The Bunker – News without the nonsense
Podmasters
News without the nonsense, every weekday morning. In episodes that fit your commute*, The Bunker cuts through the noise to make sense of what’s really going on in news, current affairs, politics, economics and culture. We bring you smart explainers, interviews, fresh perspectives and under-reported stories to as a refreshing alternative to repetitive Punch and Judy news coverage. It’s the only way to start the day. From the producers of Oh God, What Now?Our regulars include: Gavin Esler • Ros Taylor • Alex von Tunzelmann • Andrew Harrison • Zing Tsjeng • Jacob Jarvis • Emma Kennedy • Rafael Behr • Seth Thévoz.• Sign up to support the podcast and get episodes ad-free and early: patreon.com/bunkercast• Apple users: Get all of our core shows ad-free and early with the Podmasters Originals super-subscription.(* Even if it’s just from the kitchen to the front room. )The Bunker is a Podmasters production.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Oct 3, 2025 • 42min
Space-suit vs Jackboot – Can science fiction save us from fascism?
Joined by Damien Walter, a writer and sci-fi commentator, the discussion dives into how science fiction mirrors the rise of fascism in modern society. They explore the parallels between characters like Donald Trump and sci-fi archetypes, and debate whether classics like *V for Vendetta* serve as warnings or how-to guides. Walter also critiques *Andor* through a Marxist lens, pondering the implications of colonialism and revolutionary tactics within the Star Wars universe. Ultimately, they consider how crafting new narratives can help combat authoritarianism.
Oct 2, 2025 • 33min
Are Russia’s disinformation warriors weaker than you think?
Dr. Precious Chatterje-Doody, a Senior Lecturer in Politics and co-author of a pivotal book on Russian disinformation, sheds light on the surprising ineffectiveness of Russia’s information operations. She discusses how RT's early strategies shifted towards aggressive campaigns and the clever use of local voices to gain legitimacy. Delving into culture jamming, she explains how emotional resonance plays a pivotal role in misinformation. Ultimately, she emphasizes the need for media literacy and systemic reform to combat these tactics effectively.
Oct 1, 2025 • 33min
House of Cards – Will Starmer’s I.D. card gamble work?
Dr. Tim Holmes, a criminology lecturer at Bangor University, shares insights on Keir Starmer's controversial digital ID proposal. He discusses the significant public backlash, with 2.4 million opposing signatures. Tim highlights security issues, the risks of centralized data, and the challenge of societal acceptance, especially among non-smartphone users. He warns of government abuse and stresses the need for transparency and strong protections. Their conversation delves into whether such a system can effectively deter crime and improve everyday life.
Sep 30, 2025 • 28min
Could Andy Burnham really become Labour leader?
Andy Burnham has made it clear he’d be up for replacing Keir Starmer, if people want him to that is. And, well it feels like many people do. So, could it happen? How? When? And would it solve anything? Steve Richards of Rock & Roll Politics joins Jacob Jarvis to discuss.
Listen to Steve’s podcast here: https://linktr.ee/rocknrollpolitics
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Written and presented by Jacob Jarvis. Audio production: Tom Taylor. Managing Editor: Jacob Jarvis. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. Music by Kenny Dickinson. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Sep 29, 2025 • 35min
God gave rotten polls to you — Start Your Week with Alex von Tunzelmann and Jacob Jarvis
Join author and broadcaster Alex von Tunzelmann as she analyzes the Labour Party’s challenges and upcoming conference troubles. She discusses Starmer's precarious public image, the impact of low polling, and Labour's attempt to handle migration issues. The conversation also touches on international conflicts, including warnings about potential Russian aggression and the implications of Trump's political maneuvers. Alex delves into the bizarre realm of conspiracy theories, including a troubling AI deepfake linked to Trump, highlighting the ever-evolving landscape of today's news.
9 snips
Sep 26, 2025 • 33min
The Cruel Ruler – Is Stephen Miller the most powerful man in America?
Nikki McCann-Ramírez, a politics reporter for Rolling Stone and co-host of the American Friction podcast, joins the discussion on Stephen Miller's alarming influence in U.S. politics. They delve into Miller's roots and radicalization, revealing his vision for a white Judeo-Christian ethnostate. Nikki highlights his role as an ideological architect behind Trump’s policies, his abrasive personality, and how he has capitalized on power dynamics in the White House. The conversation raises chilling parallels between Miller and historical figures like Roy Cohn.
Sep 25, 2025 • 31min
Farage’s poll numbers: Too good to ignore?
In this discussion, Ben Walker, a senior data journalist at the New Statesman and co-founder of Britain Elects, dives deep into the striking rise of Nigel Farage and Reform UK's polling numbers. He explains how these numbers reflect real support and attract new voters, and discusses the impact of disgruntled non-voters. Walker also addresses how the economy, particularly the cost of living, shapes political sentiments, and examines whether scrutiny can diminish Reform's appeal amid shifting dynamics in British politics.
Sep 24, 2025 • 32min
From Trump to Reform – Inside the right wing’s war on free speech
Ayala Panievsky, an academic and journalist known for her work on media censorship, discusses the alarming trend of political leaders undermining journalistic integrity. She explains how appeasing authoritarian figures like Trump only worsens the situation. Ayala highlights the dangers of self-censorship in media, particularly in relation to Israeli journalism, and how misinformation thrives in today's climate. She advocates for clearer distinctions between real journalism and propaganda, urging the public to support credible news sources.
Sep 23, 2025 • 28min
Conspiracy theories, GB News and Britain's far right – with Dr. Matthew Sweet
Dr. Matthew Sweet, a writer and broadcaster, dives into the rise of Britain's far right and the troubling spread of conspiracy theories. He dissects how recent protests have mainstreamed narratives devoid of facts. GB News plays a pivotal role in normalizing these ideas, raising questions about media accountability and regulation. Sweet warns of the dangers of 'free speech' as a shield for conspiracies and calls for practical steps to protect democratic institutions. His insights shed light on the entwined relationship between media, politics, and public belief.
Sep 22, 2025 • 34min
Starmer, Trump and Palestine: What next? — Start Your Week with Alex von Tunzelmann
Alex von Tunzelmann, a knowledgeable broadcaster and historian, dives into the recent UK recognition of Palestine and its potential impacts on global relations. The conversation also tackles Starmer's political balancing act as Labour's conference approaches, alongside the chaos of the Lib Dems. Additionally, they analyze Trump's aggressive rhetoric and strategy to dominate headlines, all framed within the context of the impending UN General Assembly. This discussion highlights the intertwining threads of domestic and international politics.
