The News Agents
Global
Emily Maitlis, Jon Sopel and Lewis Goodall – three of the UK’s top journalists – host an award-winning daily news podcast: The News Agents.
They’re not just here to tell you what's happening, but why. Expect astute analysis and explanation of the day's news – and a healthy dose of scepticism and the ability to laugh at it all when needed.
Episodes are available every weekday afternoon. You can listen to The News Agents on Alexa, just say "Alexa ask Global Player to play The News Agents"
The News Agents is a Global Player Original podcast.
For advertising opportunities on this podcast email: dax@global.com
You can visit our website here https://www.thenewsagents.co.uk/
They’re not just here to tell you what's happening, but why. Expect astute analysis and explanation of the day's news – and a healthy dose of scepticism and the ability to laugh at it all when needed.
Episodes are available every weekday afternoon. You can listen to The News Agents on Alexa, just say "Alexa ask Global Player to play The News Agents"
The News Agents is a Global Player Original podcast.
For advertising opportunities on this podcast email: dax@global.com
You can visit our website here https://www.thenewsagents.co.uk/
Episodes
Mentioned books
95 snips
Jul 8, 2025 • 39min
Would a wealth tax save Rachel Reeves?
Helen Miller, the incoming director of the Institute for Fiscal Studies and an expert in fiscal policy, joins Justin Madders, a minister at the Department of Business and Trade. They dive into the contentious discussion around a potential wealth tax in the UK, exploring its implications for high earners and the economy. The complexity of tax reforms and the challenges Rachel Reeves may face with fiscal deficits are highlighted. Additionally, they tackle the harm of non-disclosure agreements in workplace misconduct, advocating for greater accountability and worker protection.
80 snips
Jul 7, 2025 • 51min
Does the government want to sack the BBC boss?
Craig Oliver, a former BBC News editor and Downing Street Director of Politics, reveals the growing tensions between the UK government and the BBC, particularly after controversial coverage of the Glastonbury festival. Yasmin Khan, a human rights campaigner and friend of the de Menezes family, reflects on the legacy of the 7/7 bombings, discussing its impact on community resilience and societal fears. Together, they explore issues of accountability, media independence, and how past tragedies continue to shape public perception today.
67 snips
Jul 4, 2025 • 48min
Live Q&A: One year of Keir
Reflecting on a turbulent year, the discussion dives into Keir Starmer's principles and the Labour Party's successes and struggles. The impact of social media on politics and the challenge of redefining communication styles are spotlighted. Insights reveal internal dynamics and dilemmas facing the party, including the balance between progressive and moderate strategies. Humorous anecdotes shed light on Starmer's leadership while contemplating potential shifts with emerging figures like David Miliband. It's an engaging breakdown of the current political landscape!
Jul 4, 2025 • 37min
Weekend Edition: Tour de France - what does it take to conquer the world's toughest race? - The Sports Agents
Join Kasia Niewiadoma, the 2024 Tour de France Femmes winner, Adam Blythe, a former pro cyclist and commentator, and Nigel Mitchell, a nutrition expert for Team Sky, as they dive into the world of competitive cycling. They discuss the grueling endurance training and mental strategies that define success in such a demanding race. Kasia shares her personal journey to victory, while Nigel highlights the critical role nutrition plays in performance. Together, they explore the pressures and emotional challenges that come with competing at the highest level.
128 snips
Jul 3, 2025 • 35min
Is Rachel Reeves now unsackable?
Wes Streeting, the Health Secretary, shares insights on Rachel Reeves' controversial position within the government. He discusses the implications of fiscal discipline for Labour and whether Reeves has become 'unsackable' after a tumultuous week. The conversation also dives into the ambitious 10-year plan for the NHS, emphasizing the need for investment and reform in healthcare. Streeting's candid thoughts on welfare reform and access to weight loss medications add a personal touch, reflecting on the challenges and resilience within leadership.
125 snips
Jul 2, 2025 • 35min
Why was Rachel Reeves crying at PMQs?
Sam White, former Chief of Staff to Keir Starmer, delves into the emotional turmoil surrounding Labour MP Rachel Reeves during a heated session in Parliament. He discusses her visible distress and its possible implications for her position and the Chancellor's stability. The conversation highlights internal party dynamics and the mounting pressure on leaders in the face of economic challenges. Sam further explores how these emotional moments reflect broader governmental crises and the critical need for decisive leadership within the Labour Party.
113 snips
Jul 1, 2025 • 39min
Donald Trump threatens to deport Elon Musk
Chris Curtis, Labour MP for Milton Keynes and former YouGov pollster, dives into the escalating feud between Donald Trump and Elon Musk over contentious economic policies. They discuss the implications of Trump's threats against Musk and whether Musk might venture into politics himself. Curtis also examines the dire situation in Britain, critiquing the sense of decline and the generational unfairness. The conversation touches on the urgent need for reforms and integration strategies in light of rising tensions, all while navigating the complex political landscape.
60 snips
Jun 30, 2025 • 46min
Does anyone know what the Starmer plan is?
Tom Baldwin, a journalist and close associate of Keir Starmer, dives into the contentious landscape of Labour's welfare reform and the growing disconnect between Starmer and his MPs. Baldwin sheds light on the challenges of political communication and the need for clear leadership amidst dissent. The conversation also touches on the controversial performances at Glastonbury that stirred political outrage, alongside reflections on the implications of technology replacing jobs in sports, showcasing the intersection of culture and politics.
8 snips
Jun 27, 2025 • 24min
Weekend Edition: Euros exclusive, Wimbledon's 66,000 tennis balls & is 5-day cricket too long? - The Sports Agents
Get ready for an exciting dive into sports! Exclusive insights from England's champions highlight their preparations for the Euros. Meanwhile, a behind-the-scenes tour of Wimbledon reveals the emotional rollercoaster of Grand Slam victories. The discussion heats up as cricket legends debate whether five-day matches are outdated, focusing on the evolution of strategies and match lengths. Tune in for anecdotes, team dynamics, and the intriguing tug-of-war between tradition and modernization in cricket!
71 snips
Jun 27, 2025 • 43min
How to catch a terrorist
Neil Basu, former head of Counter Terrorism Policing, and Andy Hughes, an investigative journalist with two decades of crime reporting, delve into the challenges of catching terrorists post-2017 attacks in the UK. They discuss the psychological toll on law enforcement and the need for agency collaboration. The conversation also touches on how technological advancements pose new threats, including drones and cyber capabilities. Laughs are shared as they explore the public's fascination with crime and the complexities of modern terrorism.
