The spiked podcast

Jacob Reynolds, a contributor from the Academy of Ideas, delves into controversial topics reshaping political discourse. He discusses the alarming rise of blasphemy laws in the UK, examining their effect on free speech. The conversation shifts to the U.S. stance on Ukraine, challenging current sentiments and predictions for future relations. Reynolds also tackles the brutal realities of Hamas and the Western responses that often overlook the gravity of its actions. His insights spark a critical analysis of the fine line between freedom and societal ethics.

Katja Hoyer, a historian and journalist specializing in German history, dives into the rising political tides in Germany. She discusses the significant decline of the Social Democrats amidst mounting support for the populist AfD, fueled by economic struggles and immigration issues. Hoyer highlights the growing class divide and the tension between political elites and citizens, particularly regarding free speech. She also evaluates the shifting landscape of political movements and the frustrations of voters seeking genuine change in a stagnant system.

The podcast dives into the judicial implications of a recent ruling affecting asylum laws and critiques judicial activism's growing role in politics. It raises pressing questions about the assisted dying bill, particularly the shift from judicial oversight to expert panels, and warns of potential ethical dilemmas. A scandal involving leaked messages from a Labour health minister brings attention to the risks of speech policing. The discussion also navigates complex identity issues, including controversial claims about gender and even identifying as animals.

In this discussion, Sabine Beppler-Spahl, Spiked's Germany correspondent, sheds light on a recent Islamist terror attack in Munich that left over 30 injured. She delves into the suspect's troubling journey from illegal immigrant to radicalization. The conversation highlights the growing public insecurity from rising Islamist attacks and critiques the government's focus on far-right threats. Lastly, it explores how these events could influence the upcoming federal elections, potentially boosting support for the populist AfD party as security concerns take center stage.

Ella Whelan, a Spike columnist, and Paul Embery, a trade unionist, dive into the contentious topic of Labour's potential blasphemy laws surrounding Islam. They discuss the implications for free speech and the societal risks of such regulations. The conversation shifts to Labour's declining popularity, linking it to a disconnect from working-class voters, and the rise of the Reform Party. They also tackle Trump's controversial order banning male athletes from women's sports, raising questions about fairness in competition amid changing gender policies.

Jennifer Sey, a former US national-champion gymnast and ex-Levi’s brand president, shares her dramatic fall from corporate grace after speaking out against Covid school closures. She discusses the 'awokening' of corporate America and how cancel culture impacted her life. Sey also introduces her new venture, XX-XY Athletics, highlighting the contentious fight over women’s sports. The conversation critiques corporate hypocrisy and dives into the cultural implications of gender identity legislation, advocating for fairness and safety in athletics.

Miriam Cates, a GB News presenter and former Conservative MP, dives into the controversial visions of Labour's green agenda and its impact on British industry. She challenges the notion of extremism, discussing how mainstream views are being labeled as radical. The conversation also touches on the complexities of multiculturalism, rising youth radicalization, and the contentious debates around assisted dying legislation, highlighting the clash between traditional values and modern liberal perspectives.

Candice Holdsworth, Tom Slater and Fraser Myers discuss the crimes of Axel Rudakubana, how Trump tamed the ‘Resistance’ and why there’s no such thing as ‘green’ growth. spiked supporters can get early-bird tickets to our 25th anniversary bash. Log in to the Supporters Hub here: https://www.spiked-online.com/hub/  Protect your emails with Proton Mail’s end-to-end encryption. Claim your 38% discount: http://proton.me/spikedpodcast  Take control of your health with AG1: https://drinkag1.com/spiked  Apply for spiked’s internship programme: https://www.spiked-online.com/2025/01/10/apply-now-to-become-a-spiked-intern-2/  Support spiked:   https://www.spiked-online.com/support/  Sign up to spiked’s newsletters: https://www.spiked-online.com/newsletters/  Order Brendan O’Neill’s After the Pogrom now from: 🇬🇧 📕 Amazon UK:  https://www.amazon.co.uk/After-Pogrom-October-Israel-Civilisation/dp/1068719303/  🇺🇸 📕 Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/After-Pogrom-October-Israel-Civilisation/dp/1068719303/ 

This is the audio from a video we have just published on our YouTube channel. To make sure you never miss great content like this, subscribe to our channel: https://www.youtube.com/@spiked  Jake Wallis Simons and Brendan O’Neill join Fraser Myers to discuss the return of the Israeli hostages, the barbarism of Hamas and the West’s abandonment of Israel. Apply for spiked’s internship programme: https://www.spiked-online.com/2025/01/10/apply-now-to-become-a-spiked-intern-2/ 

Graham Linehan, the creator of the beloved sitcom Father Ted, dives into pressing cultural and political issues alongside Tom Slater and Fraser Myers. They dissect the Labour government's decline and Keir Starmer's challenges in addressing public discontent. The trio also tackles the debate over trans policies in the U.S. and its implications for women's sports. Additionally, they navigate the complex moral landscape of the recent Israel-Hamas ceasefire, emphasizing the importance of thoughtful discourse in today's polarized climate.