11 Sep 2025
448. Question Time: Mandelson’s Epstein Disgrace, Kirk’s Assassination, and Trump’s Illegal Boat StrikeWhy did Peter Mandelson become so mesmerised by the rich and famous? What does Charlie Kirk’s assassination mean for the future of American politics? Is Trump trying to start a fake war with Venezuela?
Two men who’ve been at the heart of the political world – former Downing Street Director of Communications and Strategy Alastair Campbell and cabinet minister Rory Stewart – join forces from across the political divide.
8 Sep 2025
152. “A War on Children”: A Generation in Gaza at Risk (James Elder)Why is the humanitarian situation in Gaza the worst that James Elder has ever seen? What does the process of rebuilding Gaza look like? How do the people working on the ground not lose hope?
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.
Alastair Campbell’s diary: It’s about emotion, Starmer, not economics
If Labour can restore a sense of community, it will reap as much political benefit as any amount of good economic data... Continue
101. Alan Johnson: The Prime Minister We Never Had? (Part 1)
How much have the “bleak” post-war years shaped modern Britain? How did growing up parentless and in poverty inspire Alan Johnson’s life choices? And, is Alastair right, could he have b... Continue
323. Question Time: How it feels to become “the story”
Why are so many young men supporting the AFD in Germany? Would Trump be welcome on TRIP? And who, out of the pair, has the best Dame Maggie Smith story? Join Rory and Alastair as they answer... Continue
Alastair Campbell’s diary: The unwelcome return of the Brexit grifters
Michael Gove and Boris Johnson are journalists at heart and for years have got away with far more from their own kind as a consequence... Continue
322. Israel vs Hezbollah: Iran’s next move
What does the killing of Hezbollah’s leader mean for the Middle East? Who will be Labour’s next cabinet secretary? How did the far right win in Austria? Join Rory and Alastair as they ans... Continue
100. Anne Applebaum: Corruption, Populism, and Ending the War in Ukraine
What constitutes an autocratic state? How did populism come to dominate global politics from 2012-2014? When and how will the war in Ukraine end? On today’s episode of Leading, Rory and Ala... Continue
321. Question Time: Why do politicians leak to the press?
Was the recent election in Brandenburg really a “huge success” for the far-right AfD? Why are MPs allowed to be on their phones in the House of Commons? And what are Rory and Alastair’s... Continue
320. Labour’s struggle to define itself, Hezbollah vs. Israel, and understanding Long Covid
Does Starmer’s government lack a strategic vision? Are we on the brink of a wider war in the Middle East? Why has society turned a blind eye to those living with Long Covid? Join Rory and A... Continue