As a seasoned podcast enthusiast with a penchant for unraveling intriguing narratives, I find myself captivated by the diverse array of offerings this week has brought us. From Natty’s enchanting chats with his grandad to Frank Skinner’s poetic sojourns, it seems as though the podcasting world is thriving more than ever before.
HISTORY
Tales from the Green Benches
https://open.spotify.com/watch?v=episode/6h8NyPPnMOVYzE1XNtMGVw
This podcast, produced by the History of Parliament Trust, is compiled from conversations with retiring members of parliament. Since most of them served during the 1950s to 2000s, it provides a glimpse into the parliamentary institution as it used to be. For instance, Denis Healey entered politics to prevent a Third World War, while Lady Olga Maitland did so due to her upbringing in a grand household where political discussions were a regular evening event. As many of today’s parliament members have backgrounds primarily in consulting or the charity sector, the notion of an era gone by, when there were physical fights in the Strangers’ Bar, seems quite intriguing. DAVID HEPWORTH
POLITICS
From Bomb to Ballot: the History of Sinn Féin
https://open.spotify.com/watch?v=episode/2pphXF7mufJAumBX0Zr2ps
As Northern Ireland’s Assembly elections draw near, the controversial Sinn Féin will strive to maintain the momentum gained in 2022. This enlightening podcast, presented by John Lee, delves into the transformation of Sinn Féin from its origins during the Troubles to its current status as the largest party at Stormont and Michelle O’Neill assuming office as the first nationalist First Minister. It’s essential listening for those aiming to grasp Sinn Féin’s intricate history and potential future developments. JEREMY ASPINALL
DOCUMENTARY
16 Sunsets
https://open.spotify.com/watch?v=episode/3W9G7V2ggyhtBM0YqLGsJP
Before Neil Armstrong took a giant leap for mankind, Nasa had already set its sights on developing a reusable space shuttle. But it was not until 1981 that the first of these iconic spacecraft was put into orbit, ushering in a new era of space exploration. Some 40 years on from the shuttle’s heyday, this ten-part series from the team behind 13 Minutes to the Moon, presented by Kevin Fong, recounts the dramatic history of the program and the technical challenges it faced. TOM GOULDING
CONVERSATION
Fashion Neurosis
https://open.spotify.com/watch?v=episode/5chsNU8pBgpwzsnnCQSDq7/video
Designer Bella Freud, who is the great-grandchild of Sigmund Freud, playfully references her famous ancestor by inviting guests to recline on a couch and explore connections among their fashion preferences, mental wellness, and self-image. Among her visitors (predominantly friends) are Courteney Cox, Zadie Smith, and Trinny Woodall. This event promises a delightful escape for some, while for others, hearing affluent individuals discuss their experiences at Claridges and luxury shopping may be distasteful. ANNA JONES
DRAMA
Disorder
For the very first time, Audible makes available to English speakers the highly acclaimed Italian novel Rokia, titled “Disorder” in this adaptation by Beth Hickling-Moore. The psychological thriller, originally named “Sindrome,” follows a group of young adults trapped in a menacing medical institution. Starring Diane Guerrero (“Orange Is the New Black”), William Gao (“Heartstopper”), Freya Allan (“The Witcher”), and Connor Swindells (“Sex Education”), this production is sure to draw in its target audience. However, those seeking a compelling narrative should not overlook the intriguing storyline itself. FIONA HUGHES
CONVERSATION
Chatty Natty
https://open.spotify.com/watch?v=episode/4RIPjxGr5pqrhg2pJxeV6O
It appears that podcasters are becoming increasingly younger, similar to how policemen are today. For instance, 12-year-old Natty has created a podcast where he discusses various topics with his grandfather, Michael Fenton Stevens, who is currently starring in Wicked. Some might find it a bit self-centered, but it’s worth noting that many podcasts featuring comedians conversing with friends share this quality. Natty’s youthful excitement adds a lovely charm to the show, while his grandfather subtly provides glimpses into Natty’s autism. DAVID CRAWFORD
POETRY
Frank Skinner’s Poetry Podcast
https://open.spotify.com/watch?v=episode/025kC8VuXdWNdz6654cVoh
There’s no stopping Frank Skinner. He brought his cancelled radio show back as a podcast. Now his poetry podcast (cancelled after nine series) is back under new management. No wonder. Skinner’s enthusiasm for verse is genuine. “Every day,” he’s said, “I either read or listen to poetry.” In the new series he’ll read and analyse work by familiar and lesser-known names. Expect, as one critic said, “stanzas not stand-up” — but presented by a great comic raconteur. DAVID McGILLIVRAY
PROFILE
Céline: Understood
https://open.spotify.com/watch?v=episode/59oL41HVhYja4BXclUtMKP
Caroline Frost’s article details the remarkable return of Celine Dion to the limelight following her health struggles, as she headlines the Paris Olympics Opening Ceremony. As an iconic figure in the music industry for over three decades, Dion is now profiled by fellow Canadian Thomas LeBlanc in a four-part series that highlights her accomplishments (such as Eurovision victory, Oscar win, record-breaking sales, and concerts). Yet, amidst all her success, LeBlanc underscores that Celine Dion remains deeply connected to her family, including being one of 14 siblings, a daughter, a widow, and a proud Quebecer.
DOCUMENTARY
Extrasensory
https://open.spotify.com/watch?v=episode/2Y6lAt6JPpculTYC8AYstV
“Exploring the idea that death might just be the start of something new, this investigation delves into a notable British case of reincarnation. In 1957, John and Florence Pollock tragically lost their two daughters in a car accident. However, Florence later gave birth to twins, whom John claimed were his deceased children returning in a new form. Many paranormal enthusiasts, as well as some academics, found this belief convincing. Our presenter, actor Will Sharpe, aims to shed light on this intriguing mystery.
Read More
- ZK PREDICTION. ZK cryptocurrency
- POPCAT PREDICTION. POPCAT cryptocurrency
- DYM PREDICTION. DYM cryptocurrency
- UXLINK PREDICTION. UXLINK cryptocurrency
- TURBO PREDICTION. TURBO cryptocurrency
- Top gainers and losers
- EUR RUB PREDICTION
- LDO PREDICTION. LDO cryptocurrency
- SUN PREDICTION. SUN cryptocurrency
- ELK/USD
2024-11-27 21:34