Intelligence Squared
Intelligence Squared
Intelligence Squared is the home of lively debate and deep-dive discussion. Follow Intelligence Squared wherever you get your podcasts and enjoy four regular episodes per week taking you to the heart of the issues that matter in the company of the world’s great minds. We’d love to hear your feedback and what you think we should talk about next, who we should have on and what our future debates should be. Send us an email or voice note with your thoughts to podcasts@intelligencesquared.com or Tweet us @intelligence2. And if you’d like to support our mission to foster honest debate and compelling conversations, as well as ad-free podcasts, exclusive bonus content, early access and much more, become a supporter of Intelligence Squared today. Just visit intelligencesquared.com/membership to find out more.
Episodes
Mentioned books
18 snips
Oct 31, 2025 • 36min
The Intelligence Squared Economic Outlook with Jeremy Hunt (Part One)
In this conversation, Jeremy Hunt, former UK Chancellor and author of 'Can We Be Great Again?', shares his optimistic vision for Britain's economic renewal. He discusses how the UK can still influence global affairs and excel as a tech hub, citing its robust universities and startup culture. Hunt reflects on his time as Chancellor during a crisis, highlighting inflation battles and missed opportunities in welfare reform. He also tackles the need for public-sector productivity improvements, focusing on NHS reforms to enhance efficiency.
30 snips
Oct 29, 2025 • 49min
What Are The Essentials for Reimagining Work with AI Agents?
In this discussion, Aaron Levie, co-founder and CEO of Box, shares insights on the future of work with AI agents. He emphasizes that organizations are facing a data problem rather than an AI problem. Levie explains how AI agents can unlock value from unstructured data and highlights the importance of governance and security in leveraging these tools. He encourages lean experimentation and scalability, while also addressing the need for AI literacy among teams. Ultimately, he envisions a future where AI reallocates tasks, freeing humans for more creative work.
26 snips
Oct 27, 2025 • 33min
The Age of the Strongman: Understanding Trump, with Anne Applebaum (Part Two)
Anne Applebaum, a Pulitzer Prize-winning historian known for her insights on authoritarianism, joins host Gideon Rachman for a deep dive into Trump’s leadership style. They explore whether Trump fits the 'strongman' mold alongside global figures like Putin and Xi. Applebaum discusses Trump's admiration for authoritarian leaders and his potential to undermine democratic norms. They debate the impact of his administration on U.S. alliances and the likelihood of internal conflict within the MAGA movement. Is Trump more authoritarian than before? Applebaum's perspective sheds light on the unfolding drama.
36 snips
Oct 25, 2025 • 38min
The Age of the Strongman: Understanding Trump, with Anne Applebaum (Part One)
Anne Applebaum, a Pulitzer Prize-winning historian known for her work on authoritarianism, joins host Gideon Rachman to explore the implications of Donald Trump's leadership style. They dive into the traits that define a 'strongman', contrasting Trump's approach to past autocrats like Putin. Applebaum discusses the radicalization of Trump's second term and how his administration could reshape federal institutions and democracy. The conversation highlights concerns about authoritarian tactics, media influence, and the financial motives behind political maneuvers.
Oct 23, 2025 • 39min
Lyse Doucet on Reporting from the Frontlines (Part Two)
Lyse Doucet, the BBC's Chief International Correspondent with 40 years of frontline experience, reflects on her career in this insightful discussion. She shares poignant stories from her time in Afghanistan, including the symbolism of a wedding dress left unworn amidst turmoil. Doucet emphasizes the role of food in culture, spotlighting Abeda, the first female chef at the Inter-Continental Hotel, whose resilience is inspiring. The conversation also touches on her recent coverage from Gaza and the stark contrasts in Afghan women's rights under different regimes.
Oct 21, 2025 • 36min
Lyse Doucet on Reporting from the Frontlines (Part One)
Lyse Doucet, BBC's Chief International Correspondent, has spent four decades reporting from conflict zones, shaping her unique perspective on global conflicts. In a riveting conversation with Lindsey Hilsum, she shares her early career moments in West Africa and traces her journey to Afghanistan amidst the Soviet withdrawal. Doucet highlights her new book’s theme, using the iconic Inter-Continental Hotel as a lens to explore Afghanistan's turbulent history, showcasing the resilience and hospitality of its people even in times of turmoil.
Oct 19, 2025 • 46min
An Evening with Dan Jones on War, Plague and Lion Hearts (Part Two)
Bestselling historian Dan Jones joins for a riveting discussion on the Hundred Years' War and his latest novel, Lionhearts. He dives into the harrowing impact of the Black Death and the emotional toll of rapid writing. Jones reveals his approach to blending fact and fiction, and shares why historical fiction can feel like a cheat. He also explores his characters' journeys, including Romford's impulsivity, while reflecting on the realities of historical accuracy versus creative license. Plus, a sneak peek at his upcoming book, The Castle!
9 snips
Oct 19, 2025 • 38min
An Evening with Dan Jones on War, Plague and Lion Hearts (Part One)
Dan Jones, a bestselling historian and author known for his captivating takes on the medieval world, dives into the tumultuous era of the Hundred Years’ War and its impact on society. He discusses his transition from nonfiction to fiction, inspired by George R.R. Martin, creating relatable medieval characters that resonate with modern audiences. Jones also explores the devastating effects of the Black Death on his characters in the Essex Dogs trilogy, revealing how historical events shape narratives. Expect thrilling insights into the coming battles and shifting loyalties!
86 snips
Oct 17, 2025 • 42min
Why Does It Feel Like Everything is Getting Worse? With Cory Doctorow
Cory Doctorow, a renowned author and tech policy advocate, dives into the concept of 'enshittification'—how digital platforms decay from user-friendly to frustrating. He explains that this decline is intentional and motivated by profit. Doctorow outlines a three-stage model of platform deterioration and emphasizes the role of monopolies in this process. He advocates for competitive practices, privacy reforms, and the repeal of restrictive laws to foster a healthier digital ecosystem. It’s a call to action for reclaiming our online spaces.
Oct 14, 2025 • 38min
Can the West Hold Together? Lessons from WWII with Tim Bouverie and Michael Gove (Part Two)
Tim Bouverie, a historian and author of 'Allies at War', and Michael Gove, Editor of The Spectator, delve into the complexities of the WWII Grand Alliance. They discuss how Roosevelt, Churchill, and Stalin transcended profound ideological rifts to unite against Hitler. The conversation touches on the lessons that this alliance offers today, addressing current geopolitical tensions involving NATO and Russia. Bouverie highlights the dangers of isolationism and draws intriguing parallels between Stalin and Putin, emphasizing the need for cohesive democratic strategies.
