The Bunker – News without the nonsense
Podmasters
News without the nonsense, every weekday morning. In episodes that fit your commute*, The Bunker cuts through the noise to make sense of what’s really going on in news, current affairs, politics, economics and culture. We bring you smart explainers, interviews, fresh perspectives and under-reported stories to as a refreshing alternative to repetitive Punch and Judy news coverage. It’s the only way to start the day. From the producers of Oh God, What Now?Our regulars include: Gavin Esler • Ros Taylor • Alex von Tunzelmann • Andrew Harrison • Zing Tsjeng • Jacob Jarvis • Emma Kennedy • Rafael Behr • Seth Thévoz.• Sign up to support the podcast and get episodes ad-free and early: patreon.com/bunkercast• Apple users: Get all of our core shows ad-free and early with the Podmasters Originals super-subscription.(* Even if it’s just from the kitchen to the front room. )The Bunker is a Podmasters production.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Nov 28, 2025 • 28min
The Budget, Trump's Russia love-in and more! – Weekly Wrap-Up with Seth Thévoz and Jacob Jarvis
Seth Thévoz, a sharp political journalist and author known for his insights on current affairs, joins Jacob Jarvis to unpack the week's headlines. They delve into Rachel Reeves's budget, analyzing its impact on everyday people and Labour's messaging challenges. The duo also discusses the latest developments in the Trump/Russia saga, revealing new controversies, and weighs the implications of allegations against Nigel Farage. Additionally, Seth shares his winners and losers of the week, including a fascinating look at AI's power dynamics.
Nov 27, 2025 • 32min
Loser takes it all? – How Trump's plan for Ukraine fell apart, with Luke Harding of The Guardian
In this insightful discussion, Luke Harding, a seasoned foreign correspondent for The Guardian and author of 'Invasion: Russia's Bloody War and Ukraine's Fight for Survival', unpacks the fallout from Trump's controversial 28-point peace plan for Ukraine. He reveals how the plan was a Russian initiative masquerading as a diplomatic effort. Luke delves into Zelensky's diplomatic balancing act amidst this chaos and highlights how the ongoing tensions have surprisingly bolstered his position back home. Tune in for a captivating look at the complexities of international diplomacy!
Nov 26, 2025 • 38min
The Epstein files: What's going to be inside them? – with investigative journalist Vicky Ward
Join investigative journalist Vicky Ward, renowned for her in-depth reporting on Jeffrey Epstein, as she uncovers the truths behind the much-anticipated Epstein files. Vicky discusses her early reporting experiences, threats faced from Epstein and Maxwell, and the elite connections Epstein cultivated. She reveals insights about Trump's ties to Epstein and the controversial dynamics surrounding the release of these files, as well as the political implications they carry. A compelling exploration of power, secrecy, and the quest for justice!
10 snips
Nov 25, 2025 • 30min
The Cosmic Absurd – How The Hitch-Hiker’s Guide To The Galaxy nearly explains our world
Arvind Ethan David, a writer and producer known for adapting The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy for immersive theatre, joins the conversation. They delve into the radical ideas of Douglas Adams, exploring how his work critiques politics and technology. Arvind shares insights into the new staged production, the absurdity of everyday life, and how the immersive format captures the book's chaos. They also dissect the relevance of Adams' satire in today's climate and draw parallels between tech leaders and Adams' characters, like Zaphod Beeblebrox.
Nov 24, 2025 • 34min
No Money Mo' Problems – Start Your Week with Rafael Behr and Jacob Jarvis
Rafael Behr, a Guardian columnist and political commentator, joins to dissect the UK's looming budget and its potential impacts. He dives into Labour's approach to avoid austerity and the implications for leaders Starmer and Reeves. The discussion touches on a controversial US-Russia peace plan for Ukraine and reflects on COP30's failure to tackle fossil fuel issues. Behr also explores the dynamics in MAGA politics, highlighting Trump's attraction to successful figures. Insightful and engaging!
Nov 21, 2025 • 30min
Trump panics over Epstein files – Weekly Wrap-Up with Jonn Elledge and Andrew Harrison
Trump makes a surprising U-turn, now demanding the release of Epstein files he once tried to suppress. The hosts explore how these documents might be redacted to protect certain elites. They also dissect Labour’s hardline asylum proposals and the political fallout from local election losses in Denmark. The fragile state of internet infrastructure gets a shoutout after a massive Cloudflare outage. Lastly, Trump's recent 'quiet, piggy' comment raises eyebrows and questions about his political standing.
Nov 20, 2025 • 21min
Is China our only hope?
Barbara Finamore, a Senior Fellow at the Oxford Institute for Energy Studies and author of 'Will China Save the Planet?', discusses China's surprising shift from a climate villain to a clean-energy powerhouse. She highlights the country's advancements in solar, wind, and electric vehicles, as well as the dual impact of its domestic electrification and global technology exports. While coal remains a challenge, she argues that China's self-interest in decarbonization aligns with global climate goals, emphasizing the need for faster coal reduction and international collaboration.
Nov 19, 2025 • 34min
Line of Duty – How comics journalist Joe Sacco brings untold stories to life
Joe Sacco, a pioneering comics journalist known for his groundbreaking works like Palestine, dives into the untold stories of conflict in Uttar Pradesh, India. He shares his unique approach to field reporting, blending art and narrative to capture human complexity. Sacco discusses the emotional toll of comics journalism and the role of women as symbols in communal strife. He also debates the impact of AI on creativity, illustrating how his work humanizes often-overlooked narratives, and reflects on his responsibilities as a storyteller.
Nov 18, 2025 • 29min
Brave new world – Is 2026 our last chance?
Tom Standage, Deputy Editor of The Economist and historian, dives into the forecasts for 2026. He discusses the impending challenges rich countries face from economic excess and the looming AI bubble burst. The blurred lines of hybrid warfare raise concerns, as does Europe's struggle with defense and political stability. Meanwhile, China's rise through strategic trade deals is reshaping global power dynamics. Standage also touches on the climate outlook, emphasizing the peak of emissions and potential clean-tech solutions. A thought-provoking analysis!
Nov 17, 2025 • 34min
Gov will tear us apart – Start Your Week with Rafael Behr and Jacob Jarvis
Rafael Behr, a sharp political columnist, joins Jacob Jarvis to dissect the chaotic landscape of UK politics. They delve into the controversial asylum proposals and the risks of a hardline migration approach. Behr scrutinizes Keir Starmer's leadership vulnerabilities amidst budget confusion and mixed messaging. The duo also touches on Trump's shifting stances, particularly regarding the Epstein files, and explores the chilling dynamics of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict as winter looms. Plus, an eye-opening critique of Amazon's advertising mirrors today's loneliness.
