Matt Forde's Political Party

This is a cracking briefing from Labour's Deputy Leader. On Makerfield and what happens next for the party.  Lucy takes us inside the heart of the Labour Party... do Labour MPs and members actually want a leadership election? And what would happen if there was one? Are the issues that Labour faces actually to do with Keir Starmer at all? Lucy is also a massive football fan, but how does she behave at games... the answer may surprise you. PLUS... beauty tips on how to look 20 years younger.   THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE 9 November: Liz Kendall Plus many more to be announced soon! https://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/ SEE the final dates of Matt's stand-up tour 'Defying Calamity' across the UK:https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows  June3 Portsmouth New Theatre Royal - EXTRA DATE 4 Coventry Warwick Arts Centre5 Cambridge Junction6 Sheffield Steamworks9 Liverpool Everyman Theatre10 Chipping Norton Theatre  12 Norwich Playhouse - EXTRA DATE14 York The Crescent - EXTRA DATE15 Leeds City Varieties - EXTRA DATE 16 Glasgow Glee Club - EXTRA DATE 18 Aberdeen Lemon Tree - EXTRA DATE 26 Bristol 1532 - EXTRA DATEJuly 3 Basingstoke The Haymarket - EXTRA DATE 8 Birmingham Glee Club - EXTRA DATE 10 Bedford Quarry Theatre - EXTRA DATE 16 Maidenhead Norden Farm - EXTRA DATE  DONATE to the RNOH Charity here:https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/mattforde Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 3 June 2026

This is an absolute scorcher with ITV Borders' Political Editor. Kieran gives an entertaining and comprehensive analysis of the Holyrood election results and what they mean for the future of Scottish and UK politics. From an MSP elected on a student visa to what impact Scotland's World Cup campaign will have, it's all in here. Enjoy!THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE 1 June: Andy Burnham https://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/ SEE Matt's stand-up tour 'Defying Calamity' across the UK:https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows May 26 Hay Festival27 Lowestoft Marina Theatre28 Steyning Festival29 Maidenhead Norden Farm31 Nottingham Theatre Royal June3 Portsmouth New Theatre Royal - EXTRA DATE4 Coventry Warwick Arts Centre5 Cambridge Junction6 Sheffield Steamworks9 Liverpool Everyman Theatre10 Chipping Norton Theatre12 Norwich Playhouse - EXTRA DATE14 York The Crescent - EXTRA DATE15 Leeds City Varieties - EXTRA DATE16 Glasgow Glee Club - EXTRA DATE18 Aberdeen Lemon Tree - EXTRA DATE 26 Bristol 1532 - EXTRA DATEJuly3 Basingstoke The Haymarket - EXTRA DATE8 Birmingham Glee Club - EXTRA DATE10 Bedford Quarry Theatre - EXTRA DATE16 Maidenhead Norden Farm - EXTRA DATEDONATE to the RNOH Charity here:https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/mattforde Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 26 May 2026

Samantha was only elected in 2024 but she's already making waves, especially with her 'Yes, Sex Please, We're British' campaign. It's certainly ruffled feathers and we talk about what she wants to achieve with it, what the reaction has been and whether the Prime Minister supports it. Plus, of course, a bit of Labour leadership stuff... THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE 1 June: Andy Burnham https://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/ SEE Matt's brand new stand-up tour 'Defying Calamity' across the UK:https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 19 May 2026

WOAH. Recorded the night Labour MPs began calling on Keir Starmer to resign, this is an adrenaline-fuelled up-to-the-minute analysis of what has gone wrong and what happens next. PLUS great stuff about Lewis's life growing up, his book, his mum and the dynamic between him, Emily Maitlis and Jon Sopel. It's a corker.  THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE 1 June: Andy Burnham https://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/ SEE Matt's brand new stand-up tour 'Defying Calamity' across the UK:https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 13 May 2026

Strap on in for an adrenaline-fuelled hour with former Conservative minister Steve Baker. This is packed full of honest reflections on the faith, life, mental health... and so much more.  Steve is a deep thinker and has continued to analyse politics since he left Parliament. This is cracking.  CHECK OUT Steve's project, 'Fighting for a Free Future' here: https://www.fightingforafreefuture.com/  THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE 11 May: Lewis Goodall 1 June: Andy Burnham https://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/ SEE Matt's brand new stand-up tour 'Defying Calamity' across the UK:https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 4 May 2026

This is a classic from the back catalogue.  You are about to be thoroughly entertained by one of the best raconteurs in the history of the show. Andrew Marr is one of the most gifted broadcasters that Britain has ever produced and he shares hilarious stories from his wonderful career.  This is a show packed with powerful moments, including the mistakes Andrew thinks the media made in their coverage of Iraq, and his experiences of interviewing leading politicians like Boris Johnson and Jeremy Corbyn. Andrew Marr isn't just a gifted journalist, he's fantastic company. Enjoy!  THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE 11 May: Lewis Goodall 1 June: Andy Burnham https://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/ SEE Matt's brand new stand-up tour 'Defying Calamity' across the UK:https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 27 April 2026

Shabana Mahmood doesn't hold back in this impassioned, thoughtful and hilarious interview. This is the Home Secretary as you've never heard her before. Nothing is off limits in this wide-ranging interview which includes reflections on her upbringing, her solution for dealing with immigration and a revelation about her hobby that you'd never see coming. Warning: includes protestors. And a very direct response from the Home Secretary.  THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE 11 May: Lewis Goodall 1 June: Andy Burnham https://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/ SEE Matt's brand new stand-up tour 'Defying Calamity' across the UK:https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 22 April 2026

This is a top level briefing from one of the best minds in foreign policy. Ben was Special Adviser to David Lammy when he was Foreign Secretary. He's been in the room for some of the most important meetings of the last few years, including face-to-face meetings with JD Vance.  In this gripping episode he answers some of the biggest questions about global instability.  What should the UK do to mitigate the shift in American policy? How terrifying is the future? What do these changes mean for politics in the UK? How can the British state be changed to work better? How radical do we need to be when it comes to racial and religious integration at home? Big questions with big answers from one of the most compelling voices in modern politics.  THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE 20 April: Shabana Mahmood 11 May: Lewis Goodallhttps://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/ SIGN UP to Matt's mailing list to get free audience tickets to his Radio 4 series:https://www.mattforde.com/mailing-list  SEE Matt's brand new stand-up tour 'Defying Calamity' across the UK:https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 13 April 2026

Claire is the Shadow Secretary of State for Energy, Climate Change and Net Zero, having been Secretary of State in the last Conservative government... and she's changed her position on Net Zero. In this candid and entertaining interview, she tells us why she's changed her mind and her frustrations with the system. Claire also talks about having to confront her own mortality after the traumatic birth of her son and what it's done for her outlook on life. Plus, freedom of speech, class, race and everything else going on in politics at the moment. It's a classic.   THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE 20 April: Shabana Mahmood 11 May: Lewis Goodallhttps://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/ SIGN UP to Matt's mailing list to get free audience tickets to his Radio 4 series:https://www.mattforde.com/mailing-list  SEE Matt's brand new stand-up tour 'Defying Calamity' across the UK:https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 6 April 2026

How does Labour defeat Reform and the Greens? What would count as success in the local, Holyrood and Cardiff elections for Labour? PLUS, The Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport talks CultureMedia and... Peroni, AI and Britney Spears.   It's a classic.    THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE 20 April: Shabana Mahmood 11 May: Lewis Goodallhttps://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/ SIGN UP to Matt's mailing list to get free audience tickets to his Radio 4 series:https://www.mattforde.com/mailing-list   SEE Matt's brand new stand-up tour 'Defying Calamity' across the UK:https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 31 March 2026

Chris is 32 and was elected in 2024. Despite that, he's already made a name for himself as the co-chair of the Labour Growth Group. But who are they and what would they do differently? A former pollster, what's his take on Labour's position and can it be saved? More importantly, what is the most nutritious item on the Wetherspoons menu?  THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE30 March: Lisa Nandy 20 April: Shabana Mahmood 11 May: Lewis Goodallhttps://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/ SIGN UP to Matt's mailing list to get free audience tickets to his Radio 4 series:https://www.mattforde.com/mailing-list  SEE Matt's brand new stand-up tour 'Defying Calamity' across the UK:https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 23 March 2026

Strap in for an energetic hour of raw analysis from Labour's Karl Turner. He's been going viral lately and you're about to discover why. Karl is forthright but fair in assessing Labour's issues and what the PLP actually want from the leadership. His perspective my surprise you. He's also had his fair share of health issues in the last few years and is open and honest about it all.  THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE 30 March: Lisa Nandy 20 April: Shabana Mahmoodhttps://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/ SIGN UP to Matt's mailing list to get free audience tickets to his Radio 4 series:https://www.mattforde.com/mailing-list  SEE Matt's brand new stand-up tour 'Defying Calamity' across the UK:https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 16 March 2026

Zack Polanski has catapulted The Green Party into the national conversation like no-one else before him. So how have The Greens captured so much attention? What do they actually stand for? Can his policies survive until the election? And more importantly, what was his favourite meat? THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE30 March: Lisa Nandy 20 April: Shabana Mahmood 11 May: Lewis Goodallhttps://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/ SIGN UP to Matt's mailing list to get free audience tickets to his Radio 4 series:https://www.mattforde.com/mailing-list  SEE Matt's brand new stand-up tour 'Defying Calamity' across the UK:https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 11 March 2026

What is lifestyle economics and why does it matter? The IEA's Christopher Snowdon is a fun-loving political thinker and explains his opposition to puritanism, why we should have more freedom and what that would mean for our policies on smoking, alcohol, gambling and the very existence of the NHS. Also... what are ultra-processed foods and are they necessarily bad? THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE9 March: Zack Polanski30 March: Lisa Nandy 20 April: Shabana Mahmoodhttps://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/ SIGN UP to Matt's mailing list to get free audience tickets to his Radio 4 series:https://www.mattforde.com/mailing-list  SEE Matt's brand new stand-up tour 'Defying Calamity' across the UK:https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 2 March 2026

A classic from 2022... was it really four years ago? In his pomp as RMT's General Secretary, Mick Lynch was on sparkling form.   THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE 9 March: Zack Polanski 30 March: Lisa Nandy 20 April: Shabana Mahmoodhttps://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/ SIGN UP to Matt's mailing list to get free audience tickets to his Radio 4 series:https://www.mattforde.com/mailing-list  SEE Matt's brand new stand-up tour 'Defying Calamity' across the UK:https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 23 February 2026

Oh boy, are you in for a treat. Political colossus David Miliband is in the UK and is on blistering form.  This is impassioned, urgent and absolutely electrifying. An absolute classic.   THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE 9 March: Zack Polanski 30 March: Lisa Nandy 20 April: Shabana Mahmoodhttps://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/ SIGN UP to Matt's mailing list to get free audience tickets to his Radio 4 series 'The Matt Forde Focus Group':https://www.mattforde.com/mailing-list  SEE Matt's brand new stand-up tour 'Defying Calamity' across the UK:https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 17 February 2026

To get first access to FREE audience tickets to series two of The Matt Forde Focus Group sign-up to my mailing list at www.mattforde.com/focus-group Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 13 February 2026

Baroness Cass didn't expect to end up in the House of Lords. She began her career as a paediatrician, a career path that culminated in her publishing the Cass Review into Gender Identity Services.  This is a thoughtful and empathetic analysis of the experiences of vulnerable young people.  Hilary takes us inside the report and her findings. She also makes a compelling case for banning social media for under 16s... and tells us what it's like being a newbie in the Upper Chamber.  THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE 16 February: David Miliband 9 March: Zack Polanski 30 March: Lisa Nandyhttps://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/ SIGN UP to Matt's mailing list to get free audience tickets to his Radio 4 series:https://www.mattforde.com/mailing-list  SEE Matt's brand new stand-up tour 'Defying Calamity' across the UK:https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 9 February 2026

Lola is absolutely full of beans. Or is it Pease Pudding? Elected in the 2024 landslide, she has already made a name for herself and is climbing the ladder as PPS to Lisa Nandy. But it's her campaigning around online safety where she's really made an impact.  Should the government ban social media for children? Should smart phones be banned in schools? Let's head up to Darlington, lick a Lemon Top and find out.  THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE 16 February: David Miliband 9 March: Zack Polanski 30 March: Lisa Nandyhttps://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/ SIGN UP to Matt's mailing list to get free audience tickets to his Radio 4 series:https://www.mattforde.com/mailing-list  SEE Matt's brand new stand-up tour 'Defying Calamity' across the UK:https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 2 February 2026

The Special VIP Guest is... The Prime Minister.  This is a classic episode with plenty of light and shade. There's the personal, the political, the domestic, the international and, of course, some football.  It's a mix of massive laughs and proper politics.  What's Trump like behind the scenese? What could the government do better? Would he wear aviators indoors? THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE 16 February: David Miliband 9 March: Zack Polanski 30 March: Lisa Nandyhttps://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/ SIGN UP to Matt's mailing list to get free audience tickets to his Radio 4 series:https://www.mattforde.com/mailing-list  SEE Matt's brand new stand-up tour 'Defying Calamity' across the UK:https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 27 January 2026

George became a national political sensation in 2025 when he became the leader of Warwickshire County Council at the age of 18. The Reform councillor is now 19 and shares his experience of leadership. This is a fascinating insight into Reform as a party, to the realignment on the right and about the impact of defections like Robert Jenrick's.  But it's also about the values that underpin George's thinking and about how you get things done in politics. Who is really in charge? And who should be? THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE26 January: Special VIP Guest 16 February: David Miliband 9 March: Zack Polanski 30 March: Lisa Nandyhttps://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/ SIGN UP to Matt's mailing list to get free audience tickets to his Radio 4 series:https://www.mattforde.com/mailing-list  SEE Matt's brand new stand-up tour 'Defying Calamity' across the UK:https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 19 January 2026

Do MPs dread going back to work like the rest of us do? Rising Labour star James Frith talks us through what it's like going back to the office as a politician. He's now PPS to David Lammy, but what exactly does that involve? And where does he buy and sell his old clothes? All this and more in this entertaining start to 2026.  THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE26 January: Special VIP Guest 16 February: David Miliband 9 March: Zack Polanski 30 March: Lisa Nandyhttps://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/ SIGN UP to Matt's mailing list to get free audience tickets to his Radio 4 series:https://www.mattforde.com/mailing-list  SEE Matt's brand new stand-up tour 'Defying Calamity' across the UK:https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 12 January 2026

2026 may be the year that Anas Sarwar finally leads Labour back into power at Holyrood.  In this revealing and hilarious interview from 2021, he outlines what Labour needs to do to win. Since then Labour have won a landslide at Westminster... can he replicate that? THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE26 January: Special VIP Guest 16 February: David Miliband 9 March: Zack Polanski 30 March: Lisa Nandyhttps://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/ SIGN UP to Matt's mailing list to get free audience tickets to his Radio 4 series:https://www.mattforde.com/mailing-list  SEE Matt's brand new stand-up tour 'Defying Calamity' across the UK:https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 5 January 2026

This is class.  Ryan is the Director of Policy and Politics at the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change.  What are the problems we'll face in the future? What are the answers? And what's Tony Blair like as a boss? THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE26 January: Special VIP Guest 16 February: David Miliband 9 March: Zack Polanski 30 March: Lisa Nandyhttps://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/  SEE Matt's brand new stand-up tour 'Defying Calamity' across the UK:https://www.mattforde.com/live-showsRyan Wain This is class.  Ryan is the Director of Policy and Politics at the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change.  What are the problems we'll face in the future? What are the answers? And what's Tony Blair like as a boss? THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE26 January: Special VIP Guest 16 February: David Miliband 9 March: Zack Polanski 30 March: Lisa Nandyhttps://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/  SEE Matt's brand new stand-up tour 'Defying Calamity' across the UK:https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 29 December 2025

Keynes. Woolf. Hitchens. The New Statesman has an illustrious history and editor Tom McTague is the latest custodian of that grand tradition. But how does a centre-left magazine pitch itself in the ferocious world of social media and hot takes? What's its relationship with the Labour Party? How does it handle disagreements on the Left? And, more importantly, what does Labour need to do to win next time? THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE26 January: Special VIP Guest 16 February: David Miliband 9 March: Zack Polanski 30 March: Lisa Nandyhttps://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/  SEE Matt's brand new stand-up tour 'Defying Calamity' across the UK:https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 22 December 2025

It's the biscuit man! Gordon is a viral sensation thanks to his novel way of explaining the national debt using Custard Creams and Bourbons.  This is an entertaining analysis of how to use social media and the wider political pressures that Labour face.  As a member of the Labour Growth Group, Gordon tells us what the group actually does and how we get deliver growth in the economy.  Plus... Gordon's Christmas Day breakfast will blow, and possibly influence, your mind. THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE26 January: Special VIP Guest 16 February: David Miliband 9 March: Zack Polanskihttps://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/  SEE Matt's brand new stand-up tour 'Defying Calamity' across the UK:https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 15 December 2025

This. Is. Phenomenal.  Nick Clegg has been one of the most powerful people in the UK and in Silicon Valley.  He takes us inside the crazy world of Meta and the tech bros.  What is Mark Zuckerberg really like?  Should we fear AI?  Does he still speak to David Cameron? All this and more are contained within!  THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE26 January: Special VIP Guest 16 February: David Miliband 9 March: Zack Polanskihttps://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/  SEE Matt's brand new stand-up tour 'Defying Calamity' across the UK:https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 10 December 2025

Peray is the Labour leader of Haringay Council. They are leading the way when it comes to building council homes. But why? This is a fascinating, entertaining insight into leadership in local government, including how to manage disagreement and where to go for the best kebabs. THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE8 December: Nick Clegg 26 January: Special VIP Guest 16 February: David Miliband 9 March: Zack Polanskihttps://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/  SEE Matt's brand new stand-up tour 'Defying Calamity' across the UK:https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 1 December 2025

Izzy is a political historian and host of the excellent 'Leading Labour' podcast that you can listen to here: https://leadinglabour.podbean.com/ It's a series analysing every Labour leader from Attlee to Corbyn. So which Labour leader from history is Keir Starmer most like? And which one can he learn from the most? THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE8 December: Nick Clegg 26 January: Special VIP Guest 16 February: David Miliband 9 March: Zack Polanskihttps://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/  SEE Matt's brand new stand-up tour 'Defying Calamity' across the UK:https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 24 November 2025

The Matt Forde Focus Group (BBC RADIO 4) is returning! Sign up to my mailing list for exclusive access to free tickets for the Christmas Special recording of The Matt Forde Focus Group on Wednesday 17 December at 7:15pm.Tickets will be released on Wednesday 19 November.   https://www.mattforde.com/focus-group Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 18 November 2025

Marie is one of Labour's rising stars of the 2024 intake and was recently awarded 'Parliamentarian of the Year' by The Spectator.  It's easy to see why. She is a formidable campaigner and has had to overcome various barriers in her life in order to succeed. An immense talent, Marie could easily have ended up in law or broadcasting, but politics was too strong a pull. Although there is one particular TV show she'd love to be on... THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE8 December: Nick Clegg 26 January: Special VIP Guest 16 February: David Miliband 9 March: Zack Polanskihttps://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/  SEE Matt's brand new stand-up tour 'Defying Calamity' across the UK:https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 17 November 2025

This is PHENOMENAL. Jack was First Minister of Scotland 2001-2007. It was a tumultuous global time and he found himself at the centre of it at the Gleneagles summit. His stories about George W. Bush and Vladimir Putin are incredible. But there's loads more in this. Jack became the leader of a local authority at just 29. He'd joined the SNP at 16, but became a Labour member at 19. It would change the course of his life and he would have a huge impact on the future of Scotland and the UK. THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE8 December: Nick Clegg 26 January: Special VIP Guest 16 February: David Miliband 9 March: Zack Polanskihttps://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/  SEE Matt's brand new stand-up tour 'Defying Calamity' across the UK:https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 10 November 2025

Well this is about way more than politics... Bethany is one of the stars of the Politico Playbook morning email. It's the must-read morning briefing which mixes top-level political analysis with plenty of juicy gossip. We talk about gossip, why it's important and how to get it... but we also talk about health and the importance of patients really pushing for themselves. Bethany has had a number of health issues, including chronic pain in her teenage years. Told that she was making it up, she's had to be relentless to get the proper diagnosis and treatment. Prepare to be inspired! SUBSCRIBE to Politico London Playbook: https://www.politico.eu/newsletter/london-playbook/ THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE8 December: Nick Clegg 26 January: Special VIP Guest 16 February: David Miliband 9 March: Zack Polanskihttps://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/  SEE Matt's brand new stand-up tour 'Defying Calamity' across the UK:https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 3 November 2025

Harriet is a rare thing: a new Conservative MP who won her seat at the last election. In Scotland.  She's already been made a whip. So how come she's rising so fast and what's it like entering the Commons when your party has suffered a historic defeat? And how has living in rural communities shaped her particular brand of conservatism?  THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE8 December: Nick Clegg 26 January: Special VIP Guest 16 February: David Milibandhttps://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/  SEE Matt's brand new stand-up tour 'Defying Calamity' across the UK:https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 27 October 2025

This is a powerful lesson in campaigning, pragmatism and processing grief.  Rosamund's daughter Ella died in 2013 at the age of nine. She is still the only person ever in the UK to have air pollution registered as a cause of death.  Since then, Rosamund has been a relentless campaigner for improving air quality. She has helped change policy here in the UK and has a legion of international admirers that includes Arnold Schwarzenegger.  You can see why. Rosamund is impassioned but also reasonable and empathetic towards those who disagree with her.  She is a total inspiration.  DONATE to the Ella Roberta Foundation here:https://www.ellaroberta.org/about-ella THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE8 December: Nick Clegg16 February: David Milibandhttps://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/ SEE Matt's brand new stand-up tour 'Defying Calamity' across the UK:https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 20 October 2025

Amy has led an extraordinary life and she's still only in her 30s. While the SNP MP for East Dunbartonshire she suffered a brain hemorrhage. As she recovered, she had to battle the arcane rules of the House of Commons in order to speak and vote on behalf of her constituents.  Having narrowly beaten Jo Swinson in 2019, Amy then lost the seat in 2024. So what's life like outside of politics? And what does the future hold for her? This is a great chat about life and how fragile it is. And what that means for politics.  THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE8 December: Nick Clegg 16 February: David Milibandhttps://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/ SEE Matt's brand new stand-up tour 'Defying Calamity' across the UK:https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 13 October 2025

Bridget is one of the biggest stars of the Labour government. As well as being Education Secretary, she is standing to be Labour's Deputy Leader. It's the first major test of members' opinion since Labour came into office.  She's led a fascinating life. Growing up in poverty, but making it to Oxford via Byker Grove.  So what drives her, what changes is she making to our schools and who does she prefer... Oasis or Blur?  THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE8 December: Nick Clegg 16 February: David Milibandhttps://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/  SEE Matt's brand new stand-up tour 'Defying Calamity' across the UK:https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 8 October 2025

Star of GB News (and many other places), Tom outlines his libertarianism as well as giving an engaging analysis about the problems facing the Tories, Reform and the government. Tom is one of the most prominent broadcasters on the right and he's only 29. So why did he get involved so young and what's the secret of his success? This is a fascinating analysis of the problems we face as a country from a libertarian/right perspective.  THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE6 October: Bridget Philipson8 December: Nick Clegg16 February: David Milibandhttps://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/ SEE Matt's brand new stand-up tour 'Defying Calamity' across the UK:https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows       Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 29 September 2025

Tom Tugendhat Returns. Again!Friend of the show Tom Tugendhat returns to give us the perspective from the Tory backbenches.Why are so many Tories defecting to Reform?How worried is he about the Tommy Robinson march?Is he still addicted to Haribo? THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE6 October: Bridget Philipsonhttps://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/  SEE Matt's brand new stand-up tour 'Defying Calamity' across the UK:https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 22 September 2025

Lindsay Hoyle - REPLAYThe charismatic Speaker of the House was on cracking form back in 2022.He shows how you can make the Commons function more effectively without sacrificing its unique atmosphere. One episode with Lindsay really isn't enough, you'll be left wanting so many more stories from him. His tale about taking Nancy Pelosi to Coronation Street is one of the best you'll ever hear. Grab a crumpet and wash it down with a pint of Newton and Ridleys, we're going to Lancashire...THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE - Bridget Philipson SEE Matt's brand new stand-up tour 'Defying Calamity' across the UKJanuary28 Birmingham Glee Club29 Dorking Halls30 Northampton Royal and Derngate TheatreFebruary5 Lancaster Grand Theatre6 Brighton Corn Exchange12 Tunbridge Wells Theatre14 London Bloomsbury Theatre18 Faversham The Alex19 Maidstone Hazlitt Theatre20 Milton Keynes The Stables26 Canterbury The Gulbenkian27 Bridport Electric PalaceMarch1 Guildford Yvonne Arnaud Theatre3 Buxton Opera House4 Shrewsbury Theatre Severn5 Isle of Wight Shanklin Theatre6 Paignton Palace Theatre19 Leicester Y Theatre20 Durham Gala Theatre25 Sunderland Fire Station26 Alnwick Playhouse27 Barnard Castle The WithamApril9 Winchester Theatre Royal15 Worcester Huntingdon Hall16 Swansea Taliesin Arts Centre17 Monmouth Savoy Theatre18 London Bloomsbury Theatre22 Cheltenham Town Hall23 Bath Komedia24 Swindon Arts Centre26 Salford Lowry28 Leeds City Varieties29 Lincoln New Theatre Royal30 Chorley TheatreMay1 Chester Playhouse7 Norwich Playhouse8 Oxford Northwall Arts Centre13 Plymouth Quad Theatre14 Launceston Town Hall15 Exeter Northcott20 Stamford Corn Exchange21 Chelmsford Theatre22 Bury St Edmunds The Apex27 Lowestoft Marina Theatre29 Maidenhead Norden Farm31 Nottingham Theatre RoyalJune4 Coventry Warwick Arts Centre5 Cambridge Junction6 Sheffield Steamworks9 Liverpool Everyman Theatre10 Chipping Norton Theatre DONATE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 15 September 2025

Mark PougatchOne of our most gifted sports broadcasters is also a massive politics nerd. Mark's usually seen anchoring ITV's coverage of England games. But should we keep politics out of sport? Is that even possible? In this hugely entertaining and insightful interview Mark indulges his twin passions: politics and sport and explains what they can learn from each other. This is great fun. SUBSCRIBE to Mark's brilliant podcast 'How It All Played Out'THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE - 6 October: Bridget PhilipsonSEE Matt's brand new stand-up tour 'Defying Calamity' across the UKJanuary28 Birmingham Glee Club29 Dorking Halls30 Northampton Royal/Derngate TheatreFebruary5 Lancaster Grand Theatre6 Brighton Corn Exchange12 Tunbridge Wells Theatre14 London Bloomsbury Theatre18 Faversham The Alex19 Maidstone Hazlitt Theatre20 Milton Keynes The Stables26 Canterbury The Gulbenkian27 Bridport Electric PalaceMarch1 Guildford Yvonne Arnaud Theatre3 Buxton Opera House4 Shrewsbury Theatre Severn5 Isle of Wight Shanklin Theatre6 Paignton Palace Theatre19 Leicester Y Theatre20 Durham Gala Theatre25 Sunderland Fire Station26 Alnwick Playhouse27 Barnard Castle The WithamApril9 Winchester Theatre Royal15 Worcester Huntingdon Hall16 Swansea Taliesin Arts Centre17 Monmouth Savoy Theatre18 London Bloomsbury Theatre22 Cheltenham Town Hall23 Bath Komedia24 Swindon Arts Centre26 Salford Lowry28 Leeds City Varieties29 Lincoln New Theatre Royal30 Chorley TheatreMay1 Chester Playhouse7 Norwich Playhouse8 Oxford Northwall Arts Centre13 Plymouth Quad Theatre14 Launceston Town Hall15 Exeter Northcott20 Stamford Corn Exchange21 Chelmsford Theatre22 Bury St Edmunds The Apex27 Lowestoft Marina Theatre29 Maidenhead Norden Farm31 Nottingham Theatre RoyalJune4 Coventry Warwick Arts Centre5 Cambridge Junction6 Sheffield Steamworks9 Liverpool Everyman Theatre10 Chipping Norton Theatre Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 8 September 2025

Kirsty Wark - LIVENewsnight star. Late Show legend. Celebrity Masterchef contestant...Kirsty Wark is a gifted broadcaster and is at her charismatic and hilarious best in front of a live Edinburgh audience. She shares stories from her phenomenal career and gives her take on the state of British and Scottish politics, as well as her experience with Gregg Wallace. This is a corker.  THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE6 October: Bridget Philipson SEE Matt's brand new stand-up tour 'Defying Calamity' across the UK:January28 Birmingham Glee Club29 Dorking Halls30 Northampton Royal and Derngate TheatreFebruary5 Lancaster Grand Theatre6 Brighton Corn Exchange12 Tunbridge Wells Theatre14 London Bloomsbury Theatre18 Faversham The Alex19 Maidstone Hazlitt Theatre20 Milton Keynes The Stables26 Canterbury The Gulbenkian27 Bridport Electric PalaceMarch1 Guildford Yvonne Arnaud Theatre3 Buxton Opera House4 Shrewsbury Theatre Severn5 Isle of Wight Shanklin Theatre6 Paignton Palace Theatre19 Leicester Y Theatre20 Durham Gala Theatre25 Sunderland Fire Station26 Alnwick Playhouse27 Barnard Castle The WithamApril9 Winchester Theatre Royal15 Worcester Huntingdon Hall16 Swansea Taliesin Arts Centre17 Monmouth Savoy Theatre18 London Bloomsbury Theatre22 Cheltenham Town Hall23 Bath Komedia24 Swindon Arts Centre26 Salford Lowry28 Leeds City Varieties29 Lincoln New Theatre Royal30 Chorley TheatreMay1 Chester Playhouse7 Norwich Playhouse8 Oxford Northwall Arts Centre13 Plymouth Quad Theatre14 Launceston Town Hall15 Exeter Northcott20 Stamford Corn Exchange21 Chelmsford Theatre22 Bury St Edmunds The Apex27 Lowestoft Marina Theatre29 Maidenhead Norden Farm31 Nottingham Theatre RoyalJune4 Coventry Warwick Arts Centre5 Cambridge Junction6 Sheffield Steamworks9 Liverpool Everyman Theatre10 Chipping Norton TheatreDONATE to the RNOH Charity here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 1 September 2025

Sadiq Khan - LIVE The Mayor of London is on top form in this special episode recorded at the Edinburgh Festival. What's his analysis of Labour's first year in power?Will Sadiq and Trump meet during the State Visit?If so, where in London will Sadiq take him..? SEE Matt's brand new stand-up tour 'Defying Calamity' across the UK:https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows January28 Birmingham Glee Club29 Dorking Halls30 Northampton Royal and Derngate Theatre February5 Lancaster Grand Theatre6 Brighton Corn Exchange12 Tunbridge Wells Theatre14 London Bloomsbury Theatre18 Faversham The Alex19 Maidstone Hazlitt Theatre20 Milton Keynes The Stables26 Canterbury The Gulbenkian27 Bridport Electric Palace March1 Guildford Yvonne Arnaud Theatre3 Buxton Opera House4 Shrewsbury Theatre Severn5 Isle of Wight Shanklin Theatre6 Paignton Palace Theatre19 Leicester Y Theatre20 Durham Gala Theatre25 Sunderland Fire Station26 Alnwick Playhouse27 Barnard Castle The Witham April9 Winchester Theatre Royal15 Worcester Huntingdon Hall16 Swansea Taliesin Arts Centre17 Monmouth Savoy Theatre18 London Bloomsbury Theatre22 Cheltenham Town Hall23 Bath Komedia24 Swindon Arts Centre26 Salford Lowry28 Leeds City Varieties29 Lincoln New Theatre Royal30 Chorley Theatre May1 Chester Playhouse7 Norwich Playhouse8 Oxford Northwall Arts Centre13 Plymouth Quad Theatre14 Launceston Town Hall15 Exeter Northcott20 Stamford Corn Exchange21 Chelmsford Theatre22 Bury St Edmunds The Apex27 Lowestoft Marina Theatre29 Maidenhead Norden Farm31 Nottingham Theatre Royal June4 Coventry Warwick Arts Centre5 Cambridge Junction6 Sheffield Steamworks9 Liverpool Everyman Theatre10 Chipping Norton Theatre DONATE to the RNOH Charity here:https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/mattforde Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 25 August 2025

Joanna Cherry - LIVE This is a corker. Joanna Cherry doesn't hold back on what it was like to be inside the SNP, but outside the Sturgeon clique. Following the publication of the former First Minister's memoir, Joanna gives a comprehensive analysis of the failings of the last few years. This is absolutely compelling from the very first second.Oh, and it also includes some quality music chat.  COME AND SEE THE POLITICAL PARTY AT THE EDINBURGH FRINGE: 21 August: Kirsty Warkwww.mattforde.com SEE Matt's brand new stand-up tour 'Defying Calamity' across the UK:https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows DONATE to the RNOH Charity here:https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/mattforde Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 18 August 2025

Ian Murray - LIVE This is an absolute hoot.For years Ian Murray was the only Labour MP in Scotland. Now he's in the Cabinet as Secretary of State. He takes us inside Labour's first year and tells some cracking stories along the way including meeting Donald Trump off his plane when he recently visited Turnberry.It's a classic.  COME AND SEE THE POLITICAL PARTY AT THE EDINBURGH FRINGE: 13 August: Joanna Cherry17 August: Sadiq Khan21 August: Kirsty Warkwww.mattforde.com SEE Matt's new stand-up show 'Defying Calamity' at the Edinburgh Festival:https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/matt-forde-defying-calamity DONATE to the RNOH Charity here:https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/mattforde Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 11 August 2025

James Cleverly - REPLAY James Cleverly is back on the Conservative Party Frontbench.Back in 2018 he'd just been made Deputy Chairman of the Tory Party.He's on top form in this riotous hour.  He would go on to be, among other things, Home Secretary and Foreign Secretary, before standing for the leadership in 2024. Hear where it all began... COME AND SEE THE POLITICAL PARTY AT THE EDINBURGH FRINGE: 7 August: Ian Murray13 August: Joanna Cherry15 August: Sadiq Khan21 August: Kirsty Warkwww.mattforde.com SEE Matt's new stand-up show 'Defying Calamity' at the Edinburgh Festival:https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/matt-forde-defying-calamity DONATE to the RNOH Charity here:https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/mattforde Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 4 August 2025

Ed Miliband - REPLAY Ed Miliband is one of the most powerful politicians in the country.But in 2018 he was in a very different place.Three years after his emotional resignation as leader, he was rebuilding his political career in the middle of the Corbyn era. This is a fascinating interview from The Political Party back catalogue.  COME AND SEE THE POLITICAL PARTY AT THE EDINBURGH FRINGE: 7 August: Ian Murray13 August: Joanna Cherry15 August: Sadiq Khan21 August: Kirsty Warkwww.mattforde.com SEE Matt's new stand-up show 'Defying Calamity' at the Edinburgh Festival:https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/matt-forde-defying-calamity DONATE to the RNOH Charity here:https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/mattforde Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 28 July 2025

Oliver Coppard Oliver has been the Labour Mayor for South Yorkshire since 2022. It's an area at the centre of many of our biggest political discussions. Health is his big priority, but does he have the powers he needs to create real change and how would he measure it?This is an entertaining, engaging hour with a young politician whose Jewish heritage has meant he's not always had the easiest relationship with his own party. He's led a fascinating life... but what are the experiences that were formative in his politics? COME AND SEE THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE! 14 July: Michael Govehttps://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/ 7 August: Ian Murray13 August: Joanna Cherry15 August: Sadiq Khan21 August: Kirsty Wark https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/the-political-party-with-matt-forde DONATE to the RNOH Charity here:https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/mattforde SEE Matt's new stand-up show 'Defying Calamity' at the Edinburgh Festival:https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/matt-forde-defying-calamity www.mattforde.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 21 July 2025

Michael Gove - LIVE One of the most transformational and impactful Cabinet ministers of recent years is on top form as he reminisces about his biggest moments. What was going through his mind at that press conference the morning after the Brexit referendum?How did Boris react when he changed his mind about backing him?How did he end up throwing shapes in an Aberdeen nightclub?Michael also gives his take on Reform and Nigel Farage. How worried should we be about him becoming Prime Minister?This is an outrageous and incisive interview with a phenomenal political brain.  COME AND SEE THE POLITICAL PARTY AT THE EDINBURGH FRINGE: 7 August: Ian Murray13 August: Joanna Cherry15 August: Sadiq Khan21 August: Kirsty Warkwww.mattforde.com SEE Matt's new stand-up show 'Defying Calamity' at the Edinburgh Festival:https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/matt-forde-defying-calamity DONATE to the RNOH Charity here:https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/mattforde Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 16 July 2025

Louise Haigh - LIVE Recorded live at the Crossed Wires festival in Sheffield, Louise Haigh reflects on Labour's first year in power.Louise is on top form and has a unique perspective, having served in Cabinet and now sitting on the backbenches. How did the government get itself in a mess over welfare?Where can Labour improve?Plus why Louise got pepper sprayed...  COME AND SEE THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE! 14 July: Michael Govehttps://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/ 7 August: Ian Murray13 August: Joanna Cherry21 August: Kirsty Wark https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/the-political-party-with-matt-forde DONATE to the RNOH Charity here:https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/mattforde SEE Matt's new stand-up show 'Defying Calamity' at the Edinburgh Festival:https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/matt-forde-defying-calamity www.mattforde.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 7 July 2025