2 Apr 2026
The Real Reasons Populism Is Taking OverWhat is populism, and why is it so attractive to voters? Which human instincts do populists tap into to get votes? And what does a populist-led country look like?
The Rest Is Politics
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.
Leading
30 Mar 2026
182. Culture Wars, Identity, and What Needs To Change In Congress (Sarah McBride)How are rights for trans people in the US improving or worsening under the Republican administration? What fundamentally needs to change in Congress to improve the state of politics? Are the Democrats doing enough to win back the American public?
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.
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Alastair Campbell’s Diary: Farewell Jacques Delors
Delors’ political vision was spot on for the time, just as it is now... Continue
53. Seb Coe: Corruption, gender, and the geopolitics of sport
Will doping ever be defeated in sport? What was it like going from world class runner to government whip? Are the Tories finished in Britain?In the first Leading episode of 2024, Rory and Ala... Continue
205. How to combat populism, debating Bill Gates, and David Cameron on the world stage (Part 2)
What stopped the Middle East from descending into regional conflict following the events of October 7th? Why did 2023 see so many coups across the Sahel? Is David Cameron now Rishi Sunak's bi... Continue
Would Rory serve in a Keir Starmer Labour cabinet? How important is Scotland in the next election? What was the most under-appreciated political moment of 2023?Join Rory and Alastair for an e...
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52. Tom Holland: How religion shaped politics and the Western world
Is the West more Christian than it thinks? Why are so many British prime ministers from religious backgrounds? How does the evangelical support for Donald Trump and the culture wars in the US... Continue
203. Question Time: How dangerous is Giorgia Meloni?
Should Joe Biden choose a new running mate? Who is the real Giorgia Meloni? Which reality TV show would Rory and Alastair appear on? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com... Continue
Who actually is Michelle Mone? Does Starmer need to be braver in how he respond to attacks from his opponents? How much power does Viktor Orbán have in the EU?Join Rory and Alastair as they ...
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Alastair Campbell’s heroes and villains of 2023
Our diarist gives his personal rundown of who has been good – and who has been bad – over the last 12 months... Continue