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Chris Wright is joined by longtime journalist and Media Executive, now the Founder of The Alliance For Trust In Media, Eric Schurenberg (US), co-presenter of “Weekend Breakfast” on Times Radio, Rosie Wright, and Jean-Monnet Professor of European Integration at the National University of Ireland Maynooth, John O’Brennan. Topics: Rise of far-right parties in EuropeRole of social media and misinformationEconomic inequality as a driver of extremismMedia landscape and regulation challengesHistorical parallels with 1920s and 1930s EuropeImpact of foreign interference and Russian footprintsFuture of elections and political stability Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Current Political Climate in Europe 01:53 The Rise of the Alternative for Deutschland Party 03:03 Historical Context and Parallels with 1920s-30s Europe 04:59 The Role of Economic Inequality in Extremism 08:02 Campaign Strategies and Voter Psychology in Germany 10:11 The Influence of Social Media and Russian Interference 13:01 The Misinformation Landscape and Its Impact 16:49 Media Literacy and the Future of News Consumption 19:02 The Decline of Literacy and Education Challenges 20:48 AI and Technology's Role in Society and Education 22:53 UK Political Landscape and Immigration Policies 27:12 Reform UK Conference and Political Scandals 31:06 The Future of Immigration and Public Perception 35:13 US Politics, Trump and Midterm Elections 44:08 Global Economic Impact of War and Debt 50:02 Media Censorship and Political Discourse in the US 52:57 Election Campaigns and Political Strategies 54:03 Closing Remarks and Future Outlook 'I Hit The Nail Right On The Head' by Billy Bremner.  © Fridens liljor/Micke Finell. Rock around the clock productions AB. www.rockaroundtheclock.co  This episode was produced by Sound Sapien Soundsapien.com

The recurring theme of this episode is Burnham’s pledge to fix social care in the UK. We discuss how it can be funded including the implications of a wealth tax & others, plus the significance of immigrant workers. Chris and panel (below) debate how these factors impact across the board in British politics, including whether Farage and Reform are on the decline… Guests: Writer, broadcaster, and columnist Christina Patterson, Managing Editor and Deputy Editorial Director of the Institute of Economic Affairs Daniel Freeman, and Member of Labour’s National Executive Committee Jess Barnard. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to UK Political Climate 03:43 Party Fractures and Membership Engagement 09:03 Media Attacks and Public Perception of Burnham 12:45 Policy Impact and Public Support for Burnham 17:01 Policy Proposals and Funding Strategies 20:24 Wealth Tax and Property Valuation Challenges 24:43 International Taxation and Mobility of Wealth 27:27 Public Perception of Social Care and Wastage 28:49 Nigel Farage's Decline and Party Dynamics 30:43 Brexit, Immigration, and Public Sentiment 32:53 Reform Party Influence and Electoral Impact 34:35 Perception of Outsiders and Political Messaging 36:12 Media Narratives and Political Communication 37:52 Potential for Snap Elections and Political Stability 38:58 Immigration, Border Control, and Public Opinion 42:00 Migration, Economy, and International Role 44:48 Balancing Immigration and Domestic Employment 53:23 Youth Employment, Education, and Infrastructure 55:13 The Human Side of Immigration and Social Policy 56:25 Concluding Remarks and Future Outlook 'I Hit The Nail Right On The Head' by Billy Bremner.  © Fridens liljor/Micke Finell. Rock around the clock productions AB. www.rockaroundtheclock.co  This episode was produced by Sound Sapien Soundsapien.com

This week Chris Wright is joined by the China correspondent, and formerly the Middle East correspondent at The Times, Richard Spencer, co-presenter of “Weekend Breakfast” on Times Radio, Rosie Wright, and Jean-Monnet Professor of European Integration at the National University of Ireland Maynooth, John O’Brennan. This week, we ask whether Donald Trump's strikes on Iran squandered a rare chance for America to unite ahead of its 250th anniversary, and why politics continues to overshadow what should have been a triumphant World Cup. We also examine Nigel Farage's surprise by-election gamble against Count Binface, whether mounting financial scrutiny could become a genuine political problem, and why Andy Burnham is suddenly being talked about as Labour's next great hope. Finally, we explore whether a summer of sporting success could give Britain the lift it needs—or even spark a "Burnham Boost." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Current Events and Trump 02:20 Trump's Challenges in Iran and Global Perception 05:17 Media Coverage and Trump's Communication Style 09:43 Trump's Influence on Football and FIFA 18:24 Nigel Farage's Political Maneuvering and By-Election 23:59 Public Sentiment and Political Integrity 29:57 The Political Landscape in Clacton 32:42 The Implications of By-Elections 35:37 The Role of Money in Politics 40:14 The Future of Andy Burnham 46:51 The Dynamics of Leadership and Policy 53:10 The Road Ahead for Devolution and Governance 'I Hit The Nail Right On The Head' by Billy Bremner.  © Fridens liljor/Micke Finell. Rock around the clock productions AB. www.rockaroundtheclock.co  This episode was produced by Sound Sapien Soundsapien.com

Chris Wright is joined by: Communications Director for Progressive International, former advisor to Jeremy Corbyn, and author of ‘Our Bloc: How We Win’ James Schneider Labour Member of the London Assembly for Merton and Wandsworth since 2016, Leonie Cooper Highly acclaimed writer, journalist, and broadcaster Christina Patterson  Jean-Monnet Professor of European Integration at the National University of Ireland Maynooth, John O’Brennan     Chris asks the panel whether the current political saga whereby Starmer’s leadership is being challenged is a result of external conditions such as a right-wing media, or his own doing. In addition they discuss the lack of a program of wealth distribution, Starmer & Labour’s political ‘own goals’ since taking office, and the importance of communication. As the conversation develops focus turns to Andy Burnham and the significance of him going for the Labour leadership. Chapters 00:00 The Political Landscape in the UK 04:54 Challenges of Modern Governance 09:27 Inequality and Economic Instability 14:20 The Role of Communication in Politics 19:07 Labour Party's Positioning and Strategy 23:54 Global Issues and Domestic Politics 28:16 Future Directions for the Labour Party 34:29 Local Initiatives and Regional Politics 37:49 The Brexit Dilemma 39:59 Emotional Politics and Public Sentiment 47:27 Inequality and Political Choices 53:29 The Makerfield By-Election: A Crucial Battle 01:04:21 Future of Labour Leadership 'I Hit The Nail Right On The Head' by Billy Bremner.  © Fridens liljor/Micke Finell. Rock around the clock productions AB. www.rockaroundtheclock.co  This episode was produced by Sound Sapien Soundsapien.com

A fast-moving, no-holds-barred discussion on the escalating Middle East crisis, the global fallout, and the unpredictable leadership of Donald Trump. As tensions rise and strategy falters, the panel asks: is anyone actually in control—and what happens next? Chris Wright is joined by highly acclaimed writer, journalist, and broadcaster Christina Patterson, co-presenter of Times Radio Breakfast Rosie Wright, and Michael Gallagher, a freelance writer who specialises in the Middle East and North Africa, bringing firsthand insight into how politics and economics impact the region. Chapters 00:00 Consequences of Poor Political Advice 03:18 Failures in U.S. Foreign Policy 15:10 Middle Eastern Geopolitics and Ceasefire Efforts 18:17 Global Reactions to U.S. Actions 22:02 The Role of Military Aid in Conflict 23:34 Public Perception and the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict 27:28 Conflation of State Actions and Ethnic Identity 34:23 Nuclear Weapons and Political Strategy 43:11 Impact of Political Endorsements 47:48 Royal Family and Political Legitimacy 49:37 Energy Supply and Economic Stability 'I Hit The Nail Right On The Head' by Billy Bremner.  © Fridens liljor/Micke Finell. Rock around the clock productions AB. www.rockaroundtheclock.co  This episode was produced by Sound Sapien Soundsapien.com

To answer this question and much more, Chris Wright is joined by acclaimed writer, journalist, and broadcaster Christina Patterson, the China correspondent, and formerly the Middle East correspondent at The Times, Richard Spencer, and award-winning Broadsheet Columnist for the The i newspaper and many others, Yasmin Alibhai-Brown.  In this episode, the panel discusses the current political landscape in the UK, focusing on Keir Starmer's leadership and the challenges he faces. They explore potential successors, the influence of media narratives, and the impact of American politics on UK affairs. The conversation culminates in predictions for the future of UK politics, particularly concerning the rise of figures like Nigel Farage and the fragmentation of traditional party lines. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Current Events 01:22 The Political Landscape in the UK 05:21 Challenges Facing Keir Starmer 11:29 Critiques of Starmer's Leadership 15:45 Potential Successors to Starmer 21:13 Media Influence and Political Narratives 25:56 The Role of American Politics 33:38 The Future of UK Politics 42:33 Predictions for 2029 'I Hit The Nail Right On The Head' by Billy Bremner.  © Fridens liljor/Micke Finell. Rock around the clock productions AB. www.rockaroundtheclock.co  This episode was produced by Sound Sapien Soundsapien.com

In this end-of-year edition of Wright on the Nail, the panel discusses the challenges faced by the UK government, particularly under Keir Starmer's leadership.  Chris is joined by Jean-Monnet Professor of European Integration at the National University of Ireland Maynooth John O’Brennan, Reem Ibrahim the Head of Media at the Institute of Economic affairs, a right-leaning free market think tank and Labour Councillor and Cabinet Member for Environment & Community Safety at Preston Council Freddie Bailey. They explore the impact of Brexit on the economy, the role of the media in shaping public perception, and the complexities of the welfare system. The conversation also delves into potential political alternatives and the future of the Labour Party, including the possibility of coalition politics and the influence of the Green Party. Predictions for the next Prime Minister are made, highlighting the evolving landscape of UK politics. Chapters 00:00 The State of UK Politics: A Year in Review 02:47 Keir Starmer's Leadership Challenges 05:28 The Impact of Brexit on the Economy 08:36 Media Influence and Public Perception 11:35 Welfare System and Economic Incentives 14:15 Political Alternatives: Who Could Lead? 17:14 The Future of the Labour Party 20:21 Coalition Politics and Electoral Strategies 22:48 The Role of the Green Party and Other Left-Wing Movements 25:59 The Next Prime Minister: Predictions and Possibilities 'I Hit The Nail Right On The Head' by Billy Bremner.  © Fridens liljor/Micke Finell. Rock around the clock productions AB. www.rockaroundtheclock.co  This episode was produced by Sound Sapien Soundsapien.com

Chris Wright is joined by Vicky Pryce, renowned economist and Chief Economic Adviser at the Centre for Economics and Business Research — she’ll help us understand the economic undercurrents behind public disillusionment, Eric Schurenberg, former CEO of Inc. and Fast Company, and now founder of The Alliance for Trust in Media — here to discuss how misinformation and media dynamics have shaped the rise of populism, and finally, one of Wright On The Nail’s favourite commentators — author, journalist, broadcaster, and executive coach Christina Patterson. This conversation explores the declining trust in political leaders across the globe, examining factors such as government performance, media dynamics, and the rise of populism. The discussion highlights the impact of economic conditions, the polarisation of political parties, and the role of social media in shaping public perception. Additionally, the conversation addresses the influence of immigration policies and racism in contemporary politics, emphasising the complex interplay of these elements in the current political landscape. Chapters 00:00 The Erosion of Trust in Political Leaders 10:13 The Impact of Populism and Media Dynamics 18:50 The Role of Economic Factors in Political Popularity 27:12 The Polarization of Political Parties 35:06 The Influence of Social Media on Political Perception 44:43 Racism and Immigration Policies in Modern Politics 'I Hit The Nail Right On The Head' by Billy Bremner.  © Fridens liljor/Micke Finell. Rock around the clock productions AB. www.rockaroundtheclock.co  This episode was produced by Sound Sapien Soundsapien.com

From Nigel Farage’s bold new plan to the government’s “smash the gangs” pledge, the debate has never been louder — or more divisive. On this week’s Wright on the Nail, Chris Wright is joined by: Marina Purkiss – political commentator & host of The TrollSir Philip Davies – former Conservative MP for ShipleyRosie Wright – broadcaster & Times Radio presenterTogether, they tackle the big questions: Is Nigel Farage closer than ever to political power?Should the UK scrap the Human Rights Act?Why has public sympathy for migrants shifted to anger?Is Keir Starmer now a lame duck?Expect sharp exchanges, tough questions, and fresh insight into one of the most urgent and divisive issues in British politics today. 'I Hit The Nail Right On The Head' by Billy Bremner.  © Fridens liljor/Micke Finell. Rock around the clock productions AB. www.rockaroundtheclock.co  This episode was produced by Sound Sapien Soundsapien.com

In this month's special edition of "Wright on the Nail," host Chris Wright delves into the turbulent landscape of British politics. With guests Rupert Lowe MP, Nigel Nelson, and Leonie Cooper AM, the episode explores the potential rise of Nigel Farage and the Reform UK party, examining what a government led by them might look like. The discussion covers the challenges of forming a new government, the implications of current polling, and the broader political shifts in the UK. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on the future of British politics. Don't miss it! 'I Hit The Nail Right On The Head' by Billy Bremner.  © Fridens liljor/Micke Finell. Rock around the clock productions AB. www.rockaroundtheclock.co  This episode was produced by Sound Sapien Soundsapien.com

In this episode, Chris Wright and a panel of experts discuss the current geopolitical landscape, focusing on the Middle East, particularly the tensions between Israel and Iran, the implications of Trump's foreign policy, and the state of democracy in the U.S. The conversation delves into the complexities of regime change, the future of nuclear non-proliferation, and the challenges of expressing concerns about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The panelists also reflect on the rise of populism and its potential consequences for global politics. Finally they get to the bottom of why UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves was crying in The Commons… The Panel:  Founder and Director of the Israeli Disarmament Movement, and the Middle East Treaty Organization, Sharon Dolev. Sharon was also the Israeli representative of the 2017 Nobel Peace Prize laureate International Campaign for Abolishing Nuclear Weapons (ICAN) The China correspondent, and formerly the Middle East correspondent at the Times, Richard Spencer. Since October 7th Richard has stayed reporting on the Middle East as well as China - most recently focussing on the US/Israeli conflict with Iran. Jean-Monnet Professor of European Integration at the National University of Ireland Maynooth, John O’Brennan Writer, broadcaster, and columnist, Christina Patterson Director at the Middle East Treaty Organization and co-author of Weapons of Mass Destruction: A new approach to non-proliferation Emad Kiyaei Chapters Introduction and Overview of Global IssuesMiddle East Tensions: Israel, Iran, and the Nuclear ThreatThe Question of Regime Change in IranIsrael's Objectives and the Impact of Recent AttacksThe Future of Nuclear Non-Proliferation in the Middle EastThe Complexity of Expressing Concerns about GazaGlobal Perceptions of the Israeli-Palestinian ConflictTrump's Foreign Policy and Its ImplicationsThe State of American DemocracyThe Rise of Populism and Its ConsequencesWhy Rachel Reeves was Crying & The Economy She InheritedHow To Stop Nigel Farage 'I Hit The Nail Right On The Head' by Billy Bremner.  © Fridens liljor/Micke Finell. Rock around the clock productions AB. www.rockaroundtheclock.co  This episode was produced by Sound Sapien Soundsapien.com

In this week’s episode Chris Wright is joined by: The Independent Member of Parliament for Great Yarmouth, Rupert Lowe, political commentator Lee Harris, and finally broadcast journalist and writer, Anna McGovern.  The panel discusses Trump’s tariffs, UK-US trade, Labour’s role in trade decisions, and the civil service’s influence on policy. They explore trade opportunities, EU policies, economic challenges, AI’s impact on jobs, and the need for political reform and better representation as the UK heads toward future elections. Topics: Trump's tariffs are seen as detrimental to global trade.The UK is viewed as a sovereign nation post-Brexit.There are strategic opportunities for the UK amidst trade wars.The Labour Party's response to tariffs is uncertain.The civil service is perceived as ineffective and unaccountable.Political reform is necessary to address the two-party system in the UK.The panel believes that the British public is aware of their declining standard of living.There is skepticism about the Labour Party's ability to make smart trade decisions.The importance of respecting the 2016 Brexit vote is emphasized.The future of UK trade relations remains uncertain. The UK is facing higher tariffs compared to other countries entering the US market.Trade wars create a challenging environment with no clear winners.There are significant opportunities for the UK to negotiate better trade deals post-Brexit.The current government is perceived as failing to address economic challenges effectively.AI is transforming job markets, making it harder for graduates to find employment.The political landscape is shifting, with increasing public demand for change.The two-party system in the UK is seen as ineffective and outdated.Public sentiment is growing for a third party to emerge as a viable option. We hope you enjoy this episode and feel free to get in touch with messages, comments or feedback at [email protected]  Many thanks, WOTN Team 'I Hit The Nail Right On The Head' by Billy Bremner.  © Fridens liljor/Micke Finell. Rock around the clock productions AB. www.rockaroundtheclock.co  This episode was produced by Sound Sapien Soundsapien.com

In this week’s episode Chris Wright is joined by: Labour’s Member of the London Assembly for Merton and Wandsworth since 2016, Leonie Cooper, Jean-Monnet Professor of European Integration at the National University of Ireland Maynooth, John O’Brennan, and finally, former longtime editor of the Sunday Mirror, Nigel Nelson. Topics: Rachel Reeves’s Spring Statement Is it a choice between tackling growth or inequality?  John’s strong stance on Putin as a European expert. The Axis of China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran Is their method to Trump’s diplomatic bulldozing of the international community?  Early signs of authoritarianism in the US. The conversation covers Rachel Reeves' recent Spring Statement, the implications of austerity measures, the impact of Brexit on the UK economy, and the evolving dynamics of international relations, particularly concerning the Ukraine conflict and the role of the United States in global security. The conversation delves into the complexities of the Ukraine war, the integration of Russian-speaking minorities in the Baltic states, and the geopolitical implications of NATO and EU expansion. The speakers discuss the current military situation in Ukraine, the challenges of negotiating peace with Russia, and the ongoing occupation of Crimea. They also explore the rise of strongman leaders globally and the state of American democracy, emphasizing the importance of a free press in maintaining democratic values. We hope you enjoy this episode and feel free to get in touch with messages, comments or feedback at [email protected]  'I Hit The Nail Right On The Head' by Billy Bremner.  © Fridens liljor/Micke Finell. Rock around the clock productions AB. www.rockaroundtheclock.co  This episode was produced by Sound Sapien Soundsapien.com

Join host Chris Wright as he delves into some of the most pressing political and social topics of our time, featuring an incredible lineup of guests: John O’Brennan: Jean-Monnet Professor of European Integration at the National University of Ireland MaynoothChristina Patterson: Writer, broadcaster, executive coach, and columnistDaniel Freeman: Columnist and Managing Editor at the Institute of Economic Affairs🔍 Talking Points This Week Donald TrumpJohn O’Brennan reflects on why he misjudged the recent U.S. election.A breakdown of how and why Donald Trump performed so well.The British RightIs the Reform Party becoming the de facto opposition to the Conservatives?Inequality and PopulismExploring the strong connection between economic inequality and the rise of populist movements.ImmigrationWhy does immigration provoke such strong emotions?Is it actually detrimental, or is the backlash misguided?Western Fertility RatesDo declining fertility rates in the West pose a serious problem?Generational DivideHousing inequality and its growing impact on younger generations.Productivity and the WorkforceUK unemployment as of Q3 2024 stands at 4.3%, or 1.5 million people.A staggering 2.8 million are out of work due to long-term illness, a rise exacerbated since the Covid-19 pandemic.Post-Brexit MigrationWhy have the Conservatives enabled mass legal migration despite their anti-immigration rhetoric?Tory LeadershipCould Kemi Badenoch be the one to lead the Conservatives into the next election?🎧 Tune In Catch this insightful discussion now on your favourite podcast platform! Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share the episode with friends. 📢 Connect with Us Have thoughts on today’s topics? Join the conversation on X at @ChrisWChrysalis You can also contact the production team at [email protected]  'I Hit The Nail Right On The Head' by Billy Bremner.  © Fridens liljor/Micke Finell. Rock around the clock productions AB. www.rockaroundtheclock.co  This episode was produced by Tom Platts at Sound Sapien Soundsapien.com 'I Hit The Nail Right On The Head' by Billy Bremner.  © Fridens liljor/Micke Finell. Rock around the clock productions AB. www.rockaroundtheclock.co  This episode was produced by Sound Sapien Soundsapien.com

Topics: Keir Starmer’s smoking banThe history of smoking regulation in the UK- Tackling obesity in the UKThe broken food systemUltra Processed foodThe Ozempic weight loss drug - Companies breaking gambling lawsImmoral advertisingGambling addiction and how to tackle it- The Oasis ticketing fiasco: what really happened and will it happen again?- Is John as confident that Kamala Harris will win as he was last time?Our unhealthy obsession with polling both sides of the Atlantic. In this week’s episode Chris Wright is joined by:  Nick Blackburn to help us shine some light on the mass chaos around Oasis’s new tour tickets. A former director at Ticketmaster, chartered accountant in the music industry, having worked for Chrysalis and Decca records. He is also the founder of See Tickets, the international ticketing services company based in Nottingham, England. Green Party Peer, Natalie Bennett who led the party in the years up to and through the 2015 general election. She released a book this year entitled ‘Change Everything’ which proposes complete reform to how British society and the economy works, especially in relation to food and the environment. We hear her thoughts as Chris and panel discuss the government’s proposed outdoor smoking ban, and the wider topic of government intervention in our lives, including in tackling obesity.    Jean-Monnet Professor of European Integration at the National University of Ireland Maynooth, John O’Brennan. Following on from the health issues of smoking and obesity, John’s recent research work encompasses a focus on the societal impact of gambling in Ireland and Europe, a subject he speaks about today. We hope you enjoy this episode and feel free to get in touch with messages, comments or feedback at [email protected]  Many thanks, WOTN Team 'I Hit The Nail Right On The Head' by Billy Bremner.  © Fridens liljor/Micke Finell. Rock around the clock productions AB. www.rockaroundtheclock.co  This episode was produced by Sound Sapien soundsapien.com 'I Hit The Nail Right On The Head' by Billy Bremner.  © Fridens liljor/Micke Finell. Rock around the clock productions AB. www.rockaroundtheclock.co  This episode was produced by Sound Sapien Soundsapien.com