Leading

Every Monday, Rory and Alastair interrogate, converse with, and interview some of the world’s biggest names – from both inside and outside of politics – about life, leadership, or leading the way in their chosen field.

26: Francis Fukuyama: Trump, Modi, and ‘The End of History’

What was the worst political mistake in modern history? How do religious Republicans bring themselves to support Trump? Was it wrong to describe the fall of the Soviet Union as ‘The End of ... Continue

10 July 2023

25: Michael Ignatieff: Fighting Orban’s Global Conservative Cabal

What's it like to know how your obituary will read? What makes the democratic system the best for fighting against climate change? How does politics change a person, whether they like it or n... Continue

3 July 2023

24: John Major: The Gulf War, Black Wednesday, and Populism (Part 2)

What was it like fighting New Labour? Why did Black Wednesday happen? How did Ian McKellen help bring the campaign for gay rights into Downing Street?Join Alastair and Rory as they answer all... Continue

26 June 2023

23: John Major: From Brixton to Downing Street (Part 1)

Why is Sir John Major a Tory? How did he make it from Brixton to 10 Downing Street? What was it like to witness the fall of Margaret Thatcher first hand?In the first of two episodes, Rory and... Continue

19 June 2023

22: Kate Raworth: Doughnut economics and thriving in balance

In the 21st century, the impact of financial and environmental crises can be felt by all. But how do we marry the nature of the economy with the ever depleting means of the planet? Rory and A... Continue

12 June 2023

21: Mary McAleese: Building bridges as the President of Ireland

For former President of Ireland Mary McAleese, the personal is the political. Growing up in Belfast with a deeply personal link to sectarian violence, her aim as President was to promote unit... Continue

5 June 2023

20: Jonathan Powell: How to negotiate with terrorists

The role of Downing Street Chief of Staff was created for him, and he was the only senior advisor to last the whole period of Tony Blair's premiership - but who is the real Jonathan Powell, a... Continue

29 May 2023

19: Leo Varadkar: Ireland’s Taoiseach on NATO, China, and Joe Biden

How does the Irish Taoiseach feel about Brexit? Would Leo Varadkar consider himself a Tory in the English parliamentary system? Does Ireland have a problem with alcohol?Leo Varadkar speaks to... Continue

22 May 2023

Alastair Campbell is a writer, communicator and strategist best known for his role as former British Prime Minister Tony Blair’s spokesman, press secretary and director of communications and strategy. Still active in politics and campaigns in Britain and overseas, he now splits his time between writing, speaking, broadcasting, charities and consultancy.