Bold Politics with Zack Polanski

Conversations about why a politician-hosted podcast can build trust through habitual listening. Behind-the-scenes talk about production rhythms, energy, and a conversational, two-way approach. Stories of amplifying lived experience from Calais to workplace organising. Plans for a collaborative book that collects timeless ideas and supports local bookshops.

Why are record numbers of doctors leaving the UK? How can we stop the further selling off of the NHS? Is our personal health data being used against our best interests?Zack Polanski speaks to full-time GP, best-selling author and resident doctor on breakfast TV, Dr Amir KhanBold Politics Live is at Crossed Wires Festival in Sheffield on July 5th.Join Nature's Network and switch to Ecotalk, the only network service provider that gives all its profits to nature restoration: ecotalk.co.uk/boldpoliticsEmail: zack@boldpolitics.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Keon West, professor and author of The Science of Racism, studies the psychology behind prejudice. He explains why contestants of colour face greater suspicion on reality TV. He clarifies implicit versus unconscious bias and compares patterns across racism, sexism and other 'isms'. He discusses how to test beliefs, shift minds politically, and why evidence sometimes fails to change opinions.

What is the reason that Labour haven’t nationalised the water industry yet? Why are international investors making economic decisions for our country over our democratically elected politicians? How could we bring back our water system into public hands without spending a penny?Zack Polanski speaks to water campaigner, activist and musician, Feargal Sharkey.Bold Politics Live is at Crossed Wires Festival in Sheffield on July 5th.Join Nature's Network and switch to Ecotalk, the only network service provider that gives all its profits to nature restoration: ecotalk.co.uk/boldpoliticsEmail: zack@boldpolitics.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Caroline Lucas, Green Party politician and the UK’s first Green MP, author and campaigner. She discusses climate and nature emergencies, community-based adaptation and resisting greenwash. She explores arts and culture to reshape imagination, reframing English identity, challenges for women in politics, end-of-life care practices, and alternatives to endless economic growth.

Mark Steel, comedian, author and long‑time political activist, brings sharp humour and grassroots stories. He dissects Labour’s systemic crisis and media personality focus. He shares how comedy connects to local politics and argues for a ‘coalition of kindness’ to win over voters. Conversations cover stoicism, practical campaigning and uniting social justice with environmental action.

Faiza Shaheen, economist and director of Tax Justice UK who researches inequality and wealth taxes. She discusses rethinking wealth taxes, fixing council tax and taxing asset hoarding. Conversations cover how inequality fuels the far right, the power of local grassroots organising, and concerns about asset managers and elite lobbying.

Hannah Spencer, a plumber-turned-local councillor and Green candidate from Greater Manchester, talks about her unexpected campaign surge and transferring trade skills to politics. She discusses fighting fuel poverty, tackling gender-based violence, compassionate immigration policy, grassroots organising, and breaking class barriers to make politics more relatable.

A frontline account of housekeeping staff pushing back against drastic hour cuts and doubled workloads. Stories about an historic hotel cleaners’ walkout and the courage it took to strike. Negotiations with management and the power of solidarity on the picket line are highlighted. Personal pressures like rent and bills explain why collective action became necessary.

Daniel Kebede, General Secretary of the National Education Union and former teacher, leads campaigns on school funding, SEND provision and teacher working conditions. He discusses how austerity shapes pupil behaviour and narrows the curriculum. He argues for universal free school meals, inclusive mainstream education, and stronger union organising to defend public education.