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Iain Dale interviews journalist and editor of The Oldie magazine Harry Mount about the art of writing a good column, the pressures of being an editor, having a famous father and what kind of impact that had on his childhood - and more!
This week: Wild Wes. Ahead of next week's vote on whether to legalise assisted dying, Health Secretary Wes Streeting is causing trouble for Keir Starmer, writes Katy Balls in the magazine this week. Starmer has been clear that he doesn't want government ministers to be too outspoken on the issue ahead of a free vote in Parliament. But Streeting's opposition is well-known. How much of a headache is this for Starmer? And does this speak to wider ambitions that Wes might have? Katy joins the podcast to discuss, alongside Labour MP Steve Race. Steve explains why he plans to vote in favour of the change in the law next week (00:57). Then: how concerned should we be about medical misinformation? President-elect Donald Trump has announced vaccine sceptic Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as his pick for Secretary of Health and Human Services in the US. In the magazine this week, Matt Ridley explains that it's not the man himself that's as interesting, as the reasons how he has ended up in such a position: scientific misinformation has fuelled his rise. So how concerned should we be about medical misinformation? Firstly, Matt joined the podcast to explain his thesis and why reactions to the covid pandemic are to blame (16:24). Later, Sander van der Linden, professor of social psychology at the University of Cambridge, also joins the podcast to discuss his concerns and how susceptible we are here in Britain to misinformation (23:46). And finally: did you know that crude graffiti has a storied history? Harry Mount examines the notorious penis gang that has appeared in Dulwich, daubing penises across trees. Whatever you think of such graffiti, scribbling phalluses, and even erotic art, are actually as old as time – from ancient Rome to India. What's the line between graffiti and erotic art? And should Westerners be less prudish when confronted with these images? Harry joins the podcast alongside Indian academic Dr Alka Pande (30:50). Hosted by William Moore and Lara Prendergast. Produced by Patrick Gibbons.
This week: Wild Wes. Ahead of next week's vote on whether to legalise assisted dying, Health Secretary Wes Streeting is causing trouble for Keir Starmer, writes Katy Balls in the magazine this week. Starmer has been clear that he doesn't want government ministers to be too outspoken on the issue ahead of a free vote in Parliament. But Streeting's opposition is well-known. How much of a headache is this for Starmer? And does this speak to wider ambitions that Wes might have? Katy joins the podcast to discuss, alongside Labour MP Steve Race. Steve explains why he plans to vote in favour of the change in the law next week (00:57). Then: how concerned should we be about medical misinformation? President-elect Donald Trump has announced vaccine sceptic Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as his pick for Secretary of Health and Human Services in the US. In the magazine this week, Matt Ridley explains that it's not the man himself that's as interesting, as the reasons how he has ended up in such a position: scientific misinformation has fuelled his rise. So how concerned should we be about medical misinformation? Firstly, Matt joined the podcast to explain his thesis and why reactions to the covid pandemic are to blame (16:24). Later, Sander van der Linden, professor of social psychology at the University of Cambridge, also joins the podcast to discuss his concerns and how susceptible we are here in Britain to misinformation (23:46). And finally: did you know that crude graffiti has a storied history? Harry Mount examines the notorious penis gang that has appeared in Dulwich, daubing penises across trees. Whatever you think of such graffiti, scribbling phalluses, and even erotic art, are actually as old as time – from ancient Rome to India. What's the line between graffiti and erotic art? And should Westerners be less prudish when confronted with these images? Harry joins the podcast alongside academic, and author of Pha(bu)llus: A Cultural History, Dr Alka Pande (30:50). Hosted by William Moore and Lara Prendergast. Produced by Patrick Gibbons.
Writer Guy Stagg threw in his job to undertake a pilgrimage to Jerusalem via Rome - choosing a hazardous medieval route across the Alps. It nearly killed him: at one stage, trying to cross a broken bridge in Switzerland, he ended up partially submerged in the water, held up only by his rucksack. On this episode of Holy Smoke, from the archives, Guy explains why his journey was a pilgrimage, not just travels. And Damian Thompson talks to Harry Mount, editor of The Oldie, about why he's irresistibly drawn to church buildings while remaining an unbeliever - albeit an agnostic rather than an atheist.
Writer Guy Stagg threw in his job to undertake a pilgrimage to Jerusalem via Rome - choosing a hazardous medieval route across the Alps. It nearly killed him: at one stage, trying to cross a broken bridge in Switzerland, he ended up partially submerged in the water, held up only by his rucksack. On this episode of Holy Smoke, from the archives, Guy explains why his journey was a pilgrimage, not just travels. And Damian Thompson talks to Harry Mount, editor of The Oldie, about why he's irresistibly drawn to church buildings while remaining an unbeliever - albeit an agnostic rather than an atheist.
This week: how forgiveness was forgotten, why the secular tide might be turning, and looking for romance at the British museum. Up first: The case of Frank Hester points to something deep going on in our culture, writes Douglas Murray in the magazine this week. ‘We have never had to deal with anything like this before. Any mistake can rear up in front of you again – whether five years later (as with Hester) or decades on.' American lawyer and author of Cancel Culture: the latest attack on free speech, Alan Dershowitz, joins the podcast to discuss whether forgiveness has been forgotten. (02:11) Then: Will and Lara take us through some of their favourite pieces from the magazine, including Svitlana Morenets' article on Ukraine's fertility crisis and Sophie Winkleman's notebook. Next: Justin Brierley writes for The Spectator about the return of religiosity. He argues that after a period of decline, the secular tide is turning with young people returning to Christianity. However he expresses some concern that the flag bearers for this new Christianity – the likes of Joe Rogan and Jordan Peterson – might not be the most sincere. Justin joins the podcast alongside Tom Holland, co-host of The Rest is History podcast and author of Dominion: how the Christian revolution remade the world. (13:39) And finally: looking for love at the British museum. Harry Mount was dispatched to the British museum this week to investigate its new function as a pick up spot. The museum ran a marketing campaign promoting a new exhibition as an opportunity for single women to find single men. The post read: ‘Girlies, if you're single and looking for a man, this is your sign to go to the British Museum's new exhibition, Life in the Roman Army, and walk around looking confused. You're welcome x.' It added: ‘Come for the Romans, stay for some romance.' Harry joins the podcast alongside fellow classicist Daisy Dunn. (23:51) Stay tuned for a short snippet of Rory Sutherland's proposed new podcast where he interviews leading thinking about trivial topics! (31:27) Hosted by Lara Prendergast and William Moore. Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
This week: how forgiveness was forgotten, why the secular tide might be turning, and looking for romance at the British museum. Up first: The case of Frank Hester points to something deep going on in our culture, writes Douglas Murray in the magazine this week. ‘We have never had to deal with anything like this before. Any mistake can rear up in front of you again – whether five years later (as with Hester) or decades on.' American lawyer and author of Cancel Culture: the latest attack on free speech, Alan Dershowitz, joins the podcast to discuss whether forgiveness has been forgotten. (02:11) Then: Will and Lara take us through some of their favourite pieces from the magazine, including Svitlana Morenets' article on Ukraine's fertility crisis and Sophie Winkleman's notebook. Next: Justin Brierley writes for The Spectator about the return of religiosity. He argues that after a period of decline, the secular tide is turning with young people returning to Christianity. However he expresses some concern that the flag bearers for this new Christianity – the likes of Joe Rogan and Jordan Peterson – might not be the most sincere. Justin joins the podcast alongside Tom Holland, co-host of The Rest is History podcast and author of Dominion: how the Christian revolution remade the world. (13:39) And finally: looking for love at the British museum. Harry Mount was dispatched to the British museum this week to investigate its new function as a pick up spot. The museum ran a marketing campaign promoting a new exhibition as an opportunity for single women to find single men. The post read: ‘Girlies, if you're single and looking for a man, this is your sign to go to the British Museum's new exhibition, Life in the Roman Army, and walk around looking confused. You're welcome x.' It added: ‘Come for the Romans, stay for some romance.' Harry joins the podcast alongside fellow classicist Daisy Dunn. (23:51) Stay tuned for a short snippet of Rory Sutherland's proposed new podcast where he interviews leading thinking about trivial topics! (31:27) Hosted by Lara Prendergast and William Moore. Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
On this week's Spectator Out Loud, Harry Mount reads his diary, in which he recounts a legendary face-off between Barry Humphries and John Lennon (00:45); Lara Prendergast gives her tips for male beauty (06:15); Owen Matthews reports from Kyiv about the Ukrainians' unbroken spirit (12:40); Catriona Olding writes on the importance of choosing how to spend one's final days (18:40); and Jeremy Hildreth reads his Notes On Napoleon's coffee. Produced by Cindy Yu, Margaret Mitchell, Max Jeffery and Natasha Feroze.
On this week's Spectator Out Loud, Harry Mount reads his diary, in which he recounts a legendary face-off between Barry Humphries and John Lennon (00:45); Lara Prendergast gives her tips for male beauty (06:15); Owen Matthews reports from Kyiv about the Ukrainians' unbroken spirit (12:40); Catriona Olding writes on the importance of choosing how to spend one's final days (18:40); and Jeremy Hildreth reads his Notes On Napoleon's coffee. Produced by Cindy Yu, Margaret Mitchell, Max Jeffery and Natasha Feroze.
On this week's episode, Lionel Shriver asks if Donald Trump can get a fair trial in America (00:39), Angus Colwell speaks to the Gen-Zers who would fight for Britain (08:25), Matthew Parris makes the case for assisted dying (13:15), Toby Young tells the story of the time he almost died on his gap year (20:43), and Harry Mount tells us about the grim life of a Roman legionary (25:38).
On this week's episode, Lionel Shriver asks if Donald Trump can get a fair trial in America (00:39), Angus Colwell speaks to the Gen-Zers who would fight for Britain (08:25), Matthew Parris makes the case for assisted dying (13:15), Toby Young tells the story of the time he almost died on his gap year (20:43), and Harry Mount tells us about the grim life of a Roman legionary (25:38).
Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day for January 17, 2024 is: whinge WINJ verb Whinge is a verb used especially in British English to mean "to complain fretfully." // Everyone at the pub was whinging about the television not working. See the entry > Examples: "In his customary forthright manner, [Prince] Philip wanted to do much more than whinge about the environment. In 1970, he told the Conference on World Pollution: 'It's totally useless for a lot of well-meaning people to wring their hands in conference and to point out the dangers of pollution, or the destruction of the countryside, if no one is willing or capable of taking any action.'" — Harry Mount, The Independent (United Kingdom), 9 Nov. 2023 Did you know? One of the strengths of the English language is the nuance it exhibits when called upon to supply words for every possible kind of whining and complaining. We English users vent, we lament, we fuss and grouse and kvetch. We also—especially those of us across the pond—have a tendency to whinge. Contrary to appearances, whinge is etymologically distinct from whine. The latter traces to an Old English verb, hwīnan, meaning "to hum or whir like a speeding object (such as an arrow) through the air." When hwīnan became whine in Middle English, it meant "to wail distressfully"; whine didn't acquire its "complain" sense until the 16th century. Whinge, on the other hand, comes from a different Old English verb, hwinsian, meaning "to wail or moan discontentedly." Whinge retains that original sense today, though nowadays it puts less emphasis on the sound of the complaining and more on the discontentment behind all the whinging and moaning.
This week: In the magazine we look at the Wagner Group's failed coup and its implications for Putin's reign. The Spectator's Russia correspondent Owen Matthews examines why the Kremlin permits the existence of private armies such as Prigozhin's Wagner Group, and joins the podcast alongside Jim Townsend, former deputy secretary of defence for European and NATO policy under the Obama administration. (01:15) Also this week: The Spectator's special projects editor Ben Lazarus writes this week about the claims made in the recent Mirror Group phone hacking trial, and the man orchestrating many of the accusations, Graham Johnson. He is joined by Neil Wallis, commentator and former deputy editor of the News of the World, to investigate the convicted phone-hacker assembling complaints against the tabloids. (13:39) And finally: Harry Mount takes a look at the lewdness and lyricism of ancient Roman graffiti in the magazine, and takes us through some of the most rude and amusing examples that have been excavated in Rome and Pompeii. He joins the podcast alongside street artist Sarah Yates, aka Faunagraphic. (27:24) Hosted by Lara Prendergast and William Moore. Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
This week: In the magazine we look at the Wagner Group's failed coup and its implications for Putin's reign. The Spectator's Russia correspondent Owen Matthews examines why the Kremlin permits the existence of private armies such as Prigozhin's Wagner Group, and joins the podcast alongside Jim Townsend, former deputy secretary of defence for European and NATO policy under the Obama administration. (01:15) Also this week: The Spectator's special projects editor Ben Lazarus writes this week about the claims made in the recent Mirror Group phone hacking trial, and the man orchestrating many of the accusations, Graham Johnson. He is joined by Neil Wallis, commentator and former deputy editor of the News of the World, to investigate the convicted phone-hacker assembling complaints against the tabloids. (13:39) And finally: Harry Mount takes a look at the lewdness and lyricism of ancient Roman graffiti in the magazine, and takes us through some of the most rude and amusing examples that have been excavated in Rome and Pompeii. He joins the podcast alongside street artist Sarah Yates, aka Faunagraphic. (27:24) Hosted by Lara Prendergast and William Moore. Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Remarks from Harry Mount on the publication of his new book Et Tu, Brute? The Best Latin Lines Ever.
Harry Mount is an author, journalist, and editor of The Oldie magazine. The monthly British title describes itself as a “light-hearted alternative to a press obsessed with youth and celebrity.” A former New York correspondent for The Daily Telegraph who remains a regular contributor to The Spectator, Daily Mail, and Evening Standard, he became editor of The Oldie in 2014, following the untimely death of his predecessor Alexander Chancellor. In this in-depth interview, Harry reflects on the magazine's upcoming 30th anniversary, and how it's “stood the test of time”, always staying true to its original aim of being “jokey, funny, cynical, and aimed predominantly at old people”; shares his surprise at how enthusiastically his readership has embraced the move to digital, with the website, app and podcast all popular; and discusses his close-up experience of working with two “Fleet Street legends”, Charles Moore and Paul Dacre - praising the former's “meticulous” work and the latter for his “sixth sense” when selecting stories which matter to readers.
On the latest episode of Farage: Nigel Farage is joined by Harry Mount, Author of the Wit and Wisdom of Boris Johnson, former Head of the WHO Cancer Programme, Karol Sikora, GB News Home and Security Editor Mark White, and body language expert Judi James joins Nigel in the GB News pub for Talking Pints. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.
Harry Mount hosts the Oldie Gang Show with guests Andrew Lownie, David Starkey and Dame Eileen Atkins. Andrew Lownie reveals the true nature of the Duke of Windsor, the subject of his book, Traitor King: The Scandalous Exile of the Duke and Duchess of Windsor. Historian and broadcaster, David Starkey, paints a dynamic portrayal of Henry VIII as the both pivotal to British history and the progenitor of Brexit. Henry VIII is also essential for understanding the role of the Prime Minister and Parliament today. Dame Eileen Atkins is in conversation with Oldie veteran contributor Valerie Grove. Atkin's memoir, Will She Do? is a frank and funny chronicle of Eileen's journey from a Tottenham council estate - entertaining in men's clubs as Baby Eileen - to dominating the English stage and screen as an actor and writer. January 19, 2022 at the Reform Club
In the spirit of Plato's Symposium, the Slightly Foxed team enter into lively dialogue with two distinguished magazine editors, Tom Hodgkinson of the Idler and Harry Mount of the Oldie, and learn lessons from notable loafers in literature. We begin with Doctor Johnson, an icon of indolence who wrote an essay called ‘The Idler' and liked time to ponder; this lazy lexicographer claimed his dictionary would take three years to write when in fact it would take nine . . . The wisdom-loving philosophers of Ancient Greece made a case for carving out leisure time, while the anchorite Julian of Norwich favoured a life of seclusion in which ‘all shall be well'. At the age of thirty-eight Michel de Montaigne retired to a grand book-filled chateau to test out ideas in essays, while George Orwell wrote book reviews in hungover misery. Izaak Walton found contemplation in The Compleat Angler and Jerome K. Jerome found humour in Idle Thoughts of an Idle Fellow, while the autodidactic Mitford sisters sought wild freedom. We enjoy a leisurely spell with loungers in fiction, visiting Lady Bertram and her pug in Mansfield Park, taking to Lady Diana Cooper's bed in A Handful of Dust, retreating to Aunt Ada Doom's room in Cold Comfort Farm, settling into the quiet comfort of Mycroft Holmes's Diogenes Club and meeting Thomas Love Peacock's Honourable Mr Listless along the way. And, to finish, there are the usual wide-ranging reading recommendations for when you have an idle moment. (Episode duration: 46 minutes; 56 seconds) Books Mentioned We may be able to get hold of second-hand copies of the out-of-print titles listed below. Please get in touch with Jess in the Slightly Foxed office for more information. Izaak Walton, The Compleat Angler (9:49) Michel de Montaigne, The Complete Essays (11:48) Sarah Bakewell, How to Live (13:05) Plato, Symposium (17:51) Janina Ramirez, Julian of Norwich (18:58) Evelyn Waugh, A Handful of Dust (26:53) Oscar Wilde, The Importance of Being Earnest (28:21) Jerome K. Jerome, Three Men in a Boat; Idle Thoughts of an Idle Fellow is out of print (29:44) Robert Burton, The Anatomy of Melancholy will be available in a new edition in July 2022 (32:29) Stella Gibbons, Cold Comfort Farm (34:41) Geoffrey Willans, The Lost Diaries of Nigel Molesworth is out of print (39:51) Gamel Woolsey, Death's Other Kingdom (40:40) Thomas Love Peacock, Nightmare Abbey (42:29) David Graeber and David Wengrow, The Dawn of Everything (43:28) Jane Smiley, The Strays of Paris (46:56) Related Slightly Foxed Articles ‘Study to be quiet', Ken Haigh on Izaak Walton, The Compleat Angler, Issue 54 (9:49) The Great Self-Examiner, Anthony Wells on the essays of Michel de Montaigne, Issue 69 (11:48) Poste-Freudian Therapy, Michele Hanson on Stella Gibbons, Cold Comfort Farm, Issue 10 (34:41) Peacock's Progress, J. W. M. Thompson on Thomas Love Peacock, Headlong Hall; Crotchet Castle, Issue 5 (42:29) Other Links The Idler magazine The Oldie magazine Opening music: Preludio from Violin Partita No.3 in E Major by Bach The Slightly Foxed Podcast is hosted by Philippa Lamb and produced by Podcastable
Prompted by the sad death of Richard Rogers, Giles and Mary discuss modern architecture, foreign versus domestic holidays and their Christmas plans @gilesandmary1 @oldiemagazine #podcast
In this week's discussion of the news headlines, Giles and Mary discuss lying, Patricia Highsmith's murder theory and the robin's territorial wars @gilesandmary1 @oldiemagazine #podcast
In this week's broadcast, Giles and Mary discuss Meghan Markle, snogging and the overuse of the word 'crisis' @maryandgiles1 @oldiemagazine #podcast
In this week's Newsround, Giles and Mary discuss Jeremy Clarkson's new beer, the slanting shadows of winter sunlight and the difference between omicron and omega @oldiemagazine @gilesandmary1
In this week's Newsround, Giles Wood and Mary Killen choose their dream retirement home - Fawlty Towers. They also discuss whether it's rude to send a list of Christmas present requests and a new phenomenon, Hogo - the Hassle of Going Out @oldiemagazine @gilesandmary1
In this week's Newsround, Giles Wood and Mary Killen discuss Meghan Markle and the art of apologising, the pleasures of going to jail - and autumn leaves @gilesandmary1 @oldiemagazine #podcast #episode
In this week's Oldie Newsround, Giles Wood and Mary Killen discuss irritable drinkers, Britain's booming population of grey seals and the horrors of Patricia Highsmith
In this week's Oldie Newsround, Giles Wood and his wife Mary Killen discuss what to do when your spouse lets you down, what to do in the country and how much money you need for an interesting life. @OldieMagazine @gilesandmary #podcast #gilesandmary
Little Amal, a giant puppet of a refugee girl, will complete her epic journey from Gaziantep on the Turkey/Syria border to Manchester tomorrow. Theatre director David Lan discusses what the project has achieved. Euripides' tragedy Herakles was first performed in 416BC. The poet Anne Carson's new translation mentions contemporary artist Anselm Kiefer, an Airstream trailer and a lawnmower. The text is torn and pasted, scattered along with drawings. Carson talks Tom Sutcliffe about her version, titled H of H Playbook. On Saturday, the National Trust held its annual general meeting where members expressed their concerns and hopes for the organisation which has been rather embattled in recent months. The art historian, Bendor Grosvenor, and the editor of The Oldie, Harry Mount, join Front Row to discuss whether the National Trust needs to pause or steam ahead with its current plans. Paul McCartney discusses Junk, a song he originally wrote for the Beatles in 1968, but which was first released on his debut solo album McCartney in 1970.
In this week's Oldie Newsround, Giles and Mary reveal the best way to turn down a party invitation and how to build the perfect fire. @Oldiemagazine @gilesandmary #gilesandmary #podcast
In a new podcast series, welcome to the weekly round-up of the news by Oldie columnist Giles Wood and his wife, Mary Killen, the Spectator's agony aunt. This week, they discuss the Queen's genius at hitting the nail on the head; why William Morris wallpaper improves any house; and why George Harrison was the best of the Beatles. And Giles dreams of going magnet-fishing.
In this week's episode: can the new Aukus alliance contain China? In his cover piece this week, James Forsyth writes that the new Aukus pact has fixed the contours of the next 30 years of British foreign policy. Britain, he says, is no longer trying to stay neutral in the competition between America and China. On the podcast James is joined by Francis Pike, author of Empires at War: A Short History of Modern Asia Since World War II, who also wrote for the magazine this week, giving the case against Aukus. (00:45) Also this week: what can be done to save the Church of England's parishes? Back in February, Emma Thompson, a rural parish volunteer, and the Reverend Marcus Walker, Rector of St Bartholomew the Great, London, wrote pieces for the Spectator expressing their concern for the future of the Church of England's parish system. The Archbishops of Canterbury and York dismissed these concerns as scaremongering from ‘rascally voices'. Seven months on there is a new threat to the parish, which Emma writes about in this week's magazine. She is joined by Marcus on the podcast to explain what you can do to save your local church. . (16:35) And finally: in a time when travel has never been faster, why has so little been done to reform queues? This is the question Harry Mount asks in the magazine this week. He sits down with me now, with the Spectator's Wiki Man columnist, Rory Sutherland to pitch some transformative ideas on how to update this very British pastime. (29:10) Hosted by William Moore Produced by Sam Holmes
In this week's episode: can the new Aukus alliance contain China? In his cover piece this week, James Forsyth writes that the new Aukus pact has fixed the contours of the next 30 years of British foreign policy. Britain, he says, is no longer trying to stay neutral in the competition between America and China. On the podcast James is joined by Francis Pike, author of Empires at War: A Short History of Modern Asia Since World War II, who also wrote for the magazine this week, giving the case against Aukus. (00:45) Also this week: what can be done to save the Church of England's parishes? Back in February, Emma Thompson, a rural parish volunteer, and the Reverend Marcus Walker, Rector of St Bartholomew the Great, London, wrote pieces for the Spectator expressing their concern for the future of the Church of England's parish system. The Archbishops of Canterbury and York dismissed these concerns as scaremongering from ‘rascally voices'. Seven months on there is a new threat to the parish, which Emma writes about in this week's magazine. She is joined by Marcus on the podcast to explain what you can do to save your local church. . (16:35) And finally: in a time when travel has never been faster, why has so little been done to reform queues? This is the question Harry Mount asks in the magazine this week. He sits down with me now, with the Spectator's Wiki Man columnist, Rory Sutherland to pitch some transformative ideas on how to update this very British pastime. (29:10) Hosted by William Moore Produced by Sam Holmes
We’re still none the wiser about the origins of coronavirus, but has the lab leak theory just got more credible (00:55) Also on the podcast: are English tourists welcome in Scotland (15:25)? And is being rude the secret to success?With author Matt Ridley, virologist Dr Dennis Carroll, deputy political editor Katy Balls, hotelier Gordon Campbell Gray, journalists Harry Mount and Rebecca Reid.Presented by William Moore.Produced by Cindy Yu, Max Jeffery and Sam Russell.
We're still none the wiser about the origins of coronavirus, but has the lab leak theory just got more credible (00:55) Also on the podcast: are English tourists welcome in Scotland (15:25)? And is being rude the secret to success?With author Matt Ridley, virologist Dr Dennis Carroll, deputy political editor Katy Balls, hotelier Gordon Campbell Gray, journalists Harry Mount and Rebecca Reid.Presented by William Moore.Produced by Cindy Yu, Max Jeffery and Sam Russell.
On this week's episode, Andrew Neil is joined by Rod Liddle, associate editor at The Spectator; Trevor Phillips, managing director at Webber Phillips; journalist Dan Hitchens; Harry Mount, editor of The Oldie; and a team of Spectator journalists. We discuss how England will leave lockdown, the rise of vaccine diplomacy, and why Anglo-Saxon history is so popular. To watch the show, go to https://www.spectator.co.uk/tv.
Despite her government's underperformance on education, health and Covid-19, Nicola Sturgeon's popularity continues to climb – why? (01:10) Does spending more on overseas aid mean we care more? (14:05) And finally, are we all followers of the cult of casualness? (26:25) With The Spectator's Scotland editor Alex Massie, former SNP finance spokesperson Andrew Wilson, development adviser Gilbert Greenall, former international development secretary Andrew Mitchell, journalist Melanie McDonagh and editor of The Oldie, Harry Mount. Presented by Lara Prendergast. Produced by Max Jeffery, Cindy Yu and Matt Taylor.
Despite her government’s underperformance on education, health and Covid-19, Nicola Sturgeon’s popularity continues to climb – why? (01:10) Does spending more on overseas aid mean we care more? (14:05) And finally, are we all followers of the cult of casualness? (26:25) With The Spectator’s Scotland editor Alex Massie, former SNP finance spokesperson Andrew Wilson, development adviser Gilbert Greenall, former international development secretary Andrew Mitchell, journalist Melanie McDonagh and editor of The Oldie, Harry Mount. Presented by Lara Prendergast. Produced by Max Jeffery, Cindy Yu and Matt Taylor.
White working class boys consistently perform worse than other demographics in the UK's education system - why? (00:45) What is it like to be 'cancelled'? (14:20) And is it time to return to the office? (24:50) With the IEA's Christopher Snowdon; former Ucas head Mary Curnock Cook; journalist Kevin Myers; the Spectator's columnist Lionel Shriver; editor of the Oldie, Harry Mount; and Director of UK in a Changing Europe Anand Menon. Presented by Cindy Yu. Produced by Cindy Yu and Max Jeffery.
White working class boys consistently perform worse than other demographics in the UK's education system - why? (00:45) What is it like to be 'cancelled'? (14:20) And is it time to return to the office? (24:50)With the IEA's Christopher Snowdon; former Ucas head Mary Curnock Cook; journalist Kevin Myers; the Spectator's columnist Lionel Shriver; editor of the Oldie, Harry Mount; and Director of UK in a Changing Europe Anand Menon.Presented by Cindy Yu.Produced by Cindy Yu and Max Jeffery.
Harry Mount, the editor of The Oldie, is appalled that thanks to the coronavirus regulations, he can't seek spiritual comfort in any of Britain's glorious churches. And he's not a religious believer. In this week's Holy Smoke podcast, Harry tells me why the ban on even entering a church is so pointless: he describes it as a giant exercise in 'our old friend, virtue-signalling' by the Anglican and Catholic hierarchies. I couldn't agree more. It was the bishops, not the Government, who came up with the idea of a total lockdown. One minute they're opening their cathedrals to helter-skelters and crazy golf; the next they're grossly exaggerating the health risks of solitary and well-regulated visits to churches. (No one disputes that a temporary ban on public liturgies is necessary.) But this episode is about much more than the current outbreak of control-freakery from their Lordships. Harry Mount is an agnostic; why does he feel the need to visit churches? His answer to this question is fascinating and uplifting. Holy Smoke is hosted by Damian Thompson, who dissects the most important and controversial topics in world religion, with a range of high profile guests. Click here (https://audioboom.com/channel/holy-smoke) to find previous episodes.
Harry Mount, the editor of The Oldie, is appalled that thanks to the coronavirus regulations, he can't seek spiritual comfort in any of Britain's glorious churches. And he's not a religious believer. In this week's Holy Smoke podcast, Harry tells me why the ban on even entering a church is so pointless: he describes it as a giant exercise in 'our old friend, virtue-signalling' by the Anglican and Catholic hierarchies. I couldn't agree more. It was the bishops, not the Government, who came up with the idea of a total lockdown. One minute they're opening their cathedrals to helter-skelters and crazy golf; the next they're grossly exaggerating the health risks of solitary and well-regulated visits to churches. (No one disputes that a temporary ban on public liturgies is necessary.) But this episode is about much more than the current outbreak of control-freakery from their Lordships. Harry Mount is an agnostic; why does he feel the need to visit churches? His answer to this question is fascinating and uplifting. Presented by Damian Thompson.
Oxford University recently announced that Homer's Iliad would be dropped from its Classics syllabus. Ferdie Rous speaks to Harry Mount, Oldie editor and author of Amo, Amas, Amat… And All That, who studied classics at Oxford, and James Pembroke, The Oldie's publisher, and a fellow classics enthusiast.
James Fletcher, who's making a film, The Accidental President, talks to Harry Mount about the US electionImage: A souvenir-seller at the Trump rally in Manchester, New Hampshire. Credit: James Fletcher
Welcome to the Oldie podcast with Harry Mount, editor of The Oldie. John Lloyd explains the disastrous beginnings of the show and how the 1979 election saved it.
Welcome to the Oldie podcast with Harry Mount, the editor of The Oldie.This month we have a fantastic piece by Damian Thompson in the magazine about Stephen Potter, the inventor of Gamesmanship.Damian is a senior journalist who has worked at the Telegraph and the Catholic Herald, and is the associate editor of the Spectator.
A cross-party remain alliance successfully tied Boris Johnson's hands in parliament last week, but with a general election looming, will this unlikely coalition last (00:30)? We also find out about ‘study drugs' – what are the little blue pills that American students are turning to (17:35)? And last, is Boris Johnson anything like his classical heroes (31:00)?With Katy Balls, Polly Mackenzie, Madeleine Kearns, Dr Barbara Sahakian, Harry Mount, and Daisy Dunn.Presented by Cindy Yu and Isabel Hardman.Produced by Cindy Yu and Adam Cherry.
A cross-party remain alliance successfully tied Boris Johnson’s hands in parliament last week, but with a general election looming, will this unlikely coalition last (00:30)? We also find out about ‘study drugs’ – what are the little blue pills that American students are turning to (17:35)? And last, is Boris Johnson anything like his classical heroes (31:00)? With Katy Balls, Polly Mackenzie, Madeleine Kearns, Dr Barbara Sahakian, Harry Mount, and Daisy Dunn. Presented by Cindy Yu and Isabel Hardman. Produced by Cindy Yu and Adam Cherry.
Oldie Editor, Harry Mount, speaks to Dominic Green – Life & Arts Editor at the Spectator USA and regular contributor to The Oldie's Letter from America Column – about his new suit, which made from the same material used for Lord Grantham's valet in the new Downton Abbey film.
Welcome to the Oldie's September podcast with Harry Mount the editor of The Oldie and the actor, Simon Williams, who played Captain Bellamy in Upstairs, Downstairs and has written a piece about the class dynamic in Downton Abbey for the latest issue of The Oldie.
With the British civil service the latest of Trump's Twitter victims, we take a look at what a Boris Johnson premiership would mean for relations with America (00:30). Plus, we also ask – if we're to pursue reparations for past injustices, should we also sue the Normans for 1066 (11:00)? And last, why are male Tory MPs so keen on jogging (20:40)?With Freddy Gray, Prof. Anand Menon, Harry Mount, Iain Dale, Nadine Batchelor-Hunt and Sahil Mahtani. Presented by Lara Prendergast.
With the British civil service the latest of Trump’s Twitter victims, we take a look at what a Boris Johnson premiership would mean for relations with America (00:25). Plus, we also ask – if we’re to pursue reparations for past injustices, should we also sue the Normans for 1066 (10:55)? And last, why are male Tory MPs so keen on jogging (20:30)? With Freddy Gray, Prof. Anand Menon, Harry Mount, Iain Dale, Nadine Batchelor-Hunt and Sahil Mahtani. Presented by Lara Prendergast.
Welcome to the July issue of the Oldie podcast.Harry Mount editor of The Oldie speaks to the comic genius Barry Cryer, who has been working in comedy since 1957.Here Barry Cryer talks about his life as a raconteur, the art of the perfect punchline and the beginnings of any good gag.
For 30 years Damian Thompson has been bored senseless by the public pronouncements of bishops – Anglicans and Catholics. Why do they feel the need to speak in such dreary jargon? Why do interesting clergy never make it to bishop? He's joined by Harry Mount, editor of The Oldie.
For 30 years Damian Thompson has been bored senseless by the public pronouncements of bishops – Anglicans and Catholics. Why do they feel the need to speak in such dreary jargon? Why do interesting clergy never make it to bishop? He's joined by Harry Mount, editor of The Oldie. Holy Smoke looks at the most important and controversial topics in world religion, thoroughly dissected by a range of high profile guests. Presented by Damian Thompson.
Welcome to the Spring podcast of _T__he Oldie_ magazine. Harry Mount speaks to the great Dick Clement and Ian La Frenais, who have written a terrific cover piece about Ronnie Barker, who would have been 90 this year, and _Porridge_. Other great news is that two lost episodes of The _Likely Lads_ have been rediscovered along with the feature film _The Likely Lads_ from 1976.
This week we speak to the editor in chief of ‘Monocle’, Tyler Brûlé, about his top five print lessons for 2019. Plus: we speak to ‘The Oldie’ editor Harry Mount and chat to the team behind Brazilian erotic-art publication ‘Nin’.
_Oldie_ editor Harry Mount talks to Oldie of the Year Amanda Barrie about her Carry On experiences: from her supporting role in _Carry On Cabby_ (1963) to her triumphant turn as Cleopatra, a year later.
With just days to go till the meaningful vote, the government looks set to lose it by a humiliating margin. What next for Theresa May? We ask one of the MPs opposing her deal – former universities minister, Sam Gyimah (00:50). And over on the continent, France buckles down for another weekend of riots from the gilet jaunes – can Macron give them what they want (19:05)? And last, has Britain become a country of show-offs (28:35)? With James Forsyth, Sam Gyimah, Gavin Mortimer, Sophie Pedder, Harry Mount, and Cosmo Landesman. Presented by Lara Prendergast. Produced by Cindy Yu and Alastair Thomas.
With just days to go till the meaningful vote, the government looks set to lose it by a humiliating margin. What next for Theresa May? We ask one of the MPs opposing her deal – former universities minister, Sam Gyimah (00:45). And over on the continent, France buckles down for another weekend of riots from the gilet jaunes – can Macron give them what they want (19:00)? And last, has Britain become a country of show-offs (28:30)? With James Forsyth, Sam Gyimah, Gavin Mortimer, Sophie Pedder, Harry Mount, and Cosmo Landesman. Presented by Lara Prendergast. Produced by Cindy Yu and Alastair Thomas.
Harry Mount is the youngest editor of The Oldie, at a mere 47 years old he started reading The Oldie aged 21. He tells us that The Oldie reader is much less likely to be offended by articles, and that they enjoy a good joke and are open minded. Harry admits he has some great shoes to fill, past editors include Richard Ingrams of Private Eye and Alexander Chancellor but he loves rising to the challenge. Harry decides if an article will be published if it is interesting, sad or funny or all three. [https://www.theoldie.co.uk/](https://www.theoldie.co.uk/) Subscribe or the perfect gift: [https://subscribe.theoldie.co.uk/the-oldie/OLDWEB18](https://subscribe.theoldie.co.uk/the-oldie/OLDWEB18) #TheOldie #ManWeek #RadioGorgeous
Nicholas Parsons talks to Harry Mount at the Gibraltar Literature Festival
Harry Mount talks to Brough Scott – celebrated racing presenter, winning jockey in over a hundred races and a Kempton Park veteran – about the King George VI steeplechase and the perils of winter riding.
The young atheist writer Guy Stagg threw in his job a few years ago to undertake a pilgrimage to Jerusalem via Rome - choosing a hazardous medieval route across the Alps. It nearly killed him: at one stage, trying to cross a broken bridge in Switzerland, he ended up partially submerged in the water, held up only by his rucksack. On this week's Holy Smoke podcast, Guy explains why his journey was a pilgrimage, not just travels. And Damian talks to Harry Mount, editor of The Oldie, why he's irresistibly drawn to church buildings while remaining an unbeliever - albeit an agnostic rather than an atheist. Presented by Damian Thompson. Produced by Connor O'Hara and Cindy Yu. This episode was first released in July this year.
Lucy Lethbridge talks to our editor Harry Mount about the world famous Blue Guides and the perceived difference between tourists and 'real' travellers.
Our editor, Harry Mount, interviews Nicky Haslam about the joy of having not been to university.
Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi has disappeared at his country's consulate in Istanbul, with reports emerging of his brutal murder. But who was Jamal Khashoggi, why did this happen to him and what should happen next (00:38)? Also on this podcast, the Irish may harbour more anti-EU opinion than commonly thought. Is there the prospect of an 'Irexit' (12:48)? And finally, with three top public schools scrapping the common entrance exam, should we lament the demise of the eccentric admissions test for schoolchildren (22:54)? With Bill Law, Akbar Shahid Ahmed, John Waters, Brendan O'Neill and Harry Mount. Presented by Lara Prendergast. Produced by Alastair Thomas.
Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi has disappeared at his country's consulate in Istanbul, with reports emerging of his brutal murder. But who was Jamal Khashoggi, why did this happen to him and what should happen next (00:38)? Also on this podcast, the Irish may harbour more anti-EU opinion than commonly thought. Is there the prospect of an 'Irexit' (12:48)? And finally, with three top public schools scrapping the common entrance exam, should we lament the demise of the eccentric admissions test for schoolchildren (22:54)? With Bill Law, Akbar Shahid Ahmed, John Waters, Brendan O'Neill and Harry Mount. Presented by Lara Prendergast. Produced by Alastair Thomas.
Christopher Howse recalls the heyday of London's boozy artistic bohemia – from the Forties to the Eighties. In conversation with Harry Mount.
Is Brexit just going in circles? With the resignations of David Davis and Boris Johnson, the only progress the negotiations seem to be making is – backwards (00:35). We also ask – are pit bulls really murderous dogs from hell (18:55)? And last, what does it mean to be English (29:50)? With James Forsyth, Paul Goodman, John Springford, Julia Lewis, Mary Wakefield, Harry Mount, and Yasmin Alibhai-Brown. Presented by Lara Prendergast. Produced by Cindy Yu.
The young atheist writer Guy Stagg threw in his job a few years ago to undertake a pilgrimage to Jerusalem via Rome - choosing a hazardous medieval route across the Alps. It nearly killed him: at one stage, trying to cross a broken bridge in Switzerland, he ended up partially submerged in the water, held up only by his rucksack. On this week’s Holy Smoke podcast, Guy explains why his journey was a pilgrimage, not just travels. And Damian talks to Harry Mount, editor of The Oldie, why he’s irresistibly drawn to church buildings while remaining an unbeliever - albeit an agnostic rather than an atheist. Presented by Damian Thompson. Produced by Connor O'Hara and Cindy Yu.
Lady Antonia Fraser in conversation with her cousin, Harry Mount, on her book The King and the Catholics: The Fight for Rights 1829 at the Oldie Literary Lunch on June 5th 2018 at Simpson's-in-the-Strand. With an introduction by Barry Cryer.
Harry Mount interviews Tom Hodgkinson, our Town Mouse columnist and cofounder of the Idler empire, about eminent Victorians, town vs country, and the key to a harmonious, idling existence.
Robert Fox discusses his sombre return to the Falklands to advise on a new feature film about the Battle of Goose Green – where he was one of only two journalists embedded with British forces. In conversation with Harry Mount.
Just how badly will the Tories do in the upcoming local elections, and why do people love Sadiq Khan? We also talk about the end of Macron's political honeymoon, and follow the trail of a new Grand Tour. With Will Heaven, Andrew Gilligan, Pippa Crerar, Gavin Mortimer, Luke Baker, Harry Mount, and Laura Freeman Presented by Lara Prendergast.
It is 100 years since the Royal Air Force took flight. Joshua Levine, author of Fighter Heroes of WWI, commemorates the centenary with a preview of the new RAF museum. In conversation with Harry Mount.
Nicholas Shakespeare, the distinguished novelist, on Six Minutes in May. A talk on Chamberlain's downfall, Churchill's eventual accession to number 10, and with a brief look at what could have happened had events worked out differently. Harry Mount, our editor, also praised Shakespeare for his great modesty, 'bringing up the 16th century playwright and not admitting that they're related'. Peter Snow and Ann MacMillan, the husband-and-wife writerly pair, on War Stories: Gripping Tales of Courage, Cunning and Compassion. Cheerily and grippingly told: this book examines thirty-four previously untold stories of those who showed great humanity and heroism at a time of war. And, finally, Simon Jenkins, the esteemed journalist and chronicler of the British landscape, on the rituals, ceremonies and architecture of some of our most undervalued national treasures, in Britain's 100 Best Railway Stations. The Oldie Literary Lunch is brought to you by Noble Caledonia - the world leaders in small ship cruising. For more info about the The Oldie and the lunches at Simpson's on The Strand: https://www.theoldie.co.uk/
A surefire flop can so easily flip into being a smash – and vice versa. Actor Michael Simkins has first-hand experience of both. He talks about the 'nature of acting' with Harry Mount and Annabel Sampson – 'you are essentially on a tight rope; on one side lies triumph, and the other doom'.
With Fraser Nelson, Jonathan Bartley, James Forsyth, Louis Coffait, Harry Mount and Damian Thompson. Presented by Isabel Hardman.
With Lara Prendergast, Harry Mount and Freddy Gray. Presented by Damian Thompson.
Dr Dora Thornton, a senior curator at the British Museum, reveals the delights of being a curator. She talks to Harry Mount about the Holy Thorn Reliquary, a 14th-century masterpiece in the museum's collection. In the photograph attached to this podcast, you can see Dr Dora admiring the incredible object.
With James Forsyth, Yanis Varoufakis, Mark Forsyth, Sam Leith, Harry Mount and Sophia Money-Coutts. Presented by Lara Prendergast.
Find out why rosé is always ‘pink wine'; why there's nothing naffer than Christmas overseas, and why Yule Logs are an unqualified ‘no' from serial partygoers Rachel Johnson and Nicky Haslam. An interview to accompany their festive double-page spread in the January 2018 issue. Presented by Harry Mount.
Jimi was all alone in London when his friend and photographer Bruce Fleming invited him over for a festive lunch that rocked on...and on. It was turkey with all the trimmings, discover Harry Mount and Annabel Sampson over coffee and croissants at Bruce's home in Marylebone.
Tanya Gold discusses a Cornish clifftop fall that led to laughing gas, morphine, hugs, jelly on tap and a break from chores – all for free. Tanya Gold tells Harry Mount and Annabel Sampson how she loved being hospitalised.
With James Forsyth, Harry Mount, Paul Wood, Freddy Gray and Simon Barnes. Presented by Isabel Hardman.
With Paul Wood, Tom Tugendhat MP, Matthew Parris, James Forsyth, Harry Mount and Nick Hilton. Presented by Lara Prendergast.
With Quentin Letts and Harry Mount. Presented by Damian Thompson.
Isis in crisis Released 07 January 2016 With Paul Wood, Dr Alia Brahimi, Harry Mount, Dawn Foster, Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth. Presented by Isabel Hardman.
Harry Mount on 'Harry Mount's Odyssey: Ancient Greece in the Footsteps of Odysseus' at The Oldie Literary Lunch at Rye Arts Festival
Why are some cities surrounded by slums and riddled with crime, while others are affluent, ordered and desirable places to live? The Legatum Institute's Hywel Williams interviewed urban consultant James Fischelis, who has authored a new LI report that explores why cities that are within close proximity to each other are so different from each other. They were joined in conversation by author and journalist, Harry Mount.