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
124 snips
Jul 27, 2025 • 48min
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.
111 snips
Jul 20, 2025 • 38min
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 7min
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.
81 snips
Jul 6, 2025 • 1h 7min
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 4min
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 9min
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.
121 snips
Jun 15, 2025 • 1h 12min
139. Speaker Kevin McCarthy: In Defence of Donald J. Trump
Join Former Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy as he dives into the chaotic political landscape shaped by Donald Trump's unconventional presidency. McCarthy reflects on his personal political journey, from Democratic roots to GOP leadership. He offers intriguing insights into the intertwining of money and politics, the impact of super PACs, and the evolution of campaign finance laws. The conversation also touches on the leadership dynamics within the Republican Party and the challenges facing U.S.-European relations in today’s divisive climate.
157 snips
Jun 8, 2025 • 1h 9min
138. The Anxious Generation: How Silicon Valley Has Rewired Our Brains (Jonathan Haidt)
Jonathan Haidt, a social psychologist and author of 'The Anxious Generation,' joins Rory and Alastair to unpack the anxieties plaguing today's youth due to social media. They tackle the detrimental effects unregulated platforms have on democracy and child safety. The conversation dives into the alarming rise of misinformation and polarization in politics, stressing the need for ethical tech practices. Haidt offers insights on overcoming smartphone addiction and advocates for healthier interactions with technology to protect mental health.
139 snips
Jun 1, 2025 • 1h 11min
137. Jacinda Ardern: Why I Stepped Down as Prime Minister of New Zealand
Jacinda Ardern, former Prime Minister of New Zealand, shares her journey from a conservative upbringing to becoming a global leader known for empathy. She discusses her decision to step down and the political pressures she faced, particularly regarding New Zealand's stance amid US-China tensions. Ardern reflects on the balance between personal ambition and public service while addressing the importance of empathetic leadership in today’s climate. She also reveals insights on navigating identity, belonging, and the emotional costs of political life.
117 snips
May 29, 2025 • 55min
136. Ed Miliband: Farage, Starmer and The Fight for Net Zero (Part 2)
Ed Miliband, former Leader of the Labour Party and current Shadow Secretary for Energy Security and Net Zero, discusses his recovery from the 2015 election defeat and his commitment to politics. He debates climate strategies and the road to achieving net zero, tackling perspectives from figures like Tony Blair and Nigel Farage. Ed also reflects on the challenges of maintaining authenticity in politics and balancing personal life with public responsibilities, while advocating for a more passionate approach to government responsibilities.
