The spiked podcast

Rupa Subramanya, a writer at the Free Press, discusses the alarming drop in Justin Trudeau's popularity and what it means for Canada's future. She highlights the authoritarian actions taken during the trucker protests and the implications for civil liberties. The conversation shifts to Canada's controversial stance on trans policies, emphasizing the need for meaningful dialogue. They also delve into the sensationalism surrounding Indigenous issues and reflect on Canada's broader identity crisis, questioning its socio-economic challenges and national self-perception.

Emily Carver, a political analyst with GB News, joins for a captivating discussion on pressing political issues. They dive deep into the controversy surrounding grooming gangs and the political landscape that often sidesteps accountability. Conversations shift to the implications of social media regulation under Zuckerberg, along with the complexities of free speech in today's society. The panel also examines how immigration and gender debates intersect with historical events like the Charlie Hebdo attack. Tune in for a thought-provoking exploration of current affairs!

Charlie Peters, a national reporter for GB News, shares his investigations into grooming gangs and the systemic failures surrounding them. He discusses Keir Starmer's refusal to initiate a national inquiry and the political implications of such decisions. The conversation reveals the outrage of victims denied justice, critiques the media's focus on sensationalism over survivor stories, and addresses the complexities of racial sensitivities in child exploitation cases. Peters urges for a renewed conversation on this urgent crisis.

Gérard Biard, Editor-in-chief of Charlie Hebdo, shares insights from his experience after the tragic 2015 attack on his newspaper. He discusses the ongoing struggle for free speech and the essential role of secularism in democracy. The conversation also covers the controversial Muhammad cartoons and their impact on global discussions of freedom of expression. Biard emphasizes the links between religion, human rights, and societal courage, stressing the need to stand firm against fear and censorship in the pursuit of truth and satire.

The discussion opens with a tragic New Year's Eve car attack in New Orleans, raising alarms about Islamist terrorism linked to ISIS. Speakers urge a deeper dialogue on the ideologies fueling such violence. They then explore the normalization of violence in society, exemplified by a shocking incident involving an explosive-equipped vehicle. Additionally, the podcast tackles the UK's grooming gang scandal, highlighting the political resistance to inquiries and the urgent call for accountability to protect vulnerable individuals.

In this engaging discussion, Greg Lukianoff, President of the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression, shares insights on the alarming state of free speech in the UK, where arrests for online comments are rising. He critiques the harsh laws surrounding hate speech and the panic over misinformation that threaten personal liberties. Delving into the complexities of incitement and cultural differences in free expression, Lukianoff calls for open discourse, especially amidst campus censorship related to heated global issues.

Rakib Ehsan is a Spiked columnist, while Sabine Beppler-Spahl provides expertise from the ground in Germany. They dive into the tragic car attack at a Christmas market in Magdeburg, discussing its implications for societal safety and the political landscape. The duo addresses the suspect's complex background, highlighting the need to navigate anti-Muslim sentiments amid terrorism discussions. They also critique the German security services' effectiveness and debate Europe’s approach to immigration and integration in light of rising terror threats.

Inaya Folarin Iman, a sharp Spiked columnist, and Francis Foster, a contributor to Trigonometry, dissect the tumultuous year of 2024. They explore the rise of populism, highlighting Trump's influence and discontent with traditional politics. The duo critiques the fading 'woke' culture and its implications on societal norms while pondering the chaos of political events and international relations, especially concerning the Middle East and Ukraine. They blend serious analysis with humor, reflecting on the absurdities of modern politics.

This is the audio from a video we have just published on our YouTube channel – an interview with Michael Lind. To make sure you never miss great content like this, subscribe to our channel: https://www.youtube.com/@spiked  A month on from Trump’s seismic victory, Democrats are still in denial about the significance of their defeat. Party elites think slicker messaging alone can claw back lost support. Here, Michael Lind – author of Hell to Pay and The New Class War – explains why this is so delusional. Identitarianism, illegal immigration and green extremism made America ripe for a populist revolt. Lind also weighs in on the tensions in the MAGA movement and the farmers’ protests in Europe. Please donate generously to spiked’s Christmas give-a-thon. If you give £50 or more, you can get a free spiked mug, while stocks last. Donate here: https://www.spiked-online.com/donate/  (Mugs can only be sent to UK addresses, sadly.)

Claire Fox, Director of the Academy of Ideas and independent peer, joins the hosts to dissect pivotal changes in Syria as the Assad regime falters. They analyze how international influences shape the region and the controversial rebranding of rebel group HTS. The conversation also delves into America's complex responses to violence, including a trial that highlights racial tensions. Finally, they discuss Reform UK's rise against disillusionment with mainstream parties, indicating a shifting political landscape in the UK.