary-General's controversial leadership, revealing scandals, misconduct allegations, and financial shenanigans that have left her role under scrutiny.