Shows
True Spies: Espionage | Investigation | Crime | Murder | Detective | PoliticsTrue Spies Debriefs: Seth Thévoz on Espionage in London's ClublandTrue Spies producer Morgan Childs joins researcher and author Seth Thévoz to discuss the origins of London's elite gentlemen's clubs - and the movers, shakers and spies who have called them a home-from-home.
From SPYSCAPE, the home of secrets. A Cup And Nuzzle production. Series producer: Joe Foley. Produced by Morgan Childs.
Seth Thévoz is the author of London Clubland: A Companion for the Curious. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2025-07-2938 min
Oh God, What Now?Jezza’s Revenge – But will [party name here] hand power to Farage?OK, the launch might have been a bit shambolic and the name isn’t settled – but will Corbyn and Sultana’s “Your Party”* have more impact than the average new party, yes we’re looking at you Change UK? Specifically, will it split the left of centre vote and put Farage in No.10? Plus – Vanity Fair is now running adverts featuring AI models. Is there any job the slop machine can’t destroy, even Kate Moss’s? And if women can’t live up to unrealistic human beauty standards, how about going up against literally unreal heights of perfection?
[* Name TBC]2025-07-291h 04
The Bunker – News without the nonsenseAre we living through a new nuclear arms race?As tensions rise across the globe, hypersonic missiles, strategic algorithms, and next-gen warheads are reigniting fears we hoped were left behind in the Cold War. Today in The Bunker, Seth Thévoz is joined by Shashank Joshi, defence editor at The Economist, to explore the key players driving a new era of nuclear weaponry.
• We are sponsored by Indeed. Go to https://indeed.com/bunker for £100 sponsored credit.
www.patreon.com/bunkercast
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Written and presented by Seth Thévoz. Producer: Liam Tait. A...2025-07-2537 min
Oh God, What Now?Teenage Rampage – Will votes at 16 help Labour?The government wants to lower the age of voting to 16. Does anyone really know why? Do most 16-year-olds even care about politics? And will it make even a shred of difference to election outcomes? Plus, Donald Trump’s Jeffrey Epstein meltdown continues. He’s now suing Rupert Murdoch over an article published by the Wall Street Journal last week linking him to the disgraced financier. How damaging is this for the US president? And finally, with more suspensions than the Humber Bridge, has the Labour Party become addicted to heavy-handedness?
Escape Routes:
• Andrew went to see all...2025-07-221h 01
Oh God, What Now?The French Dispatch – Will Starmer’s migrant plan work?The Macron-Starmer love-in during the French President’s UK visit was guaranteed to enrage the Continuity Brexiters. But will their one-in-one-out migration plans actually deliver? Plus, is Britain’s justice system broken beyond repair? Jury-less trials are on the horizon but are they the fix that an impoverished, dysfunctional courts system needs? And Greater Manchester’s mayor Andy Burnham is back with a bold Ten Year Plan for the city. Ambitious or just aspirational? We explore what the rest of the UK could learn from his northern blueprint.
• Listen to The Bunker episode Watch The Spies – Can the CIA surv...2025-07-151h 00
Oh God, What Now?Tiers for KeirsWith Labour MPs rebelling over Keir Starmer’s planned cuts to welfare benefits – where does he stand now with his party and does even more trouble lie ahead? Plus, the UK’s new industrial strategy is hot off the press. What makes it so ambitious, and has it learned the lessons from Boris Johnson's failed levelling up plan?
ESCAPE ROUTES
• Seth recommends Gilbert and Sullivan’s Princess Ida
• Hannah recommends Slags by Emma Jane Unsworth and the new Adam Curtis series, Shifty
• Zoe recommends Olivia Rodrigo at Glastonbury
• Ros recommends The Four Se...2025-07-011h 01
Oh God, What Now?Vote of the Living Dead – Why British politics is ruled from beyond the graveHe’s old, he’s reactionary, he’s authoritarian-curious, he hates the EU… and he’s dead. Why are the main parties fixated on the demands of a zombie voter who has gone to join the Choir Eternal? And at the other end of the scale, what about “Henry” – high earner, not rich yet – the urban go-getter with an “email job” who earns six figures yet somehow finds himself strapped? Duncan Robinson who writes The Economist’s Bagehot column identified both these phenomena. He joins us to debate what we do about the Walking Dead – and whether Henry deserves a helping hand or a teeny-tiny...2025-06-031h 04
Oh God, What Now?Deadliest Catch – Starmer reels in an EU dealThe fish and the fury… As dead-end Brexiters rage against the “betrayal” of the Great British Haddock, we look at what REALLY matters in Starmer’s EU reset. Plus, polling giant YouGov’s Patrick English joins us to bust some opinion poll myths and explain the Reform Surge. And is Generation X really the most hard done-by of the postwar era? We don our Blur t-shirts and crack a Smirnoff Ice to discuss the 90s generation taking financial responsibility for their kids and their parents.
• Join us for Oh God, What Now? Live in London with special guest Marcus...2025-05-201h 08
Democracy for Sale PodcastWho Funds Reform?Reform is dominating our political conversation right now. Watching Keir Starmer this week you would never think he’s a prime minister with a 170-seat majority.While so many column inches have been dedicated to the electoral prospects of Nigel Farage’s party, I’ve been asking a very different question - who funds Reform?This really matters. Money buys power in British politics. Reform’s treasurer, billionaire former Tory donor Nick Candy, has promised to convince 20 big donors to give £1million each. That’s a lot of cash. We also know that Reform has had a lot m...2025-05-1554 min
The Bunker – News without the nonsenseMaking cash for Nigel – Where is Reform UK getting its money from?Nigel Farage’s Reform UK seems to be going from strength to strength – and running in politics isn’t cheap. So where are they getting their money from? Seth Thévoz speaks to Peter Geoghegan, author of the Democracy for Sale substack, to discuss where the cash is coming from and how it’s being raised.
We are sponsored by Indeed. Go to Indeed.com/bunker for £100 sponsored credit.
Listen to the latest podcast from Podmasters, Crime Scene, the truth behind true crime with Alison Phillips and Bernard Hogan-Howe: https://linktr.ee/crim...2025-05-1535 min
The ChatterboxHow did London become the world’s dirty money capital? Podcast: The Bunker – News without the nonsense (LS 56 · TOP 0.5% what is this?)Episode: How did London become the world’s dirty money capital?Pub date: 2025-04-03Get Podcast Transcript →powered by Listen411 - fast audio-to-text and summarizationNearly 40 per cent of the world’s dirty money flows through London, but what role have British institutions played in helping wealthy elites launder cash? Today on The Bunker, Tom Mayne, journalist and co-author of Indulging Kleptocracy: British Service Providers, Postcommunist Elites, and the Enabling of Corruption, joins Seth Thévoz to discuss ho...2025-05-0832 min
Oh God, What Now?The Great Reform Panic of 2025Nigel Farage is going to be Prime Minister! Reform are going to eat the Tory Party alive! A plague of bats will devour Kate Middleton! As the locals and Runcorn/Helsby fallout settles we look at Starmer’s panic over Reform, ask whether Badenoch can survive, and stare into the dark heart of Farage Derangement Syndrome. Plus: Was the 2015 General Election – ten years ago this week if you’re planning a party! – the true moment when Britain went inexorably down the pan?
ESCAPE ROUTES
• Seth says rent the VRBO property with Orson Welles’ ashes in the well.
...2025-05-071h 09
The Bunker – News without the nonsenseTrash talking – The real history of free speechWhat do we really mean by free speech? How has the definition changed over time? And why is it always so contentious? As the issue remains the cause of political arguments across the world, Seth Thévoz speaks to Fara Dabhoiwala, historian and the author of What is free speech? The history of a dangerous idea to ask who decides what we can and can’t say?• We are sponsored by Indeed. Go to https://indeed.com/bunker for £100 sponsored credit. Buy What is free speech? The history of a dange...2025-04-2533 min
Oh God, What Now?This thing of Trump’s – Is the president a mob boss?“Nice liberal democracy you got there, shame if something wuz to happen to it…” Trump behaves like a mob boss, complete with extortion and protection scams against universities, businesses and governments. But is he a real Godfather or just cosplaying as one? John Dickie, Professor of Italian Studies at UCL and expert on the Mafia, joins us to dismantle La MAGA Nostra. Plus – the IMF think we should work well into our seventies. Do we need longer working lives, or better ones?• Don’t miss our live Zoom on Thur 1 May – free to Patreon backers. Escape...2025-04-231h 03
The Bunker – News without the nonsenseHow London became the world’s dirty money capitalNearly 40 per cent of the world’s dirty money flows through London, but what role have British institutions played in helping wealthy elites launder cash? Today on The Bunker, Tom Mayne, journalist and co-author of Indulging Kleptocracy: British Service Providers, Postcommunist Elites, and the Enabling of Corruption, joins Seth Thévoz to discuss how deregulation, weak enforcement, and the UK’s libel laws have enabled corruption to thrive in the capital.Buy Indulging Kleptocracy: British Service Providers, Postcommunist Elites, and the Enabling of Corruption through our affiliate bookshop and you’ll help fund The Bunker...2025-04-0332 min
The Bunker – News without the nonsenseMob Rule – How the Mafia influences the White HouseFrom FDR to Trump, every modern president has had brushes with organised crime. So how have secret pacts, betrayals, and under-the-table deals influenced the commander-in-chief? Today on The Bunker, Seth Thévoz is joined by Eric Dezenhall, author of Wiseguys and the White House, to explore the not-so-hidden ties between the leader of the free world and the mob.• We are sponsored by Indeed. Go to Indeed.com/bunker for £100 sponsored credit. www.patreon.com/bunkercast Written and presented by Seth Thévoz. Produced by Liam...2025-03-0436 min
The Bunker – News without the nonsenseThe right-wing Glastonbury – Inside Jordan Peterson's festival of wingnutsJordan Peterson’s right-wing conference hosted a weird mix of climate change skeptics and conspiracy theorists – but also the leader of the opposition. How did a fringe movement with roots in conspiracy theory secure a prime spot at London’s ExCeL Centre and draw in such an array of speakers? Stella Tsantekidou, author of The Human Carbohydrate, joins Seth Thévoz to unpack her experience at The Alliance for Responsible Citizenship conference to find out what its rise in popularity could mean for the future of British politics.We are sponsored by Indeed. Go to Inde...2025-02-2535 min
Oh God, What Now?Appetite for DisruptionAs Keir Starmer visits Brussels for a meeting with European Union leaders, Trump has the EU in his sights. But Trump says Starmer is “nice”, so will Britain get away unscathed from new tariffs? It’s quite the predicament for the British PM – will he have to choose between one or the other? And what’s with all the DISRUPTION? From electoral politics to business to popular culture, we’re told that “move fast and break things” is the way to go. Is that why we’re knee-deep in loads of broken stuff? • Send your questions to BU...2025-02-0458 min
Oh God, What Now?Gilty Conscience – Is Rachel Reeves really in trouble?As Britain’s economic growth slows and gilt returns go up (no, we can’t remember what it means either) the Tory press are eager to construct a narrative of “Labour’s mess”. How real is it – and is Chancellor Rachel Reeves really at risk? Plus: Trump wants to annex Canada, Greenland and possibly your house. Are we back to 19th century foreign policy where the world is basically a game of Risk? Seth Thévoz, The New Statesman’s Rachel Cunliffe, comedian Matt Green and Andrew Harrison try to make sense of it all. Support us on...2025-01-141h 04
Oh God, What Now?Labour vs. Reform – The real battle for Britain?• Get 20% off a year’s Patreon support in our Cyber Monday sale. Why not ask for it for Christmas?Panic stations? Reform UK has overtaken Labour in the polls for the first time. Is this just a standard mid-term setback (albeit a bit early) or is Labour’s real battle with Farage not the Tories? The Guardian’s Polly Toynbee joins us to explore it. Plus, after the Assisted Dying debate, is religion creeping into famously secular British politics? And the highs and lows of the panel’s week. Support us o...2024-12-101h 01
Oh God, What Now?Trains, planes and autocracies – The Starmer World Tour• Get 20% off a year’s Patreon support in our Black Friday sale. Why not ask for it for Christmas?• Get your tickets to our live show at the Comedy Store on Tue 10 Dec here!Keir Starmer’s global adventures have grabbed headlines – and while some think he should spend more time at home, others say he's doing what he needs to do to revive the UK’s international image. Our panel wades into the debate. Plus, is local media dead and buried or can upstarts revive it? Jim Waterson was the Media Editor for The Guardia...2024-11-221h 00
Oh God, What Now?How to live in Trump’s world• Get your tickets for our Christmas Live Show on Tue 10 Dec at the Comedy Store London.The Trump aftermath rumbles on. Farage, Tommy Robinson and the populist right think the GOP’s triumph is theirs too. Are they right? Will an isolationist America really want to export populism around the world? And will Keir Starmer have to choose between the EU and the USA? Plus, as the Democrats tear at one another, what should progressives really confront in the years to come? Could they at least start by agreeing why they lost? 2024-11-121h 13
Oh God, What Now?I like big budgets and I cannot lieGo here to get tickets for Oh God, What Now? live at the Comedy Store on Tue 10 Dec – now with special guest John Crace of The Guardian. Big tax rises, big ambition. Labour’s first budget since regaining power, from Britain’s first-ever female chancellor, is rocking the nation. Beyond frantic headlines in the Tory press, what’s Rachel Reeves up to? Former chief economist at the Cabinet Office Jonathan Portes joins us to explain. Plus, anger is an energy – is angertainment the real force shaping the world right now? And will Trump win the White House because of it...2024-11-011h 04
Jam TomorrowWelsh Nationalism: Cymru am bythWhat does it mean to be Welsh?The writer Jan Morris said Wales was ‘a distinctly separate and often vehement idea’. But what is that idea? Do you need to understand Welsh to grasp it?How is Wales … different? And is it going to become even more unlike England?Ros Taylor talks to Swansea University professor Martin Johnes and Plaid Cymru Senedd member Heledd Fychan about the history of the Welsh nationalist movement and the future of the Welsh language.‘The...2024-10-1547 min
On the RackExclusive interview with Dr. Seth Alexander ThévozThis week I sat down with Dr. Seth Alexander Thévoz, a political, cultural and social historian of 19th and 20th century Europe and empires, specialising in the history of private members’ clubs, and the history of corruption. He's also an award winning investigative journalist.Catch up with all episodes here. We intended to meet at the British Film Institute in St Stephen's Street, as I was a former member there and know it's quiet. It was closed. So we headed to The Mandrake. It was expensive. We ended up in the Bricklayers Arms on Gres...2024-10-081h 06
Oh God, What Now?It’s A Shame About Gray• Last chance for tickets to OGWN Live in Hove at the Old Market, this Weds 9 Oct. Keir Starmer’s Chief of Staff gets the Spanish Archer and nobody was expecting it… or were they? Who is her replacement Morgan McSweeney and what does he want? Can he lift Labour’s Chaos Curse? Plus – After Laura Kuenssberg accidentally torpedoes her own “scoop” interview with reclusive former Prime Minister Boris Johnson, are political journalists too close to their quarry? And who really wanted the interview cancelled anyway?• Longtime OGWN fans Make A Will Online have...2024-10-081h 02
The Bunker – News without the nonsenseThe dirty history of political freebies – with Seth ThévozStarmer and his Cabinet caught hell for accepting donations of clothes, accommodation, tickets to see Taylor Swift and Arsenal, and more. But as historian Seth Thévoz explains, this is peanuts compared to the largesse afforded to past political generations. Listen up for jaw-dropping tales of free holidays, yachts and stately homes… how Churchill barely owned the clothes he stood up in and fought the Second World War while catastrophically overdrawn at the bank… and where Boris Johnson fits into the Great Nose-in-Trough League of British politics. • Get tickets for Levitation, the annual festival of electron...2024-10-0437 min
Jam TomorrowUgandan Migration: 90 Days to LeaveThe expulsion of Asians from Uganda in 1972 was brutal.Twenty eight thousand refugees arrived in Britain. The government scrambled to find homes and jobs for them.Not everyone was pleased about it. But if Ugandan Asians held British passports they had the right to come here — and most of them thrived. Why did they do well — and can it teach us anything about how we treat refugees?Neena Lakhani was 14 when she was forced to leave Uganda. She tells Ros Taylor what it was like...2024-10-0143 min
Jam TomorrowNorth Sea Oil: Hit the gasIn 1969, three kilometres under the North Sea, drillers found something that would change Britain completely.It would transform us into an oil-producing nation, fuel Thatcherism in the 1980s, feed resentment in Scotland — and yet all of it happened largely out of sight of most Britons.How did North Sea oil and gas change us? What’s life like for the dwindling group of people who work in the industry? And can drilled-out fields actually help to combat global heating?“At peak production, the revenue from N...2024-09-1746 min
Oh God, What Now?Keir Starmer: "We've gotta roll with it"• OGWN Live in Hove, Weds 9 Oct. Tickets here.• New second live date in Liverpool, Tue 24 Sept. Tickets here.Keir Starmer has painted a bleak picture of Britain’s future over the next few years. Is he being a needlessly miserable sod, or just realistic? And there have been multiple arrests over social media posts supporting the rioting a couple of weeks ago. Has social media made people think that actions don’t have consequences – and what are we going to do about it?• Get exclusive Nord VPN deal here - nordvpn.com/ohgodwhatnow. It's risk-free...2024-08-281h 00
Jam TomorrowRationing: Milk and no honeyMock cream. Lord Woolton Pie. For 14 years the government put draconian restrictions on how much Britons could eat. Each meal had to be carefully planned and every scrap of food eked out to avoid waste. But at the end of it, Britons were healthier than ever before. Was it the best of times or the worst of times? Turned out it could be both — depending on who you were. And the rationing that kept Britons fed played a part in the deaths of millions of colonial subjects in India. Ros...2024-08-1340 min
Oh God, What Now?Liars, Liars, Streets On Fire• OGWN Live in Hove, Weds 9 Oct. Tickets here.• OGWN Live in Liverpool, Mon 23 Sept. Tickets here.Following the horrific knife attack in Southport that left three young girls dead, England has seen a mass of violence sweeping the country. That violence has been spurred on by misinformation allowed to spread like wildfire across social media. Hope Not Hate’s Director of Research, Joe Mulhall, joins the panel to discuss what’s happening, why, and how it can be stopped. Plus, Should we call out politicians more for not sticking to their plan? And when does it just b...2024-08-061h 04
Jam TomorrowConcorde: Feeling supersonicSome say it was the greatest ever feat of European engineering. A few even think that we wouldn’t have joined the European Economic Community without it. Others complained it ate up ten times as much as its original budget, and no-one else wanted it. Why did we decide to build Concorde? Why did we almost abandon it? And how did it become both an object of national pride and an albatross around the neck of British Airways? Ros Taylor talks to Concorde pilot John Tye and visiting fellow of King’s Colleg...2024-07-3039 min
Oh God, What Now?Supermassive Black Hole• We’re live in Liverpool on Mon 23 Sept for Labour’s first conference in government. Join Dorian Lynskey, Raf Behr, Jonn Elledge and a special guest TBA – tickets hereRachel Reeves revealed a £20bn black hole in public finances in a speech on Monday. How did the Tory Party let it get so bad? And what must Labour now cut to fix the mess? Plus, why did the Liberal Democrats do so well in this election? Newly elected Lib Dem MP for Chichester and first non-Tory for her constituency in 100 years, Jess Brown-Fuller, joins the panel to discuss th...2024-07-3059 min
Private Club Radio Show370: Navigating Global MemberVetting w/ Seth Thevoz & Paul DankEver wondered how private clubs maintain their exclusivity and reputation? This episode promises to uncover the secrets behind effective member vetting practices with UK investigative journalist Seth Thevoz and member vetting expert Paul Dank. We kick off by contrasting club management practices between the US and Europe, focusing on the invaluable role of thorough background checks and the influence of data protection laws. Our guests share captivating insights into the challenges UK club managers face when seeking guidance from American conventions, all while navigating the more informal nature of their local associations.Join us as we dive...2024-07-2650 minPrivate Club Radio Show370: Navigating Global MemberVetting w/ Seth Thevoz & Paul DankEver wondered how private clubs maintain their exclusivity and reputation? This episode promises to uncover the secrets behind effective member vetting practices with UK investigative journalist Seth Thevoz and member vetting expert Paul Dank. We kick off by contrasting club management practices between the US and Europe, focusing on the invaluable role of thorough background checks and the influence of data protection laws. Our guests share captivating insights into the challenges UK club managers face when seeking guidance from American conventions, all while navigating the more informal nature of their local associations.Join us as we dive...2024-07-2650 min
Oh God, What Now?Wake Me Up Before You Go, JoePresident Joe Biden’s decision not to run for a second term wasn’t exactly a shock, but what does it mean for the race for the White House? And could Vice President Kamala Harris beat Trump if she were the Democratic nominee? Rolling Stone Magazine politics reporter and co-host of our companion podcast American Friction Nikki McCann Rámirez, joins the panel. Plus, Keir Starmer’s been busy improving relations with Europe. No, we’re not rejoining the EU before you ask, but could things be about to get better with Labour at the helm? Take...2024-07-2357 min
Oh God, What Now?Election ‘24: Sunak’s Last Gasp• Don’t forget our Election Night live show, streaming to Patreon backers.Rishi Sunak told Laura Kuenssberg on Sunday that life in Britain is better now than it was in 2010. Is his campaign more delusional now than ever, or is there still time for a late Jude Bellingham-esque comeback for the Tories? The panel unpacks the weekend’s drama just days before the general election. Plus, is Marine Le Pen and her far-right National Rally party on the verge of history in France after taking a lead in the first round of the French electi...2024-07-021h 05
Oh God, What Now?Election ’24: The UK Farage RevivalChief milkshake-wearer and wannabe MP Nigel Farage is making the Tories think hard. Has his decision to run trapped Sunak and his party? Plus, Labour is likely to win in July, but it’s a party full of unknown candidates. Who should you be getting familiar with? And in the Extra Bit for subscribers, what’s the state of patriotism today? We’re on YouTube!: https://www.youtube.com/@ohgodwhatnow www.patreon.com/ohgodwhatnowPresented by Ros Taylor with Seth Thevoz, Marie Le Conte and gues...2024-06-071h 00
Oh God, What Now?Iran/Israel – What can Britain do?The Middle East is on the verge of all-out war after Iran fired missiles and drones into Israel. Where does Britain stand on this latest escalation – and would we be ready if things get worse? Labour has outlined its hopes to increase defence spending to 2.5% of GDP – but is that enough? CEO of Chatham House and host of the Independent Thinking podcast Bronwen Maddox talks to Ros Taylor. And it’s a But Your Emails special! Are there any good right-wing podcasts? And what would you replace the monarchy with? The panel gets to as many of our listeners' questi...2024-04-161h 06
Behind The Lines with Arthur SnellPolitics and Money: a Dysfunctional Relationship, with Seth ThevozHow do British political parties get funded? What does that money buy? With only a few weeks to go until the local elections and in a year of a general election I spoke to Seth Thevoz, political and investigative journalist, about how parties are funded.Check out our Bookshop.org affiliate site behindthelines and please sign up for my substack at arthursnell.substack.com and/or follow me on Bluesky@snellarthur.bsky.social. You can sometimes find me on other podcasts - most often Disorder which I am involved with in partnership with RUSI, the...2024-04-0846 min
Oh God, What Now?Failure to RelaunchRishi Sunak is going for yet another relaunch. Will it work? (Probably not…) Plus, plucky newcomer Vladimir Putin has won the Russian presidential election with a massive landslide of 87% which is DEFINITELY legitimate. What have we learned from this sham election and what does it mean for Russia? Dr Ben Noble is an associate professor of Russian politics at UCL and chats with Alex Andreou. And in the Extra Bit for subscribers, will Aaron Taylor-Johnson kick ass as the new James Bond, or will he bomb quicker than a bullet train? • “Sunak might be breathing a sigh of re...2024-03-221h 06
The Bunker – News without the nonsenseFrom Stalin to Kate – The weird history of faked photosKate Middleton conspiracy theories have run rampant since that doctored photo emerged. But, altered photos of public figures are nothing new. Today in The Bunker, Seth Thévoz speaks to Joshua Habgood-Coote, research fellow at Leeds University, about the power of manipulated images throughout history. • “Image manipulation techniques go back to the earliest days of photography.” – Joshua Habgood-Coote• “Photos are supposed to capture reality – but that has never been the case.” – Joshua Habgood-Cootewww.patreon.com/bunkercast Written and presented by Seth Thévoz. Producer: Liam Tait. Audio editor: R...2024-03-2027 min
Oh God, What Now?Backtrack to the Future?It’s been called “the mother of all U-turns”, but is Labour’s backtracking on its £28bn green policy pledge justified? And should we stop moaning and learn to love U-turns anyway? Plus, the UK’s education system isn’t in brilliant shape. What needs solving, and does Labour have a plan? Special guest Charlotte Santry, news editor for TES Magazine, FKA the Times Education Supplement, marks our report card.• “The £28b figure? I'm not bothered about it, it was just a pointless round number.” – Hannah Fearn.• “I wouldn’t rule out Labour making a U-turn on th...2024-02-1356 min
Oh God, What Now?Brexit: New ways for it to ruin everything!Brexit Fourth Birthday Special! As new import regulations come in to make meat, cheese and flowers more expensive, why can’t we face up to the Dumbest Thing Britain Ever Did? Tory fratricide latest: the beleaguered Rishi Sunak’s masterplan is… banning disposable vapes? Is Viktor Orbán’s Hungary about to get kicked out of the EU? And will we see Mar-a-Lago on Zoopla soon? (Due to illness it’s an all-male “manel” today. Normal service resumed ASAP.)• “The Government has effectively beta-tested every one of its ideas on people’s lives and...2024-01-3055 min
The Bunker – News without the nonsenseWhy can’t politicians quit while they’re ahead like Klopp did?Jürgen Klopp impressed the football world with his honest reasons for quitting as Liverpool manager. But how come so few politicians know how to quit when they’re ahead? Andrew Harrison talks to Oh God What Now regular Seth Thévoz about the history of political exits – and the times when leaders from Harold Wilson to Thatcher, Major and Blair just couldn’t let go.•“Even politicians who’ve said ‘I am definitely standing down’ find all sorts of creative reasons to hang on to power just a little bit longer.” - Seth Thévoz•“It’s actually qui...2024-01-3033 min
Jam TomorrowContraception: Where there’s a pill, there’s a wayA new fortnightly series of Ros Taylor’s exploration of the post-War promises Britain made to itself… and whether they were kept. In this edition: the quest for cheap, easy-to-access, stigma-free contraception wasn’t the simple progression to female freedom that you might think.The wartime emancipation of women – not just into work but into “fraternisation” with American servicemen – created a stereotype of “loose” women and racist judgment against Black GIs. Birth control in the 50s was dangerous and hard to obtain. And one of the key advocates of the Pill was Enoch Powell.With new interviews and a...2024-01-2344 min
Oh God, What Now?The Tory mob turns on SunakIt’s another tough week for Rishi Sunak as a new poll suggests the Tories are set for 1997-style obliteration. But, are the results all they seem? And are certain Tory factions turning further against him? Then, inspired by Ian Hislop Vs Jake Berry on Peston last week – the panel discusses how you win a meaningful argument in the world of politics. Is it even possible?• ”We always talk about the red wall going down, but this poll shows it's being rebuilt?” – Matt Green• “Voters care if he does something, and in the end it doesn...2024-01-171h 08
The Bunker – News without the nonsenseFrom Charlie Chaplin to Fleabag: How outrage shaped political comedy – with Seth Thévoz and David StubbsWe’ve come a long way as society but has progress hindered our ability to have a laugh? Seth Thévoz is joined by David Stubbs, the author of Different Times to discuss the evolution of British comedy from silent movies to the raunchy sitcoms of today.
"Monty Python looks a bit dodgy these days.” – David Stubbs
"The real revolution in comedy was the Young Ones. It was punk.” – David Stubbs
"Tommy Cooper is the king of woke Comedy. He’s hilarious and without sin.” – David Stubbs
“Thatcher was crucified weekly in comedy shows but ultimately she had the last laugh came...2023-12-2731 min
The Bunker – News without the nonsenseBunker Gold: Ding Dong Merrily on High– How to win Christmas argumentsOn today’s Bunker Gold, a Christmas throwback from 2022… What do veganism, Donald Trump and Brussels sprouts have in common? They’re all points of contention at Christmas time. But how do you deal with the terrible opinions of family and friends? Marie Le Conte is joined by Christmas elves Tom Peck and Seth Thévoz to discuss navigating conversations with Brexit-y uncles and Corbynista cousins. • “Everyone talks to me about politics, and it's so boring.” –Tom Peck • “My dad is France’s last remaining Emmanuel Macron fan.” – Marie Le Conte • “Communists to the left of me, Naz...2023-12-2429 min
Oh God, What Now?Sunak feels the walls closing inAs Sunak squirms in the Commons and the COVID Inquiry, we wonder what will sink him first. His defence of Eat Out To Help Out The Virus? Or his own impossible-to-please backbenchers? Plus, how would the Tory Right’s feverish fan-fiction plan for a Boris Johnson-Nigel Farage Dream Ticket play out? • “The last Tory leader who said ‘Unite or die’ was Ian Duncan Smith, two weeks before they ousted him.” – Seth Thévoz• “We’re treating the COVID Inquiry like it’s going to provide catharsis – and that’s not what it’s for.” – Ros Taylor • “Han...2023-12-1259 min
The Bunker – News without the nonsenseBunker USA: How Trump became a messiah for America’s “least understood” Christians — with Tim Alberta.Donald Trump commands extreme support from evangelicals in America – despite seemingly lacking Christian values. How has this support developed and endured? Dr Seth Thévoz is joined by Tim Alberta, journalist and author of the book The Kingdom, the Power, and the Glory: American Evangelicals in an Age of Extremism, to discuss.
“There is a caricature of the evangelical, flag waving Trump republican which isn’t always accurate.” – Tim Alberta
“Evangelicals view Trump as the ultimate brawler. He can fight for them in ways that are not beholden to Christian virtues and heritage. It is a great irony.” – Tim Alberta
ht...2023-12-0835 min
The Bunker – News without the nonsenseHere we go again: Do political comebacks ever work out? – with Steve RichardsTell us what you think of The Bunker in our Listener Survey – five respondents will get the Bunker mug or t-shirt of their choice.David Cameron’s recent comeback baffled everyone – but just how strange is it? And how does it compare to the other PM’s actions after leaving Number 10? Rock and Roll Politics host Steve Richards and Seth Thevoz discuss the history of political comebacks – and whether these moves ever work out.
“To come back to the heart of politics so suddenly and unexpectedly, since retiring under the most humiliating of circumstances, is one of the many...2023-11-2233 min
The Bunker – News without the nonsenseBunker USA: Living on a prayer – How false prophets are launching cults across AmericaTell us what you think of The Bunker in our Listener Survey – five respondents will get the Bunker mug or t-shirt of their choice.As religious fanatics surge to megachurches across the United States, how do those in charge garner such cult-like devotion? Inspiring total obedience from their followers, some have even made supporters abandon families to support their religious pursuits. How do these groups form, and what about the U.S culture makes them thrive?Adam Morris, author of American Messiahs: False Prophets Of A Damned Nation, joins Dr Seth Thévoz in the Bun...2023-11-1828 min
Oh God, What Now?Revolting Doors: The Cruella and Cameron ShowComplete our listener survey for a chance to win an OGWN t-shirt or mug: https://www.patreon.com/posts/92531764Suella Braverman’s out (finally) and former PM David Cameron’s in – what on Earth is going on?! The panel reflects on Braverman’s sacking and the latest reshuffle. Plus, free firework displays and other events of the sort are becoming more rare up and down the country. Are cash-strapped councils pricing young people out of culture? Is it even their fault?
“Braverman was a liability.” – Rachel Cunliffe.
“She seemed to have been anglin...2023-11-141h 00
The Bunker – News without the nonsenseBunker USA: Red, white and screwed – Was American politics doomed from the start?American politics is in chaos – but in many respects the US was born that way. Throughout the late 1700s the federalist party constantly fought with the anti-federalists over their opposing desires for the future. But is partisan politics really a problem? Or is it a necessity for a democratic system to function? Seth Thevoz is joined by bestselling historian and Pulitzer Prize finalist H.W. Brands – whose new book: Founding Partisans: Hamilton, Madison, Jefferson, Adams and the Brawling Birth of American Politics explores exactly that.
“Partisanship seems to be inevitable in a democratic system of compet...2023-11-1135 min
Oh God, What Now?Bills and no mates“Watch this space” said Rishi Sunak ahead of the King’s speech – well we have been watching it and it’s been catastrophic so far. Apart from vowing to halt climate saving policies, what is their long term plan and is there even a point of having one? PLUS, it’s almost exactly a year until the polls open in the US election, how are things looking? Could Trump turn it around, or is it in the bag for Biden and the Democrats? This week’s guest is Julie Norman, co-director of the Centre on US Politics at UCL.
...2023-11-071h 07
The Bunker – News without the nonsenseCashing in: How dark money distorts our democracy – with Peter GeogheganMoney talks – and that’s particularly true in politics. Will we ever know where the cash that influences our politicians comes from? Seth Thévoz speaks to Peter Geoghegan, writer of the popular substack Democracy for Sale, about the shadowy organisations and flows of cash that influence our political institutions in The Bunker.
“The Tufton Street crowd is very influenced by what’s happening in the states.” – Peter Geoghegan
“Labour promises to crack down on dark money have been watered down time and again.” – Peter Geoghegan
Check out Peter's Substack here:https://democra...2023-10-1933 min
The Bunker – News without the nonsenseHelp yourselves: What can we learn from Cameron’s ‘big society’ failure?David Cameron pushed his “big society” plan during his time as prime minister – but it didn’t work very well. Was it always doomed to fail? Seth Thevoz speaks to Peter John, head of the School of Politics and Economics at King’s College London, about the history and legacy of this policy position – as well as the lessons we can learn from it.
“The big society didn’t seem to stack up with wider policy changes.”
“The critics were out really from the start.”
“It proved to be embarrassing, and became a target of satire. It was easily targeted and ridicul...2023-10-1727 min
The Bunker – News without the nonsenseToe the Wine: The political history of BoozeHow has drinking shaped the history of the UK? From temperance to licensing Britain’s relationship with hooch has defined our public debates. Senior lecturer in public health from the University of Stirling, Dr. James Nicholls joins Seth Thévoz in The Bunker to discuss our complex history with the hard stuff.
“Social climbing happens in places where people drink.” – Dr. James Nicholls
"Throughout our history women's drinking has always been condemned." – Dr. James Nicholls
“The mortal panic over Gin in the 18th century was entirely justified.” – Dr. James Nicholls
Support us on Patreon:www.patreon.c...2023-10-1530 min
Oh God, What Now?Can Starmer Get Back to the Future?The Labour Party Conference is over – Keir Starmer glittered, but did he shine? We’ve got reaction from Labour MP Stella Creasy, Rock and Roll Politics host Steve Richards and The Trawl podcast’s Marina Purkiss. The panel also discusses the best political orators from the past and present. And in the extra bit for subscribers – what's the scary new appeal of the occult and the irrational?
“It was quite bizarre really to be somewhere so normal.” – Jacob Jarvis.
“It was an unremarkable speech and quite dull in places… but you know what – I do have a lot of time f...2023-10-1359 min
The Bunker – News without the nonsenseBunker Global: The spies that want to overthrow Kim Jong Un – Seth Thévoz speaks to Bradley HopeIn this week’s Bunker Global, Seth Thévoz is joined by Bradley Hope, the author of The Rebel and The Kingdom, to discuss the totalitarian state of North Korea and the unlikely rebels leading the charge against Kim Jong Un.
“North Korea can publicly strike and kill people in the most bone chilling way.”
“We should be grateful that people take risks to show us the truth. Some just go too far.”
"Pyongyang feels like an alien world compared to London or New York."
BOOK LINK: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/690147/t...2023-10-0631 min
Oh God, What Now?In Manchester, So Much To Answer ForIf Rishi Sunak hoped the Tory conference might be a gathering of friendly faces he must be very disappointed. The constant HS2 controversy is bogging him down and he’s witnessing rivals pitch to replace him already… Plus, while the Conservatives fall apart, Labour aren’t without their wobbles. Is Starmer too quickly knocked off course when the media turns nasty?
“There is a sense that the right-wingers are on the front foot, and that the one nation Tories are taking a back seat.” – Ros Taylor
“The Tory leadership is already underway. They’re expectin...2023-10-0357 min
The Bunker – News without the nonsenseBunker USA: Mission Impeachable – Inside the GOP’s latest attack on BidenHouse Speaker Kevin McCarthy is leading calls to impeach President Joe Biden. Irrespective of whether that’s realistic or not (spoiler alert: it isn’t) what does it really mean to impeach a president? Professor of history and classical studies at McGill University, Jason Opal, takes us back to the origins of impeachment to understand how it’s become a common tactic of American political warfare. He joins Seth Thévoz in The Bunker.
“Since the 80s impeachment has gone from nearly unthinkable to a fairly conventional form of political warfare.” – Prof. Jason Opal
“When it became obvio...2023-09-3031 min
Oh God, What Now?Crime Week and PunishmentSuella Braverman’s told the police to get tougher on crime – but do they have the resources? She’s also keen to get people back on the Bibby Stockholm and hasn’t ruled out putting tags on migrants. Plus, what slogan should Labour use next? The panel answers your questions. And, for subscribers only, a search for the Loch Ness monster has just taken place – the panel reveals the mysteries they were obsessed with as youngsters.
“I think Braverman has come out of this Summer with her position in real danger … even in her own faction.” – Al...2023-09-011h 15
The Bunker – News without the nonsenseMoney talks: what the ruble tells us about about RussiaMoney tells us a lot about a country – so what can the ruble tell us about Russia? Exploring a nation with a long history of autocracy, Ekaterina Pravilova, author of new book The Ruble: A Political History, joins Seth Thévoz in The Bunker.
“When political scientists try to explain why Russia is so weird they often overlook the ruble.”
“Many historians have a feeling of deja vu about Russia right now.”
www.patreon.com/bunkercast Book Link:https://glob...2023-08-2829 min
The Bunker – News without the nonsenseBunker Panel: Rogues Gallery – Politician Sleaze and Museum ThievesAre any of our institutions sacred? The latest drama from the British Museum has us questioning the role museums play in our society. This week on the Bunker Panel we ask the question: are we more shocked by corruption in our museums than in political office? And what is it about scandals that really grabs our attention?We’ve assembled some of the Bunker’s most scandalous contributors to get to the bottom of this. Senior editor of global news at Vice, Dipo Faloyin, and historian Seth Thévoz, join Andrew Harrison and Dr. Kasia Tomasiewicz in the l...2023-08-2747 min
Oh God, What Now?Boaty McVolte-Face“Small Boats Week” was a horrific failure. Why do the Tories keep getting it so horrendously wrong? Plus, are politicians playing up to the cameras to gain viral popularity? We unpack whether our politicians are more camera conscious ever as they chase online moments. We discuss with this week’s guest Ed Campbell from PoliticsJOE.
“The further we strip real human lives out of this, the more we avoid an actual human solution.” – Yasmeen Serhan
“The problem is that Braverman does know how to throw red meat to Tory activists.” – Seth Thévoz
“If you think about the younge...2023-08-151h 00
Oh God, What Now?Bibby Stockholm syndromeThe Tories have ramped their anti-immigration rhetoric up to eleven – can it help their election fortunes? With Lee Anderson going all in with belligerence and asylum seekers being moved on to the Bibby Stockholm barge, we pick apart the Government’s motives. Plus, who are the elite? Is it you? Is it us? Is being elite bad now? The panel tries to unpack it all. And in the extra bit for subscribers, is doing things by yourself always empowering?
“I think the Tories have decided that they want to make immigration their focus of the next el...2023-08-111h 07
The Bunker – News without the nonsenseThe Real McMafia: How drug lords cash in on global conflictsCriminal gangs have gone global. How do they use international networks to increase their power and influence? Far from being underground, criminals now run state-backed organisations and even private armies.Seth Thévoz is joined in The Bunker by investigative reporter for the FT Miles Johnson, author of Chasing Shadows: A true story of drugs, war and the secret world of international crime, to find out if established law enforcement can ever outpace the next generation of crime.
“Sanctions lead to strange alliances between parties who aren't ideologically aligned.”
“In criminal networks you'll see a lot...2023-08-0932 min
Oh God, What Now?Appetite for ConstructionThe Tories are failing on their housing promises. Quelle surprise. Up steps Michael Gove to save the day – or is he? Are his newly announced plans actually anything new? And will they make a difference? Then, as the world heats up and our political parties abandon key pledges on climate, are you losing hope? We discuss climate despair. And in the extra bit for subscribers, the panel unpacks Oppenheimer and how its dual release with Barbie could impact Hollywood.
“They’re simply announcing things they’ve already tried with no clear answer.” – Hannah Fearn.
“They’ve suddenly real...2023-07-281h 04
The Bunker – News without the nonsenseChamber Potty: Can buildings ruin political debate?From the Hague to Westminster, buildings shape the politics that happens within them. Does the design of the Chamber in Westminster encourage bad behaviour? How does Britain compare with the rest of Europe? Exploring the benefits of horseshoes, circles and semicircles are historian Seth Thévoz and Sophia Psarra, professor at the Bartlett School of Architecture, UCL. Her forthcoming edited collection Parliament Buildings The architecture of politics in Europe comes out in October.
“Buildings are institutions which help our thinking.”
“If you are going to build buildings, do it properly or deal with the consequences.”
“When people...2023-07-2331 min
The Bunker – News without the nonsenseLibel Bashers: The laws that rein in the tabloidsLibel laws have been around for centuries in England – yet the public and the papers keep falling foul of them. The witch hunt for the then-unnamed BBC presenter in early July is the latest example. The anonymity of that presenter, now revealed to be Huw Edwards, meant people began publicly accusing other BBC presenters of being involved. At least one Twitter user has now been sued over this. So what are our libel laws? And why do they catch so many people out? Journalist and media consultant David Banks joins Seth Thévoz in The Bunker.
“...2023-07-1932 min
Oh God, What Now?Nasty party to get nastierWill the UK’s new trade deal with the CPTPP fill the massive, gaping hole that Brexit left? No, probably not. So why are the Tories framing this as a huge win? Plus, Rishi and his mates are acting ‘ard. Will this new tough act win them votes, or is it just pushing us all even further away? That’s Oh God, What Now? with special guest Padraig Reidy, political commentator and editor of the literature, science, art and politics magazine littleatoms.com.
“The problem here is we’re doing an agreement with places that are quite...2023-07-181h 03
Oh God, What Now?Conflict of InterestInterest rates have reached the highest level for 15 years but don’t worry because Rishi Sunak says he’s: “totally, 100% on it”. Is he? Or is that totally, 100% rubbish? Is Cronyism getting worse? And if it is, how do we stop ministers from appointing their mates into positions of power? Did you see the all-leave BBC Brexit special last week? We did. The panel gives us their thoughts. And we get the latest mutiny news from Doomsday Watch’s Arthur Snell as tempers flare in Russia.Listen to our new paper review podcast PAPER CUTS here...2023-06-271h 00
The Bunker – News without the nonsenseBy the Burke: The man who invented modern-day conservatismEdmund Burke’s principles have influenced generations of conservative thinkers and politicians. But who was this architect of modern day conservatism? Joining Seth Thévoz in The Bunker to reflect on Burke’s legacy is Richard Bourke, Professor of the History of Political Thought and author of Empire and Revolution: The Political Life of Edmund Burke.
“Burke was a defender of the right to rebel against a despotic government.”
“Modern radical conservative movement looks nothing like Burke’s conservatism.”
“He was a critic of the depredations of Empires, including the British Empire.”
www.patreon.com/bunkercast 2023-06-2528 min
Paper CutsSubmarine nightmare, mortgage mayhem – and should you stop washing your undies?We read the papers so you don’t have to. Today: The nightmare of the Titanic submarine. What’s behind the “schoolkids identify as cats and dinosaurs” panic? Mortgage misery everywhere. And should you really not wash your underpants for six months? The Guardian thinks so.Presenter of the Smart7 podcast Jamie East and Oh God, What Now?’s Seth Thévoz join Miranda Sawyer to plunge into a whiff journalistic laundry bin.Follow Paper Cuts:Twitter: https://twitter.com/papercutsshowInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/papercutsshow/Illustrat...2023-06-2134 min
The Bunker – News without the nonsenseDefinitely Maybe: Is Theresa May getting off lightly?Theresa May is often ranked alongside the worst Prime Ministers ever. But, does she still get off lightly? And have we forgotten just how bad she was because of the chaos that’s come since? Tim Bale, professor of politics at Queen Mary University London, joins Seth Thevoz in The Bunker to refresh our memories.
“I don’t think she was ever destined to be a great Prime Minister.” – Tim Bale
“Circumstance did combine to make it very difficult for her.” – Tim Bale
“Clearly those she took with her from the Home Office weren’t the right people to...2023-06-1330 min
The Bunker – News without the nonsenseGrave Intentions: Why Brits are obsessed with the death penaltyThe death penalty is supported by a large number of Brits. Why are so many people obsessed with it? And how does politics change how we see the role of the law? Seth Thévoz is joined by Lizzie Seal, professor of criminology at the University of Sussex to explore the fascination with this ultimate punishment.
“Popular support for the death penalty goes up following well-publicised social disorder.”
“In the mid 20th century, the death penalty represented public order.”
“Labour governments were more likely to be sympathetic to abolition.”
www.patreon.com/bunkercast 2023-06-0428 min
Oh God, What Now?Redaction ManBoris Johnson’s in hot water…again. The former PM has thrown an epic tantrum over the COVID inquiry wanting unredacted WhatsApp messages. What will the Government do next – and will there be any end to this row? Plus our panel discusses “safe pair of hands” Jeremy Hunt. What’s going on with the MIA Chancellor?
“Johnson is the dead cat here and the reticence has to do with how many other people will be implicated.” – Alex Andreou
“Where is Hunt? Is he sitting back preparing for his leadership bid?” – Hannah Fearn
“There needs to be a precedent set… we des...2023-05-3154 min
Grab An Unforgettable Full Audiobook And Elevate Your Mindset.Behind Closed Doors by Seth Alexander ThévozPlease visithttps://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/2/audible/27454to listen full audiobooks.
Title: Behind Closed Doors
Author: Seth Alexander Thévoz
Narrator: Seth Alexander Thévoz
Format: mp3
Length: 9 hrs and 50 mins
Release date: 05-25-23
Ratings: 5 out of 5 stars, 2 ratings
Genres: Europe
Publisher's Summary:
With a keen eye for the juicy anecdote, Thévoz tells the fascinating and entertaining story of the rise, decline and resurgence of London's private members' clubs, from the late-eighteenth century to the present day. In doing so he looks at cultural and political developments beyond the clubs, revealing how while the clubs may have been products of...2023-05-259h 50
Little, Brown AudioBehind Closed Doors, written and read by Seth Alexander Thévoz (Audiobook extract)A look inside the hidden world of London's private members' clubs, from the late-eighteenth century to the present. If we think of these clubs as predominantly white, male and aristocratic, we could not be more wrong. Their true story is infinitely more interesting.
With a keen eye for the juicy anecdote, Thévoz tells the fascinating and entertaining story of the rise, decline and resurgence of London's private members' clubs, from the late-eighteenth century to the present day. In doing so he looks at cultural and political developments beyond the clubs, revealing how while the clubs may have been products o...2023-05-2504 min
The Bunker – News without the nonsenseBunker USA: How American guns fuel Mexico’s cartelsAmerica has a gun problem, and not just inside its own borders. Thousands of guns cross into Mexico every year, fuelling an epidemic of violence between drug cartels. Ioan Grillo is the author of ‘Blood Gun Money: How America Arms Gangs and Cartels’. He’s spent time with gun manufacturers, speaking to FBI agents and at murder scenes to decipher just how deep the issue lies. He joined Seth Thevoz in the Bunker from Mexico City.
“Suddenly there were no longer just gang members with shaved heads and tattoos; these were paramilitary organisa...2023-05-2034 min
Oh God, What Now?The Anti-Nat C League: Inside the far right's Glastonbury for wingnutsThere were some frankly bizarre statements made at the National Conservatism Conference. Now it’s over, we’re left asking: what was the point of it all? Our Seth Thevoz was there and spoke to Andrew Harrison about what he made of it. Plus, Kemi Badenoch: problem solver or is she just making everything worse? We know the answer. And in the extra bit - for subscribers only - our panel talks Succession and the parallels it draws with reality.
“It’s like they’re talking about a Conservative Party loss that they haven’t had yet….it’...2023-05-191h 11
The Bunker – News without the nonsenseNeverEnding Tory: How come the Conservatives keep getting elected?Despite endless scandals and psychodramas, the Tories keep getting into power. So why are the British obsessed with the Conservative Party? And will we ever get rid of them? Seth Thevoz is joined by Samuel Earle, author of Tory Nation: How One Party Conquered Britain, to ask how one party came to dominate our political imagination.
“The election numbers seem more like a rigged casino than a functional democracy.” — Samuel Earle
“The House of Lords seems to go against the grain of a liberal democratic society, yet it’s still here.” — Samuel Earle
“Conservatives don’t like to see them...2023-05-1634 min
Oh God, What Now?Book of RevelationsMore details of Johnson’s chaotic reign have emerged in Anthony Seldon’s new book Johnson at 10. He might now be in the history books but have we truly heard the last of him? And can we track his scandals without giving him the attention he wants? Plus, send in the subs! Our panel discusses Dominic Raab’s obscure replacements. Comedian, actor and Twitter sensation Matt Green is this week’s guest.
“Johnson may be confined to the history book but Johnson-ism isn’t.” – Seth Thévoz
“There is every possibility that Johnson may try and gather his troop...2023-04-281h 08
Oh God, What Now?Is Keir Starmer Blowing It?Labour is ahead in the polls but questions are still being raised over Keir Starmer’s leadership. Could he really be blowing it? Plus, is Suella Braverman Donald Trump’s fault? Then finally, the rise of the non-apology apology with councillors facing further pressure. Rachel Cunliffe, senior associate editor at New Statesman, joins as a special guest.
“Council elections are always used as a test bed for the themes that might come along in the General Election.” – Seth Thévoz
“I don’t think panic is the word because I don’t think anyone in Labour at any point...2023-04-181h 07
The Bunker – News without the nonsenseRun KGB: How Soviet spies warped the WestThe KGB is one of the most notorious intelligence agencies of all time. Though long defunct, how did this Soviet network warp the world we live in today? Seth Thévoz is joined by Mark Hollingsworth, author of Agents of Influence: How the KGB Subverted Western Democracies.
“The myth of the KGB being brilliant intelligence gatherers is largely exaggerated.”
“There was a game between the KGB and MI5 over what was really happening.”
“It was about planting doubt, sowing seeds of doubt, to weaken the United States.”
Support us on Patreon:www.patreon...2023-04-1331 min
Oh God, What Now?Illegally BlondeDonald Trump has had his (first) day in court. How will this alter the course of US politics to come? Plus, Brexit promises are falling short again, quelle surprise. The panel discusses the problem the Government can’t bring itself to mention. In a special guest double-header, we’re joined by comedian, actor and Twitter star Matt Green, and Geri Scott, political reporter at The Times, this week.
“The taboo has been broken about indicting a former president.” – Seth Thévoz
“This feels like the first instance in history of a witch hunt finding an actual witch.”...2023-04-061h 08
Oh God, What Now?WhatsApp, Doc?OK, Matt Hancock entrusting his WhatsApp messages to the world’s least trustworthy woman is pretty funny. But is the Telegraph using them to rewrite history on COVID? Plus, our panel gently disagree on the wisdom of Keir Starmer hiring Sue Gray as his Chief of Staff. Sunak bets on cruelty to small boat refugees to reanimate his Prime Ministership. And as Harry and Meghan are turfed out of Frogmore Cottage, which homes were our panel glad to see the back door of?
“There is no British male who has eaten more complimentary canapés than Stanley Johnson.” – Tom Peck
...2023-03-0757 min
Oh God, What Now?Backseat SkiverAs Boris Johnson drags us back to 2018 with his NI protocol meddling we discuss the latest Brexit wranglings (yes, again…). Plus, a year on from Putin’s invasion of Ukraine, we reflect on the conflict and how it has reshaped politics. And in the extra bit, in full for Patreons, we talk about the bizarre feeling of someone you disagree with making a smart point…
“If you’re applying a purity test – someone can always be purer.” – Seth Thévoz
“Sunak would be in a tricky position if he’s relying on Labour on a vote of this magnitude...2023-02-241h 10
Oh God, What Now?It's a dirty job (and nobody wants to do it)Rishi Sunak shuffles his Cabinet pack and comes up with a couple of dog-eared former junior ministers plus 30p Lee. Is there any talent left in the Tory tank? And is Sunak really in charge? Plus, HORRIBLE BOSSES: The Dominic Raab Edition. Why do bullies appear to prosper in the Conservative Party? And when does “robust management” become office tyranny? And in the Extra Bit: After the bizarre resurrection of Liz Truss, what are the best comebacks of all time?Get your tickets for OGWN Live on Weds 15 Feb here: https://lsttickets.leicestersquaretheatre.com/tick...2023-02-101h 13
Oh God, What Now?I Fought EU LawLaw, huh, what is it good for? According to the Tory Brexiteers, not a lot, as they move to scrap thousands of EU regulations. The panel discusses what an act of legislative vandalism this truly is. Plus, COVID conspiracies become the new… COVID conspiracies. Anti-vaxx rhetoric is back and being weaponised by the right. What are Andrew Bridgen et al up to? And, in the extra bit (in full for Patreons) we keep tabs on the politics of cigarettes. Get tickets for OGWN Live in London on Weds 15 Feb here.Don’t miss our new docu...2023-01-201h 03
Oh God, What Now?Sunak’s Weapons of Maths DistractionAh, a new year. A time to reflect and make changes. And here comes Sunak with his five pledges… Well, I guess there’s always next year (thanks very much, fixed-term parliaments act). With the NHS in crisis, strikes never ending and the cost of living spiralling out of control – surely we need more than more maths lessons? Plus, after Christmas drew charity into focus – has the state simply offloaded its responsibilities to Good Samaritans?
“The crisis is the result of nearly 13 years of Tory Government and it will take a really long time to fix the da...2023-01-0657 min