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
6 Apr 2026
183. From Bradford to Westminster: Faith, Identity, and Power (Naz Shah)How did Naz Shah’s experience growing up in Bradford and her experience with her family in the legal system influence her to go into politics? What does it mean for a political party to truly “stand for something” in modern Britain? How can faith influence politics in a secular society? Rory and Alastair are joined by Labour MP, Naz Shah, to discuss all this and more.
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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168. Crumbling Britain, a ruthless reshuffle, and Jeremy Corbyn’s ‘beautiful ears’
Who’s to blame for the UK’s crumbling infrastructure? Has Starmer’s shadow cabinet reshuffle strengthened his hand? Why is Rory such a fan of Jeremy Corbyn’s ears?Join Rory and Alasta... Continue
Alastair Campbell’s Diary: Mental health is a vote-winner
A clear plan from Labour on how to repair the damage the Tories have done to our mental health services will reap enormous political dividends... Continue
34. Ed Davey: Leading the Lib Dems, fighting the Tories, and a coalition with Starmer’s Labour?
What was it like for the Liberal Democrats in coalition? Would Ed Davey be prepared to work alongside Keir Starmer in another coalition government? Is tactical voting a good idea? Join Rory a... Continue
Introducing… The Rest Is Money
Does money really make the world go round? Economics, business and finance have long been subjects we leave to the stockbrokers, hedge fund managers and business school professors who spend t... Continue
How did Mnangagwa win the Zimbabwe election? Who is the least impressive world leader Rory and Alastair have met? What makes a good political memoir?Join Rory Stewart and Alastair Campbell as...
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166. Vladimir Putin, Narendra Modi, and absolute populist power
What will happen to Wagner operations in Africa now that Yevgeny Prigozhin is dead? How dangerous is Modi's rhetoric for India and the world? Who has had a bigger impact on the constituents o... Continue
Alastair Campbell’s Diary: Vladimir Putin’s belligerence must not be underestimated
The world, including myself, missed tell-tale signs that Putin was the murder machine and enemy of liberal democracies he’s proved to be... Continue
33. Mustafa Suleyman: Will AI save or destroy humanity?
How much do you really know about the dangers of AI? Is it the best hope we have of surviving as a species, or will it lead to the destruction of humanity?On today's episode of Leading Alas... Continue