Shows
The Political Press BoxIs Keir Starmer Just Bad At Comms? With James MillarAfter a long holiday on the other side of the world, I’m back in action for 2025 and will be keeping up my quest to interview some of the most impactful, insightful and imaginative communicators in and around the world of politics. On that note and on this episode I speak to James Millar, the Godfather of Scottish Political Podcasting. I met James, a former columnist for the The Press & Journal, years ago when we were both Lobby hacks and many SW1-types will be familiar with the name. Others may remember his PoliticalYeti podcast. ...2025-01-2642 min
Lockdown DadsThe Final One with James and IanIn this, the last episode of Lockdown Dads, James and I reflect on 18 months of pandemic podcasting as England celebrates "Freedom Day."The truth is that the fear of catching Covid, home school disruption, and getting through the days are as prevalent as ever. We consider some of the hopelessly optimistic predictions we made in year - lockdown could be all over by June!? But also the certainty of the stay at home messaging v the weariness and low level anxiety of July 2021.We talk about some of the guests that stuck in our minds...2021-07-2835 min
Lockdown DadsSimon Gregory - Talking About Dad ReturnersSimon Gregory, Managing Partner of GPS Return joins us to talk about parental return to work and we explore the differing challenges faced by men and women.We discuss how societal expectations influence the opportunities to return to work and later access flexible working and how Simon's business supports and coaches individuals and businesses to find the right person or right opportunity for now.James explains why T.W.A.T working is the next big trend while Simon talks about his 288 mile 24 hour cycle from Harrogate to Southampton raising money for Macmillan in memory...2021-06-1637 min
Lockdown DadsDr Jeremy Davies - The Fatherhood Institute's Untold StoryTo mark the publication of the Fatherhood Institute's new report "Lockdown Dads - the Untold Story", we sat down with Dr Jeremy Davies, Head of Communications, to discuss fatherhood, the opportunities presented by the pandemic and what exactly is "the untold story" After we covered dodgy backs, out for beers and Moroccan pandemic experiences, we learnt about Jeremy's path. Journalist, becoming a father in 1999, a PhD and joining Father's Direct, the organisation that later became the Fatherhood Institute with the benefits of living the values of flexible working and active and involved fatherhood. What is...2021-06-0141 min
Lockdown DadsSimon Kettlewell - The Eternal DadEternity Leave is a wry, semi autobiographical novel about being a stay at home dad, and the author, Simon Kettlewell, joined James and Ian to talk about his inspiration from over 20 years as primary carer to his four children. It's story that had extra chapters added in Lockdown as older children returned home and his 16 year old son struggled with remote learning.We learn about his path from NHS clinician and manager via working in mental health services in Eastern Europe to a rural idyll in Devon, where he combined novel writing, growing vegetables and raising chickens...2021-05-0537 minLockdown DadsLooking Back at Lockdown Dads Season 3We look back at the guests, the stories and the tips that caught our eye since January.00:30 Weathermen, Ian’s course development, Covid scare at school and Couch to 5k 03:00 James finally gets physio on his back05:15 Working from home with kids around06:30 The return to office life and the Goldman Sachs way of working 09:00 Are the government actually consulting on flexible working rights?11:00 Linking working patterns to gender equality12:00 Home-school sinc...2021-04-0137 min
Lockdown DadsRhian Mannings MBE - 2 Wish Upon A StarIn 2012 Rhian Mannings’ life suddenly and tragically changed when first her young son George died, followed 5 days later by her husband Paul.In this important and uplifting conversation, we explore how support was missing for bereaved parents like Rhian and Paul and how, what she imagined would be “hobby”, turned into a nationwide charity called 2 Wish Upon A Star providing immediate and ongoing bereavement support for families, individuals and professionals affected by the sudden and traumatic death of a child or young adult aged 25 or under.We learn about the importance of the elephant in the be...2021-03-2333 min
Lockdown DadsBrian Ballantyne - Why Men and Inclusion MattersBrian Ballantyne, Co-Founder of Men for Inclusion, author of “Confessions of a Working Dad” and one time Babycenter moderator joins James and Ian in Episode 37 of Lockdown Dads.It’s an open and honest discussion in which we discuss what it means to be good ally, how Brian’s own family were a prompt to volunteer in diversity and inclusion voluntary work and why men must be involved if we aren’t just creating inclusion echo chambers.Plus “Centrist Dads”, Burnout and recharging batteries and how to argue well.Contents01:00 2021-03-1533 min
Lockdown DadsNicki Seignot - Author, Coach and Working ParentNicki Seignot, Author of 'Mentoring New Parents at Work' and founder of The Parent Mentor talks to James and Ian in episode 36 of Lockdown Dads.We discuss why supporting new dads matters, the role single dad Phil played to broadening Nicki’s horizons, beyond just supporting the maternity journey and what the post pandemic work landscape could look like.Plus the usual podcast musings about schools going back, sunshine (!) and looking forward to better future.Contents00:50 The power of daylight in the mornings 02:15 Sch...2021-03-0836 min
Lockdown DadsWill Champion - Coldplay's drummerThe musician who doesn’t read music, the drummer who didn’t play the drums and a calming, pragmatic influence in Coldplay. In this episode of Lockdown Dads, we discover how a focus on their relationships has been as important as the music, what work life balance means in a band when you have kids and what Will is looking forward to most when lockdown finishes.Self described (with tongue in cheek) “soft rock dinosaur,” we find out how Will feels about the A Head Full of Dreams documentary - the good, the cringe-worthy and the comforting.We...2021-03-0147 min
Lockdown DadsJamie Beaglehole - Daddy and DadA trailblazer for same sex adoption, Jamie is the Daddy of Daddy and Dad. What started as an exploration of the highs and lows of Jamie and Tom’s story of adopting two young brothers from foster care, became an award winning blog key agency resource and an opportunity to work with major brands.A timely redundancy lead to a focus on blogging, before dipping their toes into Instagram (not just for vintage cat photos…) and moving into the realms of influencing.We explore the journey into fatherhood, how navigating trauma from previous lives is part...2021-02-2234 min
Lockdown DadsNigel Clarke, CBeebies TV Presenter and Dadvengers founder.There’s just not enough time! Nigel Clarke, CBeebies presenter, explains how Dadvengers started from an all Dads episode of The Baby Club, the groundbreaking show for mums, dads and carers with babies under 18 months old. The Baby Club reflects the important CBeebies mantra that “Everyone’s Welcome”. We talk about a generational shift in what is expected from and expected by dads and the importance of dads having the skills and confidence to be alone with their kids. Ian and Nigel try and explain to James what the Clubhouse excitement is all about and w...2021-02-0834 min
Lockdown DadsNathan McGurl, Founder of The Study BuddyAs a newly married 23 year old, apprehensively mulling over his thoughts about impending fatherhood while driving the A39 to and from Bristol, Nathan McGurl, founder of The Study Buddy did what we now take for granted - he started blogging. The My First Kid website has sadly gone the way of our My Space profiles, but the story Nathan tells of dads sidelined from parenting will still resonate to many, even if supermarket parenting clubs no longer limit you to identifying as “Ms, Mrs or Miss”We blend discussion about bad broadband, good haircuts and expens...2021-02-0138 min
Lockdown DadsPaul Bulos - Executive, Leadership & Wellbeing CoachTime to ponder… what colour are you today and why? Paul Bulos, Executive, Leadership & Wellbeing Coach and publishing professional joins us for this and other profound questions on the Lockdown Dads podcast. We dig into the benefits of lockdowns - including connecting with your kids and we touch on the importance of empathy and understanding the transition between work and home life. Plus we discuss dad ‘presence’ - how important is secondary school transition, what does the “right train” mean to you and taking time to involve yourself in the things that are important to your children.Tips i...2021-01-2534 min
Lockdown DadsSteve Myall - Journalist and PodcasterLiving 50m from Central Park in Upper West side Manhattan sounds incredibly glamorous but not if you've swapped a house for a pandemic apartment in lockdown. This week's guest Steve Myall, former deputy features Editor of the Daily Mirror and co-host of the highly successful First Time Dads podcast joins James and I as the circle of podcasting is complete.We talk shared parental leave, finding space in a big city and why diplomatic status is this year's must have accessory for the Real Brit Dads of New York. Steve talks about what it is like on...2021-01-1834 min
Lockdown DadsLouise Goss - Founder of The Homeworker MagazineOne time self employed journalist based in Australia, we discover how interviewing and profiling home working entrepreneurs for a tech start up was the start of the idea that became The Homeworker magazine. Louise Goss joins us for episode 28, drawing upon her husband's experiences we reflect on how attitudes towards home working have changed from both an individual and business perspective. Why her magazine is much more useful than googling the top 5 productivity tips and how the Homeworker blends key themes around business, productivity, mindset, wellbeing and your work environment. Contents02:30 Jam...2021-01-1134 minLockdown DadsLooking back at 2020 with James and IanA look back at 26 episodes of Lockdown Dads - the good, the bad and the ugly as we ponder the "annus horribilis" that was 2020. We talk guests and the tips that inspired us and the tips that shocked us, it's all here as we discuss what 2021 has instore for dads and their families and how as a show we can continue to bring you interesting and informative content onward into season 3 of a project we wanted to kill off. Too much lockdown...!(Recorded pre-Tier 4 / Christmas cancellation)Contents1:30 This week - Webinars...2020-12-1834 min
Lockdown DadsMartin Robinson - Founder of the Book of ManFrom lad mag to expert on modern masculinity. This episode is loaded with content "for him" as Martin Robinson, editor of digital magazine, the Book of Man, gives us the lowdown on why it was time for content that explicitly put men's mental health, front and centre of the conversation. We learn about the human zoo that was working for Maxim in the 1990s and how going a little bit nuts was seen as an occupational hazard that shouldn't distract from the "fun". Fortunately the world has moved on a bit and Martin talks about how a n...2020-12-0936 min
Lockdown DadsDavid Willans - Founder of Being DadsDavid Willans, founder of the website Being Dads joins the show as we discover what is behind his thoughtful and informative weekly emails. We learn how a typical dad moment - losing your rag with your kids, and lacking role models the resonated, turned into a project to educate himself and others about fatherhood - our behaviours and how they impact on others. David talks convincingly about how definitions of fatherhood lack "depth." Content03:00 We discuss the burning question in November - is it too early for Xmas?!06:30 The euphoric feeling bumping int...2020-12-0235 min
Lockdown DadsNadia Nagamootoo - Coach, Consultant and PsychologistNadia Nagamootoo, founder & CEO of Avenir Consulting Services, speaker, chartered psychologist, coach and expectant mum joins Lockdown Dads to talk about her path to "complete inclusion" and how her own experiences of shared parental leave and equal parenting led to seeking greater understanding of the organisational limits to men's access to flexible working and extended leave.We discuss the challenges and disappointments of men's lack of access to maternity services in 2020 and reflect on whether Covid is a moment in time or a fundamental culture shift for working dads. Plus strong tips on what steps men can...2020-11-2433 min
Lockdown DadsAdy Griffiths - The Mindful DadAdy Griffiths, author of Mindful Thoughts for Fathers joins James and Ian to explain how mediation and mindfulness have helped him to cope with 3 core aspects of fatherhood - worrying about becoming a dad, being a stressed dad and relating to his own father. It's a powerful episode that explores the reality of being a dad, coping with lockdown and grief, plus surviving the 80s rave scene. As James so eloquently surmised Ady's book - "it's not some hippy sh1t"Contents 02:30 James finds Lockdown v2 harder this time04:00 Ian got away to C...2020-11-1735 min
Lockdown DadsDr Laura Radcliffe - Focusing on Dads at WorkThis week’s guest is Dr Laura Radcliffe, Lecturer in Organisational Behaviour at the University of Liverpool Management School. We explore why a focus on dads in the workplace is of vital importance and how society needs to see the bigger picture – gender equality is good for everyone’s well-being and relationships. We discuss the type of messaging for mums that Laura can say, but James, Ian and David Lammy really can’t. Plus, we bust the myth that mums are more skilled...Contents04:30 Manchester v the Government06:30 Empathy08:00 Laura’s pa...2020-10-2735 min
Lockdown DadsYash Puri - Founder of Papa PenguinYash Puri, Founder of Papa Penguin and Finance Tech Specialist joins, James and Ian to discuss the ups and down of lockdown – doing everything and then having to slow down. We learn how moving away from cultural expectations and taking shared parental leave led to a feature with the BBC and creation of the Papa Penguin platform.Plus night-time ninja nappy changing (definitely worth watching that bit on You Tube), trying to get to Center Parcs for half term and how just telling your story helps other dads to reassess their lives. Contents01:30 Family comm...2020-10-2035 min
Made to ParadeJames Millar (Millar Memorial FB)Episode 8 finds us in conversation with James Millar from the Millar Memorial one of the oldest flute bands in Belfast.2020-10-1945 min
Lockdown DadsJessica Chivers - The Talent KeeperJessica Chivers, Psychologist & CEO of The Talent Keeper Specialists & Author "Mothers Work!" joins James and Ian to discuss how feeling "confident, connected and cared for" isn't just for new mums, and why line managers and senior male role models are essential to drive change for working dads.Plus learn about "Awe walks", "Office Osmosis" and how to be a "Active Actor" in your day Contents02:20 Stroking clients, flow and avoiding the media 05:30 Recognising stress - Ian's daughter gets real life experience07:00 James' 20 year golf losing streak and why covid is like a...2020-10-1235 min
Lockdown DadsDan Reed - Founder of Career DadDan Reed, father of 2, founder of the Career Dad and Head of Digital and Platform Delivery at Barclays joins James and I to discuss lockdown, finding your own path, managing judgement and creating choices that work for you and your family.01:30 Riding the “Corona-coaster” – good hours and bad hours02:50 Covid at Ian’s children’s school04:20 AIBU? Morality and Train rides05:30 Post Traumatic Stress?07:50 James back in Westminster10:00 The Path to Career Dad – creating your own narrative12:00 Guilt and the perception of guilt15:40 Self-confide...2020-10-0536 min
Lockdown DadsElliot Rae - Founder of Music. Football. FatherhoodFounder of Music. Football. Fatherhood and Diversity and Inclusion Expert, Elliot Rae joins James and I to talk Covid, Black Lives Matter, and being kind to yourself, plus a bit of football, a touch of music and plenty of fatherhood.Contents02:40 Major stress and anxiety - my wife got ill, I got ill and an ambulance came to the house. 04:20 Elliot's reaction to the death of George Floyd 05:05 "Sounds weird me saying this, I'd probably do the whole thing again"06:10 The benefits of things being out of our hands10:15 Not the fi...2020-09-2834 min
Lockdown DadsDr Jasmine Kelland - Researcher and LecturerDr Jasmine Kelland, Lecturer in Human Resource Studies at Plymouth Business School is this week's guest on Lockdown Dads.With a PhD that was titled “Father’s at work: challenges and stereotypes facing fathers with caregiving responsibilities in employment”, Jasmine is a perfect guest to discuss dads, equality and evidence-based research.Contents01:30 Jasmine is loving the routine of being in the office. 02:50 James is ahead of the curve – stinky crisps and Dads Don’t Babysit 2nd anniversary 06:30 We talk about Jasmine’s research focus07:00 HR Manager to PhD researcher...2020-09-2135 min
Lockdown DadsMari Williams - The Mind ArchitectThis week we are joined by Mari Williams, a leadership coach who blends therapy, conflict mediation and coaching interventions into a compelling action orientated package that men have described as "challengingly empathetic" Contents02:20 James reflects on the R going up...03:15 Ian at Flexpo 04:30 What did Mari's clients find - denial, imposter syndrome and your version of success07:40 Working with male energy 09:30 Reflecting on what changes you want to make11:20 Intent v Action13:10 Why Ian goes to Costa15:00 Mari's coaching approach - it's all about foundations16:25 Men and los...2020-09-1434 min
Lockdown DadsMichael Ray - Equality Advocate and Solo DadIn the first episode of Season 2 we are joined by Michael Ray - equality advocate and solo dad from AustraliaIn a wide ranging chat we cover everything from the Ashes to a very Australian coronavirus outbreak via how a disagreement over which parents were allowed backstage at a 4 year old's ballet show propelled Michael into the national spotlight and the journey to becoming an equality advocate.Michael talks about gaining "clarity from crisis" and how it's the "moments between the moments" that really matter.Contents01:00 Emotional challenge of 2nd Lockdown 2020-09-0733 min
Lockdown DadsChris Dinwiddy - Brotherly LoveIn Episode 14 Ian is joined by his brother, Chris Dinwiddy. Dad of 4, Chris, talks about becoming a father again during Lockdown, from the disengagement he felt from being unable to attend maternity appointments to the joy of being allowed to take the facemask off when Suri was born.He talks too about the struggles of physical separation from family - his mother in law stuck in South Africa, while he narrowly missed the chance to visit his oldest 2 children in Cape Town before lockdown restrictions took hold.We talk about the humanising benefits o...2020-08-0440 min
Lockdown DadsFidel Beauhill - The Modern Man CoachIn Episode 13 we are joined by Fidel Beauhill, The Modern Man Coach Father of 3 daughters and a master coach, Fidel doesn't hold back when describing how his perfect life came abruptly to a halt when lockdown started. He talks candidly about the emotional impact faced by an extrovert who struggled after a manic 2 weeks of putting everyone else's "mask on first" - no one to see and nowhere to go. Fidel gives us an insight into his own journey into the spiritual - tapping into feminine energy, getting naked on top of a mounta...2020-07-2635 min
Lockdown DadsRob Taylor - Founder of Dads in BusinessIn Episode 12 we are joined by Rob Taylor, Marketing Man, Yorkshire Man and founder of Sheffield based "Dads in Business"Rob talked about the pressures of being a dad of three and an entrepreneur and how meeting coach Angga Kara shone a light on his burnout and lead to the creation of Dads in Business.Dads in Business is a forum in which entrepreneurial dads gain permission to have the type of honest conversations about Business, Family, Money and Life that they struggle to have with other people in their lives.We talked...2020-07-1932 min
Lockdown DadsFreddie Bennett - Starting at ZeroIn Episode 11 James and Ian are joined by Guinness Marathon World Record Holder and founder of Starting at Zero, Freddie Bennett.When lockdown started Freddie was plunged into the world of 'single' parenting, while his wife worked 60 hour weeks on the frontline in the NHS, he tackled Zoom calls and supervising 2 young sons.It wasn't all plain sailing as he struggled with uncertainty, lack of control and how to talk to his boys about what was going on.We talk about presence and balance and how sometimes its the simple things in life...2020-07-1237 minLockdown DadsJames and Ian - in reflectionIn Episode 10 James and I reflect back on the previous 10 weeks and think about what the return to "normal" means for Dads.We discuss the green shoots of normality - a trip to TK Maxx, cat vaccinations and bringing your cleaner back from paid leave, but also the anxiety of taking advantage of the opportunites.James talks about the return from furlough to his job as editor of WorkingDads.co.uk - the practical and emotional challenges of actually doing that role again. In many ways men are getting to experience a new retun to...2020-07-0633 min
Lockdown DadsRachel Vecht - Parent EducatorJames and Ian are joined by Parent Educator Rachel Vecht, Founder of Educating Matters.We discuss the benefits of teenagers at home without FOMO replaced instead with a sense of connection to family but also screen time and body clocks (!)Rachel talks about the importance of self reliance, emotional intelligence and how anxiety is contagious. We also discuss important life skills for kids around multi pack beer buying (James) in the supermarket and the "chicken challenge" (Ian)Rachel shines a light on the type of support that she has been supplying to business:2020-06-2833 min
Lockdown DadsHan-Son Lee - Founder of DaddilifeJames and Ian are joined by Han-Son Lee, Founder of Daddilife We talked to single dad Han-Son about how his son's Lego depiction of him as "Wolfman" sitting at a desk was a trigger point to make changes in how he was working in during lockdown.In the light of James and Ian discovering they have walked the same route 24 hours apart, we reflected on the importance of outdoors and being grateful for that access. Plus Ian demonstrated the benefits of a power nap!We discussed new Daddilife lockdown research showing that "76% of r...2020-06-2134 min
Lockdown DadsDouglas Ross - Scottish Conservative MPJames and Ian are joined by Douglas Ross, Scottish Conservative MP for Moray We talked toddlers, tatties and tories and what it was like to hit the headlines in the wake of the Dominic Cummings lockdown travel controversy.Douglas talks about how the pandemic meant he was there when his son started walking, while the increase in constituent work offset the lack of travel to Westminster. We talk about steps towards modernising parliamentary work - for instance nearly 150 MPs are Proxy voting on Wednesday, including Douglas, whose wife is on a night shift as...2020-06-1433 min
Lockdown DadsPhilip Simon - ComedianJames and Ian are joined by comedian, Philip SimonPhilip talks about the profound difficulties trying to make a living as a comedian at the moment and how his focus and creativity has massively increased as he struggles to earn a living and provide for his family..Ian talks about solo babysitting his 2 year old niece and we contrast her simple needs with the challenges that James' 12 year old daughter is facing. Philip shares his experience of his son's return to school and the excitement of the yellow table.We talk politics and...2020-06-0734 min
Lockdown DadsNoel McDermott - PsychotherapistIn Episode 5 James and Ian are joined by expert Psychotherapist , Noel McDermottWe talk about the some of the upside of lockdown - more opportunities for self care, better diet and exercise, but at the same time the risk of a 'tsunami' of mental health issues as people move out of survival mode.Noel explains the importance of the 3 core elements of mental health stability - home, work and relationships and how this pandemic undermines each of them.We discuss opportunities for improved equality and the challenges that we face along the way...2020-05-3134 min
Lockdown DadsJames Frith - ex Labour MP, business owner and dad of 4In Episode 4, James and Ian are joined by former Labour MP, business owner and dad of 4, James Frith.We talk about the competing needs of 4 kids of different ages and the struggle to find 1 on 1 time with children and your partner - in fact we go as far as to wistfully remember "Date Night."Join us as we dig deeper into the debate on reopening schools: Covid safety v equality issues. James Frith brings his perspective as a Dad and as a former member of the Education Select Committee.We discuss the need t...2020-05-2533 min
Lockdown DadsTiernan Douieb - ComedianIn Episode 3, James and Ian are joined by Comedian Tiernan Douieb.We talk about how to explain Covid to a 2 year old, the struggles of the self employed, private renters and how comics are adapting to the new world.Plus tales of excessive present buying for the kids aka "The Christmas of Death", should pandemics be more interesting and why does Ian have a cat called Boris?Join us as we discuss the fortunate (suspicious?!) timing of the Disney+ launch, learn about the Immortal Jellyfish and discover exactly what upsets Tiernan about the...2020-05-1734 min
Lockdown DadsJohn Adams - #1 Dad BloggerIn Episode 2, James and Ian are joined by #1 Dad Blogger and LinkedIn "Changemaker", John Adams.We discuss the Covid 19 opportunity to embed flexible working, the potential pressures on families when workplaces open but schools and childcare don't and legal and moral challenges facing employers of trying to return "to normal."Discover why it's important to keep "your hand in" even if your furloughed and the benefits of involving the whole family in chores, all that, plus we talk about the community aspect of football and whether we will remember this as the year of the...2020-05-1034 min
Lockdown DadsKicking Things Off with James and IanIn the debut episode of Lockdown Dads, James Millar and Ian Dinwiddy get competitive about press-ups, discuss tips for coping with lockdown and reflect on what we might remember "When I'm 64".Discover the importance of non-iron shirts and how real dads are re-evaluating their work and family priorities. About Lockdown DadsJames and Ian are recording a weekly ‘show’ exploring the impact of lockdown, self isolation and social distancing on working dads. We’ll share tips, thoughts and stories with special guests, discuss our hopes for the future and the opportunities that all this re...2020-05-0334 min
School For Fathers Podcast#25: SIT - James Millar“By definition, you cannot babysit your own children” we couldn’t agree more, James! I’m joined by James Millar; journalist, editor of WorkingDads.co.uk, podcaster and pundit. We explore: where are we really at with co-parenting? And what’s next? Read the full show notes over on our website >> http://schoolforfathers.com/podcast/25-sit-james-millar/2020-04-1743 min
Political Yeti's political podcastsEPISODE 58 - Kezia Dugdale talks brownies and toilets with a childBack like the renegade master. Or at least like a man, talking to a former leader of Scottish Labour, and an 11-year-old. James Millar is joined by his daughter and Kezia Dugdale, Labour MSP and former party leader. The conversation starts with the Edinburgh tourist tax, the Scottish budget, Labour splits and Brexit. But degenerates to the effect of coffee and dog food on your bowel movements. Plus everything inbetween2019-02-2200 minPolitical Yeti's political podcastsEPISODE 57: All I want for Xmas is (membership of the) EU. And Scottish independenceJames Millar is joined by SNP MP Drew Hendry and political journalist Lindsay Razaq in an effort to unpick what the hell is going on at Westminster.
Up for discussion is the latest bout of Prime Minister's Questions, the Tory leadership kerfuffle and Christmas. Plus listen to our predictions for the year ahead and then laugh your way through 2019.2018-12-1200 minPolitical Yeti's political podcastsEPISODE 56: "Have you ever punched a Taliban?" A peer predicts BrexitWith Westminster acting all wacky this week James Millar is joined by an actual peer of the realm to discuss what's going on in politics. Lib Dem lord Jeremy Purvis makes his prediction for how Brexit will turn out plus he discusses 'the worst Jason Bourne sequel ever', Lib Dems in space, poo and punching terrorists. You don't get that anywhere else.2018-12-0500 minPolitical Yeti's political podcastsEPISODE 55 - Racists, little green men and WAR with the SNP's Stewart McDonaldJames Millar is joined by SNP defence spokesman Stewart McDonald and Birmingham Live political editor Jon Walker to dissect the latest round of Prime Minister's Questions and discuss their recent foreign jaunts to the war zone of Ukraine and to stoat around Italy on a luxury train.
Tune in for a bona fide rammy that nationalists and unionists alike ought to enjoy!..2018-11-2800 minPolitical Yeti's political podcastsEPISODE 54: It's Neil Gray MP and Rachel Wearmouth from WearmouthWhat if everyone was named after their home town? Should MPs play football in the Commons? And Brexit. James Millar is joined by SNP MP Neil Gray and HuffPost's Rachel Wearmouth to discuss this and much much more including the latest round of Prime Minister's Questions from Parliament.2018-11-2100 minPolitical Yeti's political podcastsEPISODE 53: HEY YOU GUYS! Ian Murray & 2 children talk about Saudi Arabia, biscuits and The GooniesThe gang's back together. With it being half term James Millar is joined by his children and Labour MP Ian Murray to review the latest round of Prime Minister's Questions, discuss the best biscuits, reminisce over seminal 80s movie The Goonies and share some truly awful jokes.2018-10-2400 minPolitical Yeti's political podcastsEPISODE 52: Kirsty Blackman on crisps, Brexit and NazisIt's back! A new run of Political Yeti's politics podcast sees the return of James Millar hosting an MP and a top commentator each week.
In the first one back it's SNP deputy leader Kirsty Blackman and Birmingham Live political editor Jon Walker dissecting the latest Prime Minister's Questions, choosing between crisps and a meal and going all moral maze on whether Nazis should vote. Tune in!2018-10-1700 minPolitical Yeti's political podcastsEPISODE 51 - Three men in a pub Easter Special part IIJames Millar, Jon Walker and Matt Withers reconvene in a (slightly) quieter pub to discuss the latest political news including World War Three, the Commonwealth Games and lots of Barry Gardiner2018-04-1200 minPolitical Yeti's political podcastsEPISODE 50 - Three wise men at EasterIt's three men in a pub this week as James Millar is joined by Matt Withers and Jon Walker to review the year in politics so far. Unfortunately they were also joined by a jazz band. Listen in...2018-03-3000 minPolitical Yeti's political podcastsEPISODE 49 - Drew Hendry makes his big announcement on the SNP deputy leadership, plus FISH!On this week's podcast Drew Hendry joins James Millar and the Press and Journal's Westminster Corr Jennifer McKiernan to talk more about what he asked Theresa May at Prime Minister's Questions. Plus there's some Cambridge Analytica chat, more speculation about the next depute leader of the SNP, fish and roller derby.2018-03-2100 minPolitical Yeti's political podcastsEPISODE 48 - Kirsty Blackman of the SNP and Tony Grew in reviewPodcast favourites Tony Grew and Kirsty Blackman, deputy leader of the SNP group at Westminster, join James Millar to review the latest batch of Prime Minister's Questions then question whether that's what they should be talking.
Then there's the Saudis, the royals and the SNP deputy leader contest.
It starts with respectful disagreement and ends in a rammy.2018-03-0700 minPolitical Yeti's political podcastsEPISODE 47 - Paul Sweeney and Rachel Cunliffe on drugs and communismTwo guests last heard on the podcast last summer return for a proper ramblechat taking in Prime Minister's questions, robots, Communism, drugs and mice.
Paul Sweeney, Scottish Labour MP for Glasgow North East, and Rachel Cunliffe, comment and features editor for City AM, join James Millar to discuss the week in politics and all sorts of other stuff besides.2018-02-2100 minPolitical Yeti's political podcastsEPISODE 44 - New year, new guests! And Ian Murray again.The first PYPP of 2018 sees James Millar joined by Labour's Ian Murray and, for the first time, Jennifer McKiernan of the Press and Journal. Up for discussion is the first Prime Minister's Questions of the year, Brexit, how Labour's leaders are faring in Scotland and Westminster and SNP stunts.2018-01-1000 minPolitical Yeti's political podcastsEPISODE 43 - A Christmas ding dong over the SNP's tax plansSNP social justice spokesman Neil Gray and Labour spinner turned pundit Martin McCluskey join James Millar to dissect the latest Prime Minister's Questions.
Up for discussion is the SNP's tax plans, RBS bank closures and just how friendly the SNP leadership is with the bank, feminism and the best Christmas song (which is Just Like Christmas, not Last Christmas).2017-12-1300 minPolitical Yeti's political podcastsEPISODE 42 - At long last a Tory! It's Andrew BowieThe Scottish Tories have truly arrived at Westminster - because one has now been on James Millar's podcast. Andrew Bowie, who defeated friend of the podcast Stuart 'sausage boy' Donaldson at the election gets a last minute call up to guest alongside Birmingham Mail Westminster corr Jon Walker.
Up for discussion was the latest installment of Prime Minister's Questions, which didn't feature the Prime Minister plus a bit of Budget, Waspi, Disraeli and life after Corbyn.2017-11-2900 minPolitical Yeti's political podcastsEPISODE 41 - Danielle Rowley on the state of Scottish LabourFair play to Labour MP Danielle Rowley. On the day her dad stepped aside from his role as deputy leader of Scottish Labour then was suspended from the party she kept her appointment to join James Millar on this podcast alongside the New Statesman's Julia Rampen. The trio review the latest round of Prime Minister's Questions and preview the Scottish Labour leadership contest that reaches its climax this weekend. Plus there's a discussion about names and books.2017-11-1500 minPolitical Yeti's political podcastsEPISODE 40 - Scandal in Westminster with SNP MP Drew Hendry and Kate Langston of the Yorkshire PostJames Millar is joined by SNP MP Drew Hendry and Yorkshire Post Westminster corr Kate Langston to discuss all the issues thrown up by the latest installment of Prime Minister's Questions including the sexual harassment scandal, controversial welfare reform and whether Dundee is cool.2017-11-0100 minPolitical Yeti's political podcastsEPISODE 39 - Kirsty Blackman of the SNP interviewed by childrenThey're back for half-term: James Millar is joined by his children to interview leading SNP MP Kirsty Blackman on independence, international affairs, and farting.
Inevitably there's a different take on politics from a nine-year-old and a seven-year-old including questions for Kirsty about parenting and an explanation of why SNP Westminster leader Ian Blackford is like Strictly grump Craig Revell Horwood. Really.2017-10-2500 minPolitical Yeti's political podcastsEPISODE 37 - Martin Whitfield back again plus a mystery guestOnce again MPs are preparing to go off for a recess so James Millar is joined by traditional recess guest Martin Whitfield MP to talk about the latest Prime Minister's Questions that strayed on to reality TV, Rick Astley and radiation.
Plus there's talk of the divisions in Scottish Labour's group of just seven MPs and the coming leadership election and a preview of conference season.
And Martin and James are joined by a mystery guest. Listen in to find out who.2017-09-1300 minPolitical Yeti's political podcastsEPISODE 36 - Alison Thewliss of the SNP on immigration, education and extensionsParliament's back and James Millar is there with another MP. This week's guest is Alison Thewliss of the SNP who takes James to task for some comments on the SNP's approach to immigration as they discuss PMQs and the Scottish government's Programme for Government.
They are joined by The Scotsman's Paris Gourtsayannis for a wide-ranging and grown up chat that includes praise for Michael Gove and, finally, the answer to the rollover 'I Love Your Questions' teaser.2017-09-0600 minPolitical Yeti's political podcastsSUMMER SPECIAL 4 - Ex SNP MP talks Salmond, Sturgeon and sausagesIt's the fourth and final summer special politics in a pub podcast and it rained, rather summing up the weather and the politics of this dismal summer.
But this week's offering presented by James Millar is brightened by the return of Stuart 'sausage boy' Donaldson, the nation's youngest ex-MP. At 23 he was the member of parliament for West Aberdeenshire and Kincardineshire. By 25 he wasn't. He talks about the experience of being catapulted in and out of parliament and his views on Nicola Sturgeon, Alex Salmond and Keanu Reeves.
Plus Jon Walker is along again to discuss Disneyland and Big Ben...2017-08-2300 minPolitical Yeti's political podcastsSUMMER SPECIAL 3 - Which Batman is Jeremy Corbyn?Lots to talk about this week as James Millar is joined in the pub in Catford by Reaction's Olivia Utley, former Lib Dem spin doctor Matt Withers and the Birmingham Mail's Jon Walker to chew over the latest political developments.
Three big characters dominate things - James Chapman and his new party, Jacob Rees-Mogg's run to lead a rather older party, and Alex Salmond's sexist jokes.
Plus there's a bonus conversation about which incarnation of Batman Jeremy Corbyn most resembles - Adam West, George Clooney, or Ben Affleck.2017-08-1600 minPolitical Yeti's political podcastsSUMMER SPECIAL 2 - Badgers where you least expect themIt's come to that time in the any podcast's life - it's three men in a pub talking about politics. But bear with it as James Millar is joined by Jon Walker and Mike Indian to talk about the latest "bonkers" Brexit moves, "stupid choices" in parliament and a surprising fact about badgers.2017-08-0900 minPolitical Yeti's political podcastsSUMMER SPECIAL 1 - Rachel Cunliffe and 'the Ivanka Trump of Scottish politics'With parliament in recess it's back to podcasts in the pub. This week James Millar is joined by City AM's Rachel Cunliffe to talk about Liam Fox, women's football and politicians going on holiday.
Plus James lets a fan on the podcast. David Mackenzie, one of Labour's 'red princes' and self proclaimed 'Ivanka Trump of Scottish politics' joins in to talk about his experience of being his dad's election agent in 2015 and the Loch Ness monster.2017-08-0300 minPolitical Yeti's political podcastsEPISODE 34 - Drew Hendry MP rubbishes my New Statesman article on the SNPNew author James Millar is joined by the MP with surely the longest title in politics - Drew Hendry - to discuss his latest piece for The New Statesman on the state of the SNP. (http://www.newstatesman.com/politics/staggers/2017/07/snp-mps-fear-another-snap-election-it-was-one-way-traffic-labour) Drew didn't like it.
And reviewing a Prime Minister's Questions that didn't feature the Prime Minister it's Kate Proctor of the Evening Standard, one of the top young journalists in the UK: OFFICIAL. Why's she so good? Because she knows about Labour playtime whatever that is, as well as bringing top analysis.2017-07-1200 minPolitical Yeti's political podcastsEPISODE 33 - Neil Gray on social justice and how rich is his new leaderAfter his promotion in the SNP reshuffle Neil Gray join James Millar to talk about what exactly social justice is and how much his new leader is worth. Plus he manages to utterly befuddle James by introducing Scottish football into the conversation.
And joining them to review the latest bout of Prime Minister's Questions is Ian Silvera, senior political correspondent at the International Business Times.2017-07-0500 minPolitical Yeti's political podcastsEPISODE 32 - New MP Paul Sweeney describes his first PMQsJames Millar is joined by new Labour MP Paul Sweeney to talk about his first experience of Prime Minister's Questions, what it's like in the frenzy of the Commons chamber.
Plus James, Paul and fellow guest Tony Grew discuss the issues that were raised at the first Prime Minister's Questions of the new parliament including the Grenfell Tower fire and the government deal with the DUP.
And Paul explains how he built the biggest Royal Navy ship ever constructed including a genuine 'wow fact.2017-06-2800 minPolitical Yeti's political podcastsTHE MAN FRIEND PROJECT - Rachel Reeves MPTHE MAN FRIEND PROJECT - Rachel Reeves MP by James Millar2017-06-2200 minPolitical Yeti's political podcastsTHE MAN FRIEND PROJECT - Seema Kennedy MPTHE MAN FRIEND PROJECT - Seema Kennedy MP by James Millar2017-06-2200 minPolitical Yeti's political podcastsEPISODE 31 - The Queen's Speech and Ian Murray gloatingParliament gets down to business with the Queen's Speech setting out Theresa May's plans for the coming parliament - mainly Brexit and spaceships.
James Millar is joined by Lindsay Razaq of the Press & Journal and MP Ian Murray to discuss.
Plus Ian talks about having some Scottish Labour colleagues in parliament for the first time in two years, the "singularly unpleasant" SNP and why Jeremy Corbyn gave him the fingers (metaphorically).2017-06-2100 minPolitical Yeti's political podcastsEPISODE 30 - SNP apocalypse with NEW deputy leader Kirsty BlackmanParliament's back! James Millar is joined by SNP MP Kirsty Blackman just before she was confirmed as the party's deputy leader in Westminster to discuss what went wrong for the party at the general election. And seagulls come up too. Seagulls always come up when Kirsty is on the podcast.
Plus Jon Walker, political editor of the Birmingham Mail, offers his take on the election that's just been and what's next for the Tories, Labour and the DUP.
And after the terrible attempts at predictions in last week's podcast James doubles down with an audacious long term projection.2017-06-1400 minPolitical Yeti's political podcastsELECTION SPECIAL 3 - Richard Nixon, a confused Jeremy Corbyn and The Young OnesIn the shadow of a giant cat three pundits gather to discuss the latest twists and turns in the general election campaign. James Millar is joined in the pub by Birmingham Mail political editor Jon Walker who compares Tim Farron to Richard Nixon, and former spin doctor Matt Withers has the low down on why Simon Hughes is always late.2017-05-2500 minPolitical Yeti's political podcastsELECTION SPECIAL 2 - Harry Potter, Nye Bevan and ludicrous rich peopleJames Millar is back in the pub surrounded by experts to chew over another week in the general election campaign. Birmingham Mail political editor Jon Walker, New Statesman digital news editor Julia Rampen and co-founder of The Spoon Martha Gill share their views on how the parties are getting and discuss which Harry Potter book's the best, are the media unfair on Jeremy Corbyn, is this the SNP's hardest campaign yet, and the second stupid guy of 2017.2017-05-1800 minPolitical Yeti's political podcastsELECTION SPECIAL 1 - Hovercrafts, donkeys, Rachel Reeves and the first stupid guy of the campaignThe plan to record podcasts in the pub crashes into reality. James Millar is joined by Birmingham Post and Mail political editor Jon Walker and former Lib Dem spin doctor Matt Withers to analyse the general election campaign so far and share tales of meeting a leading politician at the darts, candidates in tears, going to Belgium on a hovercraft and nominations for the first official 'stupid guy' of the campaign.
Plus one time shadow cabinet member Rachel Reeves answers questions on the campaign trail and her leadership ambitions.2017-05-1100 minPolitical Yeti's political podcastsEPISODE 29 - A slew of SNP MPs review the parliament that's just beenWith parliament dissolved and the Queen firing the starting gun on the campaign to elect a new one James Millar catches up with a few departing MPs to reflect on the last few years in politics. Plus Westminster watcher extraordinaire Tony Grew joins him to sum up the 2015-17 parliament which he correctly predicted two years ago would be "nasty, brutish and short."
And there's a solution to global warming.2017-05-0300 minPolitical Yeti's political podcastsEPISODE 28 - SNP MP Roger Mullin goes rogue and sings on the last podcast of the parliamentJames Millar is joined by SNP MP Roger Mullin and Yorkshire Post correspondent Kate Langston to review the final Prime Minister's Questions of this parliament. It may have been a short parliament but it was the longest ever PMQs.
Plus there's election predictions, a fascinating insight into Roger's peace-making trip to the Middle East and, for the first time on the podcast, actual singing.2017-04-2600 minPolitical Yeti's political podcastsEPISODE 27 - soap star turned SNP MP Deirdre Brock on the election momentIt's general election time again and SNP MP Deidre Brock joins James Millar to discuss the shockwaves in Westminster and what it means for indyref2. Plus real life political analyst Mike Indian is on hand to review the penultimate Prime Minister's Questions of this parliament.
And given Deidre once did a turn on Home and Away there's some discussion about Ailsa eras on the Aussie soap opera.2017-04-1900 min