The UK’s political landscape can be confusing at the best of times. We continue to gain and lose party leaders quicker than it takes a lettuce to wilt, and when it comes to election season, UK politics can be downright impenetrable. Trying to keep up with local elections, general elections, by-elections and party-internal-elections, it can be easy to be overwhelmed, angered or downright bored by what’s happening in the news.

Luckily, there are podcasters out there doing the good work of picking apart just what is happening. From roaring entertainment to shows that carry out important reporting, these podcasts can help you unpack what’s really happening in politics and current affairs.

The Bugle
Recommended by Suchandrika Chakrabarti

Launched in 2007 by Andy Zaltzman (Radio 4’s The News Quiz) and John Oliver, who co-hosted until 2015, when Oliver sadly disappeared from public life. The podcast was originally on Times Online, which is owned by Rupert Murdoch’s News International, but the podcast has never been afraid to bite the hand that feeds it, particularly during the 2011 News International phone hacking scandal. The Times dropped The Bugle at the end of that year for completely unrelated reasons… Rory Stewart and Alastair Campbell could never. It’s proudly left-wing, bitingly satirical and filled with inventive cricket-related imagery: the perfect politics podcast. Listen here >>

Trendy
Recommend by Tom Nicholson

It can often feel like politics and the idea of ‘what people are really talking about’ is just something to be booted around by pundits, but if you’re a bit sick of the Westminster machine Trendy plants itself sturdily on facts and evidence rather than personality and narrative. Each time a big topic in British or international politics – social mobility, populism, net zero – is examined through polls and data. It could be a bit wonkish and dry, but the nation’s favourite pollster Sir John Curtice and former Downing Street advisor Rachel Wolff keep things moving smoothly. Listen here >>

The Bunker
Recommended by Zainab Amer

Finding a politics podcast disseminating news away from the mainstream is tricky. Thankfully, I stumbled across The Bunker. This podcast delivers daily reporting alongside a weekly round-up of hot topics. The mix of bite-sized episodes and under-reported stories offers a unique perspective on traditional political discourse. Hosted by a diverse array of commentators, from comedians to academics, The Bunker explores fascinating topics from across the globe. Standout episodes include expert analysis of illegal mining in South Africa and the proliferation of digital nomadism, including its connection to racism. While some reporting indeed toes political lines, it provides fresh outlooks on others. Listen here >>

Oh God, What Now?
Recommended by Katie Stokes

When keeping up with British politics, I find myself using the title phrase of this podcast more and more frequently. Oh God, What Now?, formerly known as Remainiacs, is a bi-weekly panel show making politics entertaining and bearable. If you hadn’t guessed from the former name, the show is left-leaning so don’t expect impartial views. But the chemistry of the panel is fun and they have great segments including ‘Stories under the radar’ and ‘Heroes and villains of the week’ alongside their central question and commentary on the latest developments in UK politics. An engaging and digestible listen! Listen here >>

Paper Cuts
Recommended by Francesca Turauskis

I find it really difficult to read newspapers – not just because of the space it takes to sit down with them (mental space, time space, and physical space if we’re talking about broadsheets…) but also because I can’t help but see the agenda of the various papers, rather than the stories. If you’re the same, Paper Cuts is the perfect podcast to help – I find the tagline “we read the newspapers so you don’t have to” very accurate. A mixed panel of writers, political commentators and comedians riffle through the headlines of the British Press every week day, explaining, analysing and applauding the wit of the best headlines. It’s very entertaining, with just enough information. (Ed. note – I’m realising as I upload that this makes a Podmasters triple for this list, alongside The Bunker and Oh God, What Now?) Listen here >>

Recommendations from our Newsletter:

The Trouble with Politics – Marverine Cole explores the state of the UK’s political system with a focus on “perspectives often skimmed over on mainstream news programmes”. This gives a much-needed discussion on the racist comments made about Diane Abbott by a Tory donor, and Marverine unashamedly promotes the need to vote, with one of her television friends announcing this at the end of episodes. Listen here >>

Media Storm – Media Storm is a news podcast that starts with the people who are usually asked last. “Migrants”, “criminals” and “sex workers” are some of the biggest stars in the headlines, yet we rarely actually hear from them. This show hands them the mic. Listen now >>

Pod Save The UK – Our cover stars from Issue #027 have remained chart-topping since it launched a year ago. As host Coco Khan explained best, Pod Save The UK is a “progressive politics podcast from an outsider’s perspective, where the listener isn’t talked down to and instead lifted up and encouraged to engage in politics – all through the prism of hope and humour.” Listen now >>

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In the spirit of bringing together different perspectives, we thought it would be good to try and get two reviews: One from a writer that can relate to Clive, and one from a writer that can relate to Laura.

Read on to find out what Laviea Thomas and Mimi Jones thought of the Heirs of Enslavement podcast…

“A sentimental and riveting listen with honest story-telling.”

Heirs of Enslavement tells the story of the bloodline of the oppressed via Labour MP Clive Lewis, and the bloodline of the oppressors, via British-American journalist Laura Trevelyan.

It’s a burningly honest and surreal conversation that gives an insight into the story of Grenadian slaves from all angles, with facts and statistics provided by Grenadian historian and author, Nicole Phillip Dowe.

For Black people tuning in, especially those of West Indian descent, Clive’s perspective is an open book that allows you to feel like your voices have been heard. When discussing the importance of this conversation, Nicole emphasises that: “It’s history that has to be talked about, history that has to be spoken about, history that has to be discussed.” This is a really remarkable and important statement to hold onto, as it acknowledges the fact these stories are retold not to imprison ourselves in the trauma of our ancestral history, but to stay knowing.

Clive’s return to his home town to reconnect with his roots and his father, Tony Lewis, “a famed trade unionist,” is a powerful moment. You can feel the overwhelming sensation of emotions from the audio. Having spent a long period away from his ancestral home, Clive’s return is a cathartic moment that a lot of Black people and people of colour can relate to.

It’s important to see a British member of parliament be involved in something like this. Especially following King Charles’ recent half-empty ‘apology,’ to Kenya after they asked for an ‘unequivocal apology‘ from the British monarchy in relation to years of colonialism and enslavement. As a representative member of British politics, Clive’s involvement in this podcast is something that could, arguably, cost him his job. Nevertheless, this level of honesty across British media is not only refreshing to see, but is an essential for those who can relate to Clive.

In just the first episode this podcast offers Black listeners a space to feel emotions they might have pushed aside. It’s often for us to subside our emotions, in fear of the reactions of our white peers. More often than not, we aren’t allowed to feel emotions of deep sadness, or anger about our historical timeline. Heirs of Enslavement allows you to tap into those without second-guessing how it may affect others.

A brilliant and insightful first episode, to say the least.

Laviea Thomas is an experienced freelance music and culture journalist and creative copywriter based in north London. With a knack for writing, Laviea’s journalism can be seen across print and digital publications with current bylines spread across Metal Hammer, NME, Skiddle, WhyNow, Rock Sound, The Forty-Five, The Quietus and Overblown.

“Heirs of Enslavement is not an easy listen, but I am certain it will help”

Slavery remains an awkward subject for many British people. Even without knowing our full family histories, if we are white it’s likely at least one ancestor participated in trades connected to slavery.

That truth is uncomfortable. I get it.

Yet the open dialogue in Heirs of Enslavement demonstrates why we must reckon with slavery’s enduring impact.

Like many Northern Irish Christians, my great-grandparents devoted themselves to spreading the gospel. Most of their missionary work occurred in Africa’s British occupied colonies.

Only after both great-grandparents died did I grasp the missionaries’ reality. Sorting through their belongings, my grandfather casually mentioned the “help” in his childhood home- the cleaning woman, the cooks and so on. When pressed on whether the workers were paid, he muttered about his mother helping with their schooling – and that was all we ever discussed on the matter.

My grandfather seemed oblivious to our shock over this revelation. Perhaps it’s not surprising given the way we’ve whitewashed our history. It’s unfortunate but a single Heirs of Enslavement episode taught me more about slavery’s legacy than any textbook or family conversation ever has.

This invitation to address the trauma that the slave trade has left, and the shame many British people have, let’s us hear Laura and Clive discuss incredibly important aspects of our past, and answer questions we may not have known we had.

Within only the first episode, this show gives us such a diverse range of experiences within Grenada’s history. With Clive Lewis MP whose family were enslaved on the island; Laura Trevelyan whose family owned around six plantations; Clive’s dad, Tony Lewis, and teacher/historian Niccole Phillip-Dowe who helped Laura with her family’s public apology, they bring personal stories of the real impact slavery had.

Amongst discussing the Trevelyan’s reparations, they suggest the possibility of the British Government finally apologising and paying our own reparations. It was particularly interesting to hear the joy from Niccole and Tony if such a thing could happen. What seems like an obvious gesture to many would mean funding for hospitals, schools, books, and finally making a change for the better after our centuries of horrific treatment to people across the globe.

Our families and country are more complicit in slavery’s history than we like to believe. Confronting that truth may be the only way to mend its persisting wounds. Heirs of Enslavement is not an easy listen, but I am certain it will help us start addressing the atrocities our ancestors committed.

Mimi Jones is a poet and playwright, exploring autism, queerness and disability through their work. They run QueerOutLoud, the South Wests Queer Creatives Network, and have spent 2023 as Young City Laureate, helping nurture the diverse voices in Plymouth’s poetry scene. Follow them on socials @MimiJMedia and @QueerOutLoud.

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The second episode of Heirs of Enslavement, ‘Our Shared Legacy’ was released on 17th November. Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and other popular podcast apps >>

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The Duchess

The Duchess is a fascinating series on the most historic homes in the UK & Ireland (think Downton Abbey) and the custodians who run them. The 3rd series has just kicked off and this time is hosted by the 19th Countess of Derby – who embarks on a fascinating journey through the history of Knowsley Hall. From links to Shakespeare, to the 14th Earl, who became known as ‘the forgotten prime minister”, this series will take you on a journey through time as the countess delves into the story of her family’s ancestral seat and the history behind the great Knowsley Hall. Listen now >>

Episode to check out: ‘The Earls of Derby and Shakespearean Theatre 1580-2023‘

Black Prose

The phrase goes “we all have one book in us” well, whether you want to start writing that book or just learn more about the process Black Prose is a fantastic podcast for anyone thinking about putting pen to paper or fingers to keyboard. Every week Yolanthe Fawehinmi sits down to chat with some of the best and most talented Black writers of our time — from journalists, and authors to songwriters and rappers, Yolthane’s has a wonderful way of making her guest feel like friends so they share some of the most interesting stories about their lives, career and writing rituals. Throw in some top tips and advice in every episode and this is a series every aspiring writer should be listening to. Listen now >>

Episode to check out: ‘Jords’

Simple Politics

A podcast from the fabulous team behind the massive Simple Politics Instagram account. Tatton, and Diane, together with host Kobi get together every week to reflect on the ever changing political landscape in the simplest way possible. Often light hearted but never straying away from the important stuff, this podcast is a great way to get you a weekly dose of UK politics without feeling like you might need a politics degree first. Listen now >>

Episode to check out: ‘Simple September’

America: A History Podcast

Now is a better time than any to brush up on your knowledge of American history. From the declaration of independence to Donald Trump, this podcast tackles it all. Each week, host Liam and a special guest sit down to answer some very interesting questions. From ‘how are Presidents elected?’ to ‘how accurate is Forrest Gump?’, every debate is refreshing and informative, and with the likes of The News Agents Jon Sopel as a guest you will come away with a new found sense of what the land of free really means. Listen now >>

Episode to check out: ‘What is America?’

Nature Insight: Speed dating with the Future

If you’ve ever heard that 1 million species are at risk of extinction and wondered what that means for you, your family and your future – this is the podcast you can’t afford to miss! Nature Insight: Speed Dating with the Future tells the very human stories behind the science and policy of the global nature crisis. The first episode of the latest series focuses on the thousands of undiscovered species of fungi around the world and how it is estimated in Nepal alone we know only 1/10 of all species, which if you watched The Last of Us probably send chills down your spine. Zombie mushroom virus aside, this series will transform your understanding of the planet and the role we all need to play to protect the species we share it with. Listen now >>

Episode to check out: ‘Filling the Fungi Gap: Scaling Himalayan Heights for People and Nature’

BUILD

Love podcasts? Maybe it’s time to think about making your own. Broccoli’s fantastic podcast series BUILD offers informative and easily digestible step by step guides by podcast experts on where to start. From recording techniques to how to write the perfect pitch email The Build Basics course is free to anyone. After that it’s £7.99 a month to get access to the other 5 pillars of the program which are Marketing, Personal Development, Storytelling, Business and Production. New lessons/episodes are released monthly and considering subscriptions like Masterclass can run into the £100’s a great deal to have the creme de la creme of podcasting talent in your ears. Subscribe here >>

Episode to check out: All of the BUILD Basics courses are available for free.

Auddy is inspiring and engaging audiences through audio. Supporting creators, creating branded content and private podcasts.

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This article was produced as part of a paid advertising package. To enquire about advertising with Pod Bible email info@podbiblemag.com

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As a current politics student with a keen interest in podcasting I was delighted to be given the opportunity to work with Pod Bible via an Arts Emergency work experience placement. When I learnt I had the opportunity to interview Alastair Campbell, a huge name in UK political history and co-host of the podcast The Rest Is Politics, I couldn’t have been more amped.

The Rest Is Politics is hosted by both Alastair Campbell and Rory Stewart, both from two different sides of the political spectrum. Having first-hand experience in the Houses of Parliament, they give an exclusive outlook into British politics as well as politics abroad. The podcast is regularly at the top of the charts so I was eager to speak to Alistair about the show and curious to hear his thoughts about politics in general.

What was it like behind the scenes recording your first podcast episode with Rory Stewart?

We do most episodes online from separate places so “behind the scenes” generally involves me watching Rory struggle to get his headphones to work properly. To be fair the process works really well. We did one pilot just to make sure there was a good flow to the way we talk to each other, and there was, and off we went. We are very different in so many ways but we get on and enjoy the “craic.”

Do you think the podcast has challenged you in any way –  either technically or ideologically?

The only challenge really has been that as it has grown and developed it is probably eating into my diary more than I thought it would. We started off doing one discussion per week, and then added a q and a because we were getting so much positive feedback and questions. And now we do a weekly interview as well. I think it is fair to say the burden of pulling in the guests has fallen more to me! Added to which although we have good researchers and producers I like to do my own research on top. On the plus side it means that when I am reading and travelling and working on different things I can usually find an outlet within the podcast to talk about it all.

Are there any topics you refuse to discuss due to you and Rory’s differences in political opinion?

No. Nothing is off limits.

What do you think is the key to keeping young people engaged in politics? Are podcasts part of the answer?

I hope so. We have both been really encouraged by how many young people listen and also come to our events. When we did the Albert Hall last year over a third of the people who came were under 30. I think people have rarely been more interested in politics yet so disenchanted by what it is doing. So we are trying to show that it is possible for people to be interested, and passionate, and engage in debate without just shouting at each other. I was in a school the other day and listening to the students it struck me that all they have ever known is the politics of recent years which have been a disaster. Politics can be a force for good. We need to harness the passion and intelligence of young people to change the things they know are wrong in the world. I was already working on a book on this theme, But What Can I Do? when we started the podcast. The fact it was a No 1 bestseller at a time we were No 1 in the charts – as well as making me pleased – gave  me real encouragement that people want to be engaged but need support in finding out how.

Young people’s mental health is a big topic, particularly as students return to school and university. Is that something you’d like to discuss on the podcast?

We do from time to time. One of our best received podcasts was about a year ago. I was in Edinburgh and in the middle of a depressive episode. I hadn’t been planning to talk about it. But right at the start Rory asked me “how are you?” In a very small talk kind of way and I found myself explaining I wasn’t feeling great and we ended up having a really good discussion about it. I also think politicians are behind the public  on this one. Mental health is a massive issue with people yet still struggles to get onto the political agenda in the way it should.

In your sister show ‘Leading’ you speak to political figures – do you have a dream guest?

Well I have interviewed Prince William before – for GQ magazine. So I am going one higher up the royal ladder. King Charles! Rory knows him pretty well because he was a tutor to the boys when they were younger and recently told a very funny story about how he locked himself in a bathroom at Highgrove that doubled as an anti terrorism safety zone and Charles had to get help to get him out! I am not a big Monarchist and Rory is and I think Charles is  really interesting figure. To get him talking freely and openly about  things he cares about and the role he now plays would be fascinating.

I also have a bid in with Angela Merkel. She gives very few interviews. And I guess I would like to interview Putin to try to see how the mild mannered rather reticent character we dealt with 20 odd years became the figure he has become.

Actually thinking about it I would also love to interview the artist Banksy. Great mind. Great story.

Finally, what are your favourite podcasts to listen to away from the world of politics?

I listen to a lot of German podcasts because I am trying to get my German back to scratch. So I am going for two sports podcasts –  Prasenmäher (Bild) which is longform interviews with German football legends, and Auf den Punkt, which is done by Süddeutsche Zeitung. I should also mention The Rest Is Football because Gary Lineker is the boss of the company which produces TRIP!

Probably my favourite foreign policy podcast is Acht Milliarden which is done by Der Spiegel magazine. I quite often cite them on the Rest Is Politics.

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