The Political Party

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.

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

Sonia Kumar Sonia has been an MP for almost a year and has used her platform to lead the first ever Parliamentary debate on incontinence. It's a subject very close to Matt's bladder and Sonia tells him how her career as a physiotherapist led her to raising it as an issue and standing for Parliament in the first place.Plus Sonia explains her position on assisted dying and gives the most compelling reason for visiting Dudley you are ever going to hear. Book your train tickets now! COME AND SEE THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE! 6 July: Andy Burnham (in Sheffield)https://www.sheffieldtheatres.co.uk/events/crossed-wires-presents-the-political-party-with-guest-andy-burnham 14 July: Michael Govehttps://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/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: 30 June 2025

Mims DaviesPrepare to be blown away.Mims has had to deal with so many astonishing life events. Not only that, she's handled them with remarkable humour.What made her a Conservative? Why didn't she think party membership was for people like her?How do the Tories stave off the threat from Reform and assert their dominance as the party of the right?Mims shares her incredible life story, with a bit of politics mixed in .  COME AND SEE THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE! 6 July: Andy Burnham (in Sheffield)https://www.sheffieldtheatres.co.uk/events/crossed-wires-presents-the-political-party-with-guest-andy-burnham14 July: Michael Govehttps://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/ GET FREE tickets to Radio 4's The Matt Forde Focus Group here: https://www.sroaudiences.com/application.asp?show_id=579 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: 23 June 2025

Nick Thomas-Symonds Nick has just negotiated the UK/EU Trade Deal.So what's in the deal and what impact will it have?And did he have to drink Slovakian red wine to get the deal done?This is a superb behind-the-scenes account of high-level negotiations.  COME AND SEE THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE! 6 July: Andy Burnham (in Sheffield)https://www.sheffieldtheatres.co.uk/events/crossed-wires-presents-the-political-party-with-guest-andy-burnham 14 July: Michael Govehttps://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/ GET FREE tickets to Radio 4's The Matt Forde Focus Group here: https://www.sroaudiences.com/application.asp?show_id=579 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: 16 June 2025

Kemi Badenoch The Conservative leader is on top form in this personal and funny interview. Kemi outlines the challenges her party faces in opposing Labour as well as trying to stave off Reform and the resurgent Lib Dems. It's a fascinating hour assessing how the Conservatives move on from their record in government. We tackle all the big questions. How do the Tories defeat Reform? Why does the timing of policy announcements matter? What's her favourite McDonalds order?It flies by.  COME AND SEE THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE! 6 July: Andy Burnham (in Sheffield)https://www.sheffieldtheatres.co.uk/events/crossed-wires-presents-the-political-party-with-guest-andy-burnham 14 July: Michael Govehttps://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/ GET FREE tickets to Radio 4's The Matt Forde Focus Group here: https://www.sroaudiences.com/application.asp?show_id=579 DONATE to the RNOH Charity here:https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/mattforde SEE Matt's final 'End of an Era Tour' shows:12 June: York, The Crescent 13 June: Chelmsford Theatre 14 June: Faversham, The Alex  www.mattforde.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 11 June 2025

Guto Harri Guto has done it all.From covering domestic and international politics for the BBC, to working for Boris Johnson in Number 10.He's got some great stories from his varied career, including the storm surrounding him taking the knee live on GB News. An optimist, he's drawn to positive characters and despairs at the state of all the major parties. So what does he think will happen? And would he ever go into elected politics?  COME AND SEE THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE! 9 June: Kemi Badenoch14 July: Michael Gove Plus more to be announced...Get tickets for all shows here: https://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/ GET FREE tickets to Radio 4's The Matt Forde Focus Group here: https://www.sroaudiences.com/application.asp?show_id=579 DONATE to the RNOH Charity here:https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/mattforde SEE Matt at on tour until June 2025, including his extra date at The Nottingham Playhouse: https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows4 June: Leeds City Varieties 5 June: Nottingham Playhouse 6 June: Cambridge Junction 12 June: York, The Crescent 13 June: Chelmsford Theatre 14 June: Faversham, The Alex  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 2 June 2025

Delivery. It's a popular word in politics, but how to Prime Ministers ensure it happens?Michelle is Researcher in Residence at 10 Downing Street and Lecturer in Government Studies at The Strand Group, King's College.She has written a new book 'The Art of Delivery: The Inside Story of How the Blair Government Transformed Britain’s Public Services'. This is a wonderful insight into the inner workings of 10 Downing Street and how Tony Blair changed his approach to the civil service during his premiership.Michelle brings the internal machinations to life in this fascinating and entertaining interview.  BUY Michelle's book here: https://www.bitebackpublishing.com/books/the-art-of-delivery COME AND SEE THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE! 9 June: Kemi Badenoch14 July: Michael Gove Get tickets for all shows here: https://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/ GET FREE tickets to Radio 4's The Matt Forde Focus Group here: https://www.sroaudiences.com/application.asp?show_id=579 DONATE to the RNOH Charity here:justgiving.com/campaign/mattforde SEE Matt at on tour until June 2025, including his extra date at The Nottingham Playhouse: https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows29 May: Chipping Norton Theatre30 May: Swindon Arts Centre 4 June: Leeds City Varieties 5 June: Nottingham Playhouse 6 June: Cambridge Junction 12 June: York, The Crescent 13 June: Chelmsford Theatre 14 June: Faversham, The Alex  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 26 May 2025

Alan Rhodes A few weeks ago Reform took control of Nottinghamshire County Council on a landslide.  How did this happen and why didn't Nottinghamshire vote Labour instead? Alan Rhodes has been a Labour councillor in Nottinghamshire for nearly 40 years. He understands the shifting politics of the county and the country.  This is a fantastic analysis of what's happening at a local and national level. It's also a brilliant insight into local government with a dedicated public servant.  Enjoy! COME AND SEE THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE! 9 June: Kemi Badenoch14 July: Michael Gove Plus more to be announced...Get tickets for all shows here: https://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/ GET FREE tickets to Radio 4's The Matt Forde Focus Group here: https://www.sroaudiences.com/application.asp?show_id=579 DONATE to the RNOH Charity here:https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/mattforde SEE Matt at on tour until June 2025, including his extra date at The Nottingham Playhouse: https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows29 May: Chipping Norton Theatre30 May: Swindon Arts Centre 4 June: Leeds City Varieties 5 June: Nottingham Playhouse 6 June: Cambridge Junction 12 June: York, The Crescent 13 June: Chelmsford Theatre 14 June: Faversham, The Alex  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 19 May 2025

Wes Streeting - LIVE The Health Secretary is on cracking form as he defends Labour's progress so far but demonstrates a clear impatience to deliver change as quickly as possible. We discuss all the big questions: What is Labour getting right? Are the government scared of Reform? What is that cucumber for? It'll all make sense...  COME AND SEE THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE! 9 June: Kemi Badenoch14 July: Michael Gove Plus more to be announced...Get tickets for all shows here: https://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/ GET FREE tickets to Radio 4's The Matt Forde Focus Group here: https://www.sroaudiences.com/application.asp?show_id=579 DONATE to the RNOH Charity here:https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/mattforde SEE Matt at on tour until June 2025, including his extra date at The Nottingham Playhouse: https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows29 May: Chipping Norton Theatre30 May: Swindon Arts Centre 4 June: Leeds City Varieties 5 June: Nottingham Playhouse 6 June: Cambridge Junction 12 June: York, The Crescent 13 June: Chelmsford Theatre 14 June: Faversham, The Alex Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 14 May 2025

Local Elections Analysis with John McTernan Why were the local elections so bad for Labour and how do they reverse their fortunes? Is there a ceiling on Nigel Farage's popularity? Does Labour lack confidence? This is a dose of mega political strategy with Tony Blair's former Political Secretary. It's electric.  COME AND SEE THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE! 12 May: Wes Streeting9 June: Kemi Badenoch14 July: Michael Gove Plus more to be announced...Get tickets for all shows here: https://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/ GET FREE tickets to Radio 4's The Matt Forde Focus Group here: https://www.sroaudiences.com/application.asp?show_id=579 DONATE to the RNOH Charity here:https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/mattforde SEE Matt at on tour until June 2025, including his extra date at The Nottingham Playhouse: https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows29 May: Chipping Norton Theatre30 May: Swindon Arts Centre 4 June: Leeds City Varieties 5 June: Nottingham Playhouse 6 June: Cambridge Junction 12 June: York, The Crescent 13 June: Chelmsford Theatre 14 June: Faversham, The Alex  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 5 May 2025

The Matt Forde Focus Group is my new comedy series for Radio 4 and tickets are now available! We are recording a run though on May 7th at The Bush Hall is London. For tickets visit sroaudiences.com or click on this link The Matt Forde Focus Group See you there! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 2 May 2025

Following the unanimous Supreme Court ruling that a woman is defined by biological sex under equalities law, Julie tells us how and why we got here.  This is a fascinating history not just of women's rights, but of the distinct needs of the lesbian and gay communities.  If you've wondered how this issue became so big and how it's come to dominate so much of our discourse, Julie is here to explain the roots of it all. This is absolutely compelling.  BUY Julie's new book Lesbians, Where Are We Now? here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Lesbians-Where-are-we-now/dp/1800754272/   COME AND SEE THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE! 12 May: Wes Streeting9 June: Kemi Badenoch14 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-shows29 May: Chipping Norton Theatre30 May: Swindon Arts Centre 4 June: Leeds City Varieties 5 June: Nottingham Playhouse 6 June: Cambridge Junction 12 June: York, The Crescent 13 June: Chelmsford Theatre 14 June: Faversham, The Alex  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 28 April 2025

Gregor was elected as the MP for Livingston in Labour's 2024 landslide.  It was a full circle moment for the man who'd been the party's organiser in the 2005 Livingston by-election following the death of Robin Cook.  He went on to work for Blue State Digital, the team who masterminded Obama's 2008 and 2012 campaigns.  This is a masterclass is the art of campaigning from one of Morgan McSweeney's former colleagues.  Plus, why he loves checked shirts so much.   COME AND SEE THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE! 12 May: Wes Streeting9 June: Kemi Badenoch14 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-shows29 May: Chipping Norton Theatre30 May: Swindon Arts Centre 4 June: Leeds City Varieties 5 June: Nottingham Playhouse 6 June: Cambridge Junction 12 June: York, The Crescent 13 June: Chelmsford Theatre 14 June: Faversham, The Alex  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 21 April 2025

Jason Stockwood Brace yourself, you're about to discover one of the most inspiring voices in politics. Jason is Labour's candidate to be the Mayor of Greater Lincolnshire. He's a hugely successful businessman from humble beginnings.  But it's the way he talks about life, society and what the country can do, that makes him special.  This is audio Red Bull. Strap in.   COME AND SEE THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE! 12 May: Wes Streeting9 June: Kemi Badenoch14 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-shows29 May: Chipping Norton Theatre30 May: Swindon Arts Centre 4 June: Leeds City Varieties 5 June: Nottingham Playhouse 6 June: Cambridge Junction 12 June: York, The Crescent 13 June: Chelmsford Theatre 14 June: Faversham, The Alex  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 14 April 2025

Dr Scott Arthur Scott is one the few lucky MPs who topped the ballot for Private Members' Bills.  He wants to bring in a Rare Cancers Bill. But what would the Bill do? What difference would it make to someone diagnosed with a rare cancer?  COME AND SEE THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE! 12 May: Wes Streeting9 June: Kemi Badenoch14 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-shows13 April: Salford Lowry 29 May: Chipping Norton Theatre30 May: Swindon Arts Centre 4 June: Leeds City Varieties 5 June: Nottingham Playhouse 6 June: Cambridge Junction 12 June: York, The Crescent 13 June: Chelmsford Theatre 14 June: Faversham, The Alex  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 7 April 2025

Anthony Scaramucci - LIVE The Mooch is back and is on barnstorming form.  He's full-throttle from the start and gives his expert (and hilarious) view on how other world leaders should deal with Trump. Plus an incredible revelation about what the President was trying to watch online in the Oval Office...  COME AND SEE THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE! 12 May: Wes Streeting9 June: Kemi Badenoch14 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 4 April: London, Bloomsbury Theatre13 April: Salford Lowry - EXTRA DATE29 May: Chipping Norton Theatre - EXTRA DATE30 May: Swindon Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE4 June: Leeds City Varieties - EXTRA DATE5 June: Nottingham Playhouse - EXTRA DATE6 June: Cambridge Junction - EXTRA DATE12 June: York, The Crescent - EXTRA DATE13 June: Chelmsford Theatre - EXTRA DATE14 June: Faversham, The Alex - EXTRA DATE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 3 April 2025

Claire Ward Claire is the first ever Elected Mayor for the East Midlands. What does running the greatest region in the country involve? How does Claire manage any rivalry or resentment between Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire? Why is being a Mayor better than being an MP? And what does this all mean for Nottingham Forest?  SEE THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE ON STAGE! 31 March: Anthony Scaramucci12 May: Wes Streeting9 June: Kemi Badenoch14 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 28 March: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts Centre4 April: London, Bloomsbury Theatre13 April: Salford Lowry - EXTRA DATE29 May: Chipping Norton Theatre - EXTRA DATE30 May: Swindon Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE4 June: Leeds City Varieties - EXTRA DATE5 June: Nottingham Playhouse - EXTRA DATE6 June: Cambridge Junction - EXTRA DATE12 June: York, The Crescent - EXTRA DATE13 June: Chelmsford Theatre - EXTRA DATE14 June: Faversham, The Alex - EXTRA DATE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 31 March 2025

Eluned Morgan Eluned is the First Minister of Wales and the first female First Minister of Wales.  What challenges does Wales face that other parts of the UK might not? How do leaders create economic growth? And can someone help get Eluned some Oasis tickets?  SEE THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE ON STAGE! 31 March: Anthony Scaramucci12 May: Wes Streeting9 June: Kemi Badenoch14 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 28 March: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts Centre4 April: London, Bloomsbury Theatre13 April: Salford Lowry - EXTRA DATE29 May: Chipping Norton Theatre - EXTRA DATE30 May: Swindon Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE4 June: Leeds City Varieties - EXTRA DATE5 June: Nottingham Playhouse - EXTRA DATE6 June: Cambridge Junction - EXTRA DATE12 June: York, The Crescent - EXTRA DATE13 June: Chelmsford Theatre - EXTRA DATE14 June: Faversham, The Alex - EXTRA DATE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 24 March 2025

Everyone's favourite SNP politician tells Matt what Nicola Sturgeon's departure from Holyrood means for the SNP and for Scotland. Stewart also reflects on what the party has to do differently if it wants to gain independence.  This is a funny, thoughtful and reflective conversation about Nicola Sturgeon's legacy and the future of Scotland. And the future of gay bars in Tenerife.  SEE THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE ON STAGE!31 March: Anthony Scaramucci12 May: Wes Streeting9 June: Kemi Badenoch14 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 CONTACT Regent Park Strategies here:https://www.regentparkstrategies.com/ SEE Matt at on tour until June 2025, including his extra date at The Nottingham Playhouse: https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows 28 March: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts Centre4 April: London, Bloomsbury Theatre13 April: Salford Lowry - EXTRA DATE29 May: Chipping Norton Theatre - EXTRA DATE30 May: Swindon Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE4 June: Leeds City Varieties - EXTRA DATE5 June: Nottingham Playhouse - EXTRA DATE6 June: Cambridge Junction - EXTRA DATE12 June: York, The Crescent - EXTRA DATE13 June: Chelmsford Theatre - EXTRA DATE14 June: Faversham, The Alex - EXTRA DATE   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 17 March 2025

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 Scaramucci12 May: Wes Streeting9 June: Kemi Badenoch14 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 Club28 March: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts Centre4 April: London, Bloomsbury Theatre13 April: Salford Lowry - EXTRA DATE29 May: Chipping Norton Theatre - EXTRA DATE30 May: Swindon Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE4 June: Leeds City Varieties - EXTRA DATE5 June: Nottingham Playhouse - EXTRA DATE6 June: Cambridge Junction - EXTRA DATE12 June: York, The Crescent - EXTRA DATE13 June: Chelmsford Theatre - EXTRA DATE14 June: Faversham, The Alex - EXTRA DATE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 12 March 2025

Simon was Chief Whip under Rishi Sunak and his explosive new book 'Ungovernable' documents the scandalous and tumultuous final term of the Conservative government. So what's his view of his fellow politicians and the system they inhabit?  Is it impossible for any Prime Minister to truly get their way? And what's it like being mistaken for Brian Clough? THE POLITICAL PARTY IS BACK ON STAGE! 10 March: Alastair Campbell31 March: Anthony Scaramucci12 May: Wes Streeting9 June: Kemi Badenoch14 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 4 March: Colchester Arts Centre 5 March: Oxford, Glee Club6 March: Birmingham, Glee Club7 March: Maidenhead, Norden Farm11 March: Aberdeen, Lemon Tree12 March: Glasgow, Glee Club28 March: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts Centre4 April: London, Bloomsbury Theatre13 April: Salford Lowry - EXTRA DATE5 June: Nottingham Playhouse - EXTRA DATE6 June: Cambridge Junction - EXTRA DATE13 June: Chelmsford Theatre - EXTRA DATE14 June: Faversham, The Alex - EXTRA DATE BUY Simon's book 'Ungovernable' here: https://linktr.ee/SimonHartUngovernable  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 3 March 2025

Mike Tapp Mike is one of Labour's hottest rising stars. Elected in July last year, he's already an accomplished media performer.  A former soldier, he is at the vanguard of Labour's patriotic centre.  But why does he wake up so early in the morning? Wine. Dogs. The military.  This podcast has it all.  THE POLITICAL PARTY IS BACK ON STAGE! 10 March: Alastair Campbell31 March: Anthony Scaramucci12 May: Wes Streeting9 June: Kemi Badenoch14 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 April 2025, including his extra date at The Bloomsbury Theatre: https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows12 February: Bath, Komedia13 February: Southend, Palace Theatre16 February: Cambridge, The Junction20 February: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts23 February: Brighton, Komedia25 February: Cardiff, Glee Club26 February: Bury St Edmunds, Theatre Royal28 February: Chelmsford Theatre 2 March: Bristol, Hen and Chickens (Matinee)2 March: Bristol, Tobacco Factory4 March: Colchester Arts Centre 6 March: Birmingham, Glee Club7 March: Maidenhead, Norden Farm11 March: Aberdeen, Lemon Tree12 March: Glasgow, Glee Club27 March: Oxford, Glee Club28 March: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts Centre4 April: London, Bloomsbury Theatre Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 24 February 2025

Mhari Aurora Mhari is a revelation in political broadcasting and in this fascinating chat with Matt she considers some of the big questions facing modern media: What can the 'mainstream media' learn from Joe Rogan? How should they cover Donald Trump? How do you deal with angry taxi drivers? It's all in here! THE POLITICAL PARTY IS BACK ON STAGE! 10 March: Alastair Campbell31 March: Anthony Scaramucci12 May: Wes Streeting9 June: Kemi Badenoch Plus more to be announced... Get tickets for all shows here: https://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/ SEE Matt at on tour until April 2025, including his extra date at The Bloomsbury Theatre: https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows20 February: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts23 February: Brighton, Komedia25 February: Cardiff, Glee Club26 February: Bury St Edmunds, Theatre Royal28 February: Chelmsford Theatre 2 March: Bristol, Hen and Chickens (Matinee)2 March: Bristol, Tobacco Factory4 March: Colchester Arts Centre 6 March: Birmingham, Glee Club7 March: Maidenhead, Norden Farm11 March: Aberdeen, Lemon Tree12 March: Glasgow, Glee Club27 March: Oxford, Glee Club28 March: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts Centre4 April: London, Bloomsbury Theatre Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 17 February 2025

What a return! The Chancellor is exceptional form as she discusses Trump, tariffs, the threat of Reform and the inside story of when her hair turned ginger.  This interview has it all. The realities of life in government plus invaluable advice for creating the perfect Yorkshire Pudding.  Oh and a brilliant story about Gordon Brown's tribute to John Prescott... The next guests at The Duchess Theatre are: 10 March: Alastair Campbell31 March: Anthony Scaramucci12 May: Wes Streeting9 June: Kemi Badenoch14 July: Michael Gove Get tickets for all shows here: https://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/ SEE Matt at on tour until April 2025, including his extra date at The Bloomsbury Theatre: https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows12 February: Bath, Komedia13 February: Southend, Palace Theatre16 February: Cambridge, The Junction20 February: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts23 February: Brighton, Komedia25 February: Cardiff, Glee Club26 February: Bury St Edmunds, Theatre Royal28 February: Chelmsford Theatre 2 March: Bristol, Hen and Chickens (Matinee)2 March: Bristol, Tobacco Factory4 March: Colchester Arts Centre 6 March: Birmingham, Glee Club7 March: Maidenhead, Norden Farm11 March: Aberdeen, Lemon Tree12 March: Glasgow, Glee Club27 March: Oxford, Glee Club28 March: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts Centre4 April: London, Bloomsbury Theatre Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 12 February 2025

Dr Sharon Lockyer The live comedy industry is worth around £1bn annually to the UK economy, yet it doesn't get included in government conversations about the arts. As a result, it doesn't receive the financial support that other arts forms routinely get. To understand why, and to explain the wider impact of live comedy on society, Matt is joined by Dr Sharon Lockyer from Brunel University.  Comedy. It's a serious business.  THE POLITICAL PARTY IS BACK ON STAGE! 10 February: Rachel Reeves10 March: Alastair Campbell31 March: Anthony Scaramucci12 May: Wes Streeting9 June: Kemi Badenoch Plus more to be announced... Get tickets for all shows here: https://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/ SEE Matt at on tour until April 2025, including his extra date at The Bloomsbury Theatre: https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows12 February: Bath, Komedia13 February: Southend, Palace Theatre16 February: Cambridge, The Junction20 February: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts23 February: Brighton, Komedia25 February: Cardiff, Glee Club26 February: Bury St Edmunds, Theatre Royal28 February: Chelmsford Theatre 2 March: Bristol, Hen and Chickens (Matinee)2 March: Bristol, Tobacco Factory4 March: Colchester Arts Centre 6 March: Birmingham, Glee Club7 March: Maidenhead, Norden Farm11 March: Aberdeen, Lemon Tree12 March: Glasgow, Glee Club27 March: Oxford, Glee Club28 March: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts Centre4 April: London, Bloomsbury Theatre Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 10 February 2025

This very special episode is brought to you in paid partnership with Cancer Research UK. At the end of last year, myself, Richard Herring and Mark Steel sat down to have a frank, raw, funny and open conversation about something that has affected us all - cancer. We were later joined by Dr Sam Godfrey, the Science Engagement Lead at Cancer Research UK, who gave us invaluable insight into the incredible work Cancer Research UK are doing and why the future is looking bright. Disclaimer for this one - very strong language and discussions of cancer diagnosis and treatment are used throughout. Disclaimer: CRUK can only accept donations from countries where we are a registered charity. Cancer Research UK is a registered charity in England and Wales (1089464), Scotland (SC041666), the Isle of Man (1103) and Jersey (247). #ad Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 7 February 2025

Ava Santina-Evans Ava is the star of PoliticsJOE, an online platform which covers politics in a different way to other media.  It's hugely successful and in this entertaining and insightful interview, Ava explains the decisions behind that popularity.  This takes in everything: from Labour and trade union issues, to the appeal of Trump, and the appeal of Reform to younger voters.  All modern politics is here! THE POLITICAL PARTY IS BACK ON STAGE! 10 February: Rachel Reeves10 March: Alastair Campbell31 March: Anthony Scaramucci12 May: Wes Streeting Plus more to be announced... Get tickets for all shows here: https://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/ SEE Matt at on tour until April 2025, including his extra date at The Bloomsbury Theatre: https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows4 February: Leeds, City Varieties5 February: Sheffield, The Leadmill6 February: Chelmsford Theatre7 February: Bedford, The Quarry Theatre12 February: Bath, Komedia13 February: Southend, Palace Theatre16 February: Cambridge, The Junction20 February: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts23 February: Brighton, Komedia25 February: Cardiff, Glee Club26 February: Bury St Edmunds, Theatre Royal28 February: Chelmsford Theatre 2 March: Bristol, Hen and Chickens (Matinee)2 March: Bristol, Tobacco Factory4 March: Colchester Arts Centre 6 March: Birmingham, Glee Club7 March: Maidenhead, Norden Farm11 March: Aberdeen, Lemon Tree12 March: Glasgow, Glee Club27 March: Oxford, Glee Club28 March: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts Centre4 April: London, Bloomsbury Theatre Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 3 February 2025

Gavin Esler What can Trump's opponents learn from him? How should the BBC respond to Elon Musk? What should Change UK have done differently? All these questions and more are discussed with a true broadcasting titan.  This is quality from start to finish.  THE POLITICAL PARTY IS BACK ON STAGE! 10 February: Rachel Reeves10 March: Alastair Campbell31 March: Anthony Scaramucci12 May: Wes Streeting Plus more to be announced... Get tickets for all shows here: https://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/ SEE Matt at on tour until April 2025, including his extra date at The Bloomsbury Theatre: https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows29 January: Norwich, Playhouse2 February: Salford, Lowry4 February: Leeds, City Varieties5 February: Sheffield, The Leadmill6 February: Chelmsford Theatre7 February: Bedford, The Quarry Theatre12 February: Bath, Komedia13 February: Southend, Palace Theatre16 February: Cambridge, The Junction20 February: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts23 February: Brighton, Komedia25 February: Cardiff, Glee Club26 February: Bury St Edmunds, Theatre Royal28 February: Chelmsford Theatre 2 March: Bristol, Tobacco Factory4 March: Colchester Arts Centre 6 March: Birmingham, Glee Club7 March: Maidenhead, Norden Farm11 March: Aberdeen, Lemon Tree12 March: Glasgow, Glee Club27 March: Oxford, Glee Club28 March: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts Centre4 April: London, Bloomsbury Theatre Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 27 January 2025

Sam Carling Sam is one of the brightest and most prominent members of the 2024 intake... and he's only 22.  How has Sam become an MP so early in his life, what politicised him and what does the future hold? Remember where you were when you first heard from Sam, he's a man going places.  THE POLITICAL PARTY IS BACK ON STAGE! 10 February: Rachel Reeves10 March: Alastair Campbell31 March: Anthony Scaramucci12 May: Wes Streeting Plus more to be announced... Get tickets for all shows here: https://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/ SEE Matt at on tour until April 2025, including his extra date at The Bloomsbury Theatre: https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows29 January: Norwich, Playhouse2 February: Salford, Lowry4 February: Leeds, City Varieties5 February: Sheffield, The Leadmill6 February: Chelmsford Theatre7 February: Bedford, The Quarry Theatre12 February: Bath, Komedia13 February: Southend, Palace Theatre16 February: Cambridge, The Junction20 February: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts23 February: Brighton, Komedia25 February: Cardiff, Glee Club26 February: Bury St Edmunds, Theatre Royal28 February: Chelmsford Theatre 2 March: Bristol, Tobacco Factory4 March: Colchester Arts Centre 6 March: Birmingham, Glee Club7 March: Maidenhead, Norden Farm11 March: Aberdeen, Lemon Tree12 March: Glasgow, Glee Club27 March: Oxford, Glee Club28 March: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts Centre4 April: London, Bloomsbury Theatre Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 20 January 2025

Tonia Antoniazzi England are due to play Afghanistan at cricket next month.  The decision to honour the fixture has caused uproar. Under the Taliban, women are banned from playing sport.  Tonia is leading the campaign to get England to pull out of the fixture.  If you want to help, find her on social media: @ToniaAntoniazzi Plus we discuss other vital issues, including her role on the All Party Beer Group... THE POLITICAL PARTY IS BACK ON STAGE! 10 February: Rachel Reeves10 March: Alastair Campbell31 March: Anthony Scaramucci12 May: Wes Streeting Plus more to be announced... Get tickets for all shows here: https://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/ SEE Matt at on tour until April 2025, including his extra date at The Bloomsbury Theatre: https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows29 January: Norwich, Playhouse2 February: Salford, Lowry4 February: Leeds, City Varieties5 February: Sheffield, The Leadmill6 February: Chelmsford Theatre7 February: Bedford, The Quarry Theatre12 February: Bath, Komedia13 February: Southend, Palace Theatre16 February: Cambridge, The Junction20 February: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts23 February: Brighton, Komedia25 February: Cardiff, Glee Club26 February: Bury St Edmunds, Theatre Royal28 February: Chelmsford Theatre 2 March: Bristol, Tobacco Factory4 March: Colchester Arts Centre 6 March: Birmingham, Glee Club7 March: Maidenhead, Norden Farm11 March: Aberdeen, Lemon Tree12 March: Glasgow, Glee Club27 March: Oxford, Glee Club28 March: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts Centre4 April: London, Bloomsbury Theatre Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 13 January 2025

Replay: Christmas Special with Jess Phillips and Sarah Wollaston  Keep the dream alive with this classic from 2018.  Jess Phillips and Sarah Wollaston are on phenomenal festive form in this Christmas cracker of an episode.  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-shows29 January: Norwich, Playhouse - EXTRA DATE2 February: Salford, Lowry4 February: Leeds, City Varieties5 February: Sheffield, The Leadmill6 February: Chelmsford Theatre7 February: Bedford, The Quarry Theatre12 February: Bath, Komedia13 February: Southend, Palace Theatre16 February: Cambridge, The Junction20 February: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts23 February: Brighton, Komedia25 February: Cardiff, Glee Club26 February: Bury St Edmunds, Theatre Royal28 February: Chelmsford Theatre - EXTRA DATE2 March: Bristol, Tobacco Factory4 March: Colchester Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE6 March: Birmingham, Glee Club - EXTRA DATE7 March: Maidenhead, Norden Farm - EXTRA DATE11 March: Aberdeen, Lemon Tree12 March: Glasgow, Glee Club27 March: Oxford, Glee Club - EXTRA DATE28 March: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE4 April: London, Bloomsbury Theatre - EXTRA DATE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 6 January 2025

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-shows29 January: Norwich, Playhouse - EXTRA DATE2 February: Salford, Lowry4 February: Leeds, City Varieties5 February: Sheffield, The Leadmill6 February: Chelmsford Theatre7 February: Bedford, The Quarry Theatre12 February: Bath, Komedia13 February: Southend, Palace Theatre16 February: Cambridge, The Junction20 February: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts23 February: Brighton, Komedia25 February: Cardiff, Glee Club26 February: Bury St Edmunds, Theatre Royal28 February: Chelmsford Theatre - EXTRA DATE2 March: Bristol, Tobacco Factory4 March: Colchester Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE6 March: Birmingham, Glee Club - EXTRA DATE7 March: Maidenhead, Norden Farm - EXTRA DATE11 March: Aberdeen, Lemon Tree12 March: Glasgow, Glee Club27 March: Oxford, Glee Club - EXTRA DATE28 March: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE4 April: London, Bloomsbury Theatre - EXTRA DATE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 30 December 2024

Alex Burghart Politics. History. Food. What more do you want for Christmas? Alex Burghart is the Shadow Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and fills in for Kemi Badenoch at PMQs. More importantly, he has a deep fat fryer and he's keen to experiment. This is the indulgent Christmas special we all needed.  FOLLOW Alex on X: @alexburghart 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-shows29 January: Norwich, Playhouse - EXTRA DATE2 February: Salford, Lowry4 February: Leeds, City Varieties5 February: Sheffield, The Leadmill6 February: Chelmsford Theatre7 February: Bedford, The Quarry Theatre12 February: Bath, Komedia13 February: Southend, Palace Theatre16 February: Cambridge, The Junction20 February: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts23 February: Brighton, Komedia25 February: Cardiff, Glee Club26 February: Bury St Edmunds, Theatre Royal28 February: Chelmsford Theatre - EXTRA DATE2 March: Bristol, Tobacco Factory4 March: Colchester Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE6 March: Birmingham, Glee Club - EXTRA DATE7 March: Maidenhead, Norden Farm - EXTRA DATE11 March: Aberdeen, Lemon Tree12 March: Glasgow, Glee Club27 March: Oxford, Glee Club - EXTRA DATE28 March: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE4 April: London, Bloomsbury Theatre - EXTRA DATE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 23 December 2024

Natalie Fleet Natalie has only been an MP since July but has already established herself as one of the most impressive members of the new intake. She has had to overcome a lot to become an MP and talks passionately about how hard it is to succeed if you're working class in modern Britain. This is gripping from start to finish.  FOLLOW Natalie on X: @NatalieFleetMP SEE Matt at on tour until March 2025, including his extra date at The Bloomsbury Theatre: https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows 2025 29 January: Norwich, Playhouse - EXTRA DATE2 February: Salford, Lowry4 February: Leeds, City Varieties5 February: Sheffield, The Leadmill6 February: Chelmsford Theatre7 February: Bedford, The Quarry Theatre12 February: Bath, Komedia13 February: Southend, Palace Theatre16 February: Cambridge, The Junction20 February: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts23 February: Brighton, Komedia25 February: Cardiff, Glee Club26 February: Bury St Edmunds, Theatre Royal28 February: Chelmsford Theatre - EXTRA DATE2 March: Bristol, Tobacco Factory4 March: Colchester Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE6 March: Birmingham, Glee Club - EXTRA DATE7 March: Maidenhead, Norden Farm - EXTRA DATE11 March: Aberdeen, Lemon Tree12 March: Glasgow, Glee Club27 March: Oxford, Glee Club - EXTRA DATE28 March: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE4 April: London, Bloomsbury Theatre - EXTRA DATE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 16 December 2024

David Yelland This is a gripping inside account of editing The Sun when tabloids were still dominant. David tried to take the paper in a different direction. But did Rupert Murdoch approve? Plus, does Elon Musk's use of X have its roots in tabloid culture and influence? FOLLOW David on X: @davidyelland SEE Matt at on tour until March 2025, including his extra dates at The Bloomsbury Theatre: https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows2024 14 December: London, Bloomsbury Theatre - EXTRA DATE 2025 29 January: Norwich, Playhouse - EXTRA DATE2 February: Salford, Lowry4 February: Leeds, City Varieties5 February: Sheffield, The Leadmill6 February: Chelmsford Theatre7 February: Bedford, The Quarry Theatre12 February: Bath, Komedia13 February: Southend, Palace Theatre16 February: Cambridge, The Junction20 February: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts23 February: Brighton, Komedia25 February: Cardiff, Glee Club26 February: Bury St Edmunds, Theatre Royal28 February: Chelmsford Theatre - EXTRA DATE2 March: Bristol, Tobacco Factory4 March: Colchester Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE6 March: Birmingham, Glee Club - EXTRA DATE7 March: Maidenhead, Norden Farm - EXTRA DATE11 March: Aberdeen, Lemon Tree12 March: Glasgow, Glee Club27 March: Oxford, Glee Club - EXTRA DATE28 March: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 9 December 2024

Policy! Football! Pies! It's the interview with everything. After years in opposition, Alison is now an Employment Minister and is keen to get on and change things. She explains the changes she's making to Jobcentres and the difference they'll make. Plus... will Alison become the latest politician to start a podcast? FOLLOW Alison on X: @Alison_McGovern ORDER a Homebaked pie: https://www.homebakedbakery.com/ SEE Matt at on tour until March 2025, including his extra dates at The Bloomsbury Theatre: https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows2024 6 December: London, Bloomsbury Theatre - EXTRA DATE14 December: London, Bloomsbury Theatre - EXTRA DATE 2025 29 January: Norwich, Playhouse - EXTRA DATE2 February: Salford, Lowry4 February: Leeds, City Varieties5 February: Sheffield, The Leadmill6 February: Chelmsford Theatre7 February: Bedford, The Quarry Theatre12 February: Bath, Komedia13 February: Southend, Palace Theatre16 February: Cambridge, The Junction20 February: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts23 February: Brighton, Komedia25 February: Cardiff, Glee Club26 February: Bury St Edmunds, Theatre Royal28 February: Chelmsford Theatre - EXTRA DATE2 March: Bristol, Tobacco Factory4 March: Colchester Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE6 March: Birmingham, Glee Club - EXTRA DATE7 March: Maidenhead, Norden Farm - EXTRA DATE11 March: Aberdeen, Lemon Tree12 March: Glasgow, Glee Club27 March: Oxford, Glee Club - EXTRA DATE28 March: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 2 December 2024

This is inspirational.  David was the Conservative MP for Banff and Buchan for 7 years. Then he suffered a spinal stroke. Incredibly he wasn't allowed to defend his seat in the general election.  This is the remarkable story of how he recovered, why he was blocked and how he's remained so positive.   FOLLOW David on X: @david_duguid SEE Matt at on tour until March 2025, including his extra dates at The Bloomsbury Theatre: https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows2024 27 November: Chipping Norton Theatre28 November: Leicester, Y Theatre29 November: Eastleigh, The Berry31 November: Faversham, The Alexander Centre6 December: London, Bloomsbury Theatre - EXTRA DATE14 December: London, Bloomsbury Theatre - EXTRA DATE 2025 29 January: Norwich, Playhouse - EXTRA DATE2 February: Salford, Lowry4 February: Leeds, City Varieties5 February: Sheffield, The Leadmill6 February: Chelmsford Theatre7 February: Bedford, The Quarry Theatre12 February: Bath, Komedia13 February: Southend, Palace Theatre16 February: Cambridge, The Junction20 February: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts23 February: Brighton, Komedoa25 February: Cardiff, Glee Club26 February: Bury St Edmunds, Theatre Royal28 February: Chelmsford Theatre - EXTRA DATE2 March: Bristol, Tobacco Factory4 March: Colchester Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE6 March: Birmingham, Glee Club - EXTRA DATE7 March: Maidenhead, Norden Farm - EXTRA DATE11 March: Aberdeen, Lemon Tree12 March: Glasgow, Glee Club27 March: Oxford, Glee Club - EXTRA DATE28 March: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 25 November 2024

Salma Shah is back! The Tory strategist gives her entertaining assessment of Kemi Badenoch and how the Tories are doing. This is such a great chat in which I have my centre-left prejudices thoroughly checked.  Talking about the Opposition has never been more fun.  FOLLOW Salma on X: @Ommasalma SEE Matt at on tour until March 2025, including his extra dates at The Bloomsbury Theatre: https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows2024 20 November: York, The Crescent21 November: Chorley, Little Theatre27 November: Chipping Norton Theatre28 November: Leicester, Y Theatre29 November: Eastleigh, The Berry31 November: Faversham, The Alexander Centre6 December: London, Bloomsbury Theatre - EXTRA DATE14 December: London, Bloomsbury Theatre - EXTRA DATE 2025 29 January: Norwich, Playhouse - EXTRA DATE2 February: Salford, Lowry4 February: Leeds, City Varieties5 February: Sheffield, The Leadmill6 February: Chelmsford Theatre7 February: Bedford, The Quarry Theatre12 February: Bath, Komedia13 February: Southend, Palace Theatre16 February: Cambridge, The Junction20 February: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts23 February: Brighton, Komedoa25 February: Cardiff, Glee Club26 February: Bury St Edmunds, Theatre Royal28 February: Chelmsford Theatre - EXTRA DATE2 March: Bristol, Tobacco Factory4 March: Colchester Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE6 March: Birmingham, Glee Club - EXTRA DATE7 March: Maidenhead, Norden Farm - EXTRA DATE11 March: Aberdeen, Lemon Tree12 March: Glasgow, Glee Club27 March: Oxford, Glee Club - EXTRA DATE28 March: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 18 November 2024

Seth Harris - US Election Special Well, it happened.  This is a comprehensive and entertaining analysis of why and how Trump won the election with friend of the show, Seth Harris. Seth served in Obama's Cabinet and worked closely with both Joe Biden and Kamala Harris.  If you're looking for answers, you'll find them here.  FOLLOW Seth on X: @MrSethHarris SEE Matt at on tour until March 2025, including his extra dates at The Bloomsbury Theatre: https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows2024 14 November: Basingstoke, The Haymarket15 November: Colchester Arts Centre20 November: York, The Crescent21 November: Chorley, Little Theatre27 November: Chipping Norton Theatre28 November: Leicester, Y Theatre29 November: Eastleigh, The Berry31 November: Faversham, The Alexander Centre6 December: London, Bloomsbury Theatre - EXTRA DATE14 December: London, Bloomsbury Theatre - EXTRA DATE 2025 29 January: Norwich, Playhouse - EXTRA DATE2 February: Salford, Lowry4 February: Leeds, City Varieties5 February: Sheffield, The Leadmill6 February: Chelmsford Theatre7 February: Bedford, The Quarry Theatre12 February: Bath, Komedia13 February: Southend, Palace Theatre16 February: Cambridge, The Junction20 February: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts23 February: Brighton, Komedoa25 February: Cardiff, Glee Club26 February: Bury St Edmunds, Theatre Royal28 February: Chelmsford Theatre - EXTRA DATE2 March: Bristol, Tobacco Factory4 March: Colchester Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE6 March: Birmingham, Glee Club - EXTRA DATE7 March: Maidenhead, Norden Farm - EXTRA DATE11 March: Aberdeen, Lemon Tree12 March: Glasgow, Glee Club27 March: Oxford, Glee Club - EXTRA DATE28 March: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 11 November 2024

Darren Jones - Budget Special This is a cracker. A full Budget briefing from the Chief Secretary to the Treasury which includes some excellent breakfast chat. SEE Matt at on tour until March 2025, including his extra dates at The Bloomsbury Theatre: https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows2024 6 November: Exeter, Phoenix8 November: Tunbridge Wells, Trinity Theatre14 November: Basingstoke, The Haymarket15 November: Colchester Arts Centre20 November: York, The Crescent21 November: Chorley, Little Theatre27 November: Chipping Norton Theatre28 November: Leicester, Y Theatre29 November: Eastleigh, The Berry31 November: Faversham, The Alexander Centre6 December: London, Bloomsbury Theatre - EXTRA DATE14 December: London, Bloomsbury Theatre - EXTRA DATE 2025 29 January: Norwich, Playhouse - EXTRA DATE2 February: Salford, Lowry4 February: Leeds, City Varieties5 February: Sheffield, The Leadmill6 February: Chelmsford Theatre7 February: Bedford, The Quarry Theatre12 February: Bath, Komedia13 February: Southend, Palace Theatre16 February: Cambridge, The Junction20 February: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts23 February: Brighton, Komedoa25 February: Cardiff, Glee Club26 February: Bury St Edmunds, Theatre Royal28 February: Chelmsford Theatre - EXTRA DATE2 March: Bristol, Tobacco Factory4 March: Colchester Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE6 March: Birmingham, Glee Club - EXTRA DATE7 March: Maidenhead, Norden Farm - EXTRA DATE11 March: Aberdeen, Lemon Tree12 March: Glasgow, Glee Club27 March: Oxford, Glee Club - EXTRA DATE28 March: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 4 November 2024

One of our most gifted political writers reflects on the death of Alex Salmond and the current state of Scottish politics. This is engrossing from the very first second.  SUBSCRIBE to the Ponsonby and Massie podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-ponsonby-and-massie-podcast/id1749779794 SEE Matt at on tour until March 2025, including his extra dates at The Bloomsbury Theatre: https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows2024 6 November: Exeter, Phoenix8 November: Tunbridge Wells, Trinity Theatre14 November: Basingstoke, The Haymarket15 November: Colchester Arts Centre20 November: York, The Crescent21 November: Chorley, Little Theatre27 November: Chipping Norton Theatre28 November: Leicester, Y Theatre29 November: Eastleigh, The Berry31 November: Faversham, The Alexander Centre6 December: London, Bloomsbury Theatre - EXTRA DATE14 December: London, Bloomsbury Theatre - EXTRA DATE 2025 29 January: Norwich, Playhouse - EXTRA DATE2 February: Salford, Lowry4 February: Leeds, City Varieties5 February: Sheffield, The Leadmill6 February: Chelmsford Theatre7 February: Bedford, The Quarry Theatre12 February: Bath, Komedia13 February: Southend, Palace Theatre16 February: Cambridge, The Junction20 February: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts23 February: Brighton, Komedoa25 February: Cardiff, Glee Club26 February: Bury St Edmunds, Theatre Royal28 February: Chelmsford Theatre - EXTRA DATE2 March: Bristol, Tobacco Factory4 March: Colchester Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE6 March: Birmingham, Glee Club - EXTRA DATE7 March: Maidenhead, Norden Farm - EXTRA DATE11 March: Aberdeen, Lemon Tree12 March: Glasgow, Glee Club27 March: Oxford, Glee Club - EXTRA DATE28 March: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 28 October 2024

Sir Graham Brady What's it like telling a Prime Minister their time is up? Sir Graham chaired the 1922 Committee throughout the tenure of five Conservative Prime Ministers.  In this entertaining interview he tells us what those private moments with them were like and how each of them used their power differently. This is the thrilling inside account of the most tumultuous political time in living memory.  BUY Sir Graham's book 'Kingmaker' here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Kingmaker-Secrets-Truth-about-Ministers/dp/1804188263 SEE Matt at on tour until March 2025, including his extra dates at The Bloomsbury Theatre: https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows2024 24 October: Hull, Truck Theatre6 November: Exeter, Phoenix8 November: Tunbridge Wells, Trinity Theatre14 November: Basingstoke, The Haymarket15 November: Colchester Arts Centre20 November: York, The Crescent21 November: Chorley, Little Theatre22 November: Salford, The Lowry27 November: Chipping Norton Theatre28 November: Leicester, Y Theatre29 November: Eastleigh, The Berry31 November: Faversham, The Alexander Centre6 December: London, Bloomsbury Theatre - EXTRA DATE14 December: London, Bloomsbury Theatre - EXTRA DATE 2025 29 January: Norwich, Playhouse - EXTRA DATE4 February: Leeds, City Varieties5 February: Sheffield, The Leadmill6 February: Chelmsford Theatre7 February: Bedford, The Quarry Theatre12 February: Bath, Komedia13 February: Southend, Palace Theatre16 February: Cambridge, The Junction20 February: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts23 February: Brighton, Komedoa25 February: Cardiff, Glee Club26 February: Bury St Edmunds, Theatre Royal28 February: Chelmsford Theatre - EXTRA DATE2 March: Bristol, Tobacco Factory4 March: Colchester Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE6 March: Birmingham, Glee Club - EXTRA DATE7 March: Maidenhead, Norden Farm - EXTRA DATE11 March: Aberdeen, Lemon Tree12 March: Glasgow, Glee Club27 March: Oxford, Glee Club - EXTRA DATE28 March: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 21 October 2024

Thangam Debbonaire Thangam is one of the brightest stars of the Labour movement. As Shadow Culture Secretary she was all set to command the brief in government.  But things didn't go to plan. On 4 July, Thangam lost Bristol Central to the Green Party.  A classically trained cellist. Thangam has a range of life experience.  She's one of the most charismatic and engaging politicians in the country and her reflections on her career so far are thoughtful and hopeful.  SEE Matt at on tour until March 2025, including his extra dates at The Bloomsbury Theatre: https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows2024 24 October: Hull, Truck Theatre6 November: Exeter, Phoenix8 November: Tunbridge Wells, Trinity Theatre14 November: Basingstoke, The Haymarket15 November: Colchester Arts Centre20 November: York, The Crescent21 November: Chorley, Little Theatre22 November: Salford, The Lowry27 November: Chipping Norton Theatre28 November: Leicester, Y Theatre29 November: Eastleigh, The Berry31 November: Faversham, The Alexander Centre6 December: London, Bloomsbury Theatre - EXTRA DATE14 December: London, Bloomsbury Theatre - EXTRA DATE 2025 29 January: Norwich, Playhouse - EXTRA DATE4 February: Leeds, City Varieties5 February: Sheffield, The Leadmill6 February: Chelmsford Theatre7 February: Bedford, The Quarry Theatre12 February: Bath, Komedia13 February: Southend, Palace Theatre16 February: Cambridge, The Junction20 February: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts23 February: Brighton, Komedoa25 February: Cardiff, Glee Club26 February: Bury St Edmunds, Theatre Royal28 February: Chelmsford Theatre - EXTRA DATE2 March: Bristol, Tobacco Factory4 March: Colchester Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE6 March: Birmingham, Glee Club - EXTRA DATE7 March: Maidenhead, Norden Farm - EXTRA DATE11 March: Aberdeen, Lemon Tree12 March: Glasgow, Glee Club27 March: Oxford, Glee Club - EXTRA DATE28 March: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 14 October 2024