Alastair CampbellEvery podcast appearance, updated as new ones drop

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JOIN US ON SUBSTACK: substack.com/@wtfisleft Early Access to Ad-Free Extended Interviews Ask our Guests Questions LIVEs with Jovan + Freddie WL Book Club + Community Discussion Articles + Exclusive Content ********************************************** Can the Left forgive the Centre? Can the Centre forgive the Left? This week we are joined by the UK's second biggest politics podcaster on where the Left is going wrong and how it must unite to win. Keeping out Reform will not be enough to fix the country. A...

What happens when political figures engage directly with controversial leaders—and how should those decisions be interpreted? In this sharp and thought-provoking conversation, historian David Starkey examines the debate surrounding Rory Stewart and Alastair Campbell’s visit to Syria, and why it has sparked such strong reactions. 👉 Subscribe to The Daily Heretic now for fearless conversations: https://www.youtube.com/@hereticsclips/videos David Starkey joins Andrew Gold to unpack one of the most contentious discussions in modern political commentary: how Western figures engage with complex international situations. When politicians or commentators meet controversial leaders, what is the purpose—and how is it perceived? In this focused discussion, Starkey reflects on the visit by Rory Stewart and Alastair Campbell to meet Syrian interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa, a figure associated with a turbulent and widely scrutinised past. Why did this meeting attract so much attention? And what questions does it raise about judgment, messaging, and political strategy? He explores the idea of “magical thinking” in politics—the belief that dialogue alone can transform difficult realities. When engaging with challenging figures on the global stage, what expectations are realistic? And where can optimism lead to misinterpretation? Starkey also considers the broader implications of such visits. How do these actions shape public perception back home? And what do they reveal about how international issues are framed for domestic audiences? Drawing on his historical perspective, he highlights the importance of context. When looking at political decisions, how do past precedents help us understand present actions? And why is it important to analyse intent alongside outcome? What makes this conversation particularly compelling is its focus on interpretation. Starkey isn’t simply criticising individuals—he’s examining a wider pattern in how political engagement is understood and debated. He also touches on the role of media coverage. How are these encounters reported? And why do certain narratives gain traction while others are overlooked? This interview stays tightly centred on one key issue: how political decisions involving controversial international figures are perceived—and why they matter. If you’re interested in politics, history, and the complexities of global engagement, this is a conversation that offers a clear and thought-provoking perspective. Watch closely—because the meaning behind actions is often more complex than it first appears. 🎥 Watch the full podcast here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gXjj91RBONk&t=19s #DavidStarkey #AndrewGold #RoryStewart #AlastairCampbell #UKPolitics #InternationalRelations #Heretics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Former Deputy Prime Minister, Angela Rayner, joins Alastair Campbell and Vicky Spratt to discuss the Gen Z story as she sees it. Listen to hear her thoughts on the success of The Green Party, the allure of characters like Gary Stevenson and Zack Polanski, the hopelessness of young people, the danger of binary politics and short-term thinking, as well as her push for the government to reconnect with Gen Z and empower leaders of the future. She also listens and responds directly to some of your experiences sent to us via voice note. To hear episode one and two of the Gen Z Story, sign up at ⁠therestispolitics.com ⁠ and if you're a student, sign up with your student email address to get a year of TRIP Plus for just £20. For analysis on this interview and more insights into the Gen Z Story series, sign up to our free newsletter . Instagram: ⁠@restispolitics⁠ Twitter: ⁠@restispolitics⁠ Email: ⁠therestispolitics@goalhanger.com⁠ __________ Hosted by: Vicky Spratt Producer: India Dunkley Social Producer: Celine Charles Video Editor: Josh Smith, Lorcan Moullier Researcher: Olivia Taylor Hooper Exec Producer: Tom Whiter Editorial Director: Emily Kent Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On ‘Football: Saux What?’ this week Graeme, Charlie and Alastair Campbell discuss: Watching football in the stands with Alex Ferguson Getting bundled into a van and having a kick about with Maradona Alastair Campbell’s captaining style Why Burnley keep yo-yoing from The Championship to The Premier League Alastair explains why his idea to get Celtic and Rangers to swap kits for the Northern Ireland Peace Process was the worst idea he's ever had We preview Scotland at this year’s World Cup PLUS Alastair tells us about smuggling some bagpipes into a football ground AND he gets really confused by a Bag For Life. Remember to like and subscribe on our Youtube page and you can also follow us on Instagram and Tiktok @footballsauxwhatshow We want you to get involved on all the topics discussed on the show today... so leave your comments and opinions below and we’ll respond to them, on the next episode. You can email us at footballsauxwhat@mikedropstudios.com and you can also visit us at mikedropstudios.com/footballsauxwhatshow Visit Machine Football https://www.machinefootball.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Irish are protesting in the streets over the price of fuel, Qatar's GDP is plummeting, and heating bills are skyrocketing in France. And today, every world leader and every CEO of every major corporation is having to address the consequences of this war of choice on Iran—and Trump couldn't care less. Instead, he's working on a new distraction to get the media to talk about something besides his and Bibi's catastrophic error. But European leaders are finally starting to hit back against Trump, and Xi is trolling him on a genius level. Plus, Vance can't stop making a fool of himself, a debate over the merits of Europe v. the United States, and a healthy serving of fresh British insults to try on for size. Alastair Campbell joins Tim Miller. show notes Tim’s livestream Wednesday at 7pm ET on YouTube or Substack Alastair's podcast, "The Rest Is Politics" Alastair's recent interview with Zelensky ON SALE NOW: Bulwark+ members-only presale for Bulwark Live shows in San Diego and LA through TheBulwark.com/Events Tickets for these shows go on sale for everyone else at Noon PT on Friday Get 15% off OneSkin with the code BULWARK at https://www.oneskin.co/BULWARK #oneskinpod

🎙️ New Curtin’s Cast: Alastair Campbell on democracy in the age of Trumpism Politics everywhere feels simultaneously stuck and combustible — in the US, the UK and here in Australia. This week Nick Dyrenfurth and Kos Samaras are joined by Alastair Campbell — former Director of Communications and Strategy to Tony Blair, co-host of The Rest Is Politics , and one of the sharpest observers of modern democratic politics — for a wide-ranging and unsparing conversation. We explore: Why UK Labour PM Keir Starmer governs with a commanding majority yet struggles to project purpose How Anthony Albanese’s Australian Labor and Canada’s Mark Carney are resisting the right-wing populist surge The global ecosystem of right-wing media, influencers and big money amplifying grievance and normalising transgressive politics of the MAGA, Reform UK and Aussie One Nation variety Why figures like Donald Trump, Nigel Farage and Pauline Hanson can get away with behaviour mainstream politicians cannot What New Labour got wrong - namely the downsides of globalization Housing, intergenerational equality and climate are the means by which the social democratic centre-left can beat back the populist Alt-Right Alastair also speaks candidly about his own reaction to Trump — even joking about how he has “Trump Derangement Syndrome” — and what that reveals about the emotional intensity of contemporary politics 🎧 Listen to episode 44 wherever you get your podcasts.

Alastair Campbell is one of the most influential figures in modern British politics – best known as Tony Blair’s former Downing Street Press Secretary and a driving force behind New Labour’s rise to power. But behind the political headlines lies a decades-long journey through breakdown, depression, and recovery. In this deeply honest conversation, Alastair joins Harry to explore how his experience of psychosis and mental illness has shaped his life – and why openness, not silence, remains his only rule. Together, they discuss his first-hand experiences of breakdown, suic*dal ideation, and the different elements that have played in his recovery. Alastair reflects on his brother Donald’s schizophrenia, the stigma still surrounding serious mental illness, and what needs to change to make suicide prevention a national priority. From the police officers who saved his life, to how he’s learned to rate his mental health every morning on a 1–10 scale, this is a rare and powerful insight into one of Britain’s most outspoken mental health advocates. He also shares how his writing, music, and football obsession keep him grounded – and why, even after decades of progress, we still haven’t built a society that is progressing enough in mental health. He speaks candidly about: - His first experience of mental illness in childhood - His brother Donald’s schizophrenia and the power of acceptance - The psychotic breakdown that changed everything – and the police officers who saved his life - Addiction, recovery, and learning to manage depression through self-awareness - Suic*de, loss, and the importance of meaning in recovery - How workplaces and governments can better prevent suicide - Why language still matters – and how society can stop fuelling shame around mental illness - The mental health impact of climate change, AI, and social media - His daily mental health scale and how openness became his rule for living Question The Default is created by Harry Corin, in support of Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) – challenging the societal defaults that stop us from talking, feeling, and living freely. Follow Host Harry CorinLinkedIn – Harry Corin Instagram – @harry.corin Follow Question The DefaultInstagram – @questionthedefaultpod TikTok – @questionthedefaultpod LinkedIn – Question The Default Podcast Follow Guest Alastair Campbell on Instagram – @alastaircampbell This episode discusses sensitive topics including mental health, addiction, and suic*de. Please take care of yourself and only listen if you feel safe to do so. If you need support, help is available: Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) – Call 0800 58 58 58 (5pm–midnight) or visit thecalmzone.net Samaritans – Call 116 123 (free, 24/7) or visit samaritans.org Mind – Call 0300 123 3393 (Mon–Fri, 9am–6pm) or visit mind.org.uk Shout – Text SHOUT to 85258 (24/7) or visit giveusashout.org If you’re in immediate danger, call 999 or go to your nearest A&E. For listeners outside the UK, visit findahelpline.com for international support lines. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

At last - the intergalactic meeting they've all been asking for! One of Earth's top podcasters Alastair Campbell in conversation with Sigma IX's pre-eminent (and only) podcaster Count Binface. After months of negotiations the chat tête-à-bin finally took place in Alaska and by the end of their meeting world peace had been restored, democracy was saved and Burnley had won the Champions' League. No... none of that happened - except the conversation - that DID happen. Alastair was in France and Count Binface was hovering above Croydon (planning something big) and they spoke about the enormous success of The Rest is Politics, the need to disagree agreeably and Kier Starmer's first year in office. But most importantly of all Alastair applied his political playbook to the Count Binface campaign... Frost & Nixon, Parkinson & Hull, and now Campbell & Binface. Get a load of this! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ever heard the story about how Alastair Campbell found himself playing football with Diego Maradona? In a fantastic episode, former Downing Street Press Secretary and top podcaster himself Alastair Campbell joins Craig and Amy to chat about leadership. What we didn't expect was to hear how he shared a pitch with arguably the greatest footballer that ever lived, how he was asked to give a team talk to the British Lions Rugby team and he reveals how he broke some bones as a child. CONTAINS SOME STRONG LANGUAGE

Alastair Campbell co-hosts the UK’s most successful podcast, The Rest is Politics and a huge percentage of the audience is under thirty. He tells Katherine why he thinks he still appeals to the young. He’s 68 but he’s hoping his biological age will be 21. If it’s not, he’s calling for a recount or an overhaul of the system! His kids keep him feeling young, but Alastair says it can be challenging being the oldest man in the audience when he’s watching his comedian daughter Grace perform her often explicit set. He lives a healthy life now but will colitis, stress and past struggles with depression and alcoholism have impacted on his biological age? Dr Nichola Conlon gives her verdict on Alastair’s result and applauds his commitment to cold water swimming. She explains what happens to the body when you plunge in cold water, and how long you need to be in cold water per week to get the health benefits. If you want an explainer on how UK politics work, the books Why Politics Matter and Alastair Campbell Talks Politics are available now Alastair Campbell recorded this before he turned 68. Lead producer– Henrietta Harrison Social media - Cassidy Rebelo Video Producer – Elena Cotton Video Producer– David May Artwork – Ben Watkins Video Editor - Paul Collins-Reddin Head of Video – Edie Jefferys Sound Designer – Dominic Delargy Executive Producer – Mick Coyle Chief CreatIve Officer – Lucie Cave

The Matts are joined by Alastair Campbell to discuss today’s big news - the rebrand of The New European to The New World. Why are we changing? Who is The New World for? Who will be writing in it... and about what. All will be revealed. Founder and editor-in-chief Matt Kelly and editor-at-large Matthew d’Ancona explain the thinking and ambition behind this new chapter in the publishing success that started life as a 4-week pop-up… and turned into the fastest growing title in the UK. While Alastair Campbell - who, it is rumoured, has a podcast of his own - joins them on the sofa to explain why The New World is his new favourite magazine. Enjoy! OFFER: Get The New World for just £1 for the first month. Head to https://www.thenewworld.co.uk/2matts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alastair Campbell - LIVE This is an absolute riot. Alastair Campbell is his vulnerable, doubting, bombastic best in one of the funniest episodes of the show ever recorded. How would he contain Trump? What is Labour getting wrong? Has he put on weight? This will all make sense once you've listened. Sort of. THE POLITICAL PARTY IS BACK ON STAGE! 31 March: Anthony Scaramucci 12 May: Wes Streeting 9 June: Kemi Badenoch 14 July: Michael Gove Plus more to be announced... Get tickets for all shows here: https://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/ DONATE to the RNOH Charity here: https://www.rnohcharity.org/donate/donate-online SEE Matt at on tour until June 2025, including his extra date at The Nottingham Playhouse: https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows 12 March: Glasgow, Glee Club 28 March: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts Centre 4 April: London, Bloomsbury Theatre 13 April: Salford Lowry - EXTRA DATE 29 May: Chipping Norton Theatre - EXTRA DATE 30 May: Swindon Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE 4 June: Leeds City Varieties - EXTRA DATE 5 June: Nottingham Playhouse - EXTRA DATE 6 June: Cambridge Junction - EXTRA DATE 12 June: York, The Crescent - EXTRA DATE 13 June: Chelmsford Theatre - EXTRA DATE 14 June: Faversham, The Alex - EXTRA DATE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Brought to you by Ballygowan Tommy Bowe & Donncha O'Callaghan sit down for Episode18 of The Offload with special guest Alastair Campbell. They chat: – Tommy’s bread – AI Homework – Aviva atmosphere – Michael D’s scooter – Unfit England – Alastair Campbell on the media – Here come Scotland – And much more Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Replay: Christmas Special with Ed Balls and Alastair Campbell. The year is 2016. Ed Balls has just done Strictly. Alastair Campbell is yet to launch his podcast. This is the barmy Christmas Special we all need. THE POLITICAL PARTY IS BACK ON STAGE! Get tickets for all shows here: https://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/ SEE Matt at on tour until March 2025, including his extra date at The Bloomsbury Theatre: https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows 29 January: Norwich, Playhouse - EXTRA DATE 2 February: Salford, Lowry 4 February: Leeds, City Varieties 5 February: Sheffield, The Leadmill 6 February: Chelmsford Theatre 7 February: Bedford, The Quarry Theatre 12 February: Bath, Komedia 13 February: Southend, Palace Theatre 16 February: Cambridge, The Junction 20 February: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts 23 February: Brighton, Komedia 25 February: Cardiff, Glee Club 26 February: Bury St Edmunds, Theatre Royal 28 February: Chelmsford Theatre - EXTRA DATE 2 March: Bristol, Tobacco Factory 4 March: Colchester Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE 6 March: Birmingham, Glee Club - EXTRA DATE 7 March: Maidenhead, Norden Farm - EXTRA DATE 11 March: Aberdeen, Lemon Tree 12 March: Glasgow, Glee Club 27 March: Oxford, Glee Club - EXTRA DATE 28 March: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE 4 April: London, Bloomsbury Theatre - EXTRA DATE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Extraordinary Life Stories John Reynolds talks to Alastair Campbell. Alastair is a journalist, author, strategist, broadcaster and host of the popular chart topping Podcast: Restispolitics Alastair became a household name for his political roles during Tony Blair’s leadership of the Labour Party. In May this 2023 he published his eighteenth book, But What Can I Do?, a call to arms to people to get more engaged in politics. His book went straight to No 1 in the Sunday Times bestseller list in the first week of publication, meaning that at that time Alastair had both the number 1 podcast and the best selling non-fiction hard back book in the UK at the same time. Alastair is well known for his campaigning for mental health awareness.

In this lively episode of The Netmums Podcast, hosts Wendy Golledge and Alison Perry welcome the versatile Alastair Campbell, renowned for his significant contributions to politics and media, and now an author seeking to motivate the younger generation. Alastair offers his insights on balancing parenting with a demanding career, the importance of being present, and how his unique career journey has shaped his children's upbringing. Alastair introduces his latest book, "Alastair Campbell Talks Politics," which aims to equip young people with the knowledge and confidence to engage in politics. He highlights the importance of understanding the political landscape, the impact of misinformation, and the necessity for critical thinking. The discussion also covers the challenges of navigating social media influences, the government's role in regulating online spaces, and the importance of young people being involved in shaping their future. The episode delves into the art of disagreeing agreeably, a key theme of Alastair’s podcast with Rory Stewart, and the importance of fostering respectful dialogue. As the conversation progresses, Alastair shares his aspirations for the new Labour government, particularly regarding mental health reforms and the modernisation of education. Stay connected with Netmums for more parenting tips, community support, engaging content: Website: netmums.com / Netmums socials: @netmums / Facebook / TikTok / X Series 14 of the Netmums Podcast is produced by Buckers at Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/2/audible/105336 to listen full audiobooks. Title: Why Politics Matters Series: Little Experts Author: Alastair Campbell, Maite Franchi - illustrator Narrator: Alastair Campbell Format: mp3 Length: 27 mins Release date: 07-04-24 Ratings: Not rated yet Genres: Social Studies Publisher's Summary: What links schools, transport and hospitals? POLITICS! Discover how and why politics is part of everything we do with writer, podcaster and strategist ALASTAIR CAMPBELL. Who is in charge? How are decisions made? What can children do to get involved? Find out all this and more – alongside accessible introductions to parliament, government, voting and debating.

Author and former Labour Spin Doctor, Alastair Campbell, joins JK and Al to talk about his new book, which talks to kids about politics in an unbiased and relevant way! Check out Why Politics Matters by Alastair Campbell here. Check your eligibility for free solar panels, air source heat pumps and insulation under the eco4 scheme - just head to warmauk.com Check out Dadsnet on YouTube for reviews, jokes and loads more: https://shorturl.at/cinZ1 Or head to Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheDadsnet Join the Dadsnet community to have your say: https://www.facebook.com/groups/298654160327022 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We are joined by Alastair Campbell , ex-advisor to Tony Blair in the New Labour government & host of the number 1 podcast in the UK "The Rest Is Politics". Alastair has written two books aimed at school children with the aim of doing what sometimes seems impossible.... getting them interested in politics. We talk about lowering the voting age, why all politicians aren't the same & what there is to be optimistic about in the current climate with the potential of a new government. You can find Alastair's books here: Why Politics Matter - https://amz.run/9JTE Alastair Campbell Talks Politics - https://amz.run/9JTF Follow us on Instagram: @teachsleeprepeatpodcast

This episode of the Beyond Borders Podcast offers a rare and compelling look into British politics through the eyes of two of its key players from the Blair administration, Alastair Campbell and Jonathan Powell. Recorded live from the idyllic grounds of Traquair House during the Beyond Borders International Festival 2022, this discussion is not just a retrospective on their time in government but an insightful dialogue on the impact of Brexit, the challenges of mental health in politics, and the future of British governance. Guests: Alastair Campbell: Former Downing Street Director of Communications and Strategy and co-host of the podcast ‘The Rest is Politics’. Jonathan Powell: Former Downing Street Chief of Staff and Chief British Government Negotiator on Northern Ireland. Find out more: Beyond Borders Scotland: https://www.beyondbordersscotland.com/ Beyond Borders International Festival: https://www.bbintfest.com/ The Rest Is Politics: https://therestispolitics.supportingcast.fm/ Produced by FoSho STUDIOS

Questions, suggestions, or feedback? Send us a message! In this episode we talk to Alastair Campbell about Democracy. Alastair Campbell, who doesn’t really need an introduction if you already listen to his podcast The Rest is Politics. Alastair served under Tony Blair as Downing Street Press Secretary from 1997–2000 and then became Downing Street's director of communications and spokesman for the Labour Party 2000–2003 playing a pivotal role in shaping the New Labour. He's an accomplished author, publishing both best selling novels and non-fiction books about mental health, the media, the environment and most recently two books for kids ' Why Politics Matters ’ and ‘ How Politics Works ’. Can modern democracy keep up with the pace of change in today's world? On this episode of "Where Shall We Meet," we try to tackle this critical question. Alistair offers his unique insights draw comparisons between Western democracies and city-states like Singapore, and even monarchies like the UAE, to examine the pressing need for renewed civic engagement and political accountability. Join us for a stimulating conversation that underscores the crucial need for political reform and early political education. Web: www.whereshallwemeet.xyz Twitter: @whrshallwemeet Instagram: @whrshallwemeet

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/2/audible/74406 to listen full audiobooks. Title: Alastair Campbell Talks Politics Author: Alastair Campbell Narrator: Alastair Campbell Format: mp3 Length: 2 hrs and 21 mins Release date: 06-20-24 Ratings: 5 out of 5 stars, 2 ratings Genres: Education & Learning Publisher's Summary: Writer, podcaster and strategist, Alastair Campbell, makes politics exciting, relatable and personal – AT LAST! Alastair shares his incredible knowledge and passion to empower young people and give them the skills and confidence they need to understand how the country is run, how they can get involved, encourage them to have a view, or take a stand, give them tips about how to debate, and so much more!

Help, I’m making a political podcast! As it dawns on Grace she’s making a podcast about politics, who better to speak to than the Daddy of political podcasts and Godfather of New Labour. Alastair Campbell joins GK Barry in the 2nd episode of The Turnout. They agree that more young people should head to the polls on July 4th but disagree that free vodka shots are the way to get them there. Alastair reveals he’s in favour of compulsory voting, thinks 16 year olds should be able to vote and says in some parts of the world, democracy is under threat, so we all need to wake up. Alastair Campbell is the co-host of the Rest is Politics podcast and has written a book aimed at teenagers and young adults ‘Alastair Campbell Talks Politics’.

Can you survive politics and still speak honestly about your mental health? Alastair Campbell — journalist, strategist, and mental health advocate — joins Mind Cake for a powerful conversation about resilience, depression, and what needs to change in society and government. In this raw and revealing episode of Mind Cake , Paul Beeson and Lee Crompton sit down with Alastair Campbell — former communications chief to Tony Blair, acclaimed author, co-host of The Rest Is Politics , and outspoken mental health advocate. Alastair opens up about living with depression, navigating the relentless pressure of political life, and how he’s learned to monitor his wellbeing using his own unique 1–10 scale. This isn’t just a conversation about politics — it’s about what it means to keep going , even when the world expects you to hold it all together. 🧩 Inside this episode: 📉 Living with depression – Alastair’s candid account of breakdowns, recovery, and learning to ask for help 🏛️ Mental health and policy – How government can do better, and why stigma still persists 🧠 Coping strategies – From writing to routine to staying active, what keeps him grounded ⚽ Football detours – Maradona, VAR rants, and Burnley’s place in his mental health journey 🗳️ Politics now – Thoughts on leadership, polarisation, and the UK’s mental health priorities This is a conversation about humanness, honesty, and hope — whether you're a politics nerd, a mental health warrior, or just looking to understand the person behind the headlines. 🎧 Listen now and discover how speaking up can change not just lives — but systems. Links Alastair Campbell https://www.alastaircampbell.org Living Better (Book) https://www.alastaircampbell.org/living-better BBC Documentary: My Depression and Me https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m0005btv The Rest is Politics (podcast) https://open.spotify.com/show/1Ysx8g1Iw42gESAtegrFaH

“If you’re going to have a breakdown, try not to have it in a top secret secure naval dockyard.” You might know Alastair Campbell as the formidable former press secretary of British prime minister Tony Blair and co-host of popular podcast The Rest is Politics . But back in 1996, when Alastair was a high-flying tabloid journalist, his mind suddenly unravelled. “I was hearing voices and seeing things that weren’t there.” Alastair thought his breakdown would spell the end of both his marriage and his career. But these days, he sees it as the best thing to ever happen to him. He offers candid insights into his struggles with addiction and depression. Alastair also takes you inside 10 Downing Street at some critical moments in history, such as the death of Princess Diana, and the controversy over the Iraq War. “Deep down, I wish it never happened. But at the same time, I can still defend the decisions that Tony Blair made at the time.” You’ll hear Alastair’s take on what’s gone wrong in politics and how to fix it. Plus, what could happen to democracy if Donald Trump is re-elected as US President. +++ The Solutionists is podcast from the University of Sydney, produced by Deadset Studios . Keep up to date with The Solutionists by following @sydney_uni on Twitter , Facebook , and Instagram . Sourcing/credit: Archival media clips from BBC News. This episode was produced by Monique Ross with sound design by Jeremy Wilmot. Executive editors are Kellie Riordan, Jen Peterson-Ward, and Mark Scott. Thanks to the technical staff at the at the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences Media Room. This podcast was recorded on the land of the Gadigal people of the Eora nation. For thousands of years, across innumerable generations, knowledge has been taught, shared and exchanged here. We pay respect to elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Alastair Campbell , renowned as Britain's leading political master communicator, is pioneering the way in regaining control of the UK's political debate while also garnering a massive following worldwide. His podcast, The Rest is Politics , co-hosted with former Tory Cabinet minister Rory Stewart, boasts over one million listeners per episode, dominating charts from the UK to Suriname. Their ability to effortlessly fill venues like the Royal Albert Hall is a testament to their captivating presence. „We are just two guys who talk politics.” Campbell's charm lies not just in his intellect and language but also in his humor and wit, making this conversation as enlightening as it is entertaining. In our 60 minutes, we delve into various pressing topics: • his influence on setting the political tone • domestic and international political challenges and the need for fundamental re-setting • Citizen empowerment and how to handle today’s endless propaganda and stupidity • the exhausted democratic systems in the West, effective leadership strategies, • the misuse of language and transitioning to a language of respect • being one out of million Brits, whose linguistic abilities, he speaks German and French, provide a unique lens through which to analyze Franco-German politics • and of course, reflecting on Campbell's career milestones, including his powerful role in Tony Blair's government and being one of the few high-profile Brits who openly address mental health. "But What Can I do?" Alastair’s latest book, "But What Can I Do?," - book 19 in 16 years - skyrocketed to Sunday Times Bestseller status. He offers citizens a comprehensive guide to engage in politics effectively. And! people do take his words literally and go out, get into action, and start working in politics. Campbell offers profound insights drawn from decades of experience - tune in to our wonderful hour with a person whose life is politics . More: The Rest is Politics his book: But What Can i Do? - World Economic Forum - Host

Alastair Campbell , renowned as Britain's leading political master communicator, is pioneering the way in regaining control of the UK's political debate while also garnering a massive following worldwide. His podcast, The Rest is Politics , co-hosted with former Tory Cabinet minister Rory Stewart, boasts over one million listeners per episode, dominating charts from the UK to Suriname. Their ability to effortlessly fill venues like the Royal Albert Hall is a testament to their captivating presence. „We are just two guys who talk politics.” Campbell's charm lies not just in his intellect and language but also in his humor and wit, making this conversation as enlightening as it is entertaining. In our 60 minutes, we delve into various pressing topics: • his influence on setting the political tone • domestic and international political challenges and the need for fundamental re-setting • Citizen empowerment and how to handle today’s endless propaganda and stupidity • the exhausted democratic systems in the West, effective leadership strategies, • the misuse of language and transitioning to a language of respect • being one out of million Brits, whose linguistic abilities, he speaks German and French, provide a unique lens through which to analyze Franco-German politics • and of course, reflecting on Campbell's career milestones, including his powerful role in Tony Blair's government and being one of the few high-profile Brits who openly address mental health. "But What Can I do?" Alastair’s latest book, "But What Can I Do?," - book 19 in 16 years - skyrocketed to Sunday Times Bestseller status. He offers citizens a comprehensive guide to engage in politics effectively. And! people do take his words literally and go out, get into action, and start working in politics. Campbell offers profound insights drawn from decades of experience - tune in to our wonderful hour with a person whose life is politics . More: The Rest is Politics his book: But What Can i Do? - World Economic Forum - Host

Alastair Campbell , renowned as Britain's leading political master communicator, is pioneering the way in regaining control of the UK's political debate while also garnering a massive following worldwide. His podcast, The Rest is Politics , co-hosted with former Tory Cabinet minister Rory Stewart, boasts over one million listeners per episode, dominating charts from the UK to Suriname. Their ability to effortlessly fill venues like the Royal Albert Hall is a testament to their captivating presence. „We are just two guys who talk politics.” Campbell's charm lies not just in his intellect and language but also in his humor and wit, making this conversation as enlightening as it is entertaining. In our 60 minutes, we delve into various pressing topics: • his influence on setting the political tone • domestic and international political challenges and the need for fundamental re-setting • Citizen empowerment and how to handle today’s endless propaganda and stupidity • the exhausted democratic systems in the West , effective leadership strategies, • the misuse of language and transitioning to a language of respect • being one out of million Brits, whose linguistic abilities, he speaks German and French , provide a unique lens through which to analyze Franco-German politics • and of course, reflecting on Campbell's career milestones, including his powerful role in Tony Blair's government and being one of the few high-profile Brits who openly address mental health. "But What Can I do?" Alastair’s latest book, "But What Can I Do?," - book 19 in 16 years - skyrocketed to Sunday Times Bestseller status. He offers citizens a comprehensive guide to engage in politics effectively. And! people do take his words literally and go out, get into action, and start working in politics. Campbell offers profound insights drawn from decades of experience - tune in to our wonderful hour with a person whose life is politics . More: The Rest is Politics his book: But What Can i Do? - World Economic Forum - Host

Kirsty Young talks to the former spin doctor Alastair Campbell about what he’s learned from his life so far. From the bagpipes to New Labour, geopolitics to Burnley FC, Alastair Campbell is passionate about his interests and deeply tribal in his allegiances. But does he ever allow these passions to cloud his judgement? Having been a key figure in Tony Blair’s government and now the co-host of a hit podcast, Alastair explores how events in his childhood have shaped his outlook on the world and whether he regrets any of the tough decisions he has taken. If you could have a conversation with your younger self, what would you tell them? In Young Again Kirsty takes her guests back to the pivotal moments in their lives. Reflecting on what they wish they’d known at the time, and what they’ve learned along the way, she discovers the honest – and surprising – advice they’d give their younger selves. Producer: Laura Northedge Content Editor: Richard Hooper Executive Editor: Alice Feinstein Senior Technical Producer: Duncan Hannant Presenter: Kirsty Young A BBC Audio Production