"Politics, Power & Possibility – A Conversation with Lena Swedlow from Compass" In this episode  IndyPodcasters Fiona and Marlene reflect on our visit to A Scottish Spring conference back in April, where we were struck by a standout talk from Lena Swedlow, a researcher at the progressive think tank Compass. After a busy summer, we finally caught up with Lena for a wide-ranging conversation about the current political landscape in Scotland and the wider  UK, including the deeper causes behind the shifting trends we’re seeing—from growing voter disengagement to the challenges facing progressive movements. Whether you’re interested in politics, grassroots change, or the future of the UK’s political system, this thoughtful and energising discussion offers fresh insights and hope for what comes next. key themes:00:03:21   The Class of 201400:08:46    What is Compass?00:11:03    labour's Dilemma00:14:55    How does Democracy deal with Liars?00:16:53    Why are people voting for "Reform" party?00:21:34    Impacts of Inequality00:23:24    Racism in the UK00:26:27   Is Scotland aiming high enough?00:30:57    Is Holyrood pushing the boundaries enough?00:34:00    Labour's response to Palestine Action00:37:41    PR versus FPTP00:48:00    Still optimistic? Find out more about Compass here - https://compassonline.org.ukFind Stuart Donald's paper here - https://www.compassonline.org.uk/publications/the-temper-trap-how-proportional-representation-tames-the-populist-right/ Find our episode on A Scottish Spring here - https://youtu.be/iXZ7PByGONY #compassthinktank #lenaswerdlow #progressivepoliticsuk The Indypodcasters team produce a NEW podcast episode every Friday search for Scottish Independence Podcasts wherever you get your podcasts.  Remember to like and subscribe! Contact Us: indypodcasters@gmail.com  Visit our website https://scottishindypod.scot for blogposts, newsletter signup and more episodes Subscribe for free to our Youtube channel @scottishindypodExtra for more of our video footage and clips.  video premieres most Tuesdays at 8pm If you've enjoyed this podcast you might like to buy us a coffee?  https://ko-fi.com/scottishindependencepodcastsor choose us as your Easyfundraising good cause. Music: Inspired by Kevin MacLeod Scottish Independence Podcasts is not party political.  Opinions expressed by guests do not necessarily represent our views.