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.
Latest
165: Question Time: Populism in Portugal, texting David Cameron, and a challenger to Trump?
Is Portugal the exception to the populist wave? Are reshuffle rumours ever to be trusted? How possible is a one-nation Tory revival?Listen as Rory and Alastair answer all these questions and ... Continue
164. The Trial of Lucy Letby, the domination of the dollar, and politicians vs. lawyers
Why are lawyers being targeted for taking on immigration cases? How significant is the BRICS 'New Development Bank'? Are left-of-centre western governments more anti-American? Join Rory and ... Continue
Alastair Campbell’s Diary: Real journalism is in decline
The Michelle Mone PPE scandal is a test of trust in modern democracy and needs to be at the forefront of media attention... Continue
How can we empower young women to seek positions of power? What was it like having a ringside seat during the Cameron-Clegg government? Is there more inequality between the sexes in the UK, S...
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163. Question Time: Privatisation vs. Nationalisation
Are UFO sightings a purely English-speaking phenomenon? Should we give more or less praise to privatisation? What's Dominic Cummings up to now?Join Rory and Alastair as they answer all these ... Continue
162. Small boats, Zimbabwe since Mugabe, and Trump’s anti-mafia indictment
What is the best way to confront the crisis of small boats in the Channel? How has Zimbabwe changed since the rule of Robert Mugabe? Why are the Tories acting like they're in opposition?Join ... Continue
31: Yuval Noah Harari: The dangers of AI and the future of humanity (Part 2)
What makes homo sapiens unique from other living creatures? What will happen to society if artificial intelligence dictates culture? Why have conservative parties the world over “committed ... Continue
161. Question Time: Rebuilding the Tory brand, Macron’s successor, and the militarisation of Mexico
Is the Tory brand damaged beyond repair? Does Macron have a succession plan? What tempts governments to bring in the military?Listen as Rory and Alastair answer all these questions and more o... Continue