Political Thinking with Nick Robinson 'It's been a whirlwind': Zack Polanski on storytelling, Zionism and Zackonomics
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Mar 20, 2026 
Zack Polanski, leader of the Green Party in England and Wales and former London Assembly member, talks about his whirlwind rise and political ambitions. He reflects on Jewish identity and why he now criticises Israel. He explains storytelling in politics, his ‘Zackonomics’ plan for wealth redistribution and climate action, and his shift from hypnotherapy to high-stakes public life.
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Using A Podcast To Build Policy And Set Agenda
- Polanski created his own podcast Bold Politics to set agenda and test ideas with experts, using it to research policy before public announcements.
- He paused mainstream interviews to refine economic and defence offers, then used the podcast insights in media appearances.
Wealth Concentration Drives Social Fraying
- Core aim is people power and reducing inequality; Polanski links rising billionaire numbers (15 to 154) to hoarding wealth and social fraying.
- He argues many societal problems trace back to inequality rather than technical policy alone.
Reframe Public Debt As Multiyear Investment
- Polanski rejects the household-budget metaphor for national finances and urges multi-decade investment framing to avoid the bond market doom loop.
- He cites economists like Stiglitz and Matsuyama and wants mission-driven investment across departments for long-term returns.