Podcasts about kitchen cabinets

For our third summer EMQs we're returning to our What Ifs. Ed Balls and George Osborne first consider how Britain would change had they never entered politics? Would the Bank of England become independent? Would there be a Manchester mayoralty? Or, would it have had no impact?What if George got the US Ambassador gig over Peter Mandelson? The pair consider how George would approach the job differently, blowback from within Labour, and whether Keir Starmer would still be in post without the controversy of Mandelson. They then go back in time to February 1974, where a hung Parliament saw Labour form a minority government. What if negotiations between the Conservatives and Liberals panned out? How long would this coalition survive? Would it stop Margaret Thatcher becoming PM? Who leads Labour after Harold Wilson? Finally, what if Labour were the largest party in 2015? If it's a hung Parliament who do they go into coalition with? Can they work with the SNP? Does it stop Brexit? What happens with the Tories and UKIP?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 or send a question to our social media handles:

The third of our exclusive summer interviews sees Ed Balls sit down with the former Chief of Staff for No. 10 Sue Gray. In her first major interview since her dramatic split from Keir Starmer's team, she details the lead up to entering Downing Street and just where things went wrong. Gray explains how she tried to prepare Starmer's team for government in 2023, where things went wrong at the beginning, and what it's like to be on the receiving end of an internal briefing war. In this tense and emotional conversation, she shares her raw reflections two years on and why things were not working at the top of government.Born in Tottenham to immigrant Irish parents, they also discuss her background, her meteoric rise through the civil service and what went on behind the scenes with her report into Partygate and the end of Boris Johnson. 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 or send a question to our social media handles:

This week's themed EMQs is all about America. Ed Balls and George Osborne reflect on their memories of the US from the Founding Fathers right through to Trump. They first consider whether the MAGA worldview is baked into American politics, particularly on an international level, and will affect things like NATO for decades to come.Amol Rajan, from the Today Programme, then poses an idea for Andy Burnham to borrow from the sitting President: Trump Accounts. This harkens back to New Labour's child trust funds, which George cut whilst chancellor. Could this idea work again in Britain? Or was there a reason it was disbanded under Cameron.Finally, they delve into the What If realm: who is the best President there never was? From the Kennedys, to Gore, to Hamilton, the pair reflect on the people who could have made the best impact in the White House. They also reflect on which previous Democratic President would have had the best chance of beating Trump in an election.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 or send a question to our social media handles:

Our second summer interview sees George Osborne sit down with the new Health Secretary and one of Labour's most experienced ministers, Yvette Cooper. She was the first minister to take maternity leave and is of course George's podcasting partner's other half. They talk about her nearly 30 years as an MP, how politics has changed and what it was like being in cabinet with her husband Ed Balls. They also discuss her new brief, how she plans to tackle Britain's social care crisis and her plans to prioritise families. She explains how Andy Burnham's leadership style differs from Keir Starmer's and why those differences contributed to the latter's struggles as prime minister. They delve into how she's stayed at the top of Labour, across almost 30 years and the challenges keeping their family life private while being public figures. 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 or send a question to our social media handles:

Annabel Crabb is a journalist, podcaster, writer, and host of the hit show Kitchen Cabinet, which you can watch now on ABC TV and ABC iview. Now in its eighth season, Annabel has meals cooked for her by some of the most powerful people in the country while she brings along dessert. The ideal recipe for disarming and frank conversations. In her personal life, Annabel has experienced her own highs and lows, from meeting her partner and starting a family, to the loss of her brother. In this conversation, Annabel opens up about the best and worst parts of being human. And don't miss our bonus episode with Annabel, where she discussed life in the media with Jess. You can watch Kitchen Cabinet on ABC iView: https://iview.abc.net.au/show/kitchen-cabinet Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/GptPH5sDFa4 Follow Jess Rowe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessjrowe/ And TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@craphousewife See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this media themed episode of EMQs, Ed Balls and George Osborne dip into the archive of questions from the past year to put all things media and politics into the spotlight. Fellow podcasters Jane Garvey and Fi Glover send in a question to find out why there are no interviewers quite like Brian Walden anymore, and whether biographies assisted by AI should be labelled as such in future.Ed and George then look to the past to get some inspiration for the future, with a listener asking which political biographies give us the best indication of just how history may rhyme in the coming years. They then name the best political journalists from their time in politics, and who left the biggest impact in the day to day of government.Finally, the pair are challenged on whether podcasts like this one are what really doomed Keir Starmer. Was Ed saying how he would have done things differently too destabilising? Or, was the fall of the Starmer government inevitable no matter how much commentary there was?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 or send a question to our social media handles:

In the first of our summer interviews, Ed Balls sits down with Kemi Badenoch, leader of Conservative Party and Leader of the Opposition. The wide ranging interview begins with her Nigerian upbringing, coming to the UK at 16, and how that informs her immigration policy.Badenoch also details just how different her Conservative party is from not only Labour and Reform, but also the party that lost the 2024 election. How has watching the fall of four Tory prime ministers shaped her leadership? And how does it stand apart from the ‘victim mentality of Farage and the left? She goes on to explain why the last Tory government didn't grip the grooming gang issue, the build up to sacking Robert Jenrick, and her strategy to bring the Conservatives back to power at the next election.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 or send a question to our social media handles:

Grimsby MP Melanie Onn sends in a question for this week's EMQs, querying why George went straight to Grimsby as a challenge for devolution in a recent episode. The pair delve into challenges facing Andy Burnham's devolution agenda, and how past governments have failed and succeeded in addressing these disparities.A listener then poses a question: is Britain lazier than other countries? And, is that stalling our growth? George and Ed compare our outlook to work in comparison to superpowers like China or the US, as well as our European counterparts. George even tells a story of a pre-president Macron.They reminisce on Labour's final shadow cabinet elections, and the heavyweights elected, their biggest sliding door moments, and why the left seemingly has a monopoly on climate issues. Look forward to our summer interviews beginning on Thursday, where Ed speaks to Tory leader Kemi Badenoch, and even asks her about climate issues. Look forward to more interviews throughout August, as well as special themed EMQs.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 or send a question to our social media handles:

What is Leg-Hair Harassment? What age would you be again and why this question delivers a whole juicy dollop of home truths. The Out Loud hosts have handpicked their all-time favourite reads and one subscriber is winning the entire 12-book stack. Subscribe to Mamamia to be automatically entered to win. Current subscriber? You're already in the draw. T&Cs apply. “No DJs.” What rules would you put on a Single Girls’ Manifesto? And reccos for your weekend you’re welcome: Em recommends Merit Flush Balm Blush. Mia recommends Hair ties from KKneckie, bought from Jumbledonline. Holly recommends Kitchen Cabinet, hosted by Annabel Crabb, on abcview. And a cheeky extra recco: Listen to In The Comments Get access to Very Peri, Mamamia's exclusive perimenopause series, for just $59. 25 world-leading experts, over 20 on-demand sessions, available now. We’ve sorted through the noise so you don't have to. Go to veryperi.com.au and join me today. You hot? Same. Buy today and save 40% Keen for more? Check out the Mamamia Out Loud newsletter. What To Listen To Next: Listen to our latest episode: Brad Pitt & 'The Half Life Wife' Listen: Inside Our Very Own Morning Wars Listen: ‘Wait. Is this book about me?’ Listen: The Meghan Masterchef Theory & A Very Public Family Performance Review Listen: The Podcast Seat We’re All Fighting For Listen: Do You Have A Hassler Friend? (You Do.) Listen: Barnaby’s 'Imaginary' Dog & You Can't Get Into This Club Connect your subscription to Apple Podcasts Discover more Mamamia Podcasts here including the very latest episode of Parenting Out Loud, the parenting podcast for people who don't listen to... parenting podcasts. SUBSCRIBE here: Support independent women's media You can now watch our show in full length video on the Apple Podcast app - make sure your phone is up to date and we can't wait for you to see Mamamia Out Loud on Apple What to read: In a few short years, Dolly Alderton made herself a brand. This is how she did it. How Dolly Alderton managed to sum up the loneliness of dating in just a few sentences. 'Amp that f**king up.' Dolly Alderton on turning her love life into Stan's Everything I Know About Love. 'I'm a self-professed pro.' An ex-bartender's 8 tricks for mastering the art of flirting. Scientists figured out why you still feel 25 (even though you're definitely not). THE END BITS: Check out our merch at MamamiaOutLoud.com GET IN TOUCH: Feedback? We’re listening. Send us an email at outloud@mamamia.com.au Share your story, feedback, or dilemma! Send us a voice message. Join our Facebook group Mamamia Outlouders to talk about the show. Follow us on Instagram @mamamiaoutloud and on Tiktok @mamamiaoutloud CREDITS: Hosts: Holly Wainwright, Mia Freedman & Emily Vernem Acting Group Executive Producer: Emeline Gazilas Executive Producer: Grace Rouvray Video Producer: Josh Green Associate Producer: Tessa Kotowicz Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land on which we have recorded this podcast. Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Week two of the Andy Burnham premiership has come with a honeymoon and polling bounce. Ed Balls and George Osborne look at how he's returned to a more collaborative approach with his cabinet, and the comms strategy which has seen pork scratchings become an international talking point. But what bigger political strategy is Burnham building? Despite protestations, is he still weighing up a General Election while his opponents are down?George felt many of Burnham's initial policies were ‘small beer' and lacked a big feeling. That wasn't the case this week with massive reforms to education and social care brought forward by the PM. But can they succeed? Both have been issues for successive governments, yet never solved. They caution that social care will be difficult to build without a strong narrative, and true cross-party consensus.Finally, as always, the buck still stops with the US. With new Fed Chair Kevin Warsh announcing no change to interest rates yesterday, it raises the question on how much the cost of living can improve in the US or UK. It also calls into question just what kind of Fed chair Warsh will be. Is he going to be too dovish? Or will he live up to his previous rhetoric?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 or send a question to our social media handles:

Few people can lay claim to having the Australian Prime Minister cook dinner for them, let alone that event taking place at The Lodge, but our guest this week has that and more on her plate. Annabel Crabb - host of the popular ABC TV show Kitchen Cabinet - joins us and spills the beans, peas and corn on her kitchen experience with Anthony Albanese, revealing how the Wagon Wheels almost fell off! Dessert spoons are drawn for the Food Poll as the traditional berry trifle battles it out with the precocious newcomer - the chocolate trifle. Winner takes all. Broadcast each Sunday on the ACE Radio Network - https://aceradio.com.au/ Catch us also on: Radio 2DD - Easy Listening - On Line - https://www.2dd.online/ Follow us on Facebook...https://www.facebook.com/foodbyteswithsarahpatterson/ Twitter & Instagram - @sarahfoodbytes Producer - Christopher Gates © 2026 Howdy Partners MediaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

South Yorkshire Mayor Oliver Coppard is our first questioner on this week's EMQs, asking whether other MPs will follow in Andy Burnham's footsteps and leave Westminster to become mayors. Ed Balls and George Osborne speak about the career opportunities that could come with these positions and how they can uniquely prepare you for No. 10 more than any cabinet role can.A civil servant then enquires why Burnham's reshuffle took so long, and what MPs are thinking during the tense hours that follow one. Ed recounts his own anxiety when first entering government, while George explains the complications in moving ministers who are not keen for new jobs and how governments stop the house of cards from toppling. They also give advice on how to pick the right college at Oxford, recalling their own time at school. The pair then reflect on the behind the scenes debates that led to the vote for equal marriage in 2013, with George venting long held frustrations at some MPs for their opposition... 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 or send a question to our social media handles:

A new dawn has broken, with the Andy Burnham premiership finally beginning. Ed Balls and George Osborne dive deep into the packed first week of PM Burnham, from his first words at Downing Street, to his massive reshuffle, and initial policy announcements. Is he being too ambitious out of the gate? Can he do politics differently? Will this really be a circuit breaker for Britain?The big surprise of Burnham's cabinet is also the biggest role: Chancellor John Healey. Why did he go for the ex-defence secretary rather than presumed frontrunners Ed Miliband or Shabana Mahmood? Ed and George recall their own memories of Healey to assess whether he will be a creature of the Treasury or make the Treasury his creature. They also speculate whether these initial announcements could lay the groundwork for an Autumn election…Finally, despite the best efforts of the new PM and chancellor, global conflicts will determine what they can do. With the situation in Iran heating up once more, how will Burnham respond to foreign dilemmas? Is appointing Ed Miliband a canny move or will it spark new conflict with the Trump 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 or send a question to our social media handles:

This week, Ed Balls and George Osborne hear from a current and former Member of Parliament. Former Tory minister Greg Clark asks if Andy Burnham's pledge for ‘devolution in every postcode' is attainable, while Starmer loyalist John Slinger puts forward his proposals for a ‘youth triple lock' to improve prospects for young people in the UK. Should there be guarantees on above-inflation maintenance loans and free bus travel? And should there be youth advisors in all government departments? Ed and George praise the initiative behind the idea.The pair also hear from a London cyclist frustrated by a council's ban on Lime bikes, the question is: has some devolution given away too much control? George recalls his approaches to devolution during the coalition government, while Ed evaluates the regulation of e-bike rentals.And lastly, Ed and George explain why politicians resist apologising - citing Nick Clegg's now infamous apology on student loans as an example. Can senior politicians ever recover from apologising about a decision they have made?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 or send a question to our social media handles:

The shocking killing of Ann Widdecombe has set a sombre tone in British politics in the last week. Ed Balls and George Osborne delve into the political implications of this tragedy, examining the changing police messaging and debating what the solution for protecting politicians should be. They also share memories of Widdecombe, who they both worked with throughout the years. ‘The King of North' (Andy Burnham) is set to enter Downing Street on Monday, after receiving the backing of over 90% of Labour MPs. But what is he going to do? The unknowns of the incoming Burnham premiership has resulted in breathless speculation hitting a fever pitch. George argues Burnham is focusing too much on the past in his messaging and must look to the future, while Ed cautions that Burnham should not assume he will be popular in the country off the bat. As Keir Starmer's time in No. 10 comes to an end, and Rachel Reeves time in No. 11 is likely to follow suit, the pair reflect on their political legacies and obituaries. They deliver a harsh sentence on their reigns, explaining why they were stuck in a doom loop the last two years, and how it speaks to wider problems in Britain in the last 10 years. 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 or send a question to our social media handles:

Hot off Centrist Dad's sellout show last week, two listeners at the gig have sent in questions. Our Kitchen Cabinet winner, Douglas Law, asks a question on the mind of every junior Labour MP right now: will Burnham promote them? Ed Balls and George Osborne explain what ministers must do to secure a promotion in government, and what Burnham will look for.Then, they answer a question that has plagued every recent government: can you end the triple lock? Despite its salience amongst some, George argues why it is neither politically or fiscally sensible to do so. Ed more or less agrees, though proposes a possible path to reducing the burden on public finances.Former Olympic gold medalist, and mind behind the Bee Network, Chris Boardman then asks how the work in Manchester and across devolved administrations can be scaled in order to replicate things like the Bee Network. The pair explain why Chris and Andy Burnham's work was successful, and how cross-party collaboration is key for long-term viability.Finally, they look at the perks received by former PMs. As Keir Starmer becomes the ninth living ex-prime minister, and with Burnham eventually taking it to ten, many wonder if the expense paid to these leaders is becoming too much of a strain. George explains why they were brought in to begin with, and why they can still prove beneficial long after each person has left Downing Street.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 or send a question to our social media handles:

The Nigel Farage donation scandal reached a breaking point on Tuesday when he took the extreme step of triggering his own by-election. But was this a shrewd move or has it backfired? Ed Balls and George Osborne examine the risks to Reform, how Kemi Badenoch may use it to her advantage, and whether Count Binface could really be Clacton's next MP. While some see Farage as future PM, the next man set to lead the country remains Andy Burnham. With nominations opening for Labour leader today, and no other candidate in the race, it's all set to be a coronation. But is this a good thing? George's Labour sources have all voiced anxieties about the lack of scrutiny on Burnham, while Ed counters that a heated contest could have boxed in the next Labour leader.And finally, Ed explains his latest Harvard-Kings paper on regional growth, which details where Keir Starmer and Rachel Reeves went wrong and how Andy Burnham can move the country forwards. Last night, he was at a talk discussing the paper with Michael Gove and Angela Rayner, and the former Tory MP made a surprising endorsement for the ex-deputy PM…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 or send a question to our social media handles:

The proposed holiday tax from the King's speech is a subject of controversy in the hospitality sector, and on this week's EMQs Ed Balls and George Osborne speak to these concerns. Does this drive away tourism? Or, can they follow in the footsteps of other European cities and help inject funding into these destinations through the extra cashflow?Then, they delve into the lack of employment rights for ministers. They explain why discrimination laws don't apply to heads of office and debate the possible route if a minister was harassed at work and wanted to take it further. A question to Ed takes us back to his trip to the playground with Andy Burnham. One listener asks how might the incoming PM revive New Labour-era play strategies and support for children and families? Another listener spotted Ed at the opera last week and wonders how politicians can increase support for the arts without perpetuating class divisions or stereotypes. Finally, the pair are put to a test when a listener sends ChatGPT's assessment of who would come out on top in a 10-pin bowling game. They debate the outcome, but agree the answer demonstrates the striking advancements in tone and humour of these AI language models. 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 or send a question to our social media handles:

Andy Burnham is now prime minister-in-waiting and is laying out his vision for Britain. On Monday he outlined his approach to the economy, but is his vision any different to Keir Starmer's? Ed Balls and George Osborne worry the speech lacks a theory of change, and sets him up for the same troubles Starmer faced. George puts forward the two key challenges Burnham will face: defence and communication. Starmer's Defence Investment Plan leaves a £5bn gap and stray briefings are confusing Burnham's messaging. If he can't get on top of these, is he destined to fail as Starmer has? The primary policy laid out in Burnham's speech was a No. 10 in the North, based in Manchester. But this plan comes with risks. Ed worries this could lead to increased divisions between No. 10 and the Treasury, which will kneecap the government's agenda. George feels these changes are too radical mid-Parliament, and distract from policy. And finally, this Saturday marks the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence and, to mark this historic milestone, Ed and George reflect on the country's history. They look at the founding fathers, their own relationship with the country, and what future relations will look like with the UK under Burnham. 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 or send a question to our social media handles:

Should Andy Burnham appoint an entirely new Cabinet or resist the temptation for a full reshuffle? Ed Balls and George Osborne discuss whether constant ministerial churn is a hindrance to effective government, and who the new Prime Minister should keep in post to provide stability.They also revisit one of the biggest political "what ifs" of the year. Was Keir Starmer wrong to stop Burnham returning to Westminster earlier? Looking back, could allowing him to fight Gorton and Denton have changed the course of events, or was Starmer's fate already sealed?A listener's memories of school evacuation drills before the Iraq War prompt a wider conversation about how governments prepare the public for crises. From terrorist attacks and pandemics to extreme weather, Ed and George reflect on the challenge of planning for events that may never happen.Elsewhere, they discuss why Classical Civilisation remains out of reach for many pupils, whether today's political infighting has more in common with Ancient Rome than we might like to admit, and reveal the surprisingly practical advice they'd give to an ambitious young Conservative hoping to enter Parliament, including where politicians really go to get suited and booted. 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 or send a question to our social media handles:

Jay Rayner and the Kitchen Cabinet panel are at Rooms in Worthing, where seaside traditions meet a thriving modern food scene.Joining Jay to answer listeners' culinary questions are chefs, cooks and food writers Melissa Thompson, Melek Erdal, Lerato and Dr Zoe Laughlin.The panellists discuss mackerel, a fish woven into the town's identity, exploring inventive ways to cook with it, from comforting classics to fresher, lighter dishes.Later, Jay is joined by local distiller Phil Duckett, who shares insight into Worthing's flourishing gin scene, bringing a taste of the town's beachside gin culture to the programme. Inspired by this, the panel suggests ways to cook with gin, from curing fish to creating dressings.There are also ideas for standout dipping dishes, a lively debate over the correct way to cook roast potatoes, and creative approaches to smoked mackerel beyond the usual pâté.As ever, expect practical tips, lively debate, and a few memorable tales of kitchen chaos along the way.Producer: Alison Vernon-Smith Assistant Producer: William NortonA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4

The pathway from Makerfield to Downing Street seems inevitable. Andy Burnham was sworn in to Parliament hours after Keir Starmer resigned and now seems set to be crowned as prime minister next month. But who is he? Ed Balls and George Osborne have known him for over 25 years, and speak to how the man they know will govern once he enters No. 10. How will his style as a footballer be reflected in his governing?Ed and George then examine the likelihood of whether Andy Burnham will call an early General Election. Either way he risks repeating the mistakes of Gordon Brown or Theresa May. Ed lays out the three tests Burnham must ask himself before going to the polls, while George lays out how a General Election could play out for the opposition parties.Finally, they turn to the man still in Downing Street. What will Keir Starmer's final weeks in post look like? Ed and George look back on the final moments of Brown's and Cameron's premierships, and what the thinking will be in the Starmer team in these final days and weeks.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 or send a question to our social media handles:

Al Carns revealed in the wake of his resignation he only met Keir Starmer in an official capacity once. On this week's EMQs, Ed Balls and George Osborne break down how unusual this is for a PM and why it may explain the problem at the heart of the Starmer operation. Baroness Jan Royall, Chair of the Jo Cox Foundation asks what lessons have been learned in the decade since her tragic murder and what more needs to be done to protect MPs.The pair then tackle the big political debate: is ‘white van man' always right? Ed recalls a near disaster for the treasury with ‘white man van', while George offers politicians advice on how to balance their personal views with meeting the public where they are.Ed and George also answer ‘Emily's' question on free childcare benefits and whether it should be stopped completely when you earn over £100,000. Ed and George bring their experience to the question and discuss the pros and cons of benefits tapering rather than ending on a salary cliff edge. Plus a Canadian listener hits back at George's recent derogatory comments on Ottawa and asks George and Ed for their predictions if significant election results had gone another way. Don't forget if you're a Kitchen Cabinet member and want to win a chance to see Centrist Dad live at the Water Rats on the 2nd July make sure to send in an EMQ to questions@politicalcurrency.co.uk with the subject ‘CENTRIST DAD'.If you have any other burning questions send them to questions@politicalcurrency.co.uk and make sure to include a voice note of your question or send a question to our social media handles:

After Keir Starmer delivered his resignation speech this morning, Ed Balls and George Osborne reflect on what comes next for the government, for the country, and for the outgoing Prime Minister. Was Starmer's ‘clinical' address a sign of a weak legacy and further inability to communicate his successes? The pair argue the performance was lacking in both emotion, and in recognition for the work of his cabinet colleagues.Plus, as Wes Streeting backs down and a coronation of Andy Burnham seems imminent, will any other Labour MPs dare to stand against the King of the North? Or will they now start trying to book a spot at the next Cabinet table instead? Ed suggests an outsider candidate could launch a pre-contest to have their moment in the limelight and give Burnham some scrutiny. Meanwhile, George speaks of the need for Andy Burnham to nail down a plan for the government and get ahead of the tide of public opinion.Lastly, they discuss where this leaves the Labour government two years on from its landslide majority. Has Starmer fallen into the same trap as previous governments of not sticking to a clear plan, as George says? And, as Ed theorises, is the Starmer legacy now tied to the performance of a future Burnham government?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 or send a question to our social media handles:

Keir Starmer's legacy is on the line, no matter who wins in Makerfield. A flurry of announcements from social media bans to the defence strategy have seen the PM attempt to recentre himself in the narrative as his greatest rival comes closer and closer to re-entering Westminster. This week, Ed Balls and George Osborne delve into what it means for Labour, whether Wes Streeting is still a contender, and if ‘last chance saloon' legacy building ever works.No matter who the PM is later this year one thing is certain: the fallout of Iran. Positive or negative the worldwide economy has been affected by the war, and with Trump signing a peace deal we may start to see what the true impact will be long term. Finally, the 10th anniversary of the Brexit vote is on Tuesday and after turning down the Today Programme, Newsnight, and Channel 4, George gives us his verdict on the Brexit legacy. Is Britain poorer, weaker and less influential outside the EU, as George argues, or was Brexit ultimately inevitable, as Ed suggests? And have George's personal relationships recovered? 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 or send a question to our social media handles:

How effective will new UK laws be at protecting children online? Ed Balls and George Osborne hear a question from Natalie Fleet, the Minister for Safeguarding and Violence Against Women and Girls. They discuss the technology that can help, the importance of legislation keeping pace with risks, and the legal decision that made social media platforms more likely to host misleading content.Plus, why is the government now prioritising inflation over low unemployment? Is it possible to tackle them both at the same time? And what could a future Prime Minister do towards this? Ed and George assess the history and economics behind it.They also discuss the importance of historical education as a politician and an economist. Ed talks about the importance of learning from mistakes of the past, and George recalls how two paintings in No 11 Downing Street paid tribute to an influential 1925 dinner between then-Chancellor Winston Churchill and economist John Maynard Keynes.And finally, how do Ed and George feel about comedians rarely impersonating them? The pair show off their own impressions of William Hague, Gordon Brown, and Peter Mandelson.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 or send a question to our social media handles:

The shock resignation of defence secretary John Healey has prompted an emergency input from Ed Balls and George Osborne for this week's episode. They react to why he went, what it means for the government and how defence spending will become a bigger crunch point than it was already.In one week's time voting will open for the by-election of the century. Will Andy Burnham return to Parliament and enter Downing Street? If he does, how can he learn from not just the mistakes of Keir Starmer but previous PMs who entered mid-government. The pair examine the challenges facing the King of the North, and lay out what he must do immediately to right the ship. They then turn their focus to Burnham's biggest challenge: the economy. He says Manchesterism is the answer, but what is it? Does it work? And if it does, can it be effectively applied to the whole country? Finally, with the World Cup kicking off tonight the pair take some time to look at the interplay of politics and football. Is this the most politically charged World Cup ever? What can be expected from Donald Trump, who has a testy relationship with co-hosts Canada and Mexico? What will be the impact of Iran's participation?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 or send a question to our social media handles:

In this week's EMQs George Osborne and Ed Balls take on a question from Jeremy Hunt who asks if chancellors are under pressure to push through new reform as soon as they are in office. Ed and George bring their experience to the query. Following the Pope's letter on the topic of AI, one listener asks for Ed and George's reaction to the papal intervention. In the Pope's encyclical, he asks if AI is a force for good or bad. George and Ed applaud Pope Leo's early engagement into the topic and, like the Pope, think human dignity needs to be at the heart of all new technological advancements. MP, Minister and mountain rescue volunteer Josh MacAlister asks a question that takes George back to his constituency in Tatton and prompts Ed to share his knowledge and his appreciation for rhubarb. Also a query from Australia triggers a debate on politicians shaping policy to benefit their loved one. Plus there's confirmation of what's NOT going to be on the setlist at the upcoming Centrist Dad's gig at the Water Rats in London.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 or send a question to our social media handles:

British politics has been dominated this week by the horrifying murder of student Henry Novak and the political storm that followed the release of police bodycam footage. Ed Balls and George Osborne examine the tragedy, the questions it raises around “two-tier policing” and the political firestorm it has ignited. The pair analyse the contrasting responses from Nigel Farage, Keir Starmer and Kemi Badenoch. Has Farage gone too far in his ‘emergency address to the nation' in which he called for “cold rage”. Is this the path for someone who wants to be PM or a return to the political margins? And while Badenoch has found her strongest footing on such cultural issues, can the Conservatives afford to focus on them when the economy remains the central battleground?They then turn to the Makerfield by-election, where Andy Burnham is navigating a local contest and a national movement. As questions grow about his leadership ambitions, can he campaign as both constituency candidate and potential prime minister? And what do the latest Mandelson files reveal about the state of Labour's government and the pressure building on Starmer?Finally, Ed and George take a brief look at Germany where Chancellor Friedrich Merz is struggling in the polls just a year into office. With a popular regional leader already being discussed as a successor, are there lessons for Britain from Berlin's political troubles?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 or send a question to our social media handles:

Sugar is everywhere, socially approved, and often handed out as comfort, reward, and love. That's exactly why it can be so hard to spot when it stops being “a treat” and starts acting like an addiction. I'm Dr. Casey Grover, and I sit down with Mike Collins, known as the Sugar Free Man, for a clear-eyed talk about what sugar addiction looks like in real people's lives and why willpower is such an unreliable tool when cravings take over.We get into the recovery lens: triggers, cravings, relapse language, and the emotional roots of using sugar to self-soothe. Mike shares how his own family history shaped his relationship with sweets, how his coaching and meeting-based community grew during COVID, and why support groups can be the difference between “trying again” and actually changing behavior. We also talk about who shows up for help, why so many people seek weight loss or type 2 diabetes relief first, and how diet culture has often missed the point.Then we go deeper on the science Mike leans on, especially fructose. We discuss why fructose may be a key driver of cravings, how it's processed in the liver, and why gut health topics like "leaky gut" get brought up in the sugar conversation. Finally, we compare moderation vs abstinence, how eating disorder treatment can clash with sugar-free protocols, and how finding healthier dopamine through exercise can support long-term recovery.If this conversation helps you see your own pattern more clearly, subscribe, share it with someone who's stuck in the loop, and leave a review so more people can find the show.To learn more about Mike's work:https://sugaraddiction.comhttps://www.skool.com/no-sugar-nation/aboutTo contact Dr. Grover: ammadeeasy@fastmail.com

Was George Osborne about to abandon David Cameron in the 2005 Tory leadership race? That's the first question on this week's EMQs, where George recounts the mistakes made by the David Davis campaign that allowed Cameron to ascend. Ed Balls shares similar mistakes of David Miliband's 2010 campaign, and the pair offer their own advice to all backbench MPs assessing the current Labour leadership contest.Then they turn to the man who may win said contest: Andy Burnham. They ponder if Makerfield is the closest thing the UK has seen to a presidential election, with the voters knowing they may well elect our next PM.From one political giant to another they then debate why the £5M donation to Nigel Farage hasn't blown up, and how he could end up on the path of Boris Johnson should this go poorly for him.Finally, George unveils an underdiscussed power of the chancellor that could see the government expel any of their political rivals. They also get into religion and culture…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 or send a question to our social media handles:

Do you ever find yourself wishing that someone would just tell you the right choice for every finish in your remodel? Between the tile, the fixtures, and the endless cabinet options, the sheer volume of decisions is EXHAUSTING.I tell my clients that there isn't one "right" answer. I tell my students that there isn't one “right answer. Because your perfect mid-century update depends on your taste, your house, and your budget. But honestly? I have opinions. Today, I'm putting aside the "it depends" caveats and giving you my unvarnished hot takes on the correct choices for a mid-century kitchen update.In today's episode you'll hear:Why slab doors are the only way to go for kitchen cabinets.Which metal finish that will save you a lifetime of matching headaches.All about a "cat-magnet" flooring solution that is as durable as it is adorable.Get the full show notes with all the trimmings at https://www.midmod-midwest.com/2406Like and subscribe at Apple | Spotify Want us to create your mid-century master plan? Apply here! Or get my course,  Ready to Remodel.

The battle for Makerfield is on, so this week Ed Balls and George Osborne dig into this consequential by-election's frontrunners. Andy Burnham is radical in tone, but are his policies more conservative when you dig in? Reform's Robert Kenyon has lost his shine as sexist and remain leaning views have been dug up but a spokesperson for the party said they "fully back" him and added that the "comments were made before he was in politics". The fringe right party Restore has picked up momentum, will this damage Nigel Farage's grip on the right of British politics?Tony Blair's scathing essay on the state of British politics has ignited a new debate in the Labour leadership dilemma, but is this the argument for the moment? Ed agrees with the diagnosis, but thinks Blair is stuck in 2006 and not meeting the moment for 2026. George argues the case for Blair, citing the inability of governments to tackle the major issues he highlights.Finally, the pair zero in on one issue that may define a Burnham premiership: social care. As health secretary Burnham tried to forge a national care service, but 16 years on no progress has been made in this area. Why are successive governments stunted on this? Are unwanted tax rises the only solution? Could this be the issue that undoes the King of the North should he make it to Downing Street?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 or send a question to our social media handles:

Following Green MP Hannah Spencer's comments on drinking culture at Westminster, Ed Balls and George Osborne answer whether MPs should be better behaved in general during Parliamentary sessions. They make the case for heckling and jeering, comparing it to more civilised Parliaments and systems to explain how it helps hold our leaders accountable. They then reflect on their experience on Question Time, and whether they would follow Michael Gove's move and go on as retired politicians. This sparks a trip down memory lane, and there may be more to come in the summer…Things get serious with a listener posing Adam Tooze's argument that the Bank of England is instilling fear in governments following the Truss fiasco. They explain their objections to this, and explain how the Bank of England has kept things in check for Britain, particularly post-2008.Finally, they answer the ultimate question: are Centrist Dad playing the Trinity College Oxford ball? Ed reveals the process behind the band's booking, and they recount the bands that played their own balls. George also recounts his encounter with a literary legend that he'd really rather forget…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 or send a question to our social media handles:

British politics has moved at a rapid pace the last week, with Andy Burnham securing his root to parliament, Wes Streeting reigniting Brexit debates, and a defiant No. 10 fighting on through all of it. Ed Balls and George Osborne examine the leadership race, the manoeuvres being made by Streeting to court the Labour faithful and how Burnham is having to campaign on two fronts. Why is the cabinet silent? Is Starmer right to cling on? Will the King of the North be coronated should he return to parliament? What if he loses? The pair then examine the economic prospectus of both Burnham and Streeting, contrasting it with the cost of living support announced by Rachel Reeves today. They detail the limitations of any government to combat inflation, the holes in plans both contenders have spoken of and the risk a governing party faces openly debating policy like this.Finally, they take a trip across the Atlantic to California and the final stages of the gubernatorial primary. George's mate Steve Hilton has maintained his frontrunner status amidst a split Democratic field, but can he actually win come November? The odds are stacked against him, but Ed and George caution not to count him out.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 or send a question to our social media handles:

Last week's local elections saw votes counted during the Friday to save costs, and inspired one listener to ask Ed Balls and George Osborne why that isn't always the case. He also wondered why we don't vote at weekends like other European countries. The pair explain the historical roots of the tradition and the benefits of weekday votes and overnight counts for general elections. Plus they recall their own experiences as commentators during the last 3 elections. They then address the divisive policies and language seen in the Greens and Reform campaigns, and whether this is a sign of the centre losing ground or an opportunity to seize. They also take a question from an Australian listener, who wonders if we're moving too fast in the energy transition.Finally, a listener returns to the assisted dying debate from a few weeks ago and proposes their own case for the legislation. We also hear the pair debating the possibility of immortality…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 or send a question to our social media handles:

Wes Streeting's resignation is the latest domino to fall amid the threat to Keir Starmer's premiership, in a chain reaction that could lead to months of chaos. Ed Balls and George Osborne evaluate where the government and Keir Starmer can go from here. Should he resign? And how would Andy Burnham, Angela Rayner, Ed Miliband, and the wildcard option of Al Carns, fare against him in a leadership contest? News of Streeting's departure came between our live YouTube stream and recording of this episode – so listen for Ed and George's instant reaction.Fresh from a trip to Canada, George suggests the success of Mark Carney, or Australia's Albert Albanese, could be a template used as a template for a Labour government to rebound, regardless of leader. Does it show Labour needs to take a bolder stance on issues like fossil fuels and immigration? And finally, as President Trump continues his consequential trip to Beijing, the pair assess how the China-US relations could be vital for Trump in this year's mid-terms. Does Trump need Xi more than he needs him? And are the two countries inseparable no matter the strength of their relationship? 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 or send a question to our social media handles:

Fresh off his trip to the Crucible to see the snooker, Ed Balls brings a question for him and George Osborne to answer on just how similar politics and snooker are. Is it all about the long game? Or do you take the risky shot when the opportunity arises? Are the two even similar? And do Ed and George know enough about the sport to say for certain?Sunday Times columnist Charlotte Ivers then asks whether politicians are just copying TV shows like The Thick of It and The West Wing in their communications. George explains the truth in this, while Ed argues The West Wing displays an idealised version of politics and that the script writers often draw from the real life drama in politics. Former Tory Chairman Andrew Feldman and one of our listeners then ask a pair of questions related to the public acceptance of AI, with our own guru George explaining how companies can sell the public on the benefits of AI and bust some of the myths around job losses caused by AI.Finally, Ed and George answer the biggest question of all: do podcasts like this one influence voters? They explain how it's been seen to happen already in the US, what things might look like in the next general election, and even manage to discuss Celebrity Traitors…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 or send a question to our social media handles:

The fallout of the local elections was as many had predicted, but the chaotic aftermath demanded a reaction. Ed Balls and George Osborne went live on YouTube earlier today to give their thoughts on just how bad things are for Keir Starmer.They reflect on the heavy defeat Labour suffered on Thursday, and the prime minister's fightback. Why did he bring back Gordon Brown and Harriet Harman? Why did he stake things on today's speech with a King's Speech in only two days?The biggest question mark of all though, is Catherine West. The little known MP created an earthquake over the weekend by announcing she would challenge the PM if no one else would. She has now pivoted to calling for a timetable, but still has damaged Starmer, and placed all eyes on what Andy Burnham, Wes Streeting, and Angela Rayner do next…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 or send a question to our social media handles:

It's polling day, and the tensions have never been higher for Keir Starmer. The threat to his left, with the Greens, or to his right, with Reform, makes this a defining moment of his premiership. Ed Balls and George Osborne take this time to look at the future of the devolved governments, which could all be led by nationalist parties for the first time. Which parties will be willing to work together? Will there be another independence referendum? Is the UK at risk of breaking up?The war in Iran is still ongoing, despite Donald Trump still maintaining a peace deal is imminent. With the market shocks seen in recent days over the Strait of Hormuz and the status of peace talks being unclear, George wonders why Britain has been hit worse than any G7 economy. Ed explains why the Bank of England must keep a clear inflation target, and why he thinks they will cut interest rates despite what others have said.Finally, it's been nearly 10 years since the Brexit referendum but the debate rages on. Keir Starmer was at a meeting with European allies earlier this week and has signalled closer relations. Will Starmer take us back into the single market? Will the EU budget debates return? Could we even see another referendum? Ed and George explain how the government must navigate relations with Europe to stabilise the economy, while not repeating the mistakes of the 2019 election. 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 or send a question to our social media handles:

Before getting into questions this week, Ed Balls and George Osborne take on the big talk around Westminster: should MPs be allowed to drink? They respond to the criticism by new Green MP Hannah Spencer, who said MPs smelling of alcohol while voting made her uneasy. Ed and George offer the pros and cons of this, and even how drinking in parliament getting out of hand may have led to Jeremy Corbyn…Is it in Kemi Badenoch's best interest for Keir Starmer to stay on? The pair explain why this mindset is too clever by half, and how opposition leaders should always focus on their message and expose a PM's weak points, rather than hope to gain by keeping a flawed leader in place. They then receive a pair of questions on AI, looking at the lack of training among certain industry leaders and the idea of British sovereignty on AI. George brings his expertise to explain why training is important and the limits for any country on sovereignty, while Ed illuminates us on some of his own musical AI discoveries.Finally, they answer just why cabinet ministers seem reluctant to lay out their own vision for government even when Starmer appears so weak. Is this a sign of No. 10 clamping down on ministers? The rise of soundbite social media? Or, does it demonstrate how no cabinet member is confident enough in their leadership ambitions to make a move? 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 or send a question to our social media handles:

A dramatic week in UK politics has seen the successful state visit to the US by King Charles and another hit on Keir Starmer in the ongoing Mandelson scandal. Ed Balls and George Osborne break down all the moving parts of these events. Is the special relationship saved? Did Kemi Badenoch move too early against Starmer? And what does this all mean going into a seismic set of local elections?On said elections, the pair break down the vulnerable positions for both main parties. They argue Kemi Badenoch needs an ethical reset from the tumultuous Boris Johnson era if she hopes to fend off Reform and make serious gains for the Conservatives. On the Labour side, they believe Keir Starmer has not got a diagnosis for why Labour are unpopular, and this risks his position should any cabinet member decide to stick the knife in after the elections.Finally, they return to assisted dying to analyse why the bill stalled out in the Lords and debate just how it can come back. Is it a slow process to such a big reform? Or is it best to strike when the iron is hot, or risk losing this debate for a generation? The pair disagree on what exactly is the best route forward…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 or send a question to our social media handles:

Off the back of last week's EMQs, Tamara Finkelstein sends in a correction to the idea that UK schools don't prepare for attacks like those in the US. She highlights that Jewish schools have to prepare and feel threatened in this current environment. Ed Balls and George Osborne highlight the worrying trend of antisemitism in the UK and the need for public figures to actively combat it.Aldershot MP Alex Baker then chimes in with a proposal to adopt a multilateral defence, security and resilience bank, much like Mark Carney is championing in Canada. This poses a challenge for the pair, who recognise the necessity of improving defensive relations with our allies but see the economic challenges How do prime ministers prepare for PMQs? Is it usual for the opposition to send questions in advance, as Kemi Badenoch did last week? George explains the procedure and conventions in the chamber, and how the opposition aims to catch out PMs. And finally, pollsters from More in Common reached out following the discussion of ex-PMs, on the main show, with some fascinating insight into who the public most wants to hear from. Ed and George are included for good measure, and even rival podcasters get a mention…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 or send a question to our social media handles:

Another dramatic revelation in the Mandelson scandal has reignited the tensions around Keir Starmer's leadership and the future of his government. Ed Balls and George Osborne reflect on the latest developments, and look forward to how this will impact the local elections in just two weeks' time. The pair question the sacking of Olly Robbins, assess Kemi Badenoch's performance at PMQs, and look at the bleak tone of the cabinet. With an extension of the ceasefire in Iran, George and Ed debate the likelihood of a lasting peace agreement. George argues there may be a workable deal on the table, while Ed is more cautious saying Iran doesn't trust the Americans, and that it's unclear who they actually should be negotiating with.Ed and George's pal Kevin Warsh faced the Senate Banking Committee ahead of his approval as Fed Chair on Tuesday, with some particularly tough questioning from Democratic senator Elizabeth Warren. The pair discuss his political savvy in the hearing and, if confirmed, how he will navigate his relationship with Donald Trump when in post. 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 or send a question to our social media handles:

Fresh off the back of our latest episodes Ed Balls and George Osborne get an answer to their queries around the curate eggs and a follow up to the Libya crisis series on age in politics. In politics, particularly the Tories, you're considered young at 40 or 50 while in tech it makes you ancient. Why is this? Youth is often seen as a negative in politics, but is there value to not being weighed down by your experiences? Then the pair answer a question from the Barclays Brief podcast on the gilt markets, and options open to Rachel Reeves should higher energy prices limit her fiscal headroom. They explain why her options are severely limited coming into the second half of this the parliament and what options are still available for her.Baroness Jo Valentine then asks a question around rail development at Heathrow should the third runway be developed. They point to past projects like the Millennium Dome and Olympic Park as pointers on what you should and shouldn't do, while exploring why planning often takes so long in Britain.Finally, they address a question on many people's minds: what happens if we're plunged into active war? They discuss whether the government should better prepare the public for this event, and what areas of weakness the government should address to better protect the public in future. 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 Middle East conflict raged on during our Easter break and George Osborne comes back to us with news from Washington and word from friends in high places, like incoming Fed Chair Kevin Warsh. He and Ed Balls discuss the failed peace talks from George's other mate, JD Vance, and where things go from here. They then weigh in on the UK's shifting tone towards the Trump administration, and why they're becoming more critical. It's aiding them for now, but will it come back to bite them? The ongoing defence spending dilemma also rears its head with Labour peer George Robertson openly critcising the Government. The pair predict this will come to be the biggest challenge for Rachel Reeves and the Treasury in this year's budget.Earlier this week the International Monetary Fund forecast that Britain would be one of the countries worst hit by the Iran war. Ed explains why he disagrees with this assessment, and how the Bank of England can avoid debilitating inflation. George cautions that Reeves is in a tough spot, and faces some unpopular choices should the IMF's forecast come to fruition. Finally, George sheds some light on emerging cybersecurity threats particularly Anthropic's Mythos model. Alarms are ringing in Washington over this model, with the new threats of AI on defence and security becoming clear. George highlights the risk and opportunity inherent in these technological innovations, and they call for regulation as these models become more and more advanced.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:

Jay Rayner and the Kitchen Cabinet panel return with a Postbag edition, answering questions sent in by you, the listeners. Chefs, cooks and food writers, Jocky Petrie, Sophie Wright, Melek Erdal and Jeremy Pang, wrestle with a bumper serving of culinary dilemmas. Topics include, what you should do with two kilos of fresh lychees, whether flouring mean before browning is recommended or an unnecessary faff, and which kitchen gadgets are more trouble to clean than they're worth.Along the way they tackle fears of fish bones, scepticism about expensive caviar, complaints about the word “smell”, and the perennial question of whether chefs lean too heavily on onions and garlic. Producer: Dan Cocker Assistant Producer: William NortonA Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4

Is the medical establishment trying to shatter the MAHA movement? Jeffrey Tucker, founder of the Brownstone Institute and the man Politico calls the architect of RFK Jr.'s “kitchen cabinet” joins Dr. Drew to expose fake Big Pharma polls and their unrelenting pressure to force Dr. Vinay Prasad out of the FDA. He reveals what Americans really think about medical freedom, vaccine mandates, and health sovereignty. Next, conservative activists Geno Young and Vashon Tuncle (“The Chicago Conservative”) join the show to discuss a viral city council confrontation and the catastrophic collapse of the public education system. Can Chicago be saved? Finally, Paleovalley co-founder Autumn Smith exposes the dark reality of the modern meat industry, the “illusion of choice” at the grocery store, and how to use nutrition to fight chronic inflammation. Jeffrey Tucker is founder and president of the Brownstone Institute, a nonprofit focused on public health, economics, and the philosophical foundations of freedom. He is also Senior Economics Columnist for Epoch Times. Follow at https://x.com/jeffreyatucker Geno Young is a conservative author, South Side of Chicago native, musician, educator, and author of Sex, Drugs, And Illiteracy: The Death of Education in America available at https://amzn.to/4lA6HHz. Follow at https://x.com/Geno4America Vashon Tuncle is The Chicago Conservative on YouTube and a conservative activist based in Chicago. Learn more at https://youtube.com/@TheChicagoConservative Dr. Autumn Smith is the co-founder of Paleovalley, a company focused on nutrient-dense foods. She advocates for rethinking meat consumption and promotes the benefits of bone broth and tallow. Learn more at https://drdrew.com/paleovalley 「 SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS 」 • STRONG CELL – If you want to feel more like your younger self, go to https://strongcell.com/ and use code DREW for 20% off. • AUGUSTA PRECIOUS METALS – Thousands of Americans are moving portions of their retirement into physical gold & silver. Learn more in this 3-minute report from our friends at Augusta Precious Metals: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://drdrew.com/gold⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or text DREW to 35052 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠• FATTY15 – The future of essential fatty acids is here! Strengthen your cells against age-related breakdown with Fatty15. Get 15% off a 90-day Starter Kit Subscription at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://drdrew.com/fatty15⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • PALEOVALLEY - "Paleovalley has a wide variety of extraordinary products that are both healthful and delicious,” says Dr. Drew. "I am a huge fan of this brand and know you'll love it too!” Get 15% off your first order at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://drdrew.com/paleovalley⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • THE WELLNESS COMPANY - Counteract harmful spike proteins with TWC's Signature Series Spike Support Formula containing nattokinase and selenium. Learn more about TWC's supplements at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://twc.health/drew⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 「 ABOUT THE SHOW 」 This show is for entertainment and/or informational purposes only, and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Executive Producers • Kaleb Nation - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://kalebnation.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • Susan Pinsky - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://x.com/firstladyoflove⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Content Producer • Emily Barsh - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://x.com/emilytvproducer⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Hosted By • Dr. Drew Pinsky - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://x.com/drdrew⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transforming the Kitchen Experience: How Kitchen365 Streamlines Design, Specification, and Delivery At KBIS 2026, Bhavin Patel and Hiren Modi of Kitchen365 discuss how their end-to-end technology platform is reshaping the kitchen cabinet industry—making design faster, orders more accurate, and showrooms more agile. Digitizing Kitchen Design: Kitchen365's design service accelerates the process from field measurement to final kitchen plan, completing in hours instead of a week. B2B Order Management System (OMS): Streamlines dealer and distributor interactions, supports tiered pricing, multi-warehouse fulfillment, and integrates with existing design software like ProKitchen. Consumer-Facing Digital Tools: Price estimators and visualizers allow homeowners to explore and configure kitchens online, reducing showroom dependency. Reducing Scope Creep & Specification Drift: Digital twins and high-fidelity visualizations ensure designs align with customer expectations, lowering errors and change orders. Process Integration & Efficiency: CSV-driven workflows reduce manual data entry, freeing staff for higher-value work and increasing accuracy. Hybrid Showroom Model: Physical showrooms serve as inspiration hubs, while digital platforms handle design, ordering, and lead generation. Democratizing Information: Transparency across pricing, inventory, and specifications strengthens trust between showrooms, designers, distributors, and clients. Competitive Advantage Through Workflow: Beyond products and aesthetics, efficiency and integration of design, data, and delivery create the next edge in the kitchen industry. At KBIS 2026, Kitchen365 is showcasing a transformative approach to the kitchen cabinet industry. Founded to address the fragmented workflows between designers, retailers, and manufacturers, Kitchen365 is more than a software company—it is a full-scale ecosystem that digitizes, automates, and scales the kitchen design process. Bhavin Patel, President, and Hiren Modi, Co-Founder and CEO, shared their journey of identifying inefficiencies in the industry. From lengthy design cycles that could take a week to fulfill to manual order entry prone to costly errors, the opportunity for modernization was clear. Kitchen365 first tackled this by offering a kitchen design service that allows designers to focus on client interactions while the platform handles technical drawings, reducing turnaround times to mere hours. The platform's B2B Order Management System (OMS) revolutionizes distributor and dealer workflows. Tiered pricing, multi-warehouse inventory tracking, and CSV integrations with design software reduce manual errors and improve fulfillment speed. Retailers now have the ability to quickly provide quotes, place orders, and communicate with clients without extensive back-office staffing. For homeowners, Kitchen365 offers interactive digital tools like price estimators and 3D visualizers, enabling them to explore kitchen options remotely. High-fidelity visualizations and digital twins reduce “specification drift,” ensuring that what is imagined in the design phase aligns with the final installation. This not only minimizes costly post-order changes but also enhances the overall customer experience. Kitchen365 also empowers showrooms to evolve. Dealers gain enterprise-level digital portals with catalog management, lead generation, and design visualization, all accessible for a modest subscription. This hybrid model integrates physical and digital experiences, giving clients the tactile inspiration of a showroom and the efficiency of an online platform. Underlying all these innovations is a commitment to transparency. By democratizing information across pricing, inventory, and specifications, Kitchen365 strengthens relationships between distributors, dealers, designers, and end clients. The result is a seamless, efficient, and more confident workflow—from first consultation to final installation. Bhavin and Hiren emphasize that technology does not replace the human element but amplifies it. Designers become “complexity curators,” focusing on aesthetics and client experience while Kitchen365 handles data management, order accuracy, and process efficiency. The platform exemplifies how technology, when paired with industry expertise, can elevate every participant in the kitchen cabinet ecosystem. In a market long defined by artisanal craftsmanship and manual processes, Kitchen365 demonstrates that the next competitive advantage isn't just in style or materials—it's in integrated, intelligent workflows that make the industry faster, more transparent, and more client-focused. Guest: Brandon Drum, Owner | Prime Cabinetry Learn more about Kitchen365: Kitchen365 Website

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