The Rest Is Politics: Leading

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.

Alan Johnson, a long-serving Labour minister and bestselling memoirist, shares his compelling journey from a poverty-stricken childhood to the political arena. He reflects on how the bleak post-war years shaped modern Britain and discusses personal struggles, including family trauma and resilience through domestic violence. Johnson reveals the influence of writers like George Orwell on his political awakening. The conversation also delves into the complexities of left-wing politics in the 60s and 70s, exploring Harold Wilson's legacy and navigating the challenges within the Labour Party.

In this discussion, Anne Applebaum, an American-Polish journalist and historian known for her insights on autocracies, dives into the landscape of global politics. She explores what defines an autocratic state and how populism surged in the early 2010s. Anne scrutinizes the hypocrisy in international relations, particularly regarding foreign influence on US and UK politics. The conversation touches on the resilience of democratic movements in oppressive regimes and offers a glimpse into possible outcomes of the ongoing war in Ukraine.

Douglas Alexander, a former Labour MP and UK Secretary of State for International Development, shares insights on the intense rivalry between Tony Blair and Gordon Brown, revealing the personal sacrifices behind their political dynamic. He discusses the challenges faced by ex-politicians in adapting to civilian life, reflections on public service influenced by his family's legacy, and the impact of Brexit on the UK's global standing. Alexander also emphasizes the importance of collaboration within the Labour Party's current and future engagements.

Nate Silver, a renowned forecaster and statistician, delves into the intricacies of predicting the 2024 US election. He draws fascinating parallels between poker and political betting, shedding light on how risk analysis plays a role in both fields. The discussion covers Elon Musk’s controversial endorsement of Donald Trump and the unpredictable dynamics affecting younger voters. Silver also explores the intersection of betting culture and democracy, revealing its impact on financial markets and political accountability.