Explore every episode of the podcast Pod Save the UK
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| No10 in the North: Andy Burnham’s Manchester mission... Plus, is ‘free speech’ just a free pass for tech bros? | 02 Jul 2026 | 01:19:37 | |
“Are you ready for this?” Following Andy Burnham’s first big policy speech since becoming an MP, and with his sights set firmly on the top job, Coco & Nish dig into his promises of regeneration, reindustrialisation, and…a new pair of running shorts. From No10 North to nationalisation and the biggest council house building programme since the postwar period, they discuss their unanswered questions and first impressions of the Manchester man offering “growth in every postcode, and hope in every heart.” Plus, they’re joined by journalist and campaigner Adele Zeynep Walton who shares her first-hand experience of the consequences of online harms. We ask whether the proposed social media ban for under-16s really gets to the heart of the problem (spoiler alert: no), and how we can truly hold the tech industry to account. Content note, this discussion includes references to suicide. USEFUL LINKS Write to your MP and support the call for a public inquiry into the scale of harm facilitated by online suicide forums: https://mollyrosefoundation.beaconforms.com/form/90ddb8e4 GUESTS CHECK OUT THESE DEALS FROM OUR SPONSORS BT: Search ‘Why BT’ to find out more. Pod Save the UK is an Intelligence Squared production for Crooked Media. We’ll be doing another mailbag episode soon so get in touch! Contact us via email: podsavetheuk@crooked.com if you want to share questions, thoughts, or general musings! Like and follow us on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@PodSavetheUK | |||
| Starmer Resigns! Listen up, Labour: Lessons learned from the Trump trap w/ Ben Rhodes | 25 Jun 2026 | 01:05:23 | |
As Ben Rhodes says on this week’s episode, “we’re in a revolutionary moment globally”. Joining Nish and Coco from sister show Pod Save the World, Ben shares (and despairs) about the state of UK and US politics, and tells us what we can take from the Democrats’ disaster of 2024. Isn’t it time that progressives got their own populist? Plus, we hear about Ben’s new book, ‘All We Say’, tracing American history through some of its most famous–and infamous–speeches. We talk to him about the similarities between Britain and America both losing their way when it comes to national identity, and how our leaders need to tell it like it is. We can handle the truth! Also on the show, New Statesman Editor Tom McTague dissects Starmer’s swan song, his last minute decision not to challenge Burnham for leadership, and sets out why it all went wrong for a man who won a landslide victory less than two years ago. USEFUL LINKS Ailbhe Rea’s recent piece in the New Statesman: https://www.newstatesman.com/politics/labour/2026/06/what-happens-now Tom McTague’s interview with Keir Starmer: https://www.newstatesman.com/politics/2025/06/what-keir-starmer-cant-say GUESTS CHECK OUT THESE DEALS FROM OUR SPONSORS SAILY: https://www.saily.com/podsave Pod Save the UK is an Intelligence Squared production for Crooked Media. Get in touch - contact us via email: podsavetheuk@crooked.com we’d love to hear from you as we plan to do a mailbag episode soon: end any questions, thoughts, or musings our way! Like and follow us on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@PodSavetheUK | |||
| Trump's Jesus Meme Chaos w/ Tommy Vietor | 16 Apr 2026 | 00:53:11 | |
Who says the special relationship is on the ropes? Coco and Nish are joined by Pod Save America’s Tommy Vietor to showcase transatlantic co-operation at its very best. From the battle of slopaganda to the real war in Iran - there’s a lot to talk about. Donald Trump deleted a Truth Social post because he looked a little bit too much like Jesus for the Christian community - many of them have been some of his biggest supporters. Meanwhile Iran has released a series of sometimes-antisemitic, AI, Lego rap videos. In the UK, Keir Starmer is being criticised for not spending enough on defence at a time when the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East are focusing minds. Plus - Your Party hits the skids in Scotland - we hear from an insider about what went down. Don’t forget to leave a review - it gives the show a boost and we love to see your comments. CHECK OUT THESE DEALS FROM OUR SPONSORS AURA FRAMES: https://shopify.co.uk/podsavetheuk SHOPIFY: https://www.wise.com WISE: https://shopify.co.uk/podsavetheuk GUESTS Tommy Vietor, Host, Pod Save America and Pod Save The World USEFUL LINKS How to email your MP about NHS Palantir contracts - https://www.amnesty.org.uk/get-involved/take-action/sign-a-petition/mp-demand-no-palantir-in-our-nhs/ CREDITS Donald Trump - @rapidresponse47, X Iranian Propaganda Video - Explosive Media Owen Maitland, Former Your Party Scotland executive committee member Faiza Shaheen, Director, Tax Justice UK - ‘Politics Live’, BBC One Saturday Night Live UK, Sky One Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. | |||
| Chris Packham Vs Taylor Swift: Will People or Politics Save Our Planet? | 23 Jun 2024 | 00:42:35 | |
The major parties have failed to pledge to make the radical changes needed to save our planet from climate catastrophe - but people power may well save us yet. Nish and Coco are joined by conservationist Chris Packham to find out what more our politicians need to do and how citizens can get involved. Chris also questions the wisdom of Taylor Swift’s private jet usage and brings a suggestion of how she could help create change. Later, Adrienne Buller drops by to explore GB Energy - Labour’s signature manifesto pledge that they’ve claimed to be the most radical climate policy ever. Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.
Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.uk WhatsApp: 07494 933 444 (UK) or + 44 7494 933 444 (internationally) Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheuk Twitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheuk TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheuk Facebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheuk YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld
Guests: Chris Packham - Conservationist Adrienne Buller - Author
Useful links: The Break Down https://www.break-down.org/post/welcome-to-the-break-down Restore Nature Now https://www.restorenaturenow.com/
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| Who gets the power? Devolution and the General Election. | 20 Jun 2024 | 00:52:43 | |
It’s been a horrendous campaign for the Conservatives so far, careening from disaster to catastrophe, but the Tories don't have the exclusive on political drama. This week Nish and Coco focus on the action in the devolved nations, with a particular focus on Wales and Northern Ireland. First, we check in with Welsh Journalist Will Hayward to learn about the recent vote of no confidence in First Minister Vaughan Gething and Labour’s manifesto pledge to tune up the current devolution agreements. Then, Coco chats to Plaid Cymru Leader Rhun ap Iorwerth, to learn more about Plaid’s ambitions for Wales and their plans to turn up the heat on Labour. Later, we check in to Northern Ireland, speaking to journalist Amanda Ferguson about the stakes of the next election and whether allegations about former DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson will have any bearing on the election. Finally, the gang break out some of Coco’s recently rebranded charming and quizzical moments.
Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.uk WhatsApp: 07494 933 444 (UK) or + 44 7494 933 444 (internationally) Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheuk Twitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheuk TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheuk Facebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheuk YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld Guests: Rhun ap Iorwerth, Leader of Plaid Cymru Will Hayward, Welsh Affairs Editor at Wales Online Amanda Ferguson, freelance journalist
Audio credits: Sky News Blue Sky.mp3 by Sergmusic -- https://freesound.org/s/639933/ -- License: Creative Commons 0 TikTok/ Suella Braverman
Useful links: Jo Stevens interview with S4C https://x.com/NewyddionS4C/status/1802786241852707250
Montgomeryshire and Glyndwr: https://whocanivotefor.co.uk/elections/parl.montgomeryshire-and-glyndwr.2024-07-04/montgomeryshire-and-glyndwr/ Ynys Mon: https://whocanivotefor.co.uk/elections/parl.ynys-mon.2024-07-04/ynys-mon/ Dudley: https://whocanivotefor.co.uk/elections/parl.dudley.2024-07-04/dudley/ Fareham:
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| Manifesto deep-dive: Is Labour’s at all progressive? | 16 Jun 2024 | 00:44:03 | |
Following a week of political manifestoes dropping from UK parties - Nish & Coco take a deep-dive investigation to see how they hold up against one another. With a focus on manifestoes that have left-wing approaches - they discuss what policies are the most realistic and which hold up the best under scrutiny. Joined by political journalist Zoe Grünewald, Nish & Coco look closely at welfare policies, the NHS, taxes and social care. Special guests Rebekah Pierre (author and social worker) and Helen Barnard (of the Trussell Trust) send the hosts their thoughts on which policies have the most potential for hope. And there’s a return of WTF moments featuring an iconic UK hit song and Starmer’s comeback to a surprise protest. Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.uk WhatsApp: 07494 933 444 (UK) or + 44 7494 933 444 (internationally) Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheuk Twitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheuk TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheuk Facebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheuk YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld
Guests: Zoe Grünewald, political journalist Audio Clips: BBC Institute for Fiscal Studies Times Radio Sky News Dawn Butler/Elson Useful links: Come to see Pod Save the UK live at Edinburgh Fringe!
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| How to make your vote count: is Tactical Voting a necessary evil? With Femi Oluwole | 13 Jun 2024 | 00:43:08 | |
The polls are indicating a landslide victory for Labour come the election on July 4th. But that hasn’t stopped the calls - from both the left and the right - for citizens to vote tactically. But what does that really mean in Britain’s broken electoral system? Joining Nish and Coco on the PSUK sofa is Femi Oluwole, activist and campaigner, and Joe Twyman, a seasoned pollster covering his 9th election. Together they discuss whether this is an election for people to vote with their heart or if being “strategic” is more important and whether our new parliament has any hope of delivering long overdue reform to our electoral system. We also hear from Jessica Garland from the Electoral Reform Society. Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.
Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.uk WhatsApp: 07494 933 444 (UK) or + 44 7494 933 444 (internationally) Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheuk Twitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheuk TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheuk Facebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheuk YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld
Guests: Femi Oluwole, YouTube Campaigner, Tactical Voting activist Joe Twyman, Co-founder and director of Deltapoll
Audio Clips: Sky News BBC ITV Channel 5 PoliticsJoe
Useful links: Come to see Pod Save the UK live at Edinburgh Fringe! https://www.gov.uk/registertovote
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| Why is it so hard to tax the rich? Would it fix our economy? With Gary Stevenson | 09 Jun 2024 | 00:47:15 | |
The UK’s sorry state of affairs when it comes to water and railways is both a massive problem and an opportunity for the incoming government. Water companies are teetering on the brink of collapse and it feels inevitable that they will soon fall back in to public ownership. But how can we pay for renationalised services? Cat Hobbs from We Own It talks to Nish and Coco about the history of privatisation and the opportunities that renationalised services present to the UK. And economist and activist Gary Stevenson explores how the public can rewrite the narrative on taxation - starting with a 1% tax on people with wealth of over £10,000,000. But why stop there? Coco and Nish ask about other potential boons to the state budget. Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.uk WhatsApp: 07494 933 444 (UK) or + 44 7494 933 444 (internationally) Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheuk Twitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheuk TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheuk Facebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheuk YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld
Guests: Cat Hobbs, Director of We Own It Gary Stevenson, the Activist and Economist behind Gary’s Economics Useful links: Come to see Pod Save the UK live at Edinburgh Fringe! https://patrioticmillionaires.uk/
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| Jeremy Corbyn & Mhairi Black: Left Culled, Centre Cracked and Right Reformed? | 06 Jun 2024 | 00:53:51 | |
In week two of the campaigns for the upcoming General Election - the fight for the centre vote has become a focal point. But the crucial question remains - what will this do for the future of politics in the UK? Are we at risk of losing diversity across parties? And as Keir Starmer appears to be purging the left-wing factions of the Labour Party, Nish and Coco speak to former Labour leader and now independent candidate Jeremy Corbyn on whether he’s hopeful for a potential Labour government and what advice he has for Keir Starmer. Nish and Coco also speak to Mhairi Black about the challenges facing the SNP when trying to capture the electorate. They also discuss whether we are at risk of losing the kind of representation that the Left and younger voters need to bring about hope and change in society. There’s also a rundown of the first Sunak vs Starmer TV debate and a return of the best WTF moments from the week’s political campaigns. Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.uk WhatsApp: 07494 933 444 (UK) or + 44 7494 933 444 (internationally) Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheuk Twitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheuk TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheuk Facebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheuk YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld
Guests: Jeremy Corbyn, Independent Candidate for Islington North Mhairi Black, former SNP Deputy Leader and MP for Paisley and Renfrewshire South Audio credits: BBC ITV Labour Party Sky News
Useful links: Come to see Pod Save the UK live at Edinburgh Fringe!
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| Generational Warfare: Has Rishi Sunak’s electoral gambit misfired? | 30 May 2024 | 00:42:05 | |
It’s week one of the campaign and after a comical series of false starts, Rishi Sunak and the Tories have fired the first shots in a campaign of generational warfare. Nish and Coco are joined by political correspondent Liz Bates to find out if there are votes to be won in these wedge politics. Later, they speak to Christine Jardine from the Liberal Democrats about their differences with Labour as well as the electoral battleground that is Scotland. And, as the campaign heats up - the WTF moments are multiplying. Nish, Coco and Liz dissect their favourites from the week. Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.uk WhatsApp: 07494 933 444 (UK) or + 44 7494 933 444 (internationally) Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheuk Twitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheuk TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheuk Facebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheuk YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld
Guests: Liz Bates, Sky News Christine Jardine, Scottish Liberal Democrat MP
Audio credits: BBC Sky News Shrek - Paramount pictures Useful links: Come to see Pod Save the UK live at Edinburgh Fringe!
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| What do the Trans & Non-binary community need most right now? | 26 May 2024 | 00:48:48 | |
Nish and Coco are joined by Abigail Thorn (actress, writer and host of PhilosophyTube) and Freddy McConnell (writer and journalist) to examine the issues facing the trans and non-binary community in the UK today. In recent news, the current Tory government has proposed new guidelines for education in schools across England. Education Secretary Gillian Keegan said that gender identity should not be taught in schools to students of any age. Abigail and Freddy respond to these news headlines and also discuss The Cass review, a proposed new approach from the Labour Party around the Gender Recognition Act, and which individuals need highlighting for their work on trans rights in the UK. Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.uk WhatsApp: 07494 933 444 (UK) or + 44 7494 933 444 (internationally) Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheuk Twitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheuk TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheuk Facebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheuk YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld Guests: Abigail Thorn, Freddy McConnell, journalist Audio credits: ITV BBC Useful links: Come to see Pod Save the UK live at Edinburgh Fringe! Transactual Briefing on the Cass Review - https://transactual.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/TransActual-Briefing-on-Cass-Review.pdf
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| Are these the last six weeks of Rishi Sunak and the Tories? | 23 May 2024 | 00:45:02 | |
Nish and Coco bring you a hot off-the-press special look at the announcement of a UK general election. On Wednesday 22nd May - Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced the next general election will be on Thursday 4th July 2024. It appeared to be a sudden decision that surprised even his own Conservative MPs. But this announcement brings a whole host of questions with it. What key issues will this election be fought on? Is the timing helpful to any party in particular? How will Sunak fare under the microscope? To answer those and many more - friend of the show Liz Bates makes an eager return. Alongside Nish and Coco - Liz discusses what drove Sunak to this announcement and whether Keir Starmer got something of a headstart on his campaign. There’s also discussion of how other parties might fare in this race from Lib Dems to the SNPs. And co-leader of the Green Party Adrian Ramsay gives his point of view. Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.
Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.uk WhatsApp: 07494 933 444 (UK) or + 44 7494 933 444 (internationally) Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheuk Twitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheuk TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheuk Facebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheuk YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld
Guest: Liz Bates, Sky News Adrian Ramsay, Co-leader, Green Party Audio credits: BBC Sky News
Useful links: Come to see Pod Save the UK live at Edinburgh Fringe!
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| The economy is growing, so why are we feeling poorer? | 16 May 2024 | 00:45:00 | |
The UK is officially out of recession - Rishi Sunak and Chancellor Jeremy Hunt have been banging the drum of the 0.6% GDP growth in the Jan-March quarter, but are things actually getting better? George Monbiot drops into the studio to demystify Neoliberalism - the invisible economic doctrine that has influenced UK politics and policy since the Thatcher years. George also brings some fresh ideas for how citizens can move away from being consumers and recapture our democracy. Finally, Nish and Coco eviscerate Esther McVey’s campaign to ban that most dreadful example of civil service impropriety - the rainbow lanyard. Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.
Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.uk WhatsApp: 07494 933 444 (UK) or + 44 7494 933 444 (internationally) Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheuk Twitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheuk TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheuk Facebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheuk YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld
Guest: George Monbiot, activist and writer
Audio credits: BBC LBC The Guardian
Useful links: Come to see Pod Save the UK live at Edinburgh Fringe! The Guardian - Latest GDP figures offer some better news – but boom-boom Britain it ain’t
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| Can AI really be your friend? w/Jamie Bartlett | 02 Apr 2026 | 00:58:48 | |
Coco and Nish are joined by top author and tech expert Jamie Bartlett. His new book is a deep dive into the ways AI is being used - highlighting its pitfalls and also where it might be beneficial. Jamie even created an AI alter-ego to help people understand how the technology really works, its strengths and its limitations. Plus, your questions, answered! From the new electoral system in Wales to favourite conspiracy theories - you’ll learn and you’ll laugh! Don’t forget to leave a review - it gives the show a boost and we love to see your comments. CHECK OUT THESE DEALS FROM OUR SPONSORS VANTA: https://www.vanta.com/PSTUK SHOPIFY: https://shopify.co.uk/podsavetheuk WISE: https://www.wise.com GUESTS Jamie Bartlett, Author, ‘How To Talk To AI (And How Not To)’ and Host of Everything is Fake (And Nobody Cares) on BBC Sounds Special guest appearance: Jimmy Botlett USEFUL LINKS ‘How To Talk To AI (And How Not To)’: Out April 9th. Welsh Assembly election guide Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. | |||
| Abortion rights & ending hunger with Aisling Bea | 09 May 2024 | 00:49:38 | |
“A hung Parliament” - it’s not quite admitting defeat, but the new media lines from Rishi Sunak and the Conservative Party suggest that even the Government knows its days are numbered. Nish and Coco unpack Sunak’s shock admission and some of the highlights from the local elections. Comedian, actor and activist (and old colleague of Nish) Aisling Bea drops in to talk about campaigning against food insecurity. The “Essentials Guarantee” campaign championed by the Trussell Trust asks that political parties prioritise all citizens having basic essentials as part of their election manifestos. Aisling also talks about the fight for abortion rights in her homeland of Ireland, while Coco reminds us that the abortion laws in England, Scotland and Wales are incredibly archaic. Abortion buffer zones, 150m no-protest areas around clinics have just hit their one-year anniversary of receiving royal ascent for England & Wales, however, the Home Office has yet to roll out the change to the law - leaving protestors free to approach women outside. Finally, the gang mix together a metaphorical soufflé of villains, stirring in a healthy dose of uncapped banker bonuses, adding a dash of Susan Hall, and a pinch of the Labour Party’s surprise new MP. Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.
Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.uk WhatsApp: 07494 933 444 (UK) or + 44 7494 933 444 (internationally) Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheuk Twitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheuk TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheuk Facebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheuk YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld
Guest: Aisling Bea
Audio credits: BBC The Guardian GB News
Useful links: Come to see Pod Save the UK live at Edinburgh Fringe! Essentials Guarantee Campaign - Trussell Trust Could there really be a hung parliament at the next UK general election? - The Guardian Goldman Sachs’s UK gender pay gap widest in six years - Financial Times On abortion culture wars, Britain takes a different path - Politico What a sad little life Jane - Come Dine With Me
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| Are the Local Election results the beginning of total Tory annihilation? | 03 May 2024 | 00:41:25 | |
While the results from elections across England & Wales are still rolling in - the signs so far are pointing to a disastrous outcome for the Conservative party. So Nish & Coco have jumped on for this special bonus episode to pop the champagne - asking exactly what it means ahead of the General Election - whenever that will eventually be called! Liz Bates from Sky News joins Nish and Coco to explain why the historic result of the byelection in Blackpool is so seismic. They also discuss whether results for Reform UK will scare the Tories into more extreme right-wing rhetoric, whether Boris Johnson forgetting his ID was a publicity stunt and whether Keir Starmer is not a good leader, but a lucky one. We also throw ahead to the general election - if there was a dreaded hung parliament - would that work at all? And how might the Tories be trying to claw their way back into favour before they finally allow the UK to have a general election?
Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.
Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.uk WhatsApp: 07494 933 444 (UK) or + 44 7494 933 444 (internationally) Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheuk Twitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheuk TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheuk Facebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheuk YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld
Guests: Liz Bates, Sky News
Audio credits: BBC Newcast BBC News Sky News
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| Humza Yousaf's Shock Resignation: Are the Greens Seizing Power in Scotland? | 02 May 2024 | 00:47:07 | |
The Westminster rumour mill went into overdrive last weekend peddling an ultimately incorrect rumour that Prime Minister Rishi Sunak was due to call a summer election. With suggestions that this rumour was started by the Labour Party, Nish and Coco ask whether progressives might be starting to control the narrative. And might that change in power balance towards the Left also be coming to the fore in Scotland? Following the shock resignation of First Minister and SNP Leader Humza Yousaf, Politico’s reporter Andrew McDonald unpacks how the Green Party may have greater influence in Scottish politics moving forward. And what are the radical solutions we need to address the crisis in Britain’s care system for children? The collaborators of the new book Free Loaves on Friday poet Lemn Sissay and journalist Rebekah Pierre explain why hearing directly from care leavers is vital for addressing problems across the system. This week - we present the PSUK hero no one asked for and the villain you never saw coming. Move aside Idris Elba - Nish Kumar is coming for your spotlight… Finally - make sure to look out for a bonus edition of Pod Save the UK this week where we bring you analysis from the results of the elections across England and Wales with Liz Bates. Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.
Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.uk WhatsApp: 07494 933 444 (UK) or + 44 7494 933 444 (internationally) Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheuk Twitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheuk TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheuk Facebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheuk YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld
Guests: Andrew McDonald, Politico Rebekah Pierre, Journalist and Social Worker Lemn Sissay, Poet and Activist
Audio credit: Sky News
Useful links: https://www.electoralcommission.org.uk/voting-and-elections/voter-id https://unbound.com/books/free-loaves-on-fridays
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| Nish dismantles Sunak's attack on disabled people and Coco meets Caroline Lucas | 25 Apr 2024 | 00:54:48 | |
Rishi Sunak finally ‘got Rwanda done’ after a long and dramatic night as his Safety of Rwanda Bill ping-ponged between the Common and the Lords. Our guest, the Green MP Caroline Lucas, tells Coco what it was like to be in Westminster that night and criticises Rishi Sunak for holding a drinks party while the Bill - which she describes as “a piece of performative cruelty” - was still being debated in the Lords. She also discusses her new book about why the left needs to speak up for ‘Englishness’, and explains why she’s training to become a death doula. Nish and Coco provide an indispensable guide to next week’s local elections, talking about why they’re important and analysing what they might mean for Tory and Labour prospects at a general election. They also discuss whether the new rules on voter ID are an attempt by the Conservative Party to suppress the vote. For our hero and villain of the week, Nish is appalled by Rishi Sunak’s attack on the sick and disabled, while Coco has been enjoying The Menstrual Cramps! Plus what would happen if Nish and Rishi Sunak met at notorious Berlin club Berghain? Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.
Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.uk WhatsApp: 07494 933 444 (UK) or + 44 7494 933 444 (internationally) Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheuk Twitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheuk TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheuk Facebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheuk YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld
Caroline Lucas, Green MP for Brighton Pavillion
Sky News
Useful links: https://www.electoralcommission.org.uk/voting-and-elections/voter-id https://crooked.com/podcast-series/pod-save-america/
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| Jess Phillips on Angela Rayner tax story: scandal or smear? | 18 Apr 2024 | 00:52:58 | |
On a busy week of news as MPs return to Parliament, Nish and Coco are joined by the Labour MP Jess Phillips. She gives her take on the investigation into Angela Rayner’s tax affairs, and reveals the toll it’s taking on her party’s deputy leader. A discussion on Iran’s unprecedented attack on Israel leads Jess to reveal her family links to Iran, and there’s some rare praise for Rishi Sunak for his anti-smoking legislation. Jess also says Diane Abbott should get the whip back, despite the two Labour colleagues having a somewhat frosty relationship. Villain of the week is Liz Truss for her shameless book tour, although Jess makes a play for her to be hero, saying she’s “a gift” for Labour and “should be on the tele more”. There’s also praise for Ted Lasso star Hannah Waddingham, for putting a sexist photographer in his place. Plus Nish and Coco have some songwriting tips for Megan Thee Stallion. Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.
Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.uk WhatsApp: 07494 933 444 (UK) or + 44 7494 933 444 (internationally) Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheuk Twitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheuk TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheuk Facebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheuk YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld
Guest: Jess Phillips, Labour MP for Birmingham Yardley
Audio credits: BBC News Fox News LBC odeiotedlasso/X
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| Scandal and cyber security in Westminster | 11 Apr 2024 | 00:47:33 | |
Coco is back from holiday and the first order of business is for Nish to explain the Westminster “honeypot” scandal, which has seen the vice-chairman of the 1922 committee resign. But beyond a salacious story about MPs texting, what are the broader security issues this raises? Nish and Coco also take issue with Shadow Health Secretary Wes Streeting attacking “middle-class lefties” in a tabloid newspaper. Special guest Shami Chakrabarti joins Nish and Coco to discuss human rights - what they are, why we need them, and how we need to define them in a future that’s powered by technology and AI. The Labour peer also gives her verdict on Keir Starmer’s leadership, Diane Abbott’s suspension, and responds to listener comments about the importance of voting. Plus she takes an unexpected detour into film criticism. Nish laments the fall of a heroic shoe, and Coco aims a government department for the way it treats carers in her villain of the week. Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.
Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.uk Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheuk Twitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheuk TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheuk Facebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheuk YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld
Guests: Baroness Shami Charkrabarti, human rights lawyer and author of Human Rights: The Case for the Defence’.
Audio credits: Dr Luke Evans MP Sky News Elent Finance/Instagram LBC
Useful links: https://www.libertyhumanrights.org.uk/
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| Fighting the Rwanda Bill + Mr Kumar goes to Westminster | 04 Apr 2024 | 00:38:36 | |
With the Government’s controversial Rwanda Bill currently stuck between the Commons and the Lords, this timely special episode focuses on the UK’s asylum policy. Nish takes up an invitation to speak about the issue at the House of Lords. The event has been organised by the All Party Parliamentary Group on Refugees, in conjunction with the makers of a new film called Io Capitano - which follows the perilous migration journey of two young boys travelling from Senegal to Europe in search of a better life. Nish joins Labour peer Lord Dubs, the co-chair of the APPG on Refugees, in his office afterwards to hear how he and his colleagues are “digging their heels in” to try and amend the Rwanda Bill. Lord Dubs tells Nish what he learnt from a recent trip to Calais to meet asylum seekers first-hand. They also discuss what a more humane asylum system might look like and whether the next Labour government can deliver it. Back in the studio, Nish and Coco discuss the extent to which arts and culture can have the power to bring about change. With special thanks to Altitude Films and Think-Film Impact Production. Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.
Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.uk WhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572 Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheuk Twitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheuk TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheuk Facebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheuk YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld
Guest: Lord Dubs, Labour peer and co-chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group on Refugees
Useful link: Io Capitano trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z6fLvLN2EqM
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| A China crisis, a dodgy attack ad, and Titchmarsh’s trousers | 28 Mar 2024 | 00:48:20 | |
As Westminster goes on its Easter holidays, Nish and Coco reflect on a busy end of term that saw a couple of ministerial resignations and a diplomatic row with China. Nish asks if Lord Cameron’s post No.10 activities leave him compromised in dealing with China as Foreign Minister. Coco also raises the plight of the WASPI women, who lost out due to the change in pension age - will they ever see any compensation? Special guest George the Poet joins Nish and Coco for a fascinating conversation that takes in disillusionment with Westminster politics and the pitfalls of getting into political arguments over social media. Plus he reveals which famous comedian gave him his stage name. Nish takes aim at a villainous Tory campaign ad, while Coco celebrates the life of Richard Taylor, father of Damilola. Also, find out why Alan Titchmarsh’s trousers have been censored in North Korea!
Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.
Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.uk WhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572 Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheuk Twitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheuk TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheuk Facebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheuk YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld
Guests: George the Poet, spoken word artist and author of Track Record: Me, Music, and the War on Blackness
Audio credits: BBC News The Conservative Party
Useful links: https://www.georgethepoet.com/
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| Democracy for sale, Europe’s first black leader + tea with Obama | 21 Mar 2024 | 00:49:58 | |
This week Nish and Coco ask if our politics is on sale to those with the deepest pockets? The Conservative Party would love us all to move on from the row around the £15 million donation from Frank Hester, but it’s a story that highlights the often murky world of political funding. Nish and Coco talk to investigative journalist Peter Geoghagen about what the rules are, what donors get for their money, and whether there’s a better way to do it. Dodgy donations have also cast a bit of a cloud over a momentous week in Welsh politics, which saw the appointment of Vaughan Gething as the first black leader of a European country. Journalist Will Hayward explains why it hasn’t been an easy ride for him so far and why he’s got a rocky road ahead. Plus in other news, MP’s and Lords play ‘ping pong’ with the Government’s Rwanda Bill, and there’s a new name in the Tory leadership frame. Competent and popular politician spotted at Downing Street shock: Nish and Coco discuss President Obama’ popping in for a cup of tea with Rishi Sunak. Plus a new sighting of Princess Kate raises more questions about the royal PR machine. In this week’s hero and villain, find out why a Glasgow record shop has amused Nish and why a Lord has annoyed Coco. Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.
Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.uk WhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572 Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheuk Twitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheuk TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheuk Facebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheuk YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld
Guests: Will Hayward, Welsh affairs editor at WalesOnline Peter Geoghagen, investigative journalist and author of the Democracy for Sale Substack
Audio credits: ITV News ITV News West Country
Useful links: https://crooked.com/podcast-series/world-corrupt/ https://democracyforsale.substack.com/ https://www.righttoroam.org.uk/
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| Tory donor racism row, plus the Princess and the pic | 14 Mar 2024 | 00:50:58 | |
Another shocker of a week for the Conservatives which saw their biggest donor caught up in a race row, and their former Deputy Chairman defect to Reform UK. Beth Rigby, Political Editor at Sky News, tells Nish and Coco that the Tories don’t want to give back the £10 million they received from Frank Hester last year, despite the racist language he’s alleged to have used about the MP Diane Abbott. Beth also reveals what happened at the surprisingly tetchy press conference held by Reform to unveil Lee Anderson as their party’s first ever MP in the Commons. Beth tells Nish and Coco why she’s obsessed with THAT Royal Mother’s Day picture, they discuss Princess Catherine’s questionable photoshop skills, conspiracy theories and what it all means for the Royal Family. Nish’s hero of the week is film director Jonathan Glazer, while Coco isn’t happy with Times columnist Matthew Parris. Plus hear about Beth’s Arsenal bantz with Keir Starmer, Coco’s visit to the dentist…and more badger chat! Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.
Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.uk WhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572 Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheuk Twitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheuk TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheuk Facebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheuk YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld
Guest: Beth Rigby, Political Editor, Presenter and Podcaster, Sky News
Audio credits: Sky News SBS/7 Network/Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences
Useful links: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/electoral-dysfunction/id1613562765 https://www.tortoisemedia.com/listen/who-trolled-amber/
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| Truth, Lies and Donald Trump w/ Stewart Lee | 26 Mar 2026 | 00:52:56 | |
Comedian and columnist Stewart Lee joins Nish and Coco to discuss the week’s big stories. They talk about Donald Trump’s deadly and yet utterly confusing war with Iran, as the US President continues to contradict his own statements about the Strait of Hormuz and peace talks, almost in the same breath. It certainly means a new, live, UK sketch show has plenty of material - but how should comedy respond to the challenging times we are all living through? Plus - why having a weekly opinion column is good for your mental health and why news organisations need to do more to tackle the lies and extreme rhetoric coming from politicians. Don’t forget to leave a review - it gives the show a boost and we love to see your comments. CHECK OUT THESE DEALS FROM OUR SPONSORS VANTA: https://www.vanta.com/PSTUK SHOPIFY: https://shopify.co.uk/podsavetheuk INCOGNI: https://www.incogni.com/podsavetheuk Code: podsavetheuk
Stewart Lee, Comedian and columnist for The Nerve USEFUL LINKS Guide to Senedd voting system: https://senedd.wales/senedd-now/senedd-blog/how-will-the-new-voting-system-work-at-the-next-senedd-election/ CREDITS Saturday Night Live UK, Sky One Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. | |||
| Jeremy Hunt’s election budget for big earners and big owners | 07 Mar 2024 | 00:47:51 | |
Did the Chancellor’s much anticipated pre-election budget fall flat? Nish and Coco pick over the details and wonder why our public services are being sacrificed for the sake of tax cuts. There’s reaction from Westminster from political journalist Kiran Stacey, who says that there are signs of the budget unravelling already. Rachelle Earwaker from the Joseph Rowntree Foundation says it does nothing for the poorest in society, calling it a budget for “big earners and big owners”. Find out how a sleepy corner of Devon could be about to shake up our political system. Fed up of a first past the post system that’s delivered a Tory MP for the last 99 years, voters in Totnes are organising their own series of primaries to pick a progressive candidate to oust their MP Anthony Mangnall. Could it catch on in other places too? There’s an International Women’s Day theme to this week’s hero and villain…find out what Lucy Moore and the Newry, Mourne and Down District Council have done to deserve their accolades. Meanwhile Coco’s got a bone to pick with King Harold of 1066 fame, plus there are tales of micro-pigs, badgers and naughtiness at Disneyland. Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.
Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.uk WhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572 Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheuk Twitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheuk TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheuk Facebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheuk YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld
Kiran Stacey, political correspondent at The Guardian Rachelle Earwaker, senior economist at The Joseph Rowntree Foundation
X / @SDevonPrimary X / @lucyajmmoore
https://crooked.com/podcast-series/pod-save-america/
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| The man who would be PM: who is the real Keir Starmer? | 29 Feb 2024 | 00:52:09 | |
With a huge lead in the polls, all the signs point to Keir Starmer moving into Downing Street by the end of the year, so how well do we know the man who would be PM? Guest co-presenter Liz Bates attempts to get behind the rather dull public image, by interrogating Tom Baldwin, who spent hours talking to Starmer for his new authoritative biography of the Labour leader. The conversation takes an emotional turn when Liz and Tom discuss Starmer’s difficult relationship with his dad; how he couldn’t hug him on his deathbed, and then later found a hidden scrapbook that showed how proud of his son he really was. They also talk about what makes Starmer tick politically - is there such a thing as Starmerism? - as well as his love of football and music…and Tom reveals what Starmer thinks of the book! Nish joins Liz from Crooked HQ in LA to discuss the fallout from Lee Anderson’s expulsion from the party, and whether the Tories have an islamophobia problem. They also discuss the rogues gallery of candidates competing to win the Rochdale by-election, and Liz reveals what it’s like to get up close and personal on the campaign trail, with the bookies favourite George Galloway. Plus find out why Nish gave one very lucky New York cab driver a massive tip, and why he loves smelly books! Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.
Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.uk WhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572 Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheuk Twitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheuk TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheuk Facebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheuk YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld
Tom Baldwin, author of Keir Starmer: The Biography
GB News
https://crooked.com/podcast-series/lovett-or-leave-it/
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| Will Young: popstar to politician? Plus Westminster ceasefire row | 22 Feb 2024 | 00:51:22 | |
Nish and guest co-presenter Liz Bates set the scene on what went on to become a chaotic night in the Commons, that put speaker Lindsay Hoyle’s job at risk. They call out the “pathetic and petty” political game playing that sought to use the suffering of people in Gaza to embarrass the Labour Party. There are also harsh words for Business Secretary Kemi Badenoch for using the Commons to settle scores in her row with the former Post Office chairman Henry Staunton. Former Pop Idol winner Will Young reveals his life-long interest in politics, and tells us what it was like to see his petition on ending medical testing on dogs, debated at Westminster. For his next foray into politics, Will says he’s planning to go to Somerset to troll Jacob Rees-Mogg, and says he’s even thinking about becoming an MP himself. In heroes and villains, Liz takes inspiration from Samatha Morton, while Nish defends Indian cuisine. Plus find out why Nish is channelling Carrie Bradshaw! Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.
Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.uk WhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572 Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheuk Twitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheuk TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheuk Facebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheuk YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld
Will Young: singer, actor and writer
Audio credits: Sky News
Useful links: https://crooked.com/podcast-series/keep-it/ https://www.careleaveroffer.co.uk/
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| Rochdale row tests Starmer’s leadership, plus the woman who helped take down Weinstein | 15 Feb 2024 | 00:50:48 | |
A week that was supposed to bring more woe for Rishi Sunak has turned into arguably the biggest test of Keir Starmer’s leadership. Labour has had to suspend two of its parliamentary candidates for making comments about Israel. For Starmer, who’s staked his reputation on ridding Labour of anti-semitism, it’s been hugely embarrassing. Nish and Coco reflect on the farcical situation in Rochdale, where Azhar Ali will appear as a Labour candidate on the by-election ballot in a couple of weeks, despite the party having removed its support for him. With the Horizon Post Office scandal having put the use of non-disclosure agreements back in the spotlight, we hear from a woman who has made it her mission to stop NDAs being used to silence victims. Zelda Perkins, a former assistant to Harvey Weinstein, tells Nish and Coco about the traumatic experience of signing her NDA, which she likens to “legal waterboarding”, and why she chose to break it to help expose the film producer’s crimes. On an optimistic note, she reveals how politicians from across the political divide are helping her to achieve change. Wrexham FC owners Ryan Renolds and Rob McElhenney feature in heroes and villains, as do three councillors from Warwickshire County Council. Plus find out why Nish has ditched Coco on Valentine’s Day, and why they want your Jason Statham inspired film art. Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.
Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.uk WhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572 Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheuk Twitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheuk TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheuk Facebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheuk YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld
Guest: Zelda Perkins, co-founder of Can’t Buy My Silence
Audio credits: Sky News ‘She Said’, Annapurna Pictures, Plan B Entertainment and Universal Pictures Warwickshire County Council Useful links: https://protect-advice.org.uk/
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| Scotland’s First Minister Humza Yousaf: Sunak, Starmer and samosas | 08 Feb 2024 | 00:51:32 | |
Scotland’s First Minister Humza Yousaf joins Nish and Coco to reflect on the highs and lows of his first year as leader. He takes us back to the fateful Valentine’s night phone call with Nicola Sturgeon that changed his life, and tells us how he felt watching his former mentor shed a tear at the Covid Inquiry last week. The First Minister talks about the helplessness he felt when his family members were trapped in Gaza, and reveals his fears for his brother-in-law, a surgeon who remains in Khan Younis. He tells how Keir Starmer called to offer his support, in stark contrast to Rishi Sunak and his then Foreign Secretary James Cleverly. Their wide-ranging conversation also takes in King Charles’ shock cancer news, independence and Brexit, and the challenge the SNP faces at the next general election. Plus there’s Celtic FC, samosas and learn why his first ever job gave him a huge bicep! This week’s hero and villain can be found on our social media channels. Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.
Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.uk WhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572 Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheuk Twitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheuk TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheuk Facebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheuk YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld
Guest: Humza Yousaf, First Minister of Scotland, and leader of the Scottish National Party
Audio credits: UK Covid-19 Inquiry BBC News
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| The MP who gives away part of her salary, hope for Northern Ireland and Nish Kumar takes on the evil plotters | 01 Feb 2024 | 00:48:14 | |
After nearly two years without a functioning Government, are the people of Northern Ireland finally about to see the power-sharing executive return to Stormont? Nish and Coco reflect on a dramatic week with journalist Amanda Ferguson. The Labour MP Nadia Whittome talks of her frustration at her party’s stance on calling for a ceasefire in the Israel-Gaza conflict, but says Labour’s position is now evolving. She insists the party is still a broad church but admits it is a problem that there are no MPs from the left in Keir Starmer’s shadow cabinet. She also tells Nish and Coco why she donates part of her MP salary to worthy causes - in stark contrast to the Tory MP who resigned from his ministerial role because it didn’t pay enough! Coco celebrates the drag artist Crystal for taking down a high-profile right-wing troll, while Nish is left exasperated by the Tory ‘evil plotters’ WhatsApp group. Plus we find out why Coco wants a beard, and relive Nish’s childhood barbershop trauma.
Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.
Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.uk WhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572 Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheuk Twitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheuk TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheuk Facebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheuk YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld
Guests: Nadia Whittome, Labour MP for Nottingham East Amanda Ferguson, freelance journalist
Audio credits: BBC Sky News X/MANPalestine Action
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| Why are our councils going bust? | 25 Jan 2024 | 00:47:21 | |
1 in 5 local councils in England is in danger of going bankrupt within the next two years - it’s a growing crisis that Westminster has done its best to ignore. With their budgets continually slashed, council leaders are faced with sometimes impossible choices about which services can be funded and which have to be axed. Nish and Coco discuss the crisis with a council leader, Joe Harris, and a ‘policy wonk’ Zoe Billingham. As they chat it emerges that Michael Gove has committed an extra £500 million into the pot for next year. Our guests verdict? It won’t touch the sides. Meanwhile in Westminster, is it a rebellion if it’s only one person rebelling? Plus introducing your new favourite Conservative group…the Popular Conservatives or PopCons! Nish is obviously delighted to hear about another SFG (or stupid fucking group), especially as this one has a certain Liz Truss attached to it. Also find out what Ministers Lucy Frazer and Hugh Merriman did to jointly take the villain of the week crown, while the hero of the week goes to a judge who defended the honour of the poppadom. Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.
Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.uk WhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572 Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheuk Twitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheuk TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheuk Facebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheuk YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld
Guests: Joe Harris, vice chair of the Local Government Association, and the Lib Dem leader of Cotswold District Council Zoë Billingham, the director of the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) North think tank
Audio credits: Sky News BBC News / Laura Kuenssberg
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| Rwanda, Reparations and Romance | 18 Jan 2024 | 00:52:29 | |
It’s groundhog day at Westminster as Rishi Sunak’s Safety of Rwanda Bill returns to the Commons - will all the talk of rebellion come to anything this time? Nish and Coco discuss whether an opinion poll in the Telegraph was used to try to influence the debate and encourage the rebels. Plus they ask how it is that the UK has granted asylum to Rwandans AFTER signing a deal that deems the country safe. Labour MP Clive Lewis and journalist Laura Trevelyan went on a fascinating journey together, after discovering a shared connection on the island of Grenada….where his ancestors were enslaved and hers were slave owners. They discuss whether countries involved in the slave trade should pay reparations…and what goes into the traditional Grenadian meal of Oil Down. Find out why Manchester United fan Nish is full of praise for Liverpool fans, and what Avanti West Coast Trains have done to annoy Coco. Plus there’s some disagreement over whether we should be helping lonely Pod Save the Uk fans find love…Pod Shag the Uk anyone? Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.
Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.uk WhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572 Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheuk Twitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheuk TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheuk Facebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheuk YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld
Guests: Laura Trevelyan, campaigner and journalist Clive Lewis, Labour MP for Norwich South
Audio credits: Heirs of Enslavement, Persephonica Sky News The Traitors US, Peacock
Useful links: https://www.persephonica.com/shows/heirs-of-enslavement
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| The Horizon Post Office scandal and Lionel Rishi | 11 Jan 2024 | 00:51:57 | |
Why did it take a TV drama to wake politicians up to what’s been described as the most widespread miscarriage of justice in British legal history? More than 700 sub-postmasters were convicted of theft, due to accounting discrepancies caused by the Post Office’s faulty computer system. ITV’s Mr Bates vs The Post Office caused public outrage and has forced the Government into taking unprecedented action. James Harding, former BBC director of News and Current Affairs, joins Nish and Coco to discuss what lessons journalism can learn from the saga. With the UK, like much of Western Europe, recording historically low birthrates, Nish and Coco wonder why it only seems to be politicians on the right who ever engage with it as an issue. Is it a simple matter of economics, or maybe it’s just 14 years of Conservative Government that’s killed the mood! Plus Keir Starmer’s glitter-bomber makes a surprise appearance, we find out Coco’s unusual choice of pool nickname, and why the PM is ‘dancing on the ceiling’. Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.
Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.uk WhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572 Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheuk Twitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheuk TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheuk Facebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheuk YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld
Guest: James Harding, co-founder and editor at Tortoise Media
Audio credits: ITV Studio / Little Gem ITV/Good Morning Britain Sky News
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| Nish and Coco’s predictions for 2024, plus would you kiss a Tory? | 04 Jan 2024 | 00:32:05 | |
Comedians Andy Zaltzman and Catherine Bohart return to help Nish and Coco try to predict what politics has in store for us in 2024. There’s much debate about the possible date of the next general election…with arguments made for both November 5th and December 25th! The panel also considers whether the electorate will warm to Keir Starmer. Plus there’s also the prospect of another Trump presidency to terrify us all. Andy and Catherine also help Nish and Coco field listeners' questions, with discussions ranging from whether our electoral system is fit for purpose, to who’d win in a fight between Boris Johnson and Nigel Farage. But the key question is: would anyone kiss a Tory? Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.
Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.uk WhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572 Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheuk Twitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheuk TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheuk Facebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheuk YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld
Guests: Andy Zaltzman, presenter of BBC Radio 4’s The News Quiz, and The Bugle podcast Catherine Bohart, comedian and co-presenter of Trusty Hogs podcast
Useful links: https://www.catherinebohart.com/live https://www.thebuglepodcast.com/live
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| Can Britain’s myth and magic challenge the far right? w/ Zakia Sewell | 21 Mar 2026 | 00:35:38 | |
Last summer - fuelled by the far right - a rash of St George and Union Jack flags spread across the country. Flag-waving became a symbol of prejudice, not pride. In that context it's hard as progressives to feel particularly patriotic. So what is Britishness… and does it even matter? Someone who is hopeful that our national identity is worth saving is writer, a DJ and broadcaster Zakia Sewell. In this bonus episode of PSUK, she tells Nish and Coco about her journey to uncover an alternative version of Britishness - one that unifies rather than divides. CHECK OUT THESE DEALS FROM OUR SPONSORS BABBEL: https://www.babbel.com/PSUK GUEST USEFUL LINKS “Finding Albion: Myth, Folklore and the Quest for Hidden Britain” - out now. Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. | |||
| Just Stop Politics! Nish and Coco’s review of 2023 | 28 Dec 2023 | 00:59:21 | |
Comedians Andy Zaltzman and Catherine Bohart take up Nish and Coco’s challenge, to find the laughs in another chaotic year in British politics. Is it cheating that they had to deploy novelty Christmas hats? You decide. Our review of 2023 starts with a fresh-faced and optimistic Rishi Sunak making his five pledges, and ends with the Conservatives tearing themselves apart over Rwanda. In between, we take in King Charles getting his fancy new hat, Nicola Sturgeon’s shock exit, Boris Johnson getting his comeuppance, Keir Starmer getting glitterbombed, and of course, the continuing mis-adventures of Suella Braverman. Plus two Ben’s battle it out for the title of PSUK Hero of the Year, while it’s more of a one-man race to the title of PSUK Villain of the Year. Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.
Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.uk WhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572 Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheuk Twitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheuk TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheuk Facebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheuk YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld
Guests: Andy Zaltzman, presenter of BBC Radio 4’s The News Quiz, and The Bugle podcast Catherine Bohart, comedian and co-presenter of Trusty Hogs podcast
Audio credits: Sky News BBC News Rishi Sunak - Instagram ITV News GB News STV News
Useful links: https://www.catherinebohart.com/live https://www.thebuglepodcast.com/live
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| Sunak survives, plus the long wait for Grenfell justice | 14 Dec 2023 | 00:50:22 | |
Rishi Sunak endured one his toughest weeks yet as Prime Minister, as he faced the Covid Inquiry and tried to placate rebellious MPs. But he lived to fight another day - as does his controversial Rwanda Bill. For Westminster watchers it was all about the mooted rebellion that didn’t materialise, but for Nish and Coco, the real story was the death of an asylum seeker aboard the Bibby Stockholm barge. For Nish, this stark warning about the potentially tragic effects of inhumane policies, should be cause for introspection amongst our political leaders. The news that the final report of the Grenfell Inquiry has been pushed back once again, has frustrated many of those waiting to see justice done. Journalist Peter Apps joins Nish and Coco to discuss the inquiry, and offer his analysis of the systemic issues that allowed the tragedy to happen…and whether it could happen again. Welsh political journalist Will Hayward also pops up to offer an instant reaction to the news that the Welsh First Minister Mark Drakeford is stepping down - what’s his lasting legacy, and what happens next? Plus find out what Climate Change Minister Graham Stuart has done to make him Nish’s villain of the week, while Coco brings some festive cheer with her hero of the week. Plus we want your nominations for ‘the political moment of the year’ - good or bad, silly or serious - email them to PSUK@reducedlistening.co.uk Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.
Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.uk WhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572 Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheuk Twitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheuk TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheuk Facebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheuk YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld
Guests: Will Hayward, journalist for Wales Online Peter Apps, journalist and author of Show Me the Bodies: How We Let Grenfell Happen
Audio credits: UK Covid 19 Inquiry Sky News ITV News
Useful links: Peter Apps’ book: https://oneworld-publications.com/work/show-me-the-bodies-2/ Inquest’s campaign for a National Oversight Mechanism: https://www.inquest.org.uk/no-more-deaths-campaign
Our sponsors: https://auraframes.com/PSUK (Use promo code PSUK)
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| Bereaved families’ verdict on Boris Johnson at the Covid Inquiry | 08 Dec 2023 | 00:25:21 | |
Please note: This podcast includes a description of a death from Covid, that some may find distressing. This week saw arguably the most anticipated moment of the Covid Inquiry so far, the first appearance of Boris Johnson, who was Prime Minister during the pandemic. Over two days at the hearing, he offered an apology and admitted some mistakes were made, but defended his overall approach. In this bonus episode, Nish and Coco find out how his words went down with those most deeply affected by the pandemic, those who lost their loved ones. Susie Crozier-Flintham, who lost her dad Howard, reveals what it was like to be in the room to hear his testimony - she says he refused to look at the families who were there, and in fact arrived 3 hours early just so he could avoid them. Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.
Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.uk WhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572 Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheuk Twitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheuk TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheuk Facebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheuk YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld
Guest: Susie Crozier-Flintham, Covid-19 Bereaved Families for Justice
Audio credits: Uk Covid-19 Inquiry
Useful links: https://covid19.public-inquiry.uk/
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| Tory Immigration crackdown, plus Ben Rhodes on following the Queen into the toilet | 07 Dec 2023 | 00:51:30 | |
It’s been a big week in the Tories’ war on foreigners. While efforts to resuscitate the Rwanda plan continue, Nish and Coco pick over the Government’s five-point plan to reduce legal immigration. For Nish, these are measures produced by people who clearly have no lived experience of relying on the NHS or on social care. Coco points out the cruelty of minimum income plans that could split families up, and also discriminate against women. Former National Security Adviser to Obama, and co-host of Pod Save the World, Ben Rhodes, joins us to give us the American view on Boris Johnson, Rishi Sunak and Keir Starmer. As someone who’s been in the room with Benjamin Netenyahu, Ben gives us his take on the Israel Gaza crisis, and reflections on the stance taken by the UK and the US as the situation worsens. Plus, don’t miss a glorious anecdote that takes in the twin British obsessions of royalty and toilets! Nish’s Hero of the week salutes MPs and campaigners who defeated the Government on compensation for people affected by the contaminated blood scandal. While Coco’s villain is a building contractor whose shoddy workmanship means kids are having to do their lessons in tents. Plus we want your nominations for ‘the political moment of the year’ - good or bad - email them to PSUK@reducedlistening.co.uk Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.
Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.uk WhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572 Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheuk Twitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheuk TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheuk Facebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheuk YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld
Guest: Ben Rhodes, co-host of Pod Save the World, and former White House Deputy National Security Adviser
Audio credits: The Telegraph Sky News
Useful links: https://auraframes.com/PSUK (Use promo code PSUK) https://shopify.co.uk/podsavetheuk
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| Sunak’s big fat Greek blunder, plus will COP28 be a COP out? | 30 Nov 2023 | 00:54:03 | |
Rishi Sunak’s decision to publicly snub the Greek Prime Minister in a row over the Parthenon Marbles, has left Nish and Coco wondering whether he possesses any of the skills to be a global statesman? Worrying then, that his next stop is the COP28 climate summit in Dubai. Politico’s Karl Mathiesen joins us to talk about the UK’s place in the climate debate, and the contradictions of a COP hosted by an oil-rich state. Sunak, Cleverly, Braverman, Patel, Javid…the Conservative governments of the last few years have been the most diverse ever. But is that really something to celebrate? Kehinde Andrews, the UK’s first Professor of Black Studies, doesn’t think so. He talks to Nish and Coco about politics, black history, taking on Piers Morgan and much more in a fascinating chat about his book, The Psychosis of Whiteness. Plus heroes and villains has a bit of an Indiana Jones vibe this week! And find out why it’s not a good idea to employ Nish to mind your shop. Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.
Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.uk WhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572 Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheuk Twitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheuk TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheuk Facebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheuk YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld
Guest: Kehinde Andrews, Professor of Black Studies at Birmingham City University, and author of The Psychosis of Whiteness Karl Mathiesen, Climate correspondent at Politico Europe
Audio credits: Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg / BBC TV
Useful links: https://keepcampsfieldclosed.uk/ https://www.penguin.co.uk/authors/142438/kehinde-andrews
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| The Tories’ back-handed budgeting | 23 Nov 2023 | 00:50:10 | |
This week the attention of British political journalists was firmly fixed on Chancellor Jeremy Hunt, who unveiled big tax cuts in his much-anticipated Autumn Statement on Wednesday. The Conservative government’s cuts to National Insurance will put a few more pounds into UK payslips starting January– but at what cost? The Guardian’s Kiran Stacey joins Nish and Coco to explain what these cuts mean for public services (spoiler alert: it’s not good), and to explain why these proposals look like the work of a Chancellor who doesn’t plan to be in office much longer. While the Tories plot out a strategy for the next election– and its aftermath– the millions of people using food banks have other concerns. Helen Barnard, Director of Policy, Research & Impact at the Trussell Trust explains what the Autumn Statement means for people struggling with food insecurity and homelessness, and why tax cuts typically benefit the wealthiest members of society, not the poorest. She also lays out what kinds of structural changes could help end poverty. Planned changes to the disability benefits program give Nish a villain for the week, while Coco celebrates the heroic campaigners of Stop MSG Sphere whose activism successfully halted plans to build a bulbous, pulsating light-polluting orb-shaped music venue in Stratford, East London. Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.
Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.uk WhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572 Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheuk Twitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheuk TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheuk Facebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheuk YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld
Guest: Helen Barnard, Director of Policy, Research & Impact at the Trussell Trust Kiran Stacey, Political Correspondent, The Guardian
Audio credits: UK Covid-19 Inquiry Sky News ITV News London
Useful links: Helen Barnard’s book: www.waterstones.com/book/want/helen-barnard/9781788213974 Visit our sponsors: auraframes.com/psuk, promo code: PSUK Visit crooked.com/store for Christmas present ideas
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| Judges block Rwanda plan, plus who broke Britain with James O’Brien | 16 Nov 2023 | 00:51:54 | |
A frantic week in UK politics, that started with the sacking of Suella Braverman and the shock return of David Cameron, took another huge twist as the Supreme Court ruled that the Government’s plan to send asylum seekers to Rwanda was unlawful. Rishi Sunak however came out fighting, announcing an emergency bill to keep the policy alive. Plenty then for Nish and Coco to get their teeth stuck into with guest, LBC presenter and “conscience of liberal Britain” James O’Brien. His book ‘How they broke Britain’ features a cast of nefarious characters, including Cameron himself - how suitable is he for the role of Foreign Secretary? Also in the firing line is the right-wing media and Paul Dacre in particular, while we also learn about the less well-known shadowy cabal of conservative think tanks and the tactics they employ to influence public opinion. But is Jeremy Corbyn worthy of a place on James’ shit list? Plus why Nish and James are ‘disaster capitalists’, Nish makes a shock news hat admission, and we have a bumper heroes and villains, as James weighs in with his selections. Find out what ITV has done to upset Nish, and why Coco puts James to shame by nominating 44,000 heroes! Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.
Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.uk WhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572 Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheuk Twitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheuk TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheuk Facebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheuk YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld
James O’Brien, LBC radio presenter, and author of ‘How they broke Britain’
ITV Breakfast/Edinburgh TV Festival ITV Studios/@NigelFarage Talk TV
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| Bye bye Braverman, hello Cameron | 13 Nov 2023 | 00:28:34 | |
Nish and Coco jump on for an emergency bonus episode to reflect on a day of high political drama. Rishi Sunak reshuffles his top team, with the axe finally falling on his controversial Home Secretary Suella Braverman. That was followed by an even bigger shock…the appointment of former Prime Minister David Cameron as Foreign Secretary. Nish and Coco reflect on Cameron’s questionable legacy since leaving politics, and wonder what it means that he’s been appointed to the House of Lords in order to be given the job - can it be right that MP’s won’t have the chance to question him in the Commons? Also, beyond the headline moves, Nish wonders what it tells us that we now have our 16th Housing Minister since 2010. Whilst a reshuffle might be exciting for politics watchers, what are the consequences for the rest of us, of ministers being switched between jobs at such an alarming rate? Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.
Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.uk WhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572 Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheuk Twitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheuk TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheuk Facebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheuk YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld
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| The King’s Speech: Milli Vanilli in a gold hat | 09 Nov 2023 | 00:51:24 | |
King Charles’ first State Opening of Parliament as monarch, provides plenty of pomp, pageantry and politics for Nish and Coco to get stuck into. It’s a spectacle that throws up lots of questions, including who is Black Rod, and why does an MP get taken hostage by the Palace? As the Government presents its legislative agenda for the year ahead, we ask why is it so slim? Could it signal an early election? Nish and Coco are also incredulous as to why, with so much that needs fixing in this country, valuable space in the speech is given over to cracking down on pedicabs!! The New Statesman’s politics correspondent Zoë Grünewald is on hand to explain the splits in Labour over Gaza, as we see the first resignation from Keir Starmer’s front bench. We also discuss why so much political hot air is being expelled over this weekend’s pro-Palestinian protest - is it really disrespectful to have an anti-war march on Remembrence weekend? One of the loudest critics has of course been Home Secretary Suella Braverman - following a string of controversial pronouncements, we wonder if she’s actually trying to get herself sacked by Rishi Sunak? Plus in our Hero and Villain of the Week section, find out how a bowl of Potpourri helped raise £50,000 for charity, and why an underwear magnate could soon be under a vest! Also, what exactly is a News Hat? Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.
Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.uk WhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572 Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheuk Twitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheuk TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheuk Facebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheuk YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld
Zoë Grünewald, Policy & politics correspondent at The New Statesman
Sky News
Visit our sponsors: cariuma.com/PSUK Find the What A Day Newsletter at crooked.com/daily
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| No.10’s shameful Covid WhatsApps, plus is AI a threat to humanity? | 02 Nov 2023 | 00:49:17 | |
The latest hearings at the Covid Inquiry reveal chaos and dysfunction at the heart of Government during the pandemic. Did Boris Johnson really think Covid was nature’s way of dealing with old people? Nish and Coco sift through the swearing and the gossip to get to the heart of what really matters about the latest revelations. Coco tells Nish about her experience attending the huge rally, calling for a ceasefire in the Israel Gaza crisis, in London last weekend. How does she feel about Suella Braverman’s characterisation of the rallies as “hate marches”? With Silicon Valley’s finest - and Elon Musk - in the UK for Rishi Sunak’s big AI Summit, Nish and Coco have a play around with ChatGPT…can it come up with a script for them to introduce the show? Cristina Criddle joins the show from Bletchley Park to take us inside the summit and explain what it may or may not achieve. Plus Nish and Coco’s hero and villain of the week, and do YOU find Rishi Sunak sexy? Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.
Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.uk WhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572 Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheuk Twitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheuk TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheuk Facebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheuk YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld
Cristina Criddle, Technology reporter at the Financial Times
Audio credits: UK Covid 19 Inquiry Sky News
Useful link: The Cariuma x Crooked, Lovett or Leave It sneaker is available at crooked.com/store
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| Farage’s Wild Week: Energy bill stunts and questionable Cameo videos | 19 Mar 2026 | 00:58:07 | |
Reform UK is getting into the lottery business - inviting people to sign up for a chance to have their energy bills paid for a year. But is the real prize a massive database of voters ahead of the next General Election? Plus - party leader Nigel Farage has been caught saying some pretty questionable stuff for money on Cameo. Is that really the kind of thing we should expect from someone who plans to be our next Prime Minister? Nish and Coco are joined by authors Quinn Slobodian and Ben Tarnoff. Their new book Muskism: A Guide for the Perplexed looks at the billionaire manbaby in a whole new way. If you want to understand what’s driving Musk and what it could mean for all of us - this is the chat for you. And POLITICO’s Anne McElvoy is on hand as the former Labour deputy leader Angela Rayner pops up to point out all the ways Labour is getting it wrong at the moment - subtext: without her they’re lost. Reminder to send in your burning questions for Nish and Coco to psuk@reducedlistening.co.uk CHECK OUT THESE DEALS FROM OUR SPONSORS BABBEL: https://www.babbel.com/PSUK WISE: https://www.wise.com SHOPIFY: https://shopify.co.uk/podsavetheuk GUESTS Quinn Slobodian and Ben Tarnoff, Authors. Muskism: A Guide for the Perplexed Anne McElvoy, Executive Editor, POLITICO and co-host Politics at Sam and Anne’s USEFUL LINKS The Podcast Show - https://www.thepodcastshowlondon.com/explore-passes Muskism: A Guide for the Perplexed CREDITS The Guardian - YouTube Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. | |||
| A year of Sunak, and why housing is eating our economy | 26 Oct 2023 | 00:51:32 | |
As the Israel Gaza crisis continues, pressure grows on both Rishi Sunak and Keir Starmer to back calls for a ceasefire. Sacha Deshmukh, Chief Executive of Amnesty International UK, explains why he supports it and what else needs to happen for it to be meaningful. He also has advice for how you can help, either through safe protest, or through donation. Nish and Coco also ‘celebrate’ Rishi Sunak’s year at Number 10, revealing their highs and lows of 12 months of Sunak. Is the Government’s promise to end ‘no-fault’ evictions being kicked into the long grass? Nish and Coco try and work out the political manoeuvring, with the help of Toby Lloyd, who was the Downing Street housing adviser who persuaded Theresa May to promote the policy when she was Prime Minister. He also reveals what it was like to work inside the cramped rooms of Number 10…where there’s every chance that your meeting might be disturbed by the Chancellor’s wife coming home with the food shop! Plus find out why Coco has been having a “fat bear week”. This week Nish and Coco’s great nominations for hero and villain of the week can be found on our social media platforms…find out by why bankers are winding up Nish, and why Coco’s fallen in love with a sheepdog. Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.
Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.uk WhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572 Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheuk Twitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheuk TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheuk Facebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheuk YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld
Sacha Deshmukh, Chief Executive of Amnesty International UK Toby Lloyd, Housing policy expert
Audio credits: The Guardian 10 Downing Street
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| Sunak in Israel, by-elections and back to Bibby | 19 Oct 2023 | 00:58:56 | |
The crisis in Israel and Gaza presents a huge challenge for our politicians, both internationally and at home. With protests on the streets and spikes in religious hate crimes, every word uttered by our leaders is diplomatically loaded. Nish and Coco discuss the difficulties of Labour’s position, and then return to record a fresh section at the start of this podcast in reaction to Rishi Sunak’s surprise overnight visit to Israel. Pia Sinha of the Prison Reform Trust helps us understand why our prisons are full to bursting, and whether emergency action from the Justice Secretary will solve the problem. With asylum seekers being returned to the Bibby Stockholm accommodation barge, Anoosh Chakelian of The New Statesman, tells us about meeting some of those men. Plus she also gives us the lowdown on two very intriguing by-elections this week. Heroes and Villains returns, which is more bad news for disgraced former Tory MP Peter Bone. Plus find out why Coco and her cat could be heading for a divorce. Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.
Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.uk WhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572 Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheuk Twitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheuk TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheuk Facebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheuk YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld
Guests: Pia Sinha, Director of The Prison Reform Trust Anoosh Chakelian, Britain Editor of The New Statesman
Audio credits: Sky News @TheArchbishopofCanterbury
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| Sparkles with Starmer plus Rob Delaney, NHS champion | 12 Oct 2023 | 01:01:17 | |
Despite being an American, who can’t even vote in this country, Rob Delaney has become an outspoken champion of the NHS. His love for our health service was born from tragedy: losing his young son Henry to cancer. He tells Nish and Coco why we have to fight for the NHS, and compares it to an American system which enriches CEOs and advertising execs. Find out why he thinks Joe Biden is the best president of his lifetime, and what he thinks of Keir Starmer. Plus with a cameo in the new Mission Impossible film, Rob is perfectly placed to answer Nish’s question: what does Tom Cruise smell like? Party Conference season continues, with insights into two very different gatherings: Labour in Liverpool and the Greens in Brighton. Coco describes what she got up to when she went down to the seaside at the invitation of Greens co-leader Carla Denyer - did they manage to woo her to their cause? Plus George Parker of the Financial Times, gives us all the gossip from the Labour get-together - was all that glitters gold? Did Keir Starmer convince as a Prime Minister in waiting? Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.
Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.uk WhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572 Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheuk Twitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheuk TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheuk Facebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheuk YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld
Guests: Rob Delaney, comedian, actor and author of ‘A Heart That Works’ George Parker, political editor of The Financial Times
Useful links: Rob’s book: https://www.hachette.co.uk/titles/rob-delaney-2/a-heart-that-works/9781399710848/ New podcast from Crooked: https://crooked.com/podcast-series/ruined/ Show sponsor: https://brighttax.com/pstuk
Audio credits: Royal College of Nursing Sky News @robdelaney
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