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Feedback returns for a new series, just as the BBC has its hands full with covering an increasingly tense conflict between Israel and Iran. We hear your response to BBC Radio 4's reporting of events.Last month, Sarah Montague interviewed Sebastian Gorka - President Trump's deputy assistant and senior director for counter-terrorism - on World At One. It provoked a flood of emails in our inbox. Andrea talks to Sarah about handling fiery interviews, and interviewees. Dr Alban Webb, historian and lecturer in Media and Cultural Studies at the University of Sussex, gives his view on the BBC's approach to these kinds of interviews - which seem to be increasingly common. And an episode of This Cultural Life, in which John Wilson spoke to pianist and campaigner James Rhodes, also moved a number of listeners to get in touch nominating it for Feedback's Interview of the Year. Presenter: Andrea Catherwood Producer: Pauline Moore Assistant Producer: Rebecca Guthrie Executive Producer: David Prest Sound Editor: John KayesA Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

The death of Pope Francis on the 21st April understandably led to a wave of media coverage, but did the BBC get it right? Andrea Catherwood puts your views to Aleem Maqbool, Religion Editor for BBC News, and hears about what it takes to prepare for such a solemn occasion. And what did listeners think of the episode of Witness History that came directly after the Pope's Requiem Mass on the Sunday morning?Listeners talk about Clive Myrie's Music on the Front Line which returned for another series as part of Radio 3's Music Matters this Spring. Clive interviews fellow journalists about the music they've turned to while reporting from some of the world's most dangerous conflict zones. And you might have noticed a questionnaire - Our BBC, Our Future - in your email inbox recently, asking what you watch and listen to and your thoughts on the future of the Corporation. We hear your reactions, and Andrea talks to Professor Matt Walsh, Head of the Journalism School at the University of Cardiff, about the biggest public engagement exercise the BBC has carried out. Producer: Pauline Moore Assistant Producer: Rebecca Guthrie Executive Producer: David PrestA Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

In last week's episode we announced that the BBC will be continuing to allow access to BBC Sounds for international listeners until adequate alternative provisions have been put in place. This week, we hear listeners' reaction to the BBC's statement.Elizabeth and Jack are grandmother and grandson, and are also Radio 4 listeners. When Elizabeth got in contact with Feedback to tell us that she regularly sends her grandson recommendations for listening material, Andrea was curious to know more - so she invited them into the studio to share their perspectives on what the BBC can provide for listeners from different generations.Although it seems like many BBC Audio programmes have fallen under the axe recently, In Our Time has show no signs of slowing down since its inaugural episode in 1998. Listeners Hamish and Nick try to explain its cult classic appeal in our Feedback VoxBox.Presenter: Andrea Catherwood Producer: Pauline Moore Assistant Producer: Rebecca Guthrie Executive Producer: David PrestA Whistledown Scotland Production for BBC Radio 4

After the news that Radio 3 was to cancel its drama commissions, Radio 4 has come forward with an alternative - a new monthly slot for a long-form 90 minute drama. Andrea speaks to Nicola Baldwin from The Writers' Guild of Great Britain about the new entry in BBC Radio's drama programming. We also hear about this development from Alison Hindell, Radio 4's Commissioning Editor for Drama and Fiction. And continuing the theme of new additions to BBC Radio's schedules, Andrea talks to Tom McKinney, who has taken over from Petroc Trelawney on Radio 3's Breakfast programme. He's brought with him a whole aviary of bird calls to wake listeners up with the dawn chorus - but are they enjoying it?Finally, there's an update on the future of BBC Sounds for overseas listeners. Presenter: Andrea Catherwood Producer: Pauline Moore Assistant Producer: Rebecca Guthrie Executive Producer: David PrestA Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

It was announced months ago that the 5.30am News Briefing would be removed from Radio 4's early morning schedule due to budget constraints, but the changes didn't come into place until the beginning of last week. For some of those who include Radio 4 within their morning routines, the change has been a rude awakening. We hear your reactions to the replacement in this week's episode of Feedback.Since 2021, Add to Playlist has been taking listeners on a voyage of musical discovery through a never ending playlist, added to by the presenters and guests - and it might be the only place on Radio 4 where you can hear Tchaikovsky and Eminem in quick succession. Andrea Catherwood puts your comments about the most recent series to presenters Jeffrey Boakye, Anna Phoebe, and editor Tim Prosser.And we've had a number of different questions in the inbox this week that just need a simple answer from the BBC. We've got answers for you. Presenter: Andrea Catherwood Producer: Pauline Moore Assistant Producer: Rebecca Guthrie Executive Producer: David PrestA Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

A Point of View has officially left the airwaves after a long run on BBC Radio 4, with Howard Jacobsen writing and presenting the final episode. Feedback announced the exclusive news on last week's programme, but it was before listeners had time to react. This week, Andrea Catherwood presents your opinions on the end of the Sunday morning single voice opinion slot.We're still getting listener questions about the changes to BBC Sounds overseas, and so this week Andrea talks to cricketer and journalist Simon Hughes about the worldwide coverage of Test Match Special.Finally, it's been five years since the first COVID lockdowns were announced, in the spring of 2020. Factual series Lockdown's Legacy looked back on the impact the society-wide restrictions had on a range of people - from children, to teachers, to medics. Some listeners found it impactful, but others had a different point of view. Commissioner Hugh Levinson returns to respond to your comments and critiques.Presenter: Andrea Catherwood Producer: Pauline Moore Assistant Producer: Rebecca Guthrie Executive Producer: David PrestA Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Andrea Catherwood shares exclusive news of the end of a long-running Radio 4 programme. Frequent contributors and the programme's commissioning editor give their thoughts on the well-known brand as it nears its final episode.BBC Sounds is soon to become unavailable outside of the UK. Listeners from all over the world have been in touch to voice their disappointment about the changes, and we've heard in particular from people in the Republic of Ireland who tune into BBC Radio content from north of the border. Will the geo-blocking cause unintended political ramifications? Andrea discusses the issue with Shane Harrison, former BBC correspondent in Dublin.Presenter: Andrea Catherwood Producer: Pauline Moore Assistant Producer: Rebecca Guthrie Executive Producer: David PrestA Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

As the news spreads about access to BBC Sounds being blocked outside the UK, we hear more of your comments on the issue. Andrea Catherwood speaks to Radio Cymru reporter Alun Thomas about what these changes will mean for Welsh speakers living abroad. A recent episode of Radio 4's Inside Health about hearing loss intrigued listeners - and then baffled those experiencing hearing loss themselves by including a section that was particularly difficult to hear.After listeners criticised a recent Archers storyline about Linda Snell fasting for Ramadan, we hear from the people who found it enlightening and uplifting.And what did Martha Kearney do after Today? Well, she's been talking to more public figures - but this time, it's all about their personal connections to nature. Two listeners, Christine and Kate, review her series This Natural Life for our VoxBox. Martha joins Andrea to respond to their thoughts.Presenter: Andrea Catherwood Producer: Pauline Moore Assistant Producer: Rebecca Guthrie Executive Producer: David PrestA Whistledown Scotland production for Radio 4

Ramadan has featured prominently in The Archers in recent weeks with stalwart Lynda Snell joining the Malik family in fasting, and some listeners found the storyline unconvincing, even a bit preachy. Andrea speaks with Dr Cara Courage, co-founder of The Academic Archers.Radio 4's Today programme interview with Shadow Justice Secretary Robert Jenrick provoked a flurry of comments on the presenter's line of questioning. We hear your views.After Newscast, Americast and Ukrainecast, now there's Scotcast! Andrea meets presenter Martin Geissler to find out how it's covering Scottish news.And listeners are responding in droves to the announcement BBC Sounds will soon no longer be available outside the UK.Presenter: Andrea Catherwood Producer: Pauline Moore Executive Producer: David PrestA Whistledown Scotland production for Radio 4

Women listeners are quick to pick up on the total absence of girls from How Boarding Schools Shaped Britain, a documentary series presented by Nicky Campbell. Executive Producer Clare Fordham explains why it focused exclusively on boys and gives an apology for not acknowledging the omission in the programme.BBC Sounds will soon only be available in the UK. The announcement has prompted many shocked overseas listeners to express how much they value this connection to home. Andrea Catherwood talks through the changes with James Cridland, Editor of Podnews.And listeners continue to react to coverage of global events, this week critiquing the language used by news presenters to describe the unforgettable meeting in the Oval Office. Presenter: Andrea Catherwood Producer: Pauline Moore Executive Producer: David PrestA Whistledown Scotland production for Radio 4

Radio 3 is cutting its long-running drama slot, and it's something that has elicited reactions from listeners, playwrights, and actors alike. Andrea Catherwood starts the new series of Feedback by discussing the changes with station controller Sam Jackson. She also speaks to the co-chair of the Writing Guild of Great Britain, Nicola Baldwin, about what made Radio 3 drama special.Recent episodes of Desert Island Discs have been creating big reactions from listeners too - lawyer Nemone Lethbridge's choice of song 'I Wanna Go Back to Dixie' by American satirist Tom Lehrer was defended by the BBC, but was it a step too far for some listeners?And as news teams across BBC Radio react to seismic world events, one listener gives his view on how the coverage has sounded to him. Presenter: Andrea Catherwood Producer: Pauline Moore Assistant Producer: Rebecca Guthrie Executive Producer: David PrestA Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Andrea Catherwood presents the programme that hears your views on BBC audio.This week, the first ever Feedback Forum brings together groups of keen listeners who enjoy all kinds of speech content. Radio 4 loyalists, together with younger listeners who don't own radios, and who get all their content "on-demand", share what they like and dislike from BBC Radio 4 and BBC Sounds. There's a lot of enthusiasm for some of the network's long running favourites. In Our Time has been devoured by young and old listeners, who admire the 85 year old presenter, Melvyn Bragg, for his "sassiness" and authority. The Archers, with it's new timeslots, and podcast, generates strong emotions, with the sentencing of George Grundy gripping the group.The arrival of Emma Barnett on the Today programme brings praise for a more informal and youthful approach, but also some irritation with what one person says is too much ongoing enthusiasm for her new job.Marianna Spring's library of content on conspiracies leads some in the group to consider their own listening, and there is a lively debate about whether a diet of pure "on-demand" content means algorithms pulling listeners into echo chambers. 2024 was a year of high audiences across all radio with Radio 4 attracting approaching 10 million listeners a week. But persuading the next generation to tune in is crucial to its long term future, so the production team ask some of the keen podcasters to try out some radio content. Find out if minds are changed in this special edition of Feedback.Presenter: Andrea Catherwood Producer: Marie Helly Assistant Producer: Rebecca Guthrie Executive Producer: David PrestA Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Andrea Catherwood announces the results of Feedback's Interview of The Year."It's been a long process, beginning right back in January," says Andrea. "We've been asking you all year to tell us about exceptional interviews anywhere on BBC Radio or podcasts that have really stopped you in your tracks, made you think again about something or showed off the exceptional skill of an interviewer."From listener suggestions and comments, the Feedback team compiled a short list of ten interviews, which was then handed to a jury made up of Feedback listeners to decide on the winners. They were asked to base their scores on insight, impact and interviewer skill.In this programme, we'll hear extracts from all ten shortlisted interviews, speak to the top three finalists, and at the end of the programme, Andrea will reveal the listeners choice of the overall winner of The Feedback Interview of the Year.Producers: Rebecca Guthrie and David Prest Judging panel co-ordinator: Mike Hally A Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Comedy on BBC Radio 4 generates a lot of discussion in the Feedback inbox, and this year's been no different, especially after the introduction of a new raft of comedy commissions over the last twelve months. Andrea Catherwood talks to to Julia McKenzie, Commissioning Editor for Comedy and Entertainment, and Jon Holmes, comedian and creator of one of those new commissions, The Naked Week - and they respond to listener comments and critiques. And as Christmas approaches, we go behind the scenes in King's College Chapel as preparations take place for Radio 4's annual Christmas Eve broadcast of the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols. Presenter: Andrea Catherwood Producer: Pauline Moore Assistant Producer: Rebecca Guthrie Executive Producer: David PrestA Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Andrea Catherwood presents the programme that hears your views on BBC audio. A new series of The Reith Lectures is underway, presented by forensic psychologist Dr Gwen Adshead. She poses four questions about violence and the prison system - and so two listeners who work in prison services and have lived experience of being in prison visited our VoxBox to give their thoughts on the broadcasts. Paula Harriott, Chief Executive of the charity Unlock, and Marc Conway, CEO of Fair Justice, give their assessment on how Gwen answered her own questions.And following last week's episode of Feedback many listeners jumped to the defence of a recent Archers storyline featuring a holiday lets scam. But why did some say that it was getting them in the Christmas spirit?We also heard from more listeners on the end of Short Cuts, the programme that highlights short and experimental audio documentaries by makers from around the world. Presenter: Andrea Catherwood Producer: Pauline Moore Executive Producer: David PrestA Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

A raft of scam-themed programming went out across BBC channels last week, with the aim of raising awareness about the hoaxes often found hidden in plain sight. Long running drama The Archers fulfilled the brief wholeheartedly as visitors to Ambridge found themselves hoodwinked into buying fake holiday lets online, with unpleasant consequences. But did listeners think it was believable?Short Cuts, Radio 4's experimental programme showcasing short documentaries is being taken off the airwaves after the end of the current series. There's been an outcry from the audio production community as it is how many programme makers get their Radio 4 debut. Andrea talks to Talia Augustidis, one of the audio makers behind a petition pushing back on the changes, and Charlotte Petts, a listener and freelance audio producer.The Naked Week, the new Friday evening comedy, has been launched, and presenter Andrew Hunter Murray joked about Feedback listeners getting in touch about the programme's debut. That's exactly what they did, and here's what they said.Finally, veteran broadcaster Mishal Husain announced that she will be leaving the Today Programme this month. Listeners contacted us to wish Mishal well, after almost 25 years at the BBC.Presenter: Andrea Catherwood Producer: Pauline Moore Executive Producer: David PrestA Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

This year there's been no shortage of material for the latest series of Dead Ringers. Andrea Catherwood is joined by cast member Jan Ravens and Richard Morris, Creative Director of Comedy and Entertainment for BBC Studios, and asks if it's still possible to make light of serious matters.In a previous episode of Feedback we heard from John McAndrew, Director of Programmes for BBC News, who defended the recent cuts to BBC News including the axing of HARDtalk and Radio 4's 5.30am News Briefing, among others. Following that interview, listeners have had more to say about the decision. We hear their responses on what will be missed, and whether or not the changes are justified. And as submissions for Feedback's Interview of the Year close, we hear one more pick - from listener Calum, who had high praise for an episode of Desert Island Discs in which Lauren Laverne interviewed Shirine Khoury-Haq, the first woman CEO of the Co-Op.Presenter: Andrea Catherwood Producer: Pauline Moore Executive Producer: David PrestA Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

BBC Radio 3 has unveiled a new online-only stream - Unwind. It's dedicated to calming classical music and broadcasts 24/7 on BBC Sounds. For some listeners it's unlocked the mystery of a good night's sleep, but for others the playlists are more mindless than mindful. Andrea Catherwood puts your comments to Radio 3 Controller Sam Jackson.In a week where farmers shot to the top of the news agenda following changes to their inheritance tax exemptions in the 2024 Budget, Andrea talks to Dimitri Houtart - who was until recently the Executive Editor of Rural Affairs, and Rural Affairs Champion at the BBC. Has Radio 4's reporting managed to cut through the sound of tractors roaring down Whitehall? And how do you push for fair coverage of rural communities inside the BBC?And with only a few weeks to go before Feedback unveils the Interview of the Year 2024, one listener nominates John Wilson's conversation with writer Hanif Kureishi, for This Cultural Life. Presenter: Andrea Catherwood Producer: Pauline Moore Executive Producer: David PrestA Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Andrea Catherwood sits down with Director of BBC News Programmes John McAndrew to get answers on listeners' comments following the announcement of cuts - including the axing of long running World Service programme Hard Talk, with Stephen Sackur, the closure of the Asian Network's news team, a reshuffle for overnight bulletins on Radio 2 and 5Live and cutting R4's News Briefing at 0530. Two music obsessives drop into our VoxBox to give their views on Johnny Marr's Great British Groups, a recent series on Radio 2. But did the legendary guitarist manage to settle the debate on the UK's best band once and for all?And following a week of US election news, listeners got in touch about something that might seem unlikely - the discussion of the life and works of 17th century poet George Herbert on In Our Time. A reading of "the most beautiful poem in the world" in which Love welcomes us like a pub landlord, some singing, and the expertise of three Herbert-ologists made for, in some listeners' views, an uplifting audio experience. Presenter: Andrea Catherwood Producer: Pauline Moore Executive Producer: David PrestA Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

As the dust settles on the American election, we hear from Ric Bailey, Chief Adviser for Politics in BBC Editorial Policy, about how the corporation has tackled its coverage of an eventful campaigning period, and a momentous result. After we heard from listeners on what seemed like an abrupt end to long-running literature programme Open Book, Andrea talks to former presenter Mariella Frostrup, and Arts Commissioner for Radio 4 Matthew Dodd about its legacy and what the station's future literary offerings look like. And one listener nominates George Clarke's interview about the Grenfell Inquiry on the Today Programme for Interview of the Year. Presenter: Andrea Catherwood Producer: Pauline Moore Executive Producer: David PrestA Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

In this week's episode of Feedback, former Labour Cabinet Minister Alan Johnson adds his voice to the listener comments on Radio 4's short podcast series Surviving Politics with Michael Gove. Radio 2 listeners share their tributes and memories of Johnnie Walker who signed off Sounds of the Seventies last weekend ,after 58 years of broadcasting. A Point of View's American election opinions has listeners offering their views. And Andrea talks to a Feedback listener who drove around in his car to hear the end of the The Food Programme's Eating on the Spectrum episode - which he says was broadcasting at it's best. Presenter: Andrea Catherwood Producer: Pauline Moore Executive Producer: David PrestA Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

In the first episode of the new series, former producer Neil George explains the selection criteria behind Radio 4's obit show Last Word. Suzanne Franks, professor of journalism at City St George's, University of London, helps navigate issues of impartiality when interviewing representatives of opposing sides in the Middle East conflict. And as a new Archers podcast is launched, listeners react to an on-air slip from presenter Emma Freud.Presenter: Andrea Catherwood Producer: Pauline Moore Executive Producer: David PrestA Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

The future of the BBC depends on renewing its listener base - but younger people are switching off linear radio and focusing on personally tailored forms of media. So how does the BBC compete, and what are its strategies for winning over younger listeners?Andrea Catherwood speaks to Matt Walsh from the University of Cardiff, hears a panel of students discuss their listening habits, and quizzes BBC Sounds commissioning editor Dylan Haskins and Head of Radio 1 Aled Haydn Jones on what they're doing to try and attract new generations of listeners. She also asks whether the BBC's focus on newer listeners could risk alienating existing, loyal audiences. And reporter John Rogers goes behind the scenes at youth oriented news podcast Reliable Sauce.Producer: Leeanne CoyleA Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Andrea Catherwood brings listener questions and comments to the most controversial place in the Feedback inbox - Ambridge. The Archers has been running since 1951, and its distinctive theme tune is one of the sounds the nation most associates with Radio 4. Andrea goes behind the scenes to hear more about how it is recorded, how actors develop characters over their real time lifetimes, and puts your questions to the Editor on the balance between high drama and the maintaining the values of the Archers as an "everyday story of country folk". Presented by Andrea Catherwood Produced by Leeanne Coyle A Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Andrea Catherwood brings listeners questions to the broadcaster and journalist Darryl Morris and Executive Producer Jo Meek - makers of Radio 4's documentary God Next Door. Darryl has spent a considerable amount of time talking to James from Manchester, a landscape Gardner who believes himself to be God and has a number of followers in the local community who share his belief. There's been a sensational cycle of breaking stories in the U.S. presidential campaign during the month of July. Many Feedback listeners have been concerned that this has dominated much of our news. Andrea puts these points to Justin Webb - Today presenter, co-host of Americast and Former North America Editor. Imagine taking a week long Summer break, discovering new places, experiencing a wide range of culture and music with moving from your radio. The Feedback inbox has been overflowing with praise for Petroc Trelawny's Breakfast Road Trip to the North East of England which was broadcast live every morning last week. Taking a break from preparations for the The Prom at the Royal Albert Hall, Petroc came on Feedback to give some insight into how a week out and about works. Presented by Andrea Catherwood Produced by Pauline Moore A Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Andrea Catherwood gets under the skin of Radio 4's Behind the Crime, putting listeners' views to Dr Sally Tilt and Dr Kerensa Hocken, the forensic psychologists who devote each programme to interviewing one former criminal in depth, to unpick how their life experiences contributed to their decisions to offend. The Director of the World Service recently resigned from her post. Liliane Landor talks about the challenges of budget cuts and her concerns for the station's future, while World Service listeners say what the World Service means to them. Feedback is always keen to hear listeners' nominations for the programme's Interview of the Year - anything that made you stop in your tracks, cry, laugh-out-loud, or completely change your thinking on a subject. The latest nomination comes for a chat between Alex Hartley, Kate Cross and Olivia Thomas - all members of the Lancashire Thunder Cricket team - on the No Balls Podcast on BBC Sounds. And listeners have been in touch about the unflappable Any Answers presenter Anita Anand and the technical issues she dealt with on last weekend's programme. It was every live broadcasters' nightmare - a phone in with no phones! Presented by Andrea Catherwood Produced by Pauline Moore A Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Andrea Catherwood brings Feedback listeners' thoughts and views on news and politics podcasts to the BBC's Senior News Editor Sam Bonham and Political Correspondent Alex Forsyth - and asks if this was the first real podcast election.Two listeners enter the Feedback Vox Box to talk about the new Radio 4 comedy series, Geoff Norcott's Working Mens Club. And the comedian himself joins Andrea to respond to the review and talk about the role of the right leaning comic on Radio 4. Presented by Andrea Catherwood Produced by Pauline Moore A Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Andrea Catherwood puts listeners' views on the cut and thrust of the six week election coverage to Jonathan Munro, the BBC's Director of Journalism. The ability to fill time is a key skill for any live broadcaster. Things don't always run smoothly - so what does it take to fill successfully. Dotun Adebayo, presenter of Radio 5 Live's Up All Night is an acknowledged master of the art and shares some of his secrets. Feedback's Interview of the Year has been attracting nominations. This week, many listeners picked Emma Barnett's interview with Simon Boas on the Today programme on Thursday 4th July. Simon and Emma talked about his terminal illness and how he is facing the final days of his life. Listeners found his optimism and sense of happiness a real inspiration. And Feedback still wants to hear your suggestions for the Interview that stopped you in your tracks. It could be a thought-provoking or emotive personal story, the moment an evasive politician gets nailed to the wall, or just something that made you laugh out loud. Next week Feedback is digging into the increasingly central role podcasts seem to be playing, not just during the UK Election but in its news and politics coverage in general. Are you a fan? Do get in touch with your views on BBC news podcasts. Presented by Andrea Catherwood Produced by Pauline Moore A Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Andrea Catherwood discusses the schedule change and original commissions for Radio 4's Book of the Week with Commissioning Editor, Hugh Levinson. The daily racing tips on Radio 4's Today programme have ended after 47 years. The news produced a mixed reaction from Feedback listeners. Tom Kerr, editor of The Racing Post explains why the move has ruffled a few feathers in the horse racing world. Feedback's Interview of the Year is back. We want to hear listeners' nominations for the interview that stopped you in your tracks. It could be a thought-provoking or emotive personal story, the moment an evasive politician gets nailed to the wall, or just something that made you laugh out loud. As part of this process we'll be talking to some of the leading practitioners of the art of interviewing. This week, John Wilson, presenter of Radio 4's This Cultural Life, tells Andrea how he approaches conversations with some of the world's leading artists and creatives. Next week, we're going to be looking back at the BBC's coverage of the election We would love to hear from you - please do get in touch. Presented by Andrea Catherwood Produced by Pauline Moore A Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

The programme that holds the BBC to account on behalf of the radio audience

Four weeks into the UK election campaign, Andrea discusses interruptions and impartiality in political interviews with Today presenter Nick Robinson and the BBC's Director of Journalism, Jonathan Munro. Also, we take a dystopian deep dive into Radio 4's Orwell v Kafka weekend. In all, 10 hours of the network's weekend schedule were given over to the two authors - including readings of George Orwell's 1984, a dramatisation of Franz Kafka's The Trial and six half hour discussions hosted by Ian Hislop and Helen Lewis. It was loved by many of you, but was a Kafkaesque/Orwellian nightmare for others. Andrea and Matthew Dodd, Radio 4's Commissioning Editor for Arts, discuss the thinking behind the idea at the foot of Orwell's statue outside Broadcasting House. And after the tragic death of Dr Michael Mosley, we hear Feedback listeners' tributes to a broadcaster who changed the lives of millions.Presented by Andrea Catherwood Produced by Pauline Moore A Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

It's been 18 months since the BBC first announced sweeping changes to Local Radio in England. Now, most of the 39 stations share regional output on weekdays from 2pm and then national programming after 6pm. The decision immediately led to howls of protest from staff, politicians and Feedback listeners. This week, Andrea has been speaking to the person behind these changes, the Head of Audio and Digital for BBC England, Chris Burns. Last week Radio 3 Controller, Sam Jackson, explained the rationale behind his recent changes to the station's schedule. But not all of you were convinced by his reasoning so, this week, Andrea is addressing some more of your comments.And the comedian Michael Spicer joins Andrea to talk about his new series No Room on Radio 4 and BBC Sounds. The pair delve into the art of satire and why low hanging fruit can still be funny... Presented by Andrea Catherwood Produced by Leeanne Coyle A Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Sam Jackson is Radio 3's relatively new controller - he's been in the job for just a year and, at 40, he's much younger than most of the station's listeners. Earlier this month he took the plunge and introduced a raft of changes to the schedule. This week on Feedback, he explains the thinking behind the changes and responds to listeners' comments. And The Now Show is no more. After 25 years, Radio 4's topical comedy staple ended last week. Steve Punt and Hugh Dennis join Andrea in the studio to look back over the past quarter of a century, unpick the nuances of political satire and talk through the BBC's decision to end the show. Presented by Andrea Catherwood Produced by Leeanne Coyle A Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Helen Lewis has Left the Chat is a six-part series on Radio 4 which examines how instant messaging has “taken over our lives". It delves into the murky, and often hilarious world of WhatsApp and other apps to explore how they have shaped our world. Many of you loved the programme - but some of you also found the strong language an instant turn off, especially at 9.30am. Helen Lewis tells Andrea why the team believed keeping the expletives in was crucial to telling the story.A recent episode of File On 4, Radio 4's flagship weekly investigative programme, explored whether diet groups like Slimming World can fuel eating disorders. After it was broadcast, lots of listeners got in touch in to complain that the programme lacked proper balance.Listeners to Radio 1's Breakfast show with Greg James have been left wondering where their news has gone. Newsbeat bulletins have shrunk from three minutes to just one. Professor Steven Barnett from the University Of Westminster sheds some light on the station's commitment to news.And weather man Simon King is here to reveal why he ended up Breathless in SalfordPresented by Andrea Catherwood Produced by Leeanne Coyle A Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Andrea Catherwood talks to Rachel Burden, the presenter of Cafe Hope, about the need to hear more positive stories, and gets your views on the new programme.She also hears the thoughts of Book of the Week fans, which has moved to a new, later timeslot, in part to make room for Cafe Hope, as part of the recent schedule changes at Radio 4. Following last week's discussion on the future of the BBC and the way it is funded, more of you have been adding your thoughts to the licence fee reform debate. And what's happening with Radio 4 Long Wave? The Daily Service and Yesterday in Parliament have been moved to Radio 4 Extra in anticipation of the Long Wave frequency being shut down, but it's now due to be running until June next year. So why has the Long Wave goodbye got longer? Andrea speaks to the BBC's Head of Distribution and Radio 4's Station Executive - joining the dots between the Shipping Forecast and Smart Meters!Presented by Andrea Catherwood Produced by Leeanne Coyle A Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Are the days of the BBC licence fee numbered and, if so, what might replace it? In the week that the licence fee goes up by £10, we're asking you to give us your views on the corporation's future funding model. Matt Walsh, Head of Cardiff University's Journalism School gives us his take.The Radio 4 Schedule changes have now kicked in, but what research were the decisions based on? Andrea puts your questions to Alison Winter, Head of Audiences, Radio and Education at the BBC.And Strike Boy is a 10-part series which follows the son of a striking Nottinghamshire miner as he uncovers the motivations and memories of some of those involved in the 1984 miners' strike. For this week's Vox Box, two listeners who have their own personal connections to the strikes, cast an ear over the Radio 4 series - and the producer responds to their comments.Presented by Andrea Catherwood Produced by Leeanne Coyle A Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

The BBC's Royal Correspondent Jonny Dymond reflects on recent coverage of the Royal family and the Princess of Wales' revelation of her cancer diagnosis, responding to listener comments. And Robin Edwards who was editing Radio 4's 6 o'clock news on the day of the Princess' announcement, talks about the dilemma he faced when reports of the Moscow shooting started to come through just ten minutes before they went on air. Also, we hear listeners express their views on the news that Radio 4's Law In Action has come to an end after nearly 40 years. Joshua Rozenberg who presented the very first episode in 1984, as well as the last one, looks back on the series and gives us his thoughts on why it was axed. And the BBC has reversed a decision to shorten the length of In Touch – Radio 4's programme for blind and partially sighted people. Anna Tylor from the Royal National Institute Of Blind People gives us her reaction. Presented by Andrea Catherwood Produced by Leeanne Coyle A Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

This week you've been giving us your views on the Woman's Hour series on the impact of pornography. We dig a little deeper into the issue with Ruth McDermott, a listener who has specialist knowledge of covering sensitive topics.The BBC is planning to run adverts on some of its audio content on third party platforms like, Apple and Spotify. We speak to Audio Industry Consultant Matt Deegan to get his take on it.And from April 1st, Tweet Of The Day is disappearing from the weekday schedule, to be replaced by Tweet of the Week. The news has ruffled a few feathers. We hear listeners' reaction and get the inside track on what goes in to making these much-loved snippets of birdsong from wildlife sound recordist Chris Watson.Presented by Andrea Catherwood Produced by Leeanne Coyle A Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Radio 4 is revamping its schedule from the beginning of April. Andrea Catherwood talks to the station's controller Mohit Bakaya about why he's decided to press refresh. He also responds to listeners' questions about shifting the Archers omnibus by an hour on Sundays and explains the thinking behind Feedback being moved to Thursdays. Also, we hear the polarised views of listeners on Amol Rajan's feisty interview with the Chancellor Jeremy Hunt. Some say it was a breath of fresh air – others that it was bad-tempered and unprofessional. And the true crime series Lady Killers with Lucy Worsley has been getting the Vox Box treatment. Two history buffs give us their personal take on the programme and the Executive Producer, Kirsty Hunter, is on hand to respond to their thoughts.Presented by Andrea CatherwoodProduced by Leeanne CoyleA Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Schedule changes, Moral Maze and Singers Saved.As Radio 3 and 4 prepare to shake-up their schedules, you've been getting in touch with your views. Archers fans and Record Review regulars have been quick to air their concerns. Also, Andrea Catherwood looks back at some more memorable schedule change moments with former Radio 4 controller, Mark Damazer.Moral Maze listeners vent their feelings on the recent debate on veganism where all four of the panellists were meat eaters.The BBC Singers have been saved - again! Andrea asks Paul Hughes, former Director of the Singers, if they really are safe this time.And it's never too early to start thinking about your Interview Of The Year nomination.Presented by Andrea CatherwoodProduced by Leeanne CoyleA Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

In the last episode of the series, Andrea Catherwood reveals the Feedback Interview of the Year and discusses the art of the interview with Mishal Husain, Justin Webb and Adrian Edmondson. And do we need a new national anthem? That was the question posed on a recent edition of Radio 4's Antisocial which prompted a passionate response from Feedback listeners. Andrea talks to the programme's presenter Adam Fleming about how to shed light on hot topics.Presenter: Andrea Catherwood Producer: Will YatesA Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

How often do you think about the Romans? Historian Dr Mary Beard speaks with Andrea Catherwood on her new series for BBC Radio 4 ‘Being Roman'BBC Radio 4 recently released the latest series of The Lovecraft Investigations – based on the occult writer HPLovecraft's stories. Many Listeners told us how unsettling they were. Feedback's Special Correspondent Rob Crossan investigates the enduring appeal of audio horror.And we're almost at the end of year of cuts and changes to BBC Local Radio in England, which has left some listeners worried that the spirit of Christmas won't sound the same this year, and there'll be a lack of local companionship. We hear some of your comments.Producer: Gerry Cassidy Presenter: Andrea Catherwood A Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4