Radical with Amol Rajan
BBC Radio 4
Conversations about tomorrow, from Today.Every week Today programme presenter Amol Rajan talks to radicals, pioneers and innovators from all over the world. From populism and climate change, to economics and AI... How can their radical ideas help you win the future?As well as presenting Today on BBC Radio 4, Amol is also the host of University Challenge on BBC One. Before that he was the BBC's media editor and editor of The Independent.Episodes of Radical with Amol Rajan are published on Thursdays on BBC Sounds. You can also watch them on BBC iPlayer: https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episodes/m002f1d0/radical-with-amol-rajanRadical with Amol Rajan is a Today podcast. If you enjoy this (and you've read this far so hopefully you do), then we think you’ll also like another podcast from Today. It’s called Political Thinking with Nick Robinson and you can listen to Nick’s interviews here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/brand/p04z203l
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jan 8, 2026 • 1h 3min
Knowledge and Nostalgia: Why a University Education Should Be Free (Louisa Munch)
Louisa Munch, a critical theorist and Warwick University academic, passionately argues for free higher education. She believes universities should focus on fostering informed societies rather than merely job training. Louisa connects nostalgia to contemporary politics, explaining how it can be weaponized by the far right, while also addressing Gen Z's disenchantment with the future. Throughout their conversation, she advocates for radical ideas like free lifelong education and challenges the current political landscape with compelling insights on class, meritocracy, and public engagement.
Jan 5, 2026 • 22min
Can Donald Trump Be Compared To Julius Caesar? (Your Radical Questions with Tom Holland)
Historian Tom Holland, co-host of The Rest Is History, dives deep into intriguing comparisons between today’s Britain and the 1970s, highlighting geopolitical threats and Northern Ireland’s challenges. He unpacks the frequent comparisons of American presidents to Julius Caesar, revealing the historical anxieties that fuel this perspective, especially regarding Trump. The conversation also touches on the etymology of 'radical' and injects some humor with cricket banter, showcasing Holland's lighter side amidst the serious topics.
11 snips
Jan 1, 2026 • 53min
Radical History: Greek Gods, Roman Emperors and Religion (with Tom Holland from The Rest Is History)
Tom Holland, a renowned historian and co-host of The Rest Is History, delves into the radical ideas that shaped civilization. He discusses how Christianity marked a significant departure from previous beliefs, influencing secular thought globally. Tom explores the legacy of figures like Gregory VII and how the Reformation reshaped religion into a secular concept. He also connects modern politics in India to these historical shifts, pondering whether today's cultural changes reflect a new Reformation, while examining technology's role in accelerating these ideas.
Dec 23, 2025 • 33min
Radical Essay: How Is Technology Changing Our Lives? (A 2025 Review)
Amol Rajan dives into the profound impact of technology on humanity, questioning if AI is a force for good or a threat to our social fabric. Discussions reveal AI's autonomy and its potential to replace critical thinking. The dangers of AI-facilitated misogyny and the urgent need for updated sex education highlight the complexities of growing up in a digital world. As smartphones change cultural consumption, experts warn of job losses and the risks linked to concentrated power in synthetic intelligence. Amol offers a glimmer of hope, urging humanity to choose wisely.
Dec 22, 2025 • 25min
What Do You Think About AI Using Your Writing? (Your Radical Questions with Naomi Alderman)
Bestselling author Naomi Alderman, known for her provocative novels like The Power, dives into the complexities of AI and creativity. She discusses the implications of AI using writers' original work and emphasizes the importance of cautious research. Alderman voices concerns about the monetization of public creative data and argues for reinvesting in the arts. Plus, she reveals insights about her upcoming novel, The Strangers, inspired by her personal experiences. Don't miss her thoughts on the artist's evolving role in the age of technology!
Dec 18, 2025 • 1h 6min
Information Crisis: Why Social Media Bans Aren't The Answer (Naomi Alderman)
Naomi Alderman, a bestselling author and technology commentator, dives into our current 'third information crisis.' She likens it to historic revolutions like the printing press and discusses how abundant information can lead to anxiety and echo chambers. Alderman proposes innovative solutions like regulations for social media and the need for a 'checked internet' to combat misinformation. She also reflects on personal growth through therapy, emphasizing the importance of real human connection in a digital world.
8 snips
Dec 15, 2025 • 24min
Should School Meals Be Plant-Based? (Your Radical Questions with Jamie Oliver)
Chef Jamie Oliver, an advocate for healthier school meals and public health, dives into pressing food issues. He discusses obesity legislation and the need to curb junk-food advertising aimed at children. Highlighting the benefits of plant-based meals in schools, Jamie argues they can be nutritious, cost-effective, and improve health. He also emphasizes the importance of teaching food skills and nutrition to children to foster a well-rounded education. With a focus on improving food quality, Jamie calls for cultural change in British food standards.
Dec 11, 2025 • 58min
Jamie Oliver: Obesity and Debt are Killing Britain
Jamie Oliver, renowned chef and advocate for public health, shares his insights on the pressing issues of diet-related illness and financial literacy in Britain. He passionately discusses the need for better nutritional education and the ongoing challenges of school meal standards. Jamie reflects on his own dyslexia and the importance of supporting neurodiverse children in education. He also shares his vision for teaching kids money management skills to combat debt and outlines practical policies for improving public health. Plus, hear his plans for relaunching Jamie's Italian!
Dec 8, 2025 • 23min
What Do We Do About Young Men and Porn? (Your Radical Questions with Jordan Stephens)
Musician and advocate Jordan Stephens, known for being part of Rizzle Kicks, tackles pressing issues surrounding young men and pornography. He emphasizes the necessity of better sex education and demystifying pornography. Jordan promotes emotional connection through sports and real-life interactions instead of screens. He discusses the impact of absent fathers and the importance of community support. Additionally, he addresses the challenges of AI and deepfakes while advocating for responsible regulation. His principled refusal to engage with governmental photo-ops reflects his commitment to the cause.
Dec 4, 2025 • 1h 1min
Porn and Masculinity: How to Teach Kids about Sex and Relationships (Jordan Stephens)
Jordan Stephens, musician from Rizzle Kicks and advocate for modern masculinity, discusses the evolving impact of online pornography on young people. He highlights the need for a new sex education model that focuses on consent and healthy relationships. Drawing from his own struggles with fame and addiction, Jordan emphasizes emotional literacy and the crisis of masculinity. He proposes integrating AI safeguards in conversations about porn and supports legalizing sex work to reduce harm. His insights challenge traditional narratives, urging better communication and understanding among youth.
