Angela Merkel, the former Chancellor of Germany who led for 16 years, shares insights from her extensive political career and discusses her new book, 'Freedom.' She reflects on her upbringing in East Germany and the impact of the Berlin Wall's fall on her views. The conversation dives into her leadership lessons through crises like Brexit and the migration crisis, the importance of Franco-German cooperation, and her thoughts on ensuring Ukraine's security amidst the current geopolitical landscape.

This conversation features Chris Patten, the last Governor of Hong Kong and a former Conservative politician renowned for his insights on China. He reflects on Hong Kong’s post-handover challenges and the precarious 'One Country, Two Systems' policy. Patten discusses the West's role in improving relations with China and the importance of human rights. He also delves into Brexit regrets and the need for meaningful dialogue in UK politics today. Lastly, he addresses how faith can inspire a more compassionate society amidst global political turmoil.

Kim Leadbeater, a Labour MP and advocate for a private member's bill on assisted dying, brings her unique perspective shaped by personal tragedy, having lost her sister Jo Cox to murder. In a compelling discussion, she tackles the ethical dilemmas of legalizing assisted dying and the urgent need for compassionate public discourse. Leadbeater also shares insights into the challenges MPs face in balancing personal beliefs with public responsibilities, alongside the impact of political polarization and the importance of enhanced palliative care.

Mhairi Black, former MP for Paisley and Renfrewshire South, gained notoriety as the youngest MP ever elected and is known for her candid views within the SNP. She shares her journey from youth activism to Parliament, tackling the culture of bullying and intimidation in politics. Mhairi discusses the evolving internal conflicts within the SNP, the complexities of Scottish independence, and her thoughts on future leadership. She emphasizes the need for youth engagement and innovative policies like basic income to shape Scotland's political landscape.

General David Petraeus, former CIA Director and a key military leader during the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, shares his unique insights on U.S. military strategy. He discusses the controversial surge in Iraq and its impact on global stability. Petraeus emphasizes the vital role of alliances and critiques past U.S. military decisions, highlighting the need for thoughtful policymaking. He also reflects on the challenges of contemporary geopolitical dynamics and how resilience in leadership is essential amidst public scrutiny.

Michael Lewis, bestselling author of "Moneyball" and "The Big Short," shares his sharp insights on the intersection of finance, politics, and society. He delves into Trump's significant but complicated impact on American governance and probes the eccentricities of Sam Bankman-Fried. The discussion also highlights how cultural roots shape identity and the role of luck and privilege in success. Lewis reflects on the shifting landscapes of Wall Street and the evolving dynamics of power in America, making this a must-listen conversation.

George Mitchell, a pivotal figure in the Northern Ireland peace process, shares his insights on negotiation and conflict resolution. He reflects on his experiences mediating with terrorists and the complexities of achieving peace in the Middle East. Mitchell discusses the essential skills required for successful negotiations, emphasizing patience and active listening. He also recounts his personal health journey and its impact on his perspective. Finally, he ties in the emotional weight of peace processes and the ongoing challenges of political uncertainty in the U.S.

Timothy Snyder, an esteemed historian known for his expertise on Eastern European history, joins the conversation. He delves into how European history can illuminate current global conflicts and the impact of the upcoming US election on Ukraine. Discussing the moral stakes of the Russia-Ukraine war, he highlights the importance of NATO and EU influences. Snyder warns of the dire implications of political turmoil in the US for democracy, foreign policy, and the foundational values that uphold global governance.

Justin Welby, the Archbishop of Canterbury, discusses his profound personal journey, including the influence of family history and faith in overcoming addiction. He dives into the Church's response to declining spirituality and the importance of inclusivity. The Archbishop shares insights on peacebuilding amidst conflict, reflecting on experiences in war-torn regions. He also addresses mental health, emphasizing open dialogue and support, and reveals the challenges faced during royal ceremonies, portraying a candid view of his leadership amid societal changes.

Alan Johnson, a long-serving Labour minister and author, shares insights from his rich political career. He discusses the contrast between militant socialism and Corbynism, emphasizing lessons for today's Labour Party. Johnson reflects on the mistakes during Labour’s 'remain' campaign and the complexities of immigration policies. He also highlights the challenges within the NHS, advocating for innovative funding solutions. Lastly, he shares his thoughts on how the charm of book festivals differs from political gatherings, revealing the power of storytelling.