Bold Politics with Zack Polanski

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.

Kieran Andrieu, Novara Media journalist known for reporting on Palestine and progressive politics, shares personal reporting and analysis. They discuss why the left struggles to unite. They debate grassroots versus centralised strategy. They unpack Palestine: flotilla reporting, negotiation limits, and practical UK pressure like sanctions and divestment.

Paul Holden, investigative journalist and author of The Fraud, exposes factional networks and hidden funding reshaping the Labour Party. He outlines covert strategies, undeclared donations, policy mimicry and donor influence. The conversation connects internal party maneuvers to broader risks for democratic accountability and transparency.

Join Nadia Sawalha, an actress and passionate political commentator, alongside Mark Adderley, a director and content creator, as they dive into the disillusionment with mainstream politics. They explore the reasons behind political disengagement and share Nadia's heartfelt political awakening. The couple discusses the importance of authenticity on social media and the impact of backlash on personal lives. Hope emerges as a key theme, along with a critique of current political powers and the media's role in shaping narratives around inequality.

Carole Cadwalladr, an investigative journalist known for her work on Cambridge Analytica and political disinformation, dives deep into the intersections of tech and democracy. She discusses the alarming connections between UK politicians and far-right movements, exposing how data exploitation has shaped our political landscape. Cadwalladr argues we are witnessing a coup, with tech alliances threatening democracy. She also critiques Elon Musk's influence, highlights the risks of political interference, and champions independent journalism through her venture, The Nerve.

Rachel Shabi, an author and journalist with a focus on antisemitism and race, delves into the complex dynamics of anti-Jewish rhetoric in political contexts. She explores how this rhetoric can mask human rights violations and the necessity for the left to reclaim credible narratives. Discussions include the diverse representation of Jewish voices, the far right's instrumentalization of antisemitism, and the importance of interfaith solidarity. Shabi also advocates for a nuanced understanding of geopolitical motivations in support of Israel.

Gary Lineker, former professional footballer and broadcaster, shares his insights on political activism in sports. He discusses the BBC's impartiality and the need for leadership scrutiny. Lineker emphasizes the importance of footballers using their platforms to address humanitarian issues, like the plight of refugees. He also reflects on his political evolution and highlights the need for empathy and honesty in politics. With a nod to grassroots solutions, he ultimately advocates for kindness and unity as vital in today’s climate.

How are global companies in the middle of supply chains making billions of pounds by profiteering off both the increased cost of living and the impact of climate change on farmers? How does the Bank of England serve owners of commercial banks instead of the British public? What would be the best way for a government to borrow for investment in long term infrastructure without causing investors in British bonds to dump their assets?Zack Polanski speaks to former economic advisor to John McDonnell and founder of new think tank Verdant, James Meadway.Join Nature's Network and switch to Ecotalk, the only network service provider that gives all its profits to nature restoration: ecotalk.co.uk.Email: boldpoliticswithzack@gmail.comYouTube: @boldpoliticswithzackInstagram: @_boldpoliticsX: @_boldpoliticsTik Tok: @boldpoliticsBold Politics Live is at Crossed Wires Festival in Sheffield on July 5th.Pre-order the new book, Hope Is Here now.Email: zack@boldpolitics.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lewis Goodall, a prominent journalist and broadcaster known for his investigative work at LBC and as co-host of Global's The News Agents, dives deep into state power and information control. He discusses the troubling implications of government secrecy, including super-injunctions and their impact on journalism. The conversation touches on the BBC's accountability, the generational shift in news consumption, and the challenges of balancing impartial reporting with engaging storytelling in the digital era.