Talking France

Talking France is The Local’s weekly podcast where we discuss the big news and talking points in France as well as explore and explain the major issues that impact life in the country. We also answer your essential questions and look ahead at what’s coming up.

In each episode presenter Ben McPartland chats about the most important news and must-know information with The Local France’s Emma Pearson and Emma Albright. They are also frequently joined by John Lichfield, a veteran journalist whose knowledge of French news and politics is second to none, as well as other expert commentators.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Last refreshed: February 11th, 2026 at 9:48 PM ⓘ

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Episodes

Has France become more far-right, and is Macron panicking about petrol?

In this week's episode, host Ben McPartland is joined by The Local France's editor Emma Pearson who brings us up to date on the latest news and talking points with just four weeks to go before the first round of voting. Emma will also help to explain why French people tend to vote differently in certain parts of the country compared to others. We'll also hear from The Local's political columnist John Lichfield about the possible impact of the end of most Covid restrictions in France even though ...

Mar 15, 2022•38 min•Season 1Ep. 2

Has Putin guaranteed Macron victory, and how worried should France be about rising prices?

As France prepares for a battle over its political soul - and maybe also the future of Europe - The Local is launching a special election podcast featuring our expert columnist John Lichfield. We’ll aim to explain the upcoming French presidential election for a non-French audience – how the political system works, who the candidates are and what they stand for, the hot-button issues in France and of course the crucial question; who will win? This week on Talking France, host Ben McPartland is jo...

Mar 08, 2022•34 min•Season 1Ep. 1

The teetering front républicain, and why two rounds?

As France prepares for a battle over its political soul - and maybe also the future of Europe - The Local has launched a special election podcast featuring our expert columnist John Lichfield. You can listen to the pilot episode here. Music: David Celeste/courtesy of epidemicsound.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 11, 2022•27 min

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