Emily Maitlis, Jon Sopel and Lewis Goodall – three of the UK’s top journalists – host an award-winning daily news podcast: The News Agents.
They’re not just here to tell you what's happening, but why. Expect astute analysis and explanation of the day's news – and a healthy dose of scepticism and the ability to laugh at it all when needed.
Episodes are available every weekday afternoon. You can listen to The News Agents on Alexa, just say "Alexa ask Global Player to play The News Agents"
The News Agents is a Global Player Original podcast.
For advertising opportunities on this podcast email: dax@global.com
You can visit our website here https://www.thenewsagents.co.uk/
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The US/Iran war is now 45 or so days old. There has been much analysis, counter analysis, fire and brimstone about its causes, its effects and its aims. Iran has long been a security menace, but this war at the moment it began was a war of choice. Today Lewis speaks with Ali Vaez, an Iranian analyst, one of the few people in the West who can truly claim to know about Iran, its people and its bewildering politics. He tells us the many ways Trump completely misunderstood the country he has just wa...
Rory McIlroy returns to Augusta looking to be the 4th man in history to retain the green jacket. His Masters dinner was reportedly the 'most expensive' ever but it was without Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson ... will he be able to join them both as back-to-back winners instead? Bryson De Chambeau is making his own clubs, Scottie Scheffler has arrived with a newborn son and Justin Rose is hoping to win and readdress 'cosmic justice'. Netflix's Full Swing's Dan Rapaport joins Mark in Augusta and Ga...
Did Israel ever sign up to Trump's ceasefire? Did Trump ever ask Netanyahu about Lebanon? The relentless bombing of the south of the country - strikes on bridges, cities, and civilian infrastructure - has left nearly a thousand injured or dead. So can anyone really claim that there even is a ceasefire in place? Today there are more problems with peace as the Iranian side retracts confirmation that they'll be attending Islamabad talks tomorrow night. And has Pakistan's PM even been brokering a pe...
We start with the good news - Iran wasn’t obliterated last night as Trump had threatened this time yesterday. So that’s positive. And an 11th hour temporary ceasefire is now in place. Iran has come to the table with a ten point peace plan. Will America accept any of it? Meanwhile Trump’s cronies are pretending he's won a war he may actually have lost. What has the world learnt about Trump, his whims and how to deal with him? Will anything change? The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - ht...
It’s becoming increasingly hard to distinguish between mad rant and nuclear threat these days. Trump has gone off again and whilst this time he was expletive free and managed not to mock Islam, he did threaten to destroy an entire country. Why is no one stopping him? And - dare we ask - what comes next? Later, Kanye is blocked from coming to the UK. Are we happy with the state getting involved ? And what is JD Vance doing in Hungary talking about election interference. The News Agents is brought...
Aden Durde became the first British-born coach to win a Super Bowl when the Seattle Seahawks masterminded a dominant display in California in February. His story is almost unheard of in sport - from coaching grassroots level here in UK - to the very top of the NFL . But what has made him so successful? How did a chance advert in a North London shop spark his career? And as the Premier League 's managerial 'merry-go-round' starts to feel more like a circus - does our beautiful game still have a l...
It's been another dizzying week of news and, as we head into Easter, Jon and Lewis stocked up on chocolate and headed into the studio for a special Q&A episode - answering your questions and dissecting some of the biggest stories in the headlines. Could Trump's antagonism pull Keir Starmer and Britain back into Europe? Is Tucker Carlson harbouring presidential ambitions? Would losing Congress have any impact on Trump's remaining time in office? And why Lewis has been getting the sh*t kicked ...
Trump warned his EU allies yesterday he wouldn’t forget their cowardice and refusal to help his Iran war. Today he went full throttle and said he was considering taking America out of NATO altogether. It’s not a new thought for him. But is there enough anger in him now to push it through? Would Congress allow it? And what will the rest of us do if we lose Americas defence? Later the appalling investigation into illegal care homes where vulnerable children are being abused by former convicts whil...
The episode delves into the diplomatic complexities surrounding King Charles's upcoming US state visit, which comes as Donald Trump publicly lambasts European nations for their stance on the Iran conflict. It explores the weakening of American alliances, Europe's growing independence, and the profound geopolitical shifts occurring globally, including the UK's defense vulnerabilities and a controversial conflict of interest. Additionally, the podcast unpacks Israel's newly passed discriminatory death penalty law for Palestinians, its symbolic implications, and the potential long-term damage to Israel's international standing.
The episode delves into President Trump's aggressive rhetoric and potential military actions against Iran, specifically threatening an amphibious landing on Kharg Island and the obliteration of infrastructure. It examines the risks, Iran's defiant stance, and the perplexing nature of Trump's "strategy." The discussion also covers the escalating global economic impacts, including Red Sea trade disruptions and rising fuel prices, leading to a critical look at the UK government's constrained ability to respond and the public's eroding trust. Additionally, the podcast highlights the "Matt GPT" controversy, questioning an academic's integrity amid accusations of AI-generated content in his book.
This special report from CPAC 2026 in Dallas explores the evolving MAGA movement, now grappling with a post-Trump future amidst declining popularity and the looming Iran war. The sunny optimism of past conferences has been replaced by a darker focus on new enemies, especially "Islamism," with attendees expressing concerns about Britain's perceived decline due to Muslim immigration and Sharia law. The episode highlights the role of figures like Liz Truss in propagating these views and examines the self-sustaining MAGA information and commercial ecosystem that fuels these narratives, ultimately defining the movement by what it opposes rather than what it champions.
The fan phenomenon of ‘ Ultras ’ has taken Scotland by storm… TIFO’s, flares and drums - like we’re used to seeing in Europe - popping up everywhere from the Old Firm right down to the 4th division. So can this sub-culture be a force for good in an online sphere dominated by the ‘ manosphere ’ or is it actually just another mask for something more sinister? Gabby & Mark are joined by Andy Hughes , host of The Crime Agents - who has spent time undercover reporting on football hooliganism in E...
This episode delves into Donald Trump's failed strategy regarding Iran, highlighting the lack of regime change, the ongoing closure of the Strait of Hormuz, and the dire economic impact on ordinary Iranians, as shared by an activist. It also examines NATO's reluctant response and the impracticality of further military action. The discussion then shifts to UK domestic politics, covering new legislation to prevent foreign interference in political donations and the controversy surrounding a Labour official's conveniently missing phone messages.
The News Agents investigates the 'convenient' theft of Keir Starmer's chief of staff Morgan McSweeney's government phone, which may have contained vital messages with Peter Mandelson. The discussion explores political transparency issues, official misinformation, and the wider implications of disappearing government communications. Later, Professor Ibram Kendi dissects the Great Replacement Theory, its historical roots, its link to authoritarianism, and how it's exploited by politicians to blame immigrants for systemic problems, alongside strategies to counter its spread.
This episode delves into the suspicious market activity preceding Donald Trump's surprise Iran peace announcement, detailing how over half a billion dollars was potentially netted through insider trading. It questions the legitimacy of Trump's claims, which were refuted by Iran, and explores the broader geopolitical implications, including Israel's aggressive actions in Lebanon and the UK's response to Trump's influence. The discussion highlights political maneuvering, corruption concerns, and the uncertain future of Middle East peace.
This episode delves into Donald Trump's perplexing claim of a peace deal with Iran, which Tehran immediately denied, raising questions about his motives, from oil price manipulation to political maneuvering. It also examines the broader implications for international relations, UK-US ties, and recent Iranian-linked attacks in London, featuring an interview with Business Secretary Peter Kyle on navigating this erratic geopolitical landscape. The discussion also touches upon the UK's economic strategy amidst global instability and the Peter Mandelson controversy.
Lewis interviews Dr. Muhanad Saloom, an academic who claims the US-Israeli strategy against Iran is effectively degrading its nuclear and military capabilities, a view endorsed by President Trump. Saloom counters the narrative of a planless war, asserting clear objectives are being met despite high regional tensions. The discussion delves into whether "regime change" is occurring through leadership "decapitation" and the long-term implications for Iran's nuclear ambitions and regional power dynamics, touching on the Strait of Hormuz.
It has been like the longest VAR ruling in history… the match finished two months ago, the Africa Cup of Nations trophy was presented, the considerable celebrations and recriminations were complete. And then, just as some last-16 Champions League fixtures were finishing on Tuesday night, a communication dropped from CAF. Senegal had actually forfeited the match by staging their now infamous walk-off and Morocco are AFCON champions via a technicality. But why has this taken so long? Can you reall...
This episode delves into the escalating US-Iran conflict, questioning the US narrative of victory against Iran's asymmetric warfare and its control over global energy chokepoints. It explores the dangerous incentives for both sides to escalate, the potential for a full-scale US ground invasion, and the fracturing US-Israel relationship amidst expanding Israeli military actions. The discussion also draws parallels to the Ukraine war, highlighting military miscalculations, the immense financial cost, and the contentious debate surrounding Iran's nuclear program. Furthermore, the episode examines the profound global economic fallout, comparing it to the 1970s energy crisis with warnings of rationing, inflation, and severe impacts on the UK, Europe, and global supply chains, alongside a discussion on North Sea oil and the UK's weakened state to address such a multifaceted crisis.
The episode delves into the uproar caused by Shadow Justice Secretary Nick Timothy's comments describing public Muslim prayer as an "act of domination," examining the broader context of growing Islamophobia and right-wing radicalisation in British politics. It questions the consistency of such views given public displays by other faiths and the implications for British multiculturalism. Additionally, the podcast presents a new investigation into GB News's consistent impartiality breaches and Ofcom's apparent reluctance to enforce broadcasting standards, raising concerns about regulatory effectiveness.
This episode delves into Donald Trump's increasingly erratic behavior during a press conference about the Iran war, where he made wildly contradictory statements about allies and his own knowledge. The discussion highlights the international community's growing "shrug" to his pronouncements, and the severe geopolitical consequences of his impulsive decisions, including America's isolation and a potential military quagmire. The podcast also examines the domestic political fallout in the UK and the ethical concerns raised by a senior counterterrorism official's resignation.
The episode explores the geopolitical chaos in the Strait of Hormuz after President Trump demands allied support, facing clear rejection from European leaders like Keir Starmer, Italy, and Germany. It highlights Iran's strategic leverage over oil supply and Trump's increasing desperation and isolation on the global stage. The discussion delves into the economic impact, dubbed "Trumpflation," and Europe's fundamental re-evaluation of its relationship with a chaotic and unpredictable US administration, pushing for closer EU alignment.
This episode delves into the controversial "passive Prime Minister" thesis from the updated book "Get In," arguing that Keir Starmer's leadership is characterized by detachment and a preference for procedure over political judgment. Authors Patrick Maguire and Gabriel Pogrund discuss how this shapes his cabinet's functioning, his approach to major policy decisions like British Steel, and his surprising "a-political" success in managing the Trump relationship. The discussion also covers the influence of former aide Morgan McSweeney and Starmer's personal drive to win despite his inscrutable political vision.
Playing in front of a record 80,000 fans at Twickenham , captaining your country in a World Cup final and winning World Rugby’s Player of the Year … all in a day's work for Sophie De Goede . All that despite returning from a huge ACL injury just one month before the World Cup, Canada crowdfunding to get there, and training against teammates' partners to make up the numbers. Sophie joins Gabby and Mark to talk about where women's rugby goes next. Plus we look back at the best bits from The Sports...
This episode from The News Agents examines the "Mandelson files," detailing Keir Starmer's decision to appoint Peter Mandelson as US ambassador, despite significant warnings about his past links and lack of due diligence. It explores the political damage for Starmer and his leadership style. The discussion then pivots to the escalating Iran crisis, analyzing its severe global economic ramifications on oil and food, and how it might create an unexpected opportunity for closer UK-EU ties post-Brexit. Finally, the podcast touches on the resurfacing controversy surrounding Green Party leader Zach Polansky's past hypnotherapy claims.
The podcast examines how Iran is outmaneuvering Donald Trump in the ongoing conflict, leveraging low-tech drones to threaten the Strait of Hormuz and potentially drive oil prices to $200. This strategy exposes the perceived hollowness of US superpower status, especially after a controversial school bombing. Domestically, the situation has led to political U-turns in the UK, highlighting Keir Starmer's distinct and strategically advantageous position against intervention, despite criticism from his political rivals.
This episode dissects President Trump's erratic statements regarding the Iran conflict, highlighting how market forces, particularly oil prices, influenced his rapid shift in tone. It explores the dubious justifications for the war, the significant role of Israeli interests, and the potential fortification of the Iranian regime. Additionally, the podcast examines the UK's defense shortcomings, the global political fallout benefiting Russia, and critically analyzes the normalization of extreme "white genocide" rhetoric on GB News, concluding with a look at a controversial crypto venture by prominent British politicians.
This episode delves into the profound economic fallout of the Iran war, examining surging oil prices, rising inflation, and a looming food crisis due to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. It questions Donald Trump's war objectives and highlights public confusion, contrasting his approach with Keir Starmer's cautious stance. The discussion also covers Tony Blair's controversial criticism of Starmer and the shocking possibility of the US reintroducing military conscription, drawing parallels to the Vietnam War and criticizing Trump's misleading rhetoric regarding civilian casualties.
Jon and Lewis host a live Q&A addressing pressing global issues, including whether the Middle East conflict signifies World War Three and the concerning nature of American political rhetoric. They dissect Donald Trump's motivations and the implications of his foreign policy decisions, alongside assessing Keir Starmer's handling of international crises. The episode also explores Britain's evolving global standing and the potential impact of upcoming local elections on Labour leadership.
When the Winter Paralympics get underway this weekend in Italy history will be made. Davy Zyw was diagnosed with motor neurone disease at the age of 30 and given 18 months to live… but he’s now 38 and he’s going to be the first person to compete at a Winter Paralympics with MND. Defying his degenerating body, Davy will compete on the board for ParalympicsGB, with his five-year-old son watching on. He joins Gabby to tell his inspiring story. Plus, we look back at the best bits from The Sports Age...
