The Rest Is Politics: Leading
Goalhanger
The Rest Is Politics’ Alastair Campbell and Rory Stewart interview politicians, leaders, intellectuals, and more. From inside and outside of politics, guests join Rory and Alastair to discuss life, leadership, and the philosophy that’s led them to success in their chosen field. Their conversations cover key political events, global affairs, and the big ideas shaping the world today, offering listeners in-depth perspectives from those at the heart of change.The Rest Is Politics Plus: Become a member for exclusive bonus content, early access to Question Time episodes to live show tickets, ad-free listening for both TRIP and Leading, our exclusive newsletter, discount book prices on titles mentioned on the pod, and our members’ chatroom on Discord. Just head to therestispolitics.com to sign up, or start a free trial today on Apple Podcasts: apple.co/therestispolitics.For more Goalhanger Podcasts, head to www.goalhanger.com.
Episodes
Mentioned books
84 snips
Aug 17, 2025 • 47min
149. Nicola Sturgeon: On Margaret Thatcher, Alex Salmond, and the Push for Independence (Part 1)
Nicola Sturgeon, the longest-serving First Minister of Scotland and former leader of the Scottish National Party, shares her political journey. She discusses how her childhood and Scotland's socio-economic disparities shaped her political identity. Sturgeon reflects on the impact of Margaret Thatcher's policies on her and Scotland's path toward independence. Additionally, she reveals her evolution from socialism to advocating for independence, addressing the complexities of Scottish politics and the legacies of leadership.
72 snips
Aug 14, 2025 • 1h 3min
148. The President of Guyana: The Fastest Growing Economy in the World (Irfaan Ali)
Irfaan Ali, the President of Guyana, dives into the exciting transformation of his nation into the fastest growing economy, thanks to oil discoveries. He discusses the critical balance between economic growth and environmental sustainability. Ali addresses the historical impacts of slavery and emphasizes the need for inclusivity in conversations around climate change. The podcast also touches on the challenges facing West Indies cricket and the importance of biodiversity, underlining cultural identity as a cornerstone for Guyana's future.
73 snips
Aug 10, 2025 • 53min
147. I Thought It Was a Prank - Then I Was Chancellor: Jeremy Hunt (Part 2)
Former Chancellor Jeremy Hunt shares his insights from navigating the fallout of the Liz Truss mini-budget collapse and the challenges of running for a Conservative party he knew would likely lose. He reflects on Thatcher's potential responses to Trump and explores the critical intersection of mental health and the benefits system, advocating for increased NHS funding. Hunt also discusses the balance of taxation, public service reform, and effective political messaging in a rapidly changing landscape, highlighting international models for better healthcare.
215 snips
Aug 3, 2025 • 51min
146. The Rise and Fall of The Conservative Party: Jeremy Hunt (Part 1)
Jeremy Hunt, former Chancellor and Health Secretary, shares insights from his extensive political career and discusses his past leadership ambitions. He delves into the challenges facing the NHS, emphasizing the need for innovative solutions and a more personalized approach to mental health care. The conversation touches on the tensions between funding public services and fostering economic growth, while also exploring the dynamics of political communication in today’s landscape. Tune in for Hunt’s candid views on leadership and the future of the Conservative Party.
157 snips
Jul 27, 2025 • 47min
145. Gary Stevenson: Masculinity, Money, and the Myth of Meritocracy (Part 2)
Gary Stevenson, author of The Trading Game and a former trader, shares how he became a multimillionaire by 25 and advocates for wealth tax as a solution to economic inequality. He discusses the failure of centrist politics to support ordinary people and critiques the detrimental impact of wealth concentration. The conversation highlights the toxic masculinity prevalent in financial institutions and how it contributes to emotional struggles among traders, unraveling the myth of meritocracy in the male-dominated trading world.
112 snips
Jul 20, 2025 • 36min
144. Gary Stevenson: From Teenage Drug Dealer to Millionaire Trader (Part 1)
Gary Stevenson, author of The Trading Game and former trader, shares his remarkable journey from expulsion for drug dealing in East London to becoming a successful trader. He discusses the profound impact of class and privilege on financial success, along with the pressing mental health challenges faced by men in the workplace. The conversation dives into societal stigmas, the intersection of race and class, and the evolving nature of trading, emphasizing the need for compassion in a competitive environment.
90 snips
Jul 13, 2025 • 1h 5min
143. Iraq, Trump, and America’s Slide to Authoritarianism (Congressman Seth Moulton)
Congressman Seth Moulton, a Marine Corps officer who served in Iraq, discusses his journey from military service to politics. He candidly shares how he wrestled with the morality of the Iraq war and critiques the increase in authoritarianism under Trump's influence. The conversation highlights the internal conflicts within the Democratic Party, the need for integrity and trust in leadership, and the emotional toll of war on veterans. Moulton also reflects on the importance of restoring political accountability in today's divisive climate.
90 snips
Jul 6, 2025 • 1h 6min
142. The Truth About Net Zero's Credibility (Emma Pinchbeck)
In this engaging discussion, Emma Pinchbeck, Chief Executive of the Climate Change Committee and former CEO of Energy UK, tackles pressing questions about the UK's energy crisis and climate policy. She explores why British energy costs are soaring and how to navigate personal decisions like having children amidst climate anxiety. The conversation also highlights the importance of reforming energy pricing, the feasibility of achieving Net Zero goals, and the critical role of public communication and cooperation in transitioning to renewable energy.
45 snips
Jun 29, 2025 • 1h 2min
141. The President of Cyprus: Iran, Israel, and the Cyprus Issue (Nikos Christodoulides)
Nikos Christodoulides, President of Cyprus since 2023 and former diplomat, shares insights on Cyprus's pivotal role in Middle Eastern conflicts. He discusses the intricacies of regional diplomacy, including Turkey's influence and the need for reform in international institutions. Christodoulides highlights the challenges of corruption, the evolving role of the church, and the delicate balance of foreign relations amidst tensions. With a focus on humanitarian initiatives, he underscores the unique position smaller nations like Cyprus hold in global diplomacy.
112 snips
Jun 22, 2025 • 1h 8min
140. The Next President of France? Gabriel Attal on Macron, Le Pen, and Israel-Iran
Gabriel Attal, the former French Prime Minister and a rising star in politics, shares insights into the current political climate in France. He discusses Macron's declining popularity and the implications of upcoming elections. The conversation delves into international relations, particularly the conflicts involving Israel and Iran, and highlights the need for a coordinated European response to migration issues. With a focus on youth involvement, Attal emphasizes the importance of innovative governance amid rising populism in France.
