Radical with Amol Rajan
BBC Radio 4
Conversations about tomorrow, from Today.Every week Today programme presenter Amol Rajan talks to radicals, pioneers and innovators from all over the world. From populism and climate change, to economics and AI... How can their radical ideas help you win the future?As well as presenting Today on BBC Radio 4, Amol is also the host of University Challenge on BBC One. Before that he was the BBC's media editor and editor of The Independent.Episodes of Radical with Amol Rajan are published on Thursdays on BBC Sounds. You can also watch them on BBC iPlayer: https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episodes/m002f1d0/radical-with-amol-rajanRadical with Amol Rajan is a Today podcast. If you enjoy this (and you've read this far so hopefully you do), then we think you’ll also like another podcast from Today. It’s called Political Thinking with Nick Robinson and you can listen to Nick’s interviews here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/brand/p04z203l
Episodes
Mentioned books
Feb 27, 2025 • 54min
What will Starmer’s defence spending buy from Trump?
Rachel Ellehuus, the new Director General of RUSI and former US military strategist, alongside Fiona Hill, former chief of staff to Theresa May and Russia expert, dive into the implications of Keir Starmer’s increased defense spending amid humanitarian concerns. They discuss the shifting dynamics of UK defense policies, navigating diplomatic relations with Donald Trump, and the challenges of military recruitment in a changing global landscape. Anecdotes and insights about personal rapport between leaders add a layer of intrigue to these pressing topics.
27 snips
Feb 20, 2025 • 41min
Ukraine or Russia: Whose Side Is Trump On?
Bridget Kendall, a former BBC diplomatic correspondent and Russia expert, teams up with Jeremy Hunt, the former UK foreign secretary. They discuss Trump's surprising claims about Ukraine's President Zelensky, questioning Trump's alignment with Russian narratives. The conversation pivots to the complexities of U.S.-Russia relations and the implications for NATO and European defense. They also address how social media shapes youth engagement in global issues, highlighting the generational divide on pressing topics like climate change.
11 snips
Feb 13, 2025 • 40min
What’s up with Gen Z?
Nadia Whittome, a young Labour MP focused on addressing issues for Gen Z, joins Lord Willetts, a former Conservative minister and economic inequality advocate. They dive into why today's youth feel disillusioned, touching on economic hardships and far-right political shifts. The conversation also explores the generational wealth divide, with insights on the reliance on inheritance and the pressing need for innovative support like universal basic income. The discussion is an eye-opener into the struggles and perspectives shaping the younger generation's future.
Feb 6, 2025 • 51min
How To Deal With Trump (and the EU)
Join Emily Thornberry, a seasoned Labour MP and chair of the Foreign Affairs Select Committee, alongside Raoul Ruparel, former advisor on trade and Brexit, as they tackle the quagmire of UK-US relations under Trump. They delve into the implications of tariffs threatening the EU, and dissect Trump's controversial vision for Gaza. With insights on navigating post-Brexit trade dynamics and reasserting Britain's role on the global stage, this conversation is packed with compelling perspectives on the challenges ahead.
Feb 3, 2025 • 49min
Interview: Bill Gates talks to Amol
Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft and philanthropist, joins Amol for a compelling discussion. He shares inspiring stories from his Seattle childhood and the founding of Microsoft, highlighting the importance of early exposure to technology. Gates reflects on economic challenges and the potential of innovation for global betterment. They also delve into contemporary tech issues, emphasizing the need for regulatory oversight in areas like AI and the influence of figures like Elon Musk on society. His insights combine nostalgia with a forward-looking vision for the future.
8 snips
Jan 30, 2025 • 28min
Rachel Reeves in ‘Bring It On Mode’
Justin Webb, a fellow presenter at Today, interviews Rachel Reeves, a prominent politician advocating for economic growth. Their conversation weaves through the complexities of balancing infrastructure projects with environmental concerns, like protecting bats. They dissect the implications of expanding Heathrow and discuss the necessity of face-to-face dialogues in politics. Reeves critiques current energy strategies amid rising costs, emphasizing the need for coherent policies that genuinely benefit everyday families.
12 snips
Jan 23, 2025 • 48min
Trump and the Era of the Deal
Sir Alex Younger, former head of MI6, sheds light on the fragile state of global security amidst Donald Trump's return to power. He discusses how the world is shifting into an 'era of the deal,' which could make international relations more precarious. The conversation also explores the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, emphasizing the urgent need for strategic diplomacy. Younger's insights into evolving power dynamics highlight the growing challenges faced by European allies and the impact of authoritarian regimes on global politics.
12 snips
Jan 21, 2025 • 48min
Bonus Q&A: Trump returns to the White House
Justin Webb, a Fellow Today presenter who covered Donald Trump's inauguration, joins the discussion from Washington, D.C. The conversation dives into Trump's immediate executive actions and their implications on immigration and climate policy. They explore the potential for Trump's prosecution post-presidency and his relationships with tech leaders like Elon Musk. The episode also humorously highlights the campy appeal of Trump's merchandise, and the challenges media faces in covering his administration, all while reflecting on the dynamics of political messaging today.
Jan 16, 2025 • 40min
Going for Growth: Rachel Reeves v the markets
Sean Farrington, a Today business presenter, teams up with Paul Mason, a former economics editor, to tackle the pressing economic challenges in the UK. They discuss Rachel Reeves' ambitious plans for growth amidst market turbulence and rising borrowing costs. The duo breaks down complex financial concepts like bonds and gilts, revealing their crucial role in the current landscape. They also reflect on past economic crises and the balance between growth initiatives and social equity, making sense of today's financial uncertainties.
Jan 13, 2025 • 28min
Bonus: The BBC’s Russia Editor on Life in Moscow
Steve Rosenberg, the BBC's Russia Editor, shares his captivating experiences from over two decades in Moscow. He discusses the challenges of impartial reporting under Putin's regime and the precarious environment for journalists today. Rosenberg also recollects touching moments, like playing piano for Gorbachev and his friendships with locals, emphasizing the importance of human connections amidst political turmoil. His personal anecdotes and reflections on integrity in journalism provide a unique lens on life in contemporary Russia.
