Politicos.co.uk

After hearing what the Tories did right to secure their stunning victory at the 2015 general election, Iain Dale talks to Iain Watson, BBC political correspondent and author of 5 Million Conversations: How Labour Lost an Election and Rediscovered its Roots, about what Ed Miliband’s Labour Party did wrong. Watson analyses the lack of strategy and central message that defined Labour’s campaign, whilst also highlighting the strengths and faults of its leader. Together they assess the rising stars of the Labour Party, whilst predicting what the future may hold during this exciting time for British politics.

Iain Dale talks to Telegraph journalist and author of Why the Tories Won, Tim Ross. Together they analyse the various tactics and techniques the Tories employed that earned them their overwhelming majority. Ross highlights the efforts of Lynton Crosby in particular as the force behind the Tories’ success, bringing clarity and control to the 2015 campaign that was far from present in 2010; targeting individual voters in key constituencies whilst also relentlessly focusing on key policy points.

Iain Dale talks to Guardian columnist and author Zoe Williams. They debate issues such as the NHS, immigration, the economy and housing from two polar-opposite perspectives. Zoe reflects upon the future of the British Labour Party and the importance of moral integrity over political power. She also talks about her two new books Get It Together: Why We Deserve Better Politics and The Madness of Modern Parenting, while also revealing the three books she is currently reading.

Iain Dale talks to author and journalist Yasmin Alibhai-Brown about her new book Exotic England: The Making of a Curious Nation. Yasmin expands upon her need to address the controversy surrounding what it means to be British, herself a Ugandan Asian who immigrated to the UK in her early 20’s. They go on to discuss her many projects, from her one-woman show to her exciting Provocations series; a collection of polemics that look to confront the most controversial topics within our society. She tells us what she has been reading recently and the various ways she likes to switch off from her manic schedule.

Iain Dale talks to renowned broadcaster and journalist Andrew Marr about his latest book Head of State and the reasons behind his move away from non-fiction. He also gives us a little preview into his upcoming release Children of the Master. They discuss Andrew’s reaction to his reviews, both positive and negative, as well as the books he shall be reading over the summer. Andrew goes into detail about his love of painting, and provides brilliant insight into the pressures and realities of broadcasting, and how he is enjoying it now more than ever.

Iain Dale talks to Damian Barr about his sensational memoir Maggie & Me. Published the week of Thatcher’s death, Damian recounts a story of abuse and ostracism set in the hard times of the 1980s in west Scotland, showing how the decisions of Westminster had an indelible effect on his childhood. Iain and Damian discuss their experiences of coming to terms with their sexuality while growing up in very provincial areas, and how modern-day attitudes have changed since the days of Section 28. Damian also gives us a run-down of the three books he will be reading over the summer, as well as other projects he is working on.

Iain Dale talks to historian Andrew Roberts about his critically acclaimed book Napoleon the Great. Together they discuss their favourite periods of history, their own individual writing processes and why Andrew – contrary to popular portrayal – believes Napoleon to be a benevolent dictator. They also discuss the future of the Conservative Party, Andrew’s upcoming projects and the three books that he intends to read over the summer.

Iain Dale talks to the world-renowned author and Conservative life peer Lord Michael Dobbs. They discuss the ins and outs of House of Cards – the international phenomenon that has taken the US by storm – as well as a wealth of other creative projects that are in the pipeline. Lord Dobbs provides insight into the current environment in the House of Lords, while also listing the three books he is planning to take on his much-needed holiday.

Iain Dale talks to author and academic Dr Eliza Filby about her new book God & Mrs Thatcher, which looks to address the largely unexplored influence that Thatcher’s Methodist childhood had on her political philosophy and how this ultimately led to the fraught relationship between Church and state that existed throughout Thatcher’s premiership. They discuss Thatcher’s power dressing, the true cost of deindustrialisation and the three books that have inspired Eliza in her recent business ventures.

Iain Dale talks to renowned journalist James Bartholomew about his latest release The Welfare of Nations. Together they discuss the current failings of the British welfare state, and alternative international examples that Bartholomew believes we should adopt. James talks about the need for reform within the NHS, education and housing, whilst also taking time to speak passionately about the three books he would take on holiday.

Iain Dale talks to Stanley Johnson (adventurer, campaigner and politician) about his extensive travels, the importance of the environment, and what it’s like being the head of the Johnson family. They also discuss Stanley’s latest book Stanley, I Resume, his favourite holiday reads and the importance of learning Latin.

Iain Dale talks to Vicky Pryce (economist and author) about the 2015 general election, policy and power. They also talk holiday reading and Vicky’s new book It’s The Economy, Stupid (co-authored by Andy Ross and Peter Urwin).

Iain Dale talks to Neville Thurlbeck (journalist and former News of the World news editor) about political scoops, the dangers of going undercover, and his revealing new book Tabloid Secrets.

Iain Dale talks to Gyles Brandreth (writer, broadcaster, former MP and government whip) in the first of this podcast series. They talk favourite reads, life ambitions, being shunned and political diaries, as well as discussing Gyles Brandreth’s latest political book, Breaking the Code.