Radical with Amol Rajan

Justin Webb, a fellow presenter at Today, interviews Rachel Reeves, a prominent politician advocating for economic growth. Their conversation weaves through the complexities of balancing infrastructure projects with environmental concerns, like protecting bats. They dissect the implications of expanding Heathrow and discuss the necessity of face-to-face dialogues in politics. Reeves critiques current energy strategies amid rising costs, emphasizing the need for coherent policies that genuinely benefit everyday families.

Sir Alex Younger, former head of MI6, sheds light on the fragile state of global security amidst Donald Trump's return to power. He discusses how the world is shifting into an 'era of the deal,' which could make international relations more precarious. The conversation also explores the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, emphasizing the urgent need for strategic diplomacy. Younger's insights into evolving power dynamics highlight the growing challenges faced by European allies and the impact of authoritarian regimes on global politics.

Justin Webb, a Fellow Today presenter who covered Donald Trump's inauguration, joins the discussion from Washington, D.C. The conversation dives into Trump's immediate executive actions and their implications on immigration and climate policy. They explore the potential for Trump's prosecution post-presidency and his relationships with tech leaders like Elon Musk. The episode also humorously highlights the campy appeal of Trump's merchandise, and the challenges media faces in covering his administration, all while reflecting on the dynamics of political messaging today.

Sean Farrington, a Today business presenter, teams up with Paul Mason, a former economics editor, to tackle the pressing economic challenges in the UK. They discuss Rachel Reeves' ambitious plans for growth amidst market turbulence and rising borrowing costs. The duo breaks down complex financial concepts like bonds and gilts, revealing their crucial role in the current landscape. They also reflect on past economic crises and the balance between growth initiatives and social equity, making sense of today's financial uncertainties.

Steve Rosenberg, the BBC's Russia Editor, shares his captivating experiences from over two decades in Moscow. He discusses the challenges of impartial reporting under Putin's regime and the precarious environment for journalists today. Rosenberg also recollects touching moments, like playing piano for Gorbachev and his friendships with locals, emphasizing the importance of human connections amidst political turmoil. His personal anecdotes and reflections on integrity in journalism provide a unique lens on life in contemporary Russia.

Vivian Schiller, former head of news at Twitter and current executive director of Aspen Digital, joins the discussion on the complex landscape of free speech online. She delves into Elon Musk's controversial claims and Mark Zuckerberg's decision to end fact-checking on Meta platforms, enhancing concerns over misinformation. The conversation also touches on the feeling of censorship within conservative circles and the ongoing struggle to balance free speech with responsible content moderation. It’s a revealing look at how tech giants shape public discourse.

Amol and Nick dive into predictions for 2025, discussing potential protests in the UK and the implications of Donald Trump’s possible return to power. They explore rising dissatisfaction with government and a significant increase in societal unrest tied to economic issues. The conversation touches on global challenges like the humanitarian crisis in Sudan and technological impacts on politics. Plus, there’s hope in cancer research advancements and a shocking expose of dark secrets in the wellness industry. Garry Richardson also shares insights on Novak Djokovic's quest for his next Grand Slam.

Dame Laura Kenny, Team GB's most decorated female Olympian, delves into pressing issues faced by female athletes, particularly the potential impact of elite sports on fertility. She discusses the dire need for reform in children's physical education due to rising obesity rates, advocating for increased participation in sports. Emma Barnett joins her to highlight the emotional complexities of motherhood within competitive sports and the importance of community support. Kenny's candid insights foster a rich conversation about health, empowerment, and the joy of sports.

Baroness Floella Benjamin, a beloved TV presenter and author known for her work on children's programs like Playschool, chats with Amol about her captivating journey from Trinidad to the UK. They discuss the current 'crisis' in children's TV, stressing the importance of quality programming for development. Floella reflects on childhood memories and the need for nurturing environments. She champions global empathy and the role of personal actions in shaping a better future for the next generation.

Sir Sajid Javid, former Conservative Chancellor and Home Secretary, takes the reins as guest editor, diving into the intriguing world of artificial intelligence. He discusses its impact on education and child safety, highlighting the dual-edged sword of technology. Javid also shares personal memories of growing up in an immigrant family, the influence of music, and his favorite childhood TV show, Grange Hill. Reflecting on his political career, he addresses contemporary issues like race, immigration, and the importance of open dialogue in a changing society.