Podcasts about kitchen cabinets

In this episode, we dive into the quirky and often humorous aspects of social status and relationships. We kick things off by dissecting the theatricality of the State of the Union address, complete with applause and political charades that make us question the sincerity of those in power. Next, we explore a lighthearted way to gauge your financial standing by rummaging through your kitchen cabinets—because, let's face it, the kind of cups you own can say a lot about your wealth! Finally, we tackle a relatable scenario: when a friend gets dumped and their ex moves on with a successful doctor. Join us as we share words of encouragement for the heartbroken, offering both wisdom and laughter in the face of life's ups and downs. Tune in for insights, chuckles, and a fresh perspective on navigating the complexities of class and relationships.

Should a government hold a referendum on tax? A civil servant messages in to pose this idea to Ed Balls and George Osborne on this week's EMQs. The two debate the merits of holding any referendum, reminisce on how easily they become about more than their central question, and ponder whether tax policy is suited to the form of a referendum. Former MP Luke Hall asks the pair about charities funding and tax changes, and George relays the surprising difficulty he found in crafting the appropriate policy for this sector whilst Chancellor. And, is Peter Mandelson leaking information to Jeffrey Epstein a betrayal to the Labour party on the scale of the SDP forming in ‘81 or Ramsay MacDonald's National government? Or, is it something even greater? Ed explains the ways that the Mandelson scandal is uniquely perfidious.Finally, is the shelf life for a British politician shorter than the rest of the world? Why is it so rare to see someone re-enter the Commons after leaving? Ed and George weigh up the reasons for greater churn in British political life than in other democracies. We love hearing from you, so please don't forget to send all your EMQs to questions@politicalcurrency and make sure to include a voice note of your question.Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad- free join Political Currency Gold or our Kitchen Cabinet. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

We're one week from the Gorton and Denton by-election, which could prove another brutal blow to Keir Starmer's already unstable premiership. Could Reform gain another MP or will this be the Green Party's first by-election victory? And is a Labour hold out of the question? Ed Balls and George Osborne explore the state of play for the parties, including the U-turn on postponing 30 local elections, the Labour Together scandal, and Reform unveiling their ‘shadow cabinet'. Then, following last weekend's Munich Security Conference, the pair turn their attention to further calls for Europe to increase defence spending. The question for the UK is: can the Treasury afford the proposed 3% defence spending by the end of the parliament? And would the British public accept spending cuts needed to hit that target? Finally, George gives the inside scoop on the AI Impact Summit in India. He explains what opportunities and concerns are being addressed by world leaders, as well as why it represents an achievement for Britain.We love hearing from you, so please don't forget to send all your EMQs to questions@politicalcurrency and make sure to include a voice note of your question.Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad- free join Political Currency Gold or our Kitchen Cabinet. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

Betsy Helmuth shares updates on premium membership, explains the irregular episode schedule, and invites listener questions. She discusses personal life challenges and answers design questions about kitchen cabinet colors, bar area design, and coordinating kitchen and living room styles. Plus, there's news about a new YouTube channel and social media links. Timestamps: 0:00 Introduction and premium membership details 1:27 Explanation for erratic episode schedule 2:09 Request for listener questions 2:51 Personal life updates and challenges 5:40 Answering Bobby's question about kitchen cabinet colors 14:23 Answering Michelle's question about bar area design 21:36 Answering Heather's question about kitchen and living room style 33:57 Mailbag status and closing remarks 34:19 Announcement of new YouTube channel and social media links - Consider two-tone kitchen cabinets to balance aesthetic appeal with practicality, especially in high-use areas like kitchens.  - Mixing wood tones in furniture and decor can create a cohesive rustic feel, but be mindful of matching or complementing surrounding elements like floors and countertops.  - When designing a space, ensure that prominent fixtures like pendant lights and hardware are consistent with the overall metal finishes to avoid visual dissonance. Links: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Uploft.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AffordableInteriorDesign.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Submit your design questions⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to be featured on the show ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Become a Premium Member⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and access the bonus episodes Click ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to become an interior designer with Uploft's Interior Design Academy. Get Betsy's book: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠betsyhelmuth.com/book⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠For more about our residential interior design services, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ModernInteriorDesign.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ For our commercial interior design services, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠OfficeInteriorDesign.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow Us: Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@uploftinteriordesign⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠facebook.com/UploftIntDes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠tiktok.com/@uploftinteriordesign⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠linkedin.com/company/uploft-interior-design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you enjoy the show, please spread the word and leave a review on iTunes! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Is it in the best interest of opposition leaders to see weak Prime Ministers resign? In this week's EMQs Ed and George debate whether it benefits the opposition to depose a vulnerable Prime Minister. What are the consequences if their successor is a better leader? What comes first for the Leader of the Opposition - the country, or the party? And - can just anyone become Prime Minister? Do party leaders need to be MPs or might Britain see its own Mark Carney emerge? The pair discuss historical examples in favour of and against this notion and how it could happen again. They then weigh up an even bigger question: has the podcast turned them into influencers? With so many high profile people in the political world tuning in, are they taking notes on what Ed and George say?Finally, Sky News political reporter Ben Bloch chimes in with a response to our question last week about what would happen in the event a PM was incapacitated. He consulted the Labour Party rule book, and it got him wondering if Britain should adopt a US style line of succession for government. Is it time to codify the unwritten rules?We love hearing from you, so please don't forget to send all your EMQs to questions@politicalcurrency and make sure to include a voice note of your question.Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad- free join Political Currency Gold or our Kitchen Cabinet. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

Keir Starmer's standing has gone from bad to worse this week, with the Peter Mandelson scandal giving way to a series of resignations in No. 10 and the Scottish Labour leader openly calling for Starmer to go. Ed Balls and George Osborne look at what might be Starmer's worst week yet, and assess if he can survive or if we're reliving the final days of Boris Johnson, and Theresa May.Away from Westminster, the Munich Security Conference begins this weekend, which means we're one year on from JD Vance's consequential address in which he claimed the greatest threat to the continent came from within. Has that speech set the tone for the Trump administration's relationship with Europe? What reverberations has that had for the UK? How will European leaders manage in a world without America as a reliable ally? Finally, they tackle one of the great debates in British politics: what do you do about the Palace of Westminster? The British parliament has been crumbling for decades and the dilemma of how to fix a working government building has been a live issue since Ed and George first the Commons. As the issue is delayed, the costs continue to rise. They ponder the solution to this while reminiscing about crumbling offices, leaks and mice running across their feet. Is it in the British public's interest to spend billions refurbishing the Palace of Westminster? We love hearing from you, so please don't forget to send all your EMQs to questions@politicalcurrency and make sure to include a voice note of your question. Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad- free join Political Currency Gold or our Kitchen Cabinet. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

This is the sixth in a series of eight episodes regarding America's seventh President, Andrew Jackson.  Old Hickory had already proven himself to be as tough as they come, but even he was unprepared for the real housewives of DC.  This episode covers his attempt at governing Washington while his Veep schemed behind his back.  The spoils system, Kitchen Cabinet, and the seeds of Indian Removal are all covered in this episode. Contact the show at resourcesbylowery@gmail.com or on Bluesky @EmpiresPod If you would like to financially support the show, please use the following paypal link. Or remit PayPal payment to @Lowery80.  And here is a link for Venmo users. Any support is greatly appreciated and will be used to make future episodes of the show even better.   Expect new shows to drop on Wednesday mornings from September to May. Music is licensed through Epidemic Sound

What would happen if Keir Starmer were incapacitated? Who would be acting prime minister - David Lammy, Lucy Powell, or someone else entirely? And how does scandals and replacing cabinet ministers work with no clear line of succession? Ed and George debate the uncertainties of the parliamentary system in this week's EMQs. They also look at the burgeoning crisis around student loan repayments, reflecting on their own roles in governments that helped get us here, and and on the consequences of successive governments ignoring an issue of such magnitude. A civil servant asks just what MPs mean when they talk about ‘civil service reform', and the reveal why ministers are always complaining about it. Finally, one of Ed's former students puts them to the test - why do new MPs not receive training on essential policy areas when they arrive in Westminster. They use the experience of new MP Jake Richards and compare it to their own from 20 years ago.We love hearing from you, so please don't forget to send all your EMQs to questions@politicalcurrency and make sure to include a voice note of your question.Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad- free join Political Currency Gold or our Kitchen Cabinet. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

In this episode we discuss details from the Epstein files, with references to sexual exploitation and some strong language.We begin this week with the growing political fallout from the Epstein files, following the release of thousands of emails by the US Department of Justice detailing Peter Mandelson's relationship with Jeffrey Epstein. The revelations have prompted comparisons with the Profumo affair and raised serious questions about judgment, power, and trust at the heart of British politics. Ed Balls and George Osborne discuss their shock at the extent of the released emails , how it has reignited scrutiny of Keir Starmer's decision-making, and whether this crisis could bring the Prime Minister down.Epstein's connections with British elites goes beyond Westminster however. His well documented friendship with the former Prince, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, has once again put the Royal Family under pressure. How can King Charles deal with a scandal of this magnitude? And for others implicated in these files, like the Clintons and Donald Trump, what might follow?Overshadowed in the noise of the Epstein files was the long-awaited appointment of Jerome Powell's successor as chair of the Federal Reserve, and it was announced last week that Kevin Warsh was Trump's pick. Ed and George reflect on their personal interactions with Warsh. What kind of Central Banker will he be? How will he differ from Powell? And, how might he handle political pressure from Trump's White House? We love hearing from you, so please don't forget to send all your EMQs to questions@politicalcurrency and make sure to include a voice note of your question. Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad-free join Political Currency Gold or our Kitchen Cabinet. If you want even more perks, including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

Are Robert Jenrick and Suella Braverman's defections a blessing in disguise for Kemi Badenoch? In this week's EMQs, Ed Balls and George Osborne explain the pros and cons of the Tories losing MPs from the right of the party, and how Badenoch can take advantage of Labour's unpopularity. Then, the pair consider whether the UK could adopt a US style primary system for candidates and explain how they got selected for their seats in parliament. They also confront the surprising fact that no prime minister has come to power and been ejected through a General Election since the 1970s and answer whether Britain is actually a democracy?They then answer if any British politician is capable of inspiring people the way Mark Carney did at Davos. George and Ed use their past experiences writing and delivering speeches to debate whether Carney's speech was inspiring because of what was written, or how and where it was said.We love hearing from you, so please don't forget to send all your EMQs to questions@politicalcurrency and make sure to include a voice note of your question. Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad- free join Political Currency Gold or our Kitchen Cabinet. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

It's official: we are the champions. Fresh from two wins at last night's Political Podcast Awards, a victorious Ed Balls and George Osborne look at two fairly drastic political recalibrations at home and abroad. Keir Starmer flew to China this week, amidst renewed tensions over his leadership, marking the first prime minister to visit the country in 8 years. Ed and George question why Number 10 played down this significant geopolitical moment, and how it reflects the tension surrounding Starmer leadership. They also look at Andy Burnham's failed return to Westminster and Kemi Badenoch's threats to her left and right.Meanwhile, in the United States, Donald Trump is forced to de-escalate his position on immigration following multiple fatal shootings on the streets of Minnesota. Has the White House lost control of the narrative? And if so, what does this tell us about the limits of a hardline on the politics of immigration?Also, the pair highlight a new Institute for Fiscal Studies paper, which looks into how the house price boom and intergenerational wealth is affecting home ownership and social mobility in the UK today. What impact is this having on people's life chances? And is the Labour government able to tackle it in light of its watered down planning reforms?We love hearing from you, so please don't forget to send all your EMQs to questions@politicalcurrency and make sure to include a voice note of your question. Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad-free join Political Currency Gold or our Kitchen Cabinet. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

Why didn't Nick Clegg become Chancellor of the Exchequer in the 2010 coalition government? Ed Balls and George Osborne take you inside the negotiations that formed the Conservative-Lib Dem coalition in this week's EMQs. They also discuss why Gordon Brown didn't make Ed chancellor, and whether it was the original sin of his premiership.They also discuss the role of academics in policy making, and why American scholars end up more favored than their British counterparts. And, how many U-turns can a government sustain? Ed and George look at the impact of U-turn politics on trust and authority, and discuss how the coalition survived the omnishambles budget? Finally, the pair consider whether MPs who defect - including recent high profile Tories like Robert Jenrick - should stand down to trigger by-elections. They explain where this has gone wrong historically, and the dangerous precedent it would set for future political rebellions in all major parties. We love hearing from you, so please don't forget to send all your EMQs to questions@politicalcurrency and make sure to include a voice note of your question.Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad-free join Political Currency Gold or our Kitchen Cabinet. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

Fresh off a week of anxiety and uncertainty, George Osborne reports to Ed Balls from Davos to give the inside track on what it was like to see Trump's address in person and the murmurs from the Alps about what the President really wants. The pair also look at the reactions from Keir Starmer, European allies, and the Mark Carney speech that got everyone talking. The pair then reflect on Robert Jenrick's sacking and defection to Reform one week on. Has he truly put national interest above personal interest? Should the two parties come to an agreement to reunite the right of British politics? And could the defection of other Tories such as Andrew Rosindell help Kemi Badenoch change the party for the better?Ed has also been on the European continent this week, visiting Versailles for the annual Franco-British Colloque. He speaks of his insights into growing acceptance of victory for the far-right National Rally in next year's presidential election, a rumoured Macron return in 2032, and the need, now more than ever, for a stronger relationship across the Channel.We love hearing from you, so please don't forget to send all your EMQs to questions@politicalcurrency and make sure to include a voice note of your question.Thanks for being a valued member of our Kitchen Cabinet or a Gold subscriber. Remember Kitchen Cabinet members get exclusive access to live EMQs recordings, briefings from the team, and an exclusive Political Currency mug.Please note: Kitchen Cabinet is only available via Patreon.Credits:Research: Sam BurtonProduction: Caillin McDaid, Caitlin Hanrahan & Sam Psyk. Video Editor: Avi AsherExecutive Producer: Ellie CliffordPolitical Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kevin Lee grew up in a Korean-American family in Oklahoma City, a place not known as a dining destination 20 years ago. There were the usual chains, Korean mom-and-pops and some chef-driven restaurants, but few if any places that focused on global cuisines. Lee majored in hospitality management at UNLV, and while there, he worked part-time in a restaurant and fell in love with cooking. That changed the trajectory of his career. With Las Vegas chef Joon Choi as a mentor, Lee immersed himself in Japanese cooking. Then at age 21, the luck of being in the right place at the right time landed him the job of executive chef at a Mandalay Bay hotel restaurant. Las Vegas burnout pushed Lee to return to Oklahoma City, where he worked in various restaurant kitchens before opening his own place—Birdie's, a Korean fried chicken concept. He wanted a restaurant where families could take their kids and have a great time, but when you're selling $10 chicken baskets and working 24/7, the revenue just didn't make sense, he said. Nevertheless, Birdie's was super-popular and Lee got a call to compete on a Food Network show called “Tournament of Champions.” He had a few big wins, and that gave him the courage and drive to change course again. He converted Birdie's into a modern Korean-American steakhouse, where Lee feels he is finally cooking food close to his heart. Maht, which just opened in late 2025, is a modern American steakhouse with Korean influences. Two menu items that reflect this direction are a Caesar salad made with fish sauce instead of anchovies and chili crisp instead of croutons, and a Korean crab cake with sea urchin, Fresno chilies and scallions finished with soy-caramel sauce.Lee explains how several forces are converging to bring more visitors to Oklahoma City and chefs are gaining the confidence to try new things and open successful restaurants. He is also a member of Kikkoman's Kitchen Cabinet where he innovates recipes that reflect his take on Korean cuisine. Listen as he talks about his next ventures on TV and in the kitchen, and why he thinks Oklahoma City is poised to become a sought-after destination on the culinary map. 

Fellow ex-minister Edward Timpson sends in a question this week, asking Ed Balls and George Osborne how they stayed mentally and physically healthy during their time in government. The pair share their guide for what all ministers should do to remain fit in and out of office.Shevaun Haviland, Director General for the British Chambers of Commerce, then asks how the ongoing issues with business rates are solved permanently. George explains why this tax is one that causes issues for every government, and the problems inherent to reforming it. A listener sends in a question from Tokyo, allowing Ed and George to delve into the decades-long standstill of the Japanese economy and the cult-like following new prime minister Sanae Takaichi has gained. Finally, George explains why it's easier to make promises in opposition than stick to them in government, revisiting plans by the Tories to downsize government cars before the coalition, and why it didn't work out that way.We love hearing from you, so please don't forget to send all your EMQs to questions@politicalcurrency and make sure to include a voice note of your question. Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad- free join Political Currency Gold or our Kitchen Cabinet. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

The dramatic news of Robert Jenrick's sacking and rumoured plot to defect to Reform broke mid-record this week, meaning Ed Balls and George Osborne give a live reaction to the news. Has Kemi Badenoch secured her leadership or is this the next Tory psychodrama? And, could Nigel Farage be inviting the biggest threat to his leadership by accepting Jenrick? The pair look at the ongoing protests in Iran, and Donald Trump's changing stance on whether American forces will be deployed in the region. They also look at how Labour should respond, and question the silence from certain political voices on the left. After a roundup of U-turns last week the Labour government has delivered yet another rollback with their mandatory Digital ID cards. Why can't the government, in Wes Streeting's words, get it right the first time? And finally, the ongoing feud between Fed Chair Jerome Powell and Trump turned from a cold war to a hot one last weekend, with a criminal investigation into Powell being launched and the Fed releasing a response. Ed and George examine the possible repercussions of this, and the threats Trump's demands of the Fed pose. We love hearing from you, so please don't forget to send all your EMQs to questions@politicalcurrency and make sure to include a voice note of your question. Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad- free join Political Currency Gold or our Kitchen Cabinet. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

In the first EMQs of 2026 Ed Balls and George Osborne answer the most important question for any politician: what was your snakiest move? The pair share each of their proudest (and least proud) moments of cunning, as well as some hard-won advice on when being snakey can pay off. They then turn to a question missed from our last ‘What If' episode from Australian cabinet member Chris Bowen, who wonders what would happen if John Smith had lived. What would have become of Tony Blair, Gordon Brown, and, most importantly, Ed?George's old Downing Street colleague Craig Oliver also asks a question concerning the gap between establishment and public opinion on AI which allows George to flex his new OpenAI knowledge. Finally, they answer the question on everyone's minds: what was their favourite song from the Eras Tour? We love hearing from you, so please don't forget to send all your EMQs to questions@politicalcurrency and make sure to include a voice note of your question. Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad- free join Political Currency Gold or our Kitchen Cabinet. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

2026 has begun dramatically, with Donald Trump ordering an attack on Venezuela, plus has had aggressive rhetoric against Greenland and other parts of Latin America. Ed Balls and George Osborne discuss how leaders in Europe should respond. Why has the US set their sights on securing Greenland? Is Keir Starmer's careful response the right approach? And just how much is Trump being motivated by oil?As Donald Trump sets the tone internationally, Keir Starmer is under pressure to make his latest domestic relaunch cut through. By focusing on the cost of living, can the government tap into one of the British public's key policy concerns? Or is this mission too broad, and a hostage to fate?Finally, the pair examine whether Labour is becoming the U-turn government… From farmer's inheritance tax, to a potential U-turn on pubs' business rates, is it a timely course correction? Or does it give the impression that the government doesn't know what they are doing?We love hearing from you, so please don't forget to send all your EMQs to questions@politicalcurrency and make sure to include a voice note of your question.Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad- free join Political Currency Gold or our Kitchen Cabinet. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

LOVE HOSTILE TAKEOVERS? Upgrades all around the AI trade again… January Effect Defense and Oil Related – Let’s Go! PLUS we are now on Spotify and Amazon Music/Podcasts! Click HERE for Show Notes and Links DHUnplugged is now streaming live - with listener chat. Click on link on the right sidebar. Love the Show? Then how about a Donation? Follow John C. Dvorak on Twitter Follow Andrew Horowitz on Twitter Interactive Brokers  Warm-Up - CTP Cup - We have a winner! - Kitchen Cabinets rejoice! - Buffett is retired (kind of) - ALL TIME HIGHS - DJIA Leading so far in 2026 Markets - LOVE HOSTILE TAKEOVERS? - Upgrades all around the AI trade again... - January Effect - Defense and Oil Related! - Calling BS on Venezuela economic plans Doctor Copper - Copper surpassed $13,000 a ton for the first time due to a renewed rush to ship metal to the US. - The rally has been underpinned by the ongoing threat of import tariffs from President Donald Trump, causing US copper prices to trade at a premium to those on the London Metal Exchange. - The market has been driven by uncertainty over future US tariff policy, with analysts warning that the rest of the world could run short of copper due to low inventories outside the US. - Huge inventory build due to uncertainty Copper Chart Following up on that...Some Questions - Isn't the massive inventory build we are seeing due to uncertainly? - Lots bought before tariffs went into effect - then tariffs reduced... - Will there be a hangover from a the pull-forward like we have seen in the past? Best markets for 2025 Colombia: +80% South Korea (KOSPI): +76% Ghana: +79% Brazil (Bovespa): +34% Japan (Nikkei 225): +26% Europe STOXX 600: +19% China (Shanghai Composite): +18% U.S. S&P 500: +17% U.S. Nasdaq: +21% U.S. Dow Jones: +12% US Dollar - Basket USD is at 8 year LOW - Yen at key intervention level (again) - NO MANIPULATION HERE! -- -- Gold/Silver betting trend continues... - What happened to -> "a strong USD is in the best interests of the USA"? Monday Markets - For no apparent reason....(could it be the Venezuela news???) - Markets JUMPED - Oil and Defense stocks moved! - DJIA up ~ 600 Points ---These stocks were about 500 points of the 600: - GS Goldman Sachs Group Inc - CAT Caterpillar Inc - JPM JPMorgan Chase & Co - CVX Chevron Corp - V Visa Inc ---- GS is 1/2 the DJIA gains for 2026 Here we go... - Elon Musk's Grok is generating sexualized images of women and minors - users are taking pictures of others and telling Grok to "remove their clothes" or "put them in a thong bikini" - review of public requests sent to Grok over a single 10-minute-long period at midday U.S. Eastern Time last Friday tallied 102 attempts by X users to use Grok to digitally edit photographs of people so that they would appear to be wearing bikinis. - Politicians in France ask prosecutors to investigate; India demands answers - Experts have long warned Grok owner xAI about potential misuses of AI-generated content - Ministers in France have reported X to prosecutors and regulators over the disturbing images, saying in a statement on Friday the "sexual and sexist" content was "manifestly illegal." India's IT ministry said in a letter to X's local unit that the platform failed to prevent Grok's misuse by generating and circulating obscene and sexually explicit content. - Guardrails not very tight along the track - Surprised? TESLA - Sales awful - Stock holdingup - BYD Co. outsold Tesla Inc. in Europe's two largest electric-vehicle markets last year as the Chinese automaker continues its global expansion. - BYD registered more than twice as many new vehicles in December as Tesla did in Germany, and outperformed Tesla in the UK with 51,422 registrations compared to Tesla's 45,513. - BYD delivered 2.26 million EVs in 2025 to Tesla's 1.64 million, and has made strong inroads in the UK where Chinese brands have been attracting consumers with cheaper sticker prices. - NVDA announced it is expanding autonomous driving sector INTERACTIVE BROKERS Check this out and find out more at: http://www.interactivebrokers.com/ Silver and Gold - As we predicted - Gold and silver prices fell Wednesday after exchange operator CME Group again hiked the margins on precious metal futures. - CME Group said in a statement Tuesday that the decision was made “as per the normal review of market volatility to ensure adequate collateral coverage.” - That caused some to sell positions to bring margin requirement in check - - Should be temporary until metals find their margin equilibrium Bitcoin - Starting the year off right - Up 7% in 2026 after a very poor 2025 - Crypto moving as well - Safe haven trade, catch up trade or who-knows-what-the-hell trade? January Effect - The January Effect is a market phenomenon where stock prices—especially small-cap stocks—tend to rise more in January than in other months. - Tax-loss selling in December: Investors often sell losing positions at year-end to offset capital gains for tax purposes. - Reinvestment in January: After the new year, they buy back stocks, creating upward pressure. - Bonus and cash inflows: Year-end bonuses and new investment allocations often hit the market in January. - Small-caps up almost 3% YTD Impressive - Investors fortunate enough to own Berkshire since 1965, when Buffett took over, realized a return of about 6,100,000%, far above the S&P 500's approximately 46,000% return including dividends. - Buffett is now officially retired - said to be one (or the) greatest investors of our time - Buffett, 95, will remain chairman and plans to keep going every day to Berkshire's office in Omaha, Nebraska, about 2 miles (3.2 km) east of his home, and help Abel. - They still have not completely figured out who will run the equity portfolio after Todd Combs left to join JPM Kitchen Cabinet Relief - Steep tariffs on upholstered furniture and kitchen cabinets and vanities have been delayed by the Trump administration. - It's the latest roller coaster of Trump's tariff wars since he returned to office last year. - The administration is also scaling back on a steep tariff proposed on Italian pasta that would have put the rate at 107%. Let's talk Venezuela - The idea that the US is just going to come in an turn everything rosy is dumb - overly simplistic thesis --- Sets up a bad global potential for overthrowing governments - where does it stop - The idea that US companies are going to go in there and drill and US is going to reimburse for costs? --- The country is allied with Russia and China - not US (at this time) - This is reminiscent of when we opened the doors to Cuba - we opened it up and no one benefited. Maybe this time will be different. - BUT Venezuela owns the largest proven oil reserves in the world, holding approximately 303 billion barrels as of the end of 2024, which is nearly 18–19% of global reserves. So, that is something. VZ Oil Production Drug Price Hikes - Drugmakers plan to raise U.S. prices on at least 350 branded medications including vaccines against COVID, RSV and shingles and blockbuster cancer treatment Ibrance, even as the Trump administration pressures them for cuts - The number of price increases for 2026 is up from the same point last year, when drugmakers unveiled plans for raises on more than 250 drugs. The median of this year's price hikes is around 4% - in line with 2025. -Drugmakers also plan to cut the list prices on around nine drugs. That includes a more than 40% cut for Boehringer Ingelheim's diabetes drug Jardiance and three related treatments. Greenland - What are the odds????? (Prediction Markets are on it! https://forecasttrader.interactivebrokers.com/eventtrader/#/market-details?id=791099793%7C20290101%7C0%7C&detail=contract_details) - “Greenland belongs to its people. It is for Denmark and Greenland, and them only, to decide on matters concerning Denmark and Greenland.” In Closing - The "AI NOT LESS PEOPLE WORKING" - Scam - “I would say that we're actually not hiring fewer people,” AMDs Lisa Su told CNBC's Jon Fortt on Tuesday from the CES conference in Las Vegas. “Frankly, we're growing very significantly as a company, so we actually are hiring lots of people, but we're hiring different people. We're hiring people who are AI forward.” Love the Show? Then how about a Donation? ANNOUNCING THE WINNER OF THE THE CLOSEST TO THE PIN 2025 Winners will be getting great stuff like the new "OFFICIAL" DHUnplugged Shirt! CTP CUP 2025 Participants: Jim Beaver Mike Kazmierczak Joe Metzger Ken Degel David Martin Dean Wormell Neil Larion Mary Lou Schwarzer Eric Harvey (2024 Winner) FED AND CRYPTO LIMERICKS See this week's stock picks HERE Follow John C. Dvorak on Twitter Follow Andrew Horowitz on Twitter

What if the Brexit vote was flipped? Would George Osborne actually be our… former Prime Minister? And what would have happened during the Covid-19 outbreak in that case?George Osborne and Ed Balls are back with another ‘What if' episode, thinking about some of the most consequential sliding doors moments in modern politics. Looking further back, what if it was actually Neil Kinnock who had won the 1992 election? How might Black Wednesday have played out under a Labour government? Finally, they imagine a showdown between Obama and Trump for a third term in 2028. Can Trump really stand constitutionally? Would it be wise for the Democrats to run Obama or is there a better candidate to beat Trump? Thanks for listening. Remember Kitchen Cabinet members get exclusive access to live EMQs recordings, briefings from the team, and an exclusive Political Currency mug.

AP correspondent Marcela Sanchez reports on a delay in tariffs on some household goods.

Education secretary Bridget Phillipson joins George Osborne on the podcast this week for a special conversation, giving him another sit down with a rising cabinet member after his interview with Wes Streeting in the summer. The pair talk about the challenges of entering government and whether Labour (or any party) still prioritises education, education, education. They debate the effectiveness of scrapping the two-child benefit cap versus reviving plans like Sure Start, and what to expect from the education department in 2026. They also talk about Phillipson's deputy leadership campaign, how she felt about being ‘No. 10's candidate', and whether she would contest any future leadership bids…Finally, they turn to the challenge on every Labour MP's mind: Reform. Phillipson's Sunderland constituency is at the heart of the Reform challenge to Labour, which means she is acutely aware of the looming threat. How can her party can beat Nigel Farage?Don't forget to vote for us as the Political Podcast Awards People's Choice of the year. Follow the link to vote: https://politicalpodcastawards.co.uk/the-peoples-choice-award/ And we love hearing from you, so please don't forget to send all your EMQs to questions@politicalcurrency and make sure to include a voice note of your question.Thanks for listening. Subscribe now for ad-free listening and early access. Kitchen Cabinet members also get exclusive access to live EMQs recordings, briefings from the team, and an exclusive Political Currency mug. Sign up today.

Pop the champagne, Ed and George are feeling Christmassy in the Political Currency studio, answering some very special questions. Claudia Winkleman asks who the ultimate political traitor is? Who do they pick for 2025… and of all time? Plus, our listeners ask Ed and George about the gifts they have bought for their loved ones - did George ever get David and Sam Cam any wallpaper… and also what books they'd recommend as stocking fillers. Rob Rinder asks George whether he really thinks he could have done better than Ed on Strictly Come Dancing. And he also asks a more serious question: why do they think anti-semitism has been on the rise?Then, seeing as it's the season, a listener asks about Ed and George's favourite Westminster pubs and finally, it's Ed's time to shine as a listener asks for his ultimate Christmas recipes.Thank you so much for all your support in 2025. We have loved hearing from you and we can't wait to hear more of your questions in 2026. Send them to questions@politicalcurrency and make sure to include a voice note of your question.Don't forget to vote for us as the Political Podcast Awards' People's Choice of the Year. Follow the link to vote: https://politicalpodcastawards.co.uk/the-peoples-choice-award/ Thanks for listening. Remember Kitchen Cabinet members get exclusive access to live EMQs recordings, briefings from the team, and an exclusive Political Currency mug

Can Sir Ed Davey really take the fight to the right when it comes to the next election? In this special episode of Political Currency, Ed Balls speaks to the Liberal Democrat leader - and his politician of the year from 2024. In this wide-ranging conversation, the two Eds talk about Ed Davey's passion for care provision and his deeply personal connection to the issue. Ed Balls also asks Ed about his time in the Coalition government with George Osborne and they reflect on their shared school days - including time spent out of the classroom. But will Ed Balls finally return the history notes he lost?Plus, with Nigel Farage's Reform rising up the ranks, Ed Balls asks Ed Davey if he would go into a coalition with Nigel Farage at the next general election. Don't forget to vote for us as the Political Podcast Award's People's Choice of the year. Follow the link to vote: https://politicalpodcastawards.co.uk/the-peoples-choice-award/ And we love hearing from you, so please don't forget to send all your EMQs to questions@politicalcurrency and make sure to include a voice note of your question.EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼ https://nordvpn.com/politicalcurrency Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee!Thanks for listening. Remember Kitchen Cabinet members get exclusive access to live EMQs recordings, briefings from the team, and an exclusive Political Currency mug: tr.ee/gift-pc

What's the most embarrassing moment you've ever had caught on camera? Good Morning Britain's Susanna Reid asks George and Ed to walk down an excruciating memory lane. And she puts a question from ChatGPT to them, in light of George's new gig. But which question is better?George reveals William Hague's incredible method for making sure meetings run on time and Ed helps a Gold listener finally understand the joke at the front of the show? Why on earth would George think he was on the Titanic?A listener shares their experience as a Jewish person in the UK, after the attack on Bondi Beach. And, Nick Thomas-Symonds, cabinet member and famed biographer of Harold Wilson compliments George on his impression of the former Prime Minister - though makes a slight correction. He wants to know when Ed and George think the leaders they served were most resilient. Finally - seeing as it's nearly Christmas - Ed and George muse on where Santa does his Christmas shopping… Don't forget to vote for us as the Political Podcast Award's People's Choice of the year. Follow the link to vote: https://politicalpodcastawards.co.uk/the-peoples-choice-award/ And we love hearing from you, so please don't forget to send all your EMQs to questions@politicalcurrency and make sure to include a voice note of your question.Plus, why not give the gift of Political Currency this Christmas! Kitchen Cabinet members get a Christmas card from Ed and George, a Political Currency mug and even more exclusive perks including our newsletter and access to live events. Sign yourself or a loved one (or an enemy) up today: tr.ee/gift-pcPlease note: Kitchen Cabinet is only available via Patreon.EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼ https://nordvpn.com/politicalcurrency Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee!Credits:Research: Sam BurtonProduction: Paige Reynolds and Eve JonesVideo Editor: Maha Al-BadrawiExecutive Producer: Ellie CliffordPolitical Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network.Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How has 2025 changed the outlook for Britain's political parties? George Osborne and Ed Balls reflect on the events that have defined public opinion and led to unprecedented changes in the polls. What went wrong for Keir Starmer's government? Why does Kemi Badenoch's leadership now look more stable? They also name what could potentially be the four most influential moments of 2026. Are losses in the Scottish, Welsh and local elections inevitable for Labour? Will the US mid-terms signal a resurgence or decline for Donald Trump? Could US-China state visits present an opportunity for a stronger relationship between the countries? And just how significant will the first OBR forecast since the Budget be, when it arrives in the spring?Finally, Ed and George crown their Politicians of the Year, and take a look back at some of the best, worst, and most surprising political moments of 2025.Don't forget to vote for us as the Political Podcast Award's People's Choice of the year. Follow the link to vote: https://politicalpodcastawards.co.uk/the-peoples-choice-award/ And we love hearing from you, so please don't forget to send all your EMQs to questions@politicalcurrency and make sure to include a voice note of your question.Plus, why not give the gift of Political Currency this Christmas! Kitchen Cabinet members get a Christmas card from Ed and George, a Political Currency mug and even more exclusive perks including our newsletter and access to live events. Sign yourself or a loved one (or an enemy) up today: tr.ee/gift-pcPlease note: Kitchen Cabinet is only available via Patreon.EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼ https://nordvpn.com/politicalcurrency Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee!Credits:Research: Sam BurtonProduction: Paige Reynolds and Eve JonesVideo Editor: Maha Al-BadrawiExecutive Producer: Ellie CliffordPolitical Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network.Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does the White House really think about Europe? George Osborne and Ed Balls take a look at President Trump's new national strategy. George plays devil's advocate for the plan, while Ed suggests that it could reveal JD Vance's big strategy for 2028… They then turn to the US domestic agenda, and weigh up whether the Trump economy really is A+++. They look at the impact of the tariffs, the upcoming appointment of a new Federal Reserve chair, and how rising prices could cost the Republicans in the midterms.Finally, they look at Hollywood and shine a light on Trump's role in Netflix and Paramount's bidding war for Warner Bros. They weigh up the impacts of these bids, the role of Jared Kushner, and why something similar couldn't happen in the UK…Don't forget to vote for us as the Political Podcast Award's People's Choice of the year. Follow the link to vote: https://politicalpodcastawards.co.uk/the-peoples-choice-award/ And we love hearing from you, so please don't forget to send all your EMQs to questions@politicalcurrency and make sure to include a voice note of your question.Why not gift the gift of Political Currency! Kitchen Cabinet members get a Christmas card from Ed and George, a Political Currency mug and even more exclusive perks including our newsletter and access to live events. Sign yourself or a loved one (or an enemy) up today: tr.ee/gift-pcCredits:Research: Sam BurtonProduction: Caillin McDaid & Ellie Jay Video Editor: Danny PapeExecutive Producer: Ellie CliffordPolitical Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Will any government be brave enough to abolish the triple lock on pensions? The cost-saving case has been made by many, but Ed Balls and George Osborne explain why it could be politically calamitous to try and ditch it. They debate William Hague's theory that, were Rachel Reeves sacked, Keir Starmer would follow and look back at how chancellors and Prime Minister's fates have been intertwined. Plus - why is Keir Starmer always doodling during PMQs? Is he following the brilliant debate strategy of Obama, or easily bored when being questioned?Finally, in a preview of our upcoming ‘What If' EMQs, Ed and George imagine how the 2024 election could have gone, had Reeves followed a path like John Smith in 1992. Would she have avoided her budget nightmares? Or, would we still have Rishi Sunak as Prime Minister?Don't forget to send in questions for our upcoming Christmas and ‘What If' themed EMQs episodes. You can send those to questions@politicalcurrency, and make sure to include a voice note!Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad-free join Political Currency Gold. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

The drama rages on, one week after Chancellor Rachel Reeves stood at the dispatch box to deliver her second Budget. Richard Hughes has resigned as OBR chair following the catastrophic budget leak and calls for Rachel Reeves to do the same have not let up. Ed Balls and George Osborne look at the “shambolic” fallout of the budget, and how Labour have once again grasped defeat from the jaws of victory in yet another communications disaster for the party. Then, the pair discuss David Lammy's drastic measures to scrap juries for the majority of cases in England and Wales. Is this the biggest change to our justice system since the Magna Carta or a necessary step to solve the mounting backlog of cases, bringing the courts to the brink? And why on earth didn't anybody prepare the ground for it?Finally, Ed and George look across the channel to the rise of the far right in Germany and France. With the AfD and National Rally looking on the cusp of electoral victory and Reform's path to power looking inevitable, what lessons can Keir Starmer learn from his European allies to stop Nigel Farage securing the keys to No 10? Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad- free join Political Currency Gold or our Kitchen Cabinet. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

https://genuinetools.com/blogs/articles/what-tools-do-i-need-to-fit-a-kitchen-essential-gear-price-where-to-buy-itThinking about installing your own kitchen cabinets? In this episode, experts break down the must-have power tools for precision and speed—plus safety tips you can't afford to ignore. Genuine Tools City: Beaverton Address: 1500 NW Bethany Blvd. Website: https://genuinetools.com/

How many times did Gordon Brown save Tony Blair from a calamitous decision? Ed Balls and George Osborne recount the times chancellors stepped in to save their PM from disaster. Does George wish he'd done it a bit more with David Cameron?And why does the Opposition leader respond to the budget and not the shadow chancellor? Ed and George try to work it out, but are not quite sure themselves - please write in! They also delve into the minimum wage rise from the budget, and signal pressing issues Keir Starmer and Rachel Reeves must tackle down the line.Finally, the pair share their dream jobs - other than Prime Minister, of course - with Ed's being a suitably political answer and George's being typically wide-ranging from his previous roles.We love hearing from you, so please don't forget to send all your EMQs to questions@politicalcurrency and make sure to include a voice note of your question. Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad-free join Political Currency Gold. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

Does Rachel Reeves have a credible plan for growth? One day on from her Budget Statement, George Osborne and Ed Balls debate her headline measures and ask if she's built enough of a narrative to save her job. Health Secretary Wes Streeting asks about two Osbornian policies: the sugar tax and two-child limit. How can Labour win the argument?They also talk about the disastrous OBR leak, whether anyone will be sacked, and ask how it stacks up to some of the biggest leaks in budget history… Is it worse than Ken Clarke in 1996? Or the Evening Standard beating George to the punch in 2013?Finally, they briefly turn to the war in Ukraine and debate the peace negotiations. The big question now is whether Putin has been strong-armed into signing a peace treaty, and if that means a lasting cease-fire is in sight.Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad- free join Political Currency Gold or our Kitchen Cabinet. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

After months of speculation, briefings and leaks, Rachel Reeves has finally delivered her fated second budget. Has she done enough to save herself, Keir Starmer, and the Labour government?In a special YouTube LIVE episode, Ed Balls and George Osborne give their immediate reaction to the Chancellor's budget. They dive into who the budget was for, the overtly political tone, and whether Reeves stood by her manifesto pledges.Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad-free join Political Currency Gold. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

With politics fraying and radical parties growing in strength, could the Tories and Labour come together and merge into a grand coalition of the centre? Surely George Osborne and Ed Balls have proven on this podcast that great things can happen when the two parties come together… And, as budget week looms, former Treasury civil servant Jill Rutter asks how Ed and George would get themselves out of the hole Rachel Reeves is in IF there were no political repercussions? And they wonder whether we are still feeling the effects of the mini-budget or if it's unfair for Rachel Reeves to continue blaming Liz Truss for the economic woes? Plus, they explain why too much preparation ahead of a great speech can actually be a bad thing. ~Do you want the opportunity to own a piece of British political history? In memory of the brilliant civil servant Chris Martin, a magnificent Jeroboam of Pol Roger, Winston Churchill's favourite champagne bearing the signatures of all nine living British Prime Ministers is being auctioned to raise money for Sarcoma UK. Place your bid here: https://astarauction.com/Chrismartinquiz The link will remain open until 10:30pm on the 27th November.~Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad-free join Political Currency Gold. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

A dramatic U-turn from Labour has stopped them from breaking their manifesto, but it has also left the Budget looking messy and wide open to risk. The expected income tax rise has been shelved in favour of what some insiders call a “smorgasbord” of smaller taxes. In this episode of Political Currency, Ed Balls and George Osborne dig into whether this was a rushed scramble or a smart political play. - and the extent to which it has knocked Rachel Reeves off the story she had been shaping in the run up to Budget week.Away from the Budget noise, all eyes turned to Shabana Mahmood and her sweeping overhaul of the asylum and refugee system. The announcement has split Labour supporters. Is this the arrival of what some are already calling "Mahmoodism"? And will these measures work in practice, or just push parts of the left toward the Greens or the Lib Dems?Finally, George and Ed look from Tehran to California, where George's former colleague Steve Hilton is suddenly leading the race for governor. Can his Trump style rhetoric, polished social media - and even the promise to control the weather - deliver an upset in a solidly Democrat state?You can access the link to the Chris Martin auction here: https://astarauction.com/Chrismartinquiz The link will remain open until 10:30pm on the 27th November.Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad-free join Political Currency Gold. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

What is the real purpose of Prime Minister's Questions? As an ‘infuriated' listener asks why the Speaker can't force politicians to answer, George Osborne breaks down why PMQs is ‘political theatre' and what most people misunderstand about it, while Ed Balls explains why David Lammy's recent performance revealed the real procedural power the Speaker holds.Then, prompted by a question from Shadow Cabinet minister Victoria Atkins, the pair break down when cross-party support actually works, and when it's just a ‘bear trap' for the opposition.And, reporting from the COP summit in Brazil, the hosts of the Outrage & Optimism podcast ask why the UK failed to put money into the 'Tropical Forests Forever' facility, leading Ed and George to discuss the 'crumbled' political consensus on foreign aid.Finally, the pair delve into the reality of rejoining the EU. Could the UK get the same deal as before? And what's the real obstacle to rejoining - could it be the Euro, the non-negotiable issue of free movement, or something else altogether?Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad-free join Political Currency Gold. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

A bizarre briefing war has exploded in Westminster, with Wes Streeting accused of plotting a coup against Keir Starmer. Ed Balls and George Osborne analyse the ‘toxic culture' in Number 10: who was really behind the briefing, and has this ‘self-destructive' move inadvertently strengthened Streeting while fatally weakening the Prime Minister?Meanwhile, the BBC is in turmoil, with its Director General and Head of News resigning over the Donald Trump Panorama controversy. With George himself now tipped for the top job, the pair unpack the corporate governance collapse. And, can Donald Trump really win his $1 billion lawsuit against the British broadcaster?Finally, Ed and George turn to Donald Trump snubbing the G20 over his claims of a "genocide" in South Africa. They explore the deepening divisions in the MAGA movement over controversial figures like Nick Fuentes, and ask if this identity politics of the "woke right" is a brand that Nigel Farage is about to import to the UK.Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad-free join Political Currency Gold. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

What political rival would you share a 12-hour flight with? Ed Balls and George Osborne dive into this very question, revealing the old foes and opposite numbers who would make the best long-haul companions.And can an unpopular leader tank a popular policy? The pair debate how a leader's image affects a government, and whether an unpopular messenger will derail a popular message no matter what. They also examine the meaning of 'fairness' in politics, and whether Labour or the Tories can truly lay claim to the term.Finally, Ed's new title as a "Lifelong Learning Ambassador" sparks a discussion on the 'Cinderella service' of adult skills and why no government can seem to get it right.Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad-free join Political Currency Gold. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

Rachel Reeves has set the stage for a dramatic Budget, seemingly signaling a "massive political gamble" by preparing to raise taxes on working people. Ed Balls and George Osborne analyse her pitch-rolling: has she boxed herself in, becoming the market's "guarantor" against her own party? And can she possibly sell this to an already-squeezed public?Meanwhile, Kemi Badenoch marks one year as Conservative leader - but, despite her sharp "waffle bomb" attack on the Chancellor, her poll ratings remain dire. Ed and George assess her performance: has she successfully stabilised the party's finances, or did she waste a year on identity politics instead of the economy? Plus, the pair explore why even Nigel Farage is suddenly pivoting away from tax cuts.And, what can a "Democratic Socialist" mayor in New York teach UK politics? Ed and George debate the real lessons from Zoran Mandani's shock victory - is it about left-wing policy, or a masterclass in new communication and building the broad coalitions that Starmer, Badenoch, and Farage all need?Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad-free join Political Currency Gold. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

Why won't Labour make rejoining the EU its new "silver bullet" against Nigel Farage? A listener challenges Ed Balls and George Osborne on tackling the "political third rail" of Brexit. Ed argues the EU wouldn't even want the UK back on its old terms - likely forcing the Euro and Schengen - while George predicts Britain will inevitably "creep back" towards the Single Market.Then, a direct question from the Gates Foundation confronts the former Chancellors on the 40% cut to foreign aid. George, the Chancellor who delivered the 0.7% target, blasts the "remarkably silent" and "compliant" aid community, delivering a stark warning to "get louder" or face even more cuts.Plus, with Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman stepping down, could Ed and George be the new hosts of Strictly Come Dancing? The pair reveal how unscripted the podcast really is, George shares his favorite TikTok restaurant reviewer, and Ed reacts to his "hot phase" going viral on social media…Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad-free join Political Currency Gold. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

Keir Starmer has weathered one of the most brutal weeks of his tenure. The Caerphilly by-election collapse, a divisive Deputy Leadership election, and the mistaken release of a high-risk prisoner have ignited leadership speculation and exposed deep party tensions. Ed Balls and George Osborne debate where it's all gone wrong, and whether Starmer can hold on.The pair then look ahead to the Budget and Rachel Reeves's fiscal black hole. Can she uphold Labour's 'tax lock' manifesto pledge, or will she be forced to raise one of the 'big three' taxes? Ed and George analyse a choice that could be make-or-break for the government.Finally, they dive into Donald Trump's whirlwind Asia tour. Following his major summit with Xi Jinping, they ask: is his tariff doctrine a chaotic madman theory, or is it successfully strong-arming new 'America First' trade deals?Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad-free join Political Currency Gold. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

Is the centre ground of British politics dead? A 15-year-old listener challenges George Osborne and Ed Balls on the surge of Reform and the Greens, forcing them to ask if the centre can truly fight back against populism.And why are bats, newts, and even spiders causing such chaos for British planning? The pair dive into the costly industry of species protection, discussing hundred-million-pound bat tunnels, a town centre stopped by spiders, and historic dockyards left unrenovated due to nesting birds.Plus, the real historical reason for Parliament's subsidised bars, ‘sleepovers with mummies' at the British Museum and George sets the record straight on what he actually did in his second government job as First Secretary of State.Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad-free join Political Currency Gold. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

As Chancellor Rachel Reeves prepares for a tough Budget, a new narrative is emerging: it's all Brexit's fault. Ed Balls and George Osborne examine whether the 'Brexit blame game' is a smart political strategy or a 'backward-looking excuse' that voters won't buy. And they discuss if it's too late for Labour to build a compelling economic story.Then, the pair dive into the 'appalling' turmoil inside Keir Starmer's No. 10. Are 'staggering' and 'juvenile' briefings against the new Cabinet Secretary a sign of a government in chaos? And as the Prince Andrew saga dominates the headlines, they debate the 'endgame' for the Senior Royal and why George believes it's time for the Prime Minister to step in.Plus, with George reporting from San Francisco, the pair give their take on the AI boom. With 'eye-watering valuations' for companies like OpenAI, is the world on the verge of an AI bubble bursting?Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad-free join Political Currency Gold. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

Could Ed Balls ever be tempted to become a Tory? And would George Osborne ever consider joining the Labour Party? The pair are forced to confront the ultimate political taboo after a listener asks if they could “pull a Winston Churchill” and cross the floor.George also recounts his recent on-stage reunion with Sir Nick Clegg, discussing with Ed whether the UK is destined for a multi-party system and if coalition governments are a recipe for success or instability.Plus, the President of the National Farmers' Union directly challenges the hosts on the 'family farm tax,' asking whether the Treasury has become an impenetrable silo; could a stamp duty holiday solve the housing crisis; and why one listener has dubbed the podcast 'The Redemption of George Osborne'.Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad-free join Political Currency Gold. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

Has the collapse of the China spy trial permanently damaged the Prime Minister? Ed Balls and George Osborne discuss how the ongoing saga of who knew what and when is causing untold damage to the Government.And as Donald Trump declares ‘a new dawn' in the Middle East, with the ceasefire appearing to be holding in Gaza, the pair debate if the US President should get the Nobel peace prize and whether the UK government is ‘delusional' in thinking they had a hand in the process…Plus, with the larger parties not getting a look-in, will the Sennedd by-election in Wales next week be the beginning of the political earthquake that shakes the UK? Prompted by ITV Wales' National Correspondent Rob Osborne, Ed and George look at why Wales is often overlooked when it comes to nation-wide coverage and scrutiny. Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad-free join Political Currency Gold. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

Is the modern Conservative Party a repudiation of the Cameron-Osborne years? George Osborne is challenged by Ed Davey, who asks him to consider whether Kemi Badenoch's leadership means there's no place for him in the party he once helped lead.Then, Ed Balls sets the record straight on one of New Labour's defining policies, revealing the true story behind making the Bank of England independent and taking credit from both Gordon Brown and Tony Blair.Also on the agenda: the breaking of unwritten rules during party conference season, the politics of attending the Women's Rugby World Cup final, and the Brexit parallels of trying to reform the ECHR.To get episodes early and ad-free, join Political Currency Gold or the Kitchen Cabinet:

Allen Curran  - Curran Cabinetry and Design On the Knowing Your Users: "So if you have teenagers at home, it might come in really handy to be able to slow that down so they don't have the opportunity to slam things shut." We all live in homes with a few of the same types of rooms.  We all have kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms and a place to do laundry and maybe even a place to hold stuff in the garage.  In almost all of these rooms we have cabinets.  That is where the similarities deviate. Cabinets can be made of a variety of materials, and styles.  How do you choose the best cabinets for your remodeling project. Allen Curran, owner of Curran Cabinetry and Design, knows a thing or two about cabinets.  He has been in the industry for years and has seen designs come and go and come back again. Listen as Allen explains the nuances of cabinets, the different design options and even the things you don't see, but you actually feel when using the cabinets.  It opens up a whole new world to making your house a much nicer home. Enjoy! Visit Lane at: https://currancabinetrydesign.com/ On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/curran.cabinetry.design/   Podcast Overview: 00:00 "Timeless Cabinet Color Choices" 04:00 "Architect Encounter on Flight" 09:45 Soft-Close Drawer and Door Features 12:17 Toolbox Over Kitchen Cabinets 14:46 Friendship, Friction, Sales Strategy 20:07 "Connecting with Amish Artisans" 22:55 "Helpful Advice From Retiree" 25:19 "Shop Machinery and Systems" 29:37 Local, Quality-Focused Service 33:07 "Custom Cabinets, Semi-Custom Pricing" 37:39 Muted Colors for Timeless Kitchens 39:17 Oak's Decline and Revival 42:38 "Microwave Drawers and Filtration Systems" 46:56 "Counter-Depth vs Full-Size Refrigerators" 49:43 Ethical Start in Remodeling Business 53:30 Modern Trends in Door Desgin 57:20 "Efficient Kitchen Showroom Design" Podcast Transcription: Allen Curran [00:00:00]: White or shades of white are still the most popular. Gray, blue, and green are the other options. And if you look at the blues and the greens, they will tend to have a shade of gray in them. And the reason for that is so much easier to decorate with other colors. If you wanted cobalt blue cabinetry, certainly we can do it. We offer all the Sherwin Williams paint colors as standard, different colors to choose from. But if you want cobalt blue, my biggest concern and first question is going to be how long before you get tired of that color? James Kademan [00:00:42]: You have found Authentic Business Adventures, the business program that brings you the struggle stories and triumphant successes of business owners across the land. Downloadable audio episodes can be found in the podcast link find@drawincustomers.com we are locally underwritten by the bank of Sun Prairie, and today we're welcoming, preparing to learn from Alan Curran of Curran Cabinetry and Design. I almost forgot the and design part. Allen Curran [00:01:06]: Perfect. James Kademan [00:01:07]: So, Alan, how is it going today? Allen Curran [00:01:09]: Today's going well. It's a beautiful sunny day. James Kademan [00:01:11]: Yeah. We're talking cabinetry here. Allen Curran [00:01:13]: We are. James Kademan [00:01:14]: So let's just start with the foundation. How do you get in the cabinetry business? Allen Curran [00:01:18]: Well, how I got into the cabinetry business is I applied for a job, having had experience selling to general contractors and found out a little bit later that I was the only one who applied and dressed in a suit. That's my claim to fame, is I wore a suit the right day. James Kademan [00:01:37]: You know, that is. That's funny. You say that side anecdote here. I'm hiring, I guess you've been doing some hiring. And I get people in Zoom meetings. You probably, I imagine, have people in person. Allen Curran [00:01:48]: A bit of both. James Kademan [00:01:49]:

AP correspondent Ben Thomas reports the president say he'll be imposing more tariffs next week.

Former FBI Director James Comey Indicted; New Tariffs on Heavy Trucks, Drugs, Kitchen Cabinets | NTD Good Morning

Jay Rayner and the panel are rifling through the TKC inbox for a postbag edition of The Kitchen Cabinet. Joining Jay are chefs, cooks and food writers Sophie Wright, Tim Anderson and Jeremy Pang and resident food historian, Dr Annie Gray.The panel discuss which pasta they go for in the supermarket, beer recipes that don't involve a batter, and the question on all diner's minds - why do restaurants serve items in threes? They also explain the purpose of white pepper and attempt to convince a listener that eating on the bone is the way to go.Producer: Dan CockerA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4