In this episode, Omar Sultanli explores how today's athletes are not just excelling in sports but also in the business world. From Michael Jordan's Air Jordan empire to LeBron James's diverse investments, athletes are leveraging their brands and influence to build business ventures that extend far beyond the game. We discuss key strategies like brand building, diversification, and the use of social media, while highlighting real-life success stories from stars like Magic Johnson, Serena Williams, and Kevin Durant. Tune in to learn how athletes are transforming into entrepreneurial powerhouses.

In this episode, Rhea Joshipura explores the growing tension between the United States and China over silicon semiconductor chips, the essential components powering modern technology. As the U.S. tightens export restrictions to protect national security and limit China's advancements, China retaliates by restricting key raw materials. We examine the economic and political implications of this tech war, the accusations of resource nationalism, and the impact on global semiconductor manufacturers like NVIDIA. Tune in for a deep dive into the future of this high-stakes conflict that could reshape industries worldwide.

This week, while the Democratic National Convention dominated headlines, the Republican campaign found itself battling for media attention. From J.D. Vance's awkward encounters on the campaign trail to Donald Trump's social media commentary and rally retorts, we explore how the GOP is attempting to divert focus from the DNC's 28.9 million viewers. We also cover Robert F. Kennedy's suspension of his independent presidential bid and his decision to back Trump. Tune in for an overview of the latest twists and turns in the race to the White House.

In this episode, Ivan Ampiah explores the surprising coalition of Republicans rallying behind Kamala Harris in the 2024 presidential race. From former Trump supporters to prominent Never-Trumpers, a new group called "Republicans for Harris" has emerged, aiming to sway undecided voters and moderate conservatives. We dive into the key speeches from the Democratic National Convention, including powerful moments from Adam Kinzinger, Stephanie Grisham, and Ana Navarro, as they make their case for crossing party lines. Tune in for a deep dive into how this unique coalition could impact the close race between Trump and Harris.

Christopher Lorde breaks down the highlights of the 2024 Democratic National Convention, from surprise performances to powerful speeches. Kamala Harris steps into the spotlight as the Democratic nominee, with a focus on unity and progress. We dive into the key moments, including emotional stories, endorsements from across the political spectrum, and the challenges of balancing diverse party concerns. Tune in for a comprehensive recap of the convention that set the tone for the final stretch of the 2024 presidential race.

In this episode, Joe Stankard explores the turbulent political landscape in France following the euphoria of the 2024 Paris Olympics. Despite the unity and celebration brought by the games, President Emmanuel Macron now faces a fractured parliament, rising far-right momentum, and a nation on the brink of political crisis. We delve into the challenges Macron must overcome to rebuild trust in French democracy, from battling Marine Le Pen's Rassemblement National to navigating potential cohabitation in government. Tune in as we analyse the pressing issues and future of French politics in the post-Olympic era.

In this episode, Omar Sultanli explores the transformative rise of the gig economy and its impact on traditional employment. From platforms like Uber and Deliveroo to freelance work across various industries, the gig economy offers flexibility and independence but raises critical questions about job security, worker rights, and economic inequality. Omar examines the benefits and challenges of this new labour market and consider how businesses and policymakers must adapt to the future of work. Tune in for a deep dive into the gig economy's role in reshaping modern labour dynamics.

In this episode, Sophie Chee explores NATO's evolving role in international relations, from its origins during the Cold War to its current involvement in the Russian invasion of Ukraine. We discuss how this military alliance, built on the principles of collective security, has shaped global geopolitics and Western democracy. From controversial interventions in the Balkans to the ongoing support of Ukraine, NATO remains a powerful force in global diplomacy. Tune in for a comprehensive look at the history, challenges, and future of this influential organisation.

In this episode, Emma Yusuf explores the often-overlooked world of female domestic workers (FDWs) in Southeast Asia, examining how their labor fuels economic growth in countries like Singapore, Malaysia, and Brunei. While their contributions to the economy are undeniable, FDWs often face exploitation and abuse due to the lack of legal protections and societal undervaluation of their work. We dive into the complex dynamics of transnational labor, highlighting the benefits and moral costs of this vital yet vulnerable workforce. Tune in for a closer look at the intersection of economic pragmatism and human rights.

In this episode, Ivan Ampiah unpacks the week's major interviews that have set the stage for the 2025 election. From Joe Biden’s reflections on his presidency and Kamala Harris's rising campaign to Donald Trump’s controversial appearance with Elon Musk, we explore how these media moments shape the political landscape. With the Democratic National Convention around the corner and both parties neck-and-neck in key swing states, we analyze the strategies, tensions, and stakes leading up to Election Day. Tune in for a deep dive into the race that could define America’s future.

In this episode, we explore Donald Trump’s historic bid for a second term in 2025, despite facing multiple criminal cases and convictions. Ivan Ampiah delves into the Republican Party’s new strategy of challenging mail-in voting laws in battleground states like Nevada. We break down how this approach could shape the upcoming election and analyse the broader implications for U.S. electoral politics. Tune in to understand the intersection of legal battles, voter laws, and Trump’s path back to the White House.

In this episode, Mariana Garduno delves into the world of Foreign Policy Analysis (FPA), a field that challenges traditional International Relations by focusing on the human factors behind state decisions. We explore how FPA integrates insights from psychology, sociology, and history to understand the role of individual decision-makers in shaping the global order. From cognitive processes to cultural influences, this episode uncovers why FPA offers a unique and interdisciplinary lens for analysing foreign policy. Tune in to discover how FPA connects theory with the realities of international relations.

Join Kiran Thomas as we explore the complex world of carbon markets, examining how the UK and China are using cap-and-trade systems to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. From the intricacies of compliance and voluntary markets to the challenges of balancing economic growth with environmental protection, this episode breaks down how these systems work and what they mean for the future of climate action. Can carbon markets truly help us tackle climate change, or do they risk falling short? Tune in to find out.

In this episode, Christopher Lorde explores the Heritage Foundation’s Project 2025 and its potential to reshape America’s civil service. We dive into the project's controversial training videos, which outline plans to dismantle federal agencies and replace non-partisan employees with loyalists. Despite Trump's attempts to distance himself from the initiative, his campaign and policies are deeply intertwined with Project 2025. Join us as we unravel the connections between Trump, the conservative movement, and this far-reaching political agenda.

Join us as Ted Harvey dissects Britain’s broken planning system, using the staggering 79,000-page application for a 3.1-mile railway extension as a striking example. We explore how NIMBYism and red tape have derailed crucial infrastructure projects like HS2, costing billions and slowing progress. With international comparisons showing the UK falling behind, this episode delves into why streamlining planning is vital for Britain’s future competitiveness.

In this episode, we unpack the tragic events surrounding the Southport murders and the disturbing far-right insurgencies that followed. We explore how misinformation, amplified on social media, has fueled violence across the UK, targeting asylum-seekers, Muslims, and the British police. With political figures like Nigel Farage and Elon Musk shifting blame and fanning division, we delve into Labour’s response to the crisis and the broader implications for Britain’s democracy. Join us as Ozan Anday analyses the dangerous rise of far-right extremism and the urgent need to protect the values of a multicultural Britain.

In this episode, Yasmine Kelkouli dives into the escalating conflict between Israel and the Houthis in Yemen, following a shocking missile strike on Tel Aviv and Israel's retaliatory airstrikes on Hodeidah. We explore the implications of this new front in the Yemen war, the role of Iranian support, and the potential for broader regional instability. Tune in to understand the rising stakes in this critical geopolitical flashpoint.