James O'Brien Daily
James O'Brien Daily features the best moments from James O'Brien's LBC phone-in show, condensed into a 60-minute daily episode. The podcast covers major news stories and thought-provoking topics, offering a mix of commentary and listener calls. It is produced by Global, a UK-based media company.
Episodes
The racists don’t even hide it anymore
Racism and sexism are becoming normalised in Britain, according to Equalities Minister Bridget Phillipson. From casual racist language to far-right narratives online, when did behaviour once considered beyond the pale start to feel ordinary?Then, as England has been described as a “maths powerhouse” following improved exam results, James explores the lifelong impact of maths anxiety, dyscalculia a
Britain was told to hate Meghan Markle
As Harry and Meghan prepare to return to the UK later this month, what would they need to do to make a life in Britain possible again? James explores the racism and misogyny surrounding Meghan’s treatment, and the media machine that helped turn affection into fury.Also, boys are catching up with girls at GCSE and outperforming them at A-Level. Are exam-heavy assessments, classroom policy and chang
Children’s lungs recovered and the ULEZ haters went quiet
As Andy Burnham launches his 'national drive' to get rough sleepers off the streets by Christmas, James examines why homelessness has become part of the backdrop of city life. Plus, new research suggests London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone has helped children’s lungs recover from the effects of pollution. So why did ULEZ provoke such extraordinary fury?This episode was recorded on the 19th of August.
We’ve normalised Donald Trump
Donald Trump has threatened to bomb US ally Oman if it “gets in the way” of talks with Iran. As he fuels instability across the world, why has the public conversation about Trump become quieter rather than louder? Have we become desensitised?Plus, as Wetherspoon bans customers from playing music on their phones in pubs, James asks: why don’t we feel shame about disturbing other people anymore?This
Jason Arday: when scrutiny became a witch-hunt
When does legitimate scrutiny become something crueler? James reflects on the death of former Cambridge professor Jason Arday, the media frenzy surrounding the allegations against him, and whether the gleefulness of some commentary demands a reckoning.Plus, as Andy Burnham is minded to approve a North Sea gas field, can Labour support fossil-fuel jobs in the short term without abandoning its clima
The night Nigel Farage bottled it
In today’s episode, James unpicks the extraordinary events in Clacton, where Nigel Farage’s by-election gamble ended with an absent winner, a cancelled press conference and a growing sense of humiliation.Plus, why do so many men think they could become Olympians? After a survey found that four in ten men believe they could qualify for the Olympics within two years, James explores confidence, delus
The workers sent home without pay
No guaranteed hours, no guaranteed income and no way to plan ahead: James examines the lives shaped by zero-hours contracts and the government’s proposed ban.Then, after new figures suggest Andy Burnham’s devolution push could drive 90,000 bankers and lawyers out of London, James asks why people relocate. What do you gain, lose or trade when you leave the capital?This episode was recorded on the 1
The truth about asylum seekers in our communities
Why are we so reluctant to confront our fear about climate change? As extreme heat grips Britain, James asks what the government can do to prepare for a future of water shortages, failing crops and more frequent floods.Then, after the Prime Minister says wealthier areas should house more asylum seekers, James hears from communities already doing just that and asks whether the debate has been disto
Should Andy Burnham decide when a killer deserves release?
Can Andy Burnham reverse the decline of Britain’s high streets? James explores why so many town centres are filled with empty units, vape shops and betting shops.Then, as the government looks for a way to prevent the early release of PC Andrew Harper’s killers, James asks whether public outrage should ever override the justice system. If the Prime Minister intervenes in one emotive case, where doe
Why are asylum seekers being treated like criminals?
After anti-migrant violence and disorder in Thetford, James asks what could possibly justify a baying crowd outside someone’s front door. Is online misinformation spilling dangerously into real life?Plus, what happens when the formative years of school, friendship and independence are replaced by isolation and screens? James explores the legacy of COVID for a generation now entering adulthood.This
Why has the Jason Arday scandal exploded?
In today’s episode, James shares his personal sense of disappointment over the claims surrounding former Cambridge professor Jason Arday, before asking why the case has captured such intense attention — and who else may pay the price.But first, Alan Milburn, who is leading a review into Britain’s youth worklessness crisis, says primary schools in England should be required to identify children at
Britain's mental health crisis: why do so many people suffer in silence?
Why is it still so hard to ask for help? James explores Andy Burnham’s pledge that “help is on the way”, with more than 150 new NHS mental health centres set to open. In today’s episode, incredible callers share their personal stories of struggle and recovery.Plus, after a former neo-Nazi withdrew as a Tory candidate for Somerset Council, Kemi Badenoch gave him an advisory role. Should forgiveness
Who decides who belongs in a women’s toilet?
New guidance on single-sex spaces has reignited the debate around trans rights, women’s safety and how the law could ever be enforced in practice. In today's episode James asks who gets to decide who belongs in a women’s toilet or changing room .Then, with PC Andrew Harper’s killers eligible for early release, James explores whether Andy Burnham should make an exception. Would that be justice, or
Should a former neo-Nazi be allowed to stand for election?
Can someone with a past as a neo-Nazi genuinely change and, if so, should they be allowed to stand for election? James examines Kemi Badenoch’s defence of a controversial Conservative candidate, and where society should draw the line on second chances.Plus: Britain’s prison system is full. As Burnham restricts early release for rapists, serious child sex offenders and groomers, James hears directl
Is Britain being gaslit about a wealth tax?
What is school actually for? As Education Secretary Lucy Powell takes aim at a “schooling straitjacket”, James asks whether children are being tested too much - or whether testing is necessary to measure their success.Then, a new report suggests that nearly two-thirds of voters want Burnham to introduce a wealth tax on assets above £10 million. Why does asking the super-rich to contribute more rem
Is Donald Trump the Boy Who Cried Wolf?
Is Donald Trump bringing peace to Gaza, or simply claiming credit for something that has not happened yet? James examines a new US-led proposal, Israel’s telling silence, and the political forces that could still derail any agreement.Plus, TSB staff are preparing legal action after their new owner, Santander, insisted they return to the office for three days a week. Who should decide where you wor
Climate change feels like a holiday — but at what cost?
Can climate change make your life feel better while making the world worse? James confronts the uneasy appeal of hotter British summers and asks how we can hold both truths at once: enjoying a warm evening in the garden while recognising the catastrophic reality of climate change.Then, a challenging question about food. If organic eggs can have a bigger environmental footprint than caged ones, wha
Should Farage call the police on himself?
In today’s episode, James dissects Andy Burnham’s speech on one of Britain’s most long-running crises: social care. Can the Prime Minister deliver the reform we have been waiting decades for?Plus, Green Party leader Zack Polanski has repeatedly refused to apologise to Nigel Farage over a reposted image of a guillotine T-shirt. Should Polanski say sorry — or does Farage’s response expose a glaring
Why are we looking away while Europe burns?
France and Spain are facing devastating wildfires, mass evacuations and extreme heat — but why are so many of us tempted to look away? In today's episode, James confronts climate anxiety, news avoidance and the human reality behind the headlines.Before that, an examination of Andy Burnham’s plans to give technical education greater status alongside academic learning.This episode was recorded on th
The 'dementia tax' destroyed Theresa May... but was she right?
Burnham has said the NHS ‘will collapse’ without social care reform, but what should those changes look like? James hears about listeners’ experiences of care home costs, before asking why Britain still has no fair way to fund care. Did Theresa May have the right idea with her ‘dementia tax’?Then, James explores the growing number of young people who are too anxious to enter work, education or tra
Should Britain help Trump bomb Iran?
Should Britain continue to support US military operations against Iran, even when Donald Trump seems unable to explain what victory looks like? Can Burnham refuse to join Trump's war without abandoning Britain's long-standing allies? Then, as the Prime Minister cuts business rates for pubs and clubs, what do we really mean when we talk about "working-class culture"?This episode was recorded on the
The prison crisis & the truth about London crime
In today’s episode, James responds to the Prime Minister’s plans to review the early prisoner release scheme, following news that two of PC Andrew Harper’s killers could be freed early. What can Burnham feasibly do between now and Christmas to make a difference to our prison system?James also speaks with the Mayor of London, Sir Sadiq Khan, about falling crime rates in the capital. Why are so many
A £2 bus fare could change your life
Why is capping bus fares one of Andy Burnham’s first priorities? In today’s episode, James explores how affordable public transport can mean the difference between getting to work, attending a medical appointment or simply being able to get out of the house.Then, a stark conversation about the reality of running out of money before payday. Callers share what it means to go without essentials — fro
How close are you to being homeless?
In this episode, James explores what will define Andy Burnham’s early days in Downing Street: style, substance, or both? From cutting energy bills to making people feel heard, the new Prime Minister is attempting to restore faith in politics.Burnham has also made one of the first major pledges of his premiership: to end rough sleeping in this country. But is homelessness actually fixable?This epis
Andy Burnham: the fifth Prime Minister in four years
Why does Britain keep tearing through Prime Ministers at breakneck speed? As Andy Burnham becomes the fifth Prime Minister in the past four years, James asks what's really behind the chaos: Brexit, media frenzy or a political culture that's addicted to change? And with Keir Starmer bidding farewell to Downing Street today, what can Burnham offer that Starmer couldn't? This episode was recorded on
Should Andy Burnham decentralise Britain?
As Andy Burnham prepares to become Prime Minister on Monday, James asks whether the new Labour leader's plan to move decision-making out of the capital is the right thing to do. Is this the start of a genuine political reset?Then, with two million parents taking their child out of school during term-time, James asks whether it is ever acceptable to prioritise a holiday over their education.This ep
What do we owe young people out of work?
After England’s defeat to Argentina, James asks what’s changed in the national mood around the team — and why this group of players feels so different from those of the past. Then he turns to a more urgent question: if simply paying benefits isn’t enough, what would actually help young people who are out of work get into the workplace?This episode was recorded on the 16th of July. James O'Brien Da
Why does football make us feel so much?
In today’s episode, James dives into the powerful, often irrational emotions football stirs in us, as England prepare to face Argentina in the World Cup semi-final. Why does supporting our team move us to tears?From sporting nerves to a different national anxiety: retirement. With the state pension age rising and many feeling unprepared for life after work, James asks what happens when retirement
Heatwaves, child health and why Britain’s getting both wrong
In today’s episode, James takes on two urgent questions shaping life in modern Britain: why coverage of extreme heat so often avoids mentioning the climate crisis, and why the UK is raising one of the unhealthiest generations of children in Europe.This episode was recorded on the 14th of July. James O'Brien Daily is a Global production, available every week day on Global Player, or wherever you ge
Why this Farage scandal is different
James O’Brien is back - and straight into the storm.In today’s episode, James asks whether this time really is different for Nigel Farage, as questions mount over his secretive £5 million "gift', his shifting explanations, and a response that James argues has made him look rattled, thin-skinned and weak.If Farage has always sold himself as the outsider taking on the establishment, has the mask fin
Will Andy Burnham succeed where Keir Starmer failed?
Independent MP Karl Turner guest presents James O’Brien Daily as he asks whether Andy Burnham would make a better Prime Minister than Keir Starmer.Callers weigh in on Burnham’s communication style, Labour’s direction after Starmer, the pressures of modern media scrutiny, and whether a more devolved, regionally driven model of government could reconnect Westminster with the rest of the country.(Jam
Robert Jenrick defends Farage's $5M "gift" and the Clacton by-election
Robert Jenrick guest hosts the James O’Brien Daily podcast as Nigel Farage’s shock decision to quit as MP for Clacton and trigger a by-election dominates the national conversation.Is this a bold democratic move that puts the question back to voters — or a political stunt designed to dodge scrutiny? Robert hears from callers on both sides as they clash over accountability, the parliamentary standar
Jess Phillips takes on Nigel Farage
Jess Phillips guest hosts the James O’Brien Daily podcast and doesn’t hold back.With Nigel Farage triggering a by-election in Clacton rather than facing parliamentary scrutiny over questions about his finances, Jess asks whether this is political genius, political cowardice, or just a desperate grab for attention. As callers weigh in, the conversation turns to standards in public life, accountabil
Wes Streeting on the NHS Crisis
Former Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting guest hosts the James O’Brien Daily podcast and takes on one of the biggest rows in public life: should NHS consultants be demanding more pay right now?Drawing on his time in government, Wes reflects on the strikes threat, the pressures facing the NHS, and the difficult balance between valuing doctors properly and protecting the wider health se
Angela Rayner takes on Farage — and asks what Britain must fix
Angela Rayner guest hosts the James O’Brien Daily podcast and brings a mix of optimism, anger and straight-talking politics.After England’s World Cup victory over Mexico lifted the mood, Angela asks what needs to change in Britain to make life feel fairer and more hopeful - from flexible working and better jobs to stronger public services and more opportunity for young people. She also takes on Ni
Can Andy Burnham really change British politics?
For his final turn in James' chair for now, Lewis Goodall asks whether Andy Burnham’s promised “circuit breaker” in British politics could really change anything at all.After Burnham sets out his ambition to do politics differently - less point scoring, more problem solving, more power outside Westminster - Lewis and callers explore what people most dislike about the way British politics works now
Why aren't Brits having kids?
Lewis Goodall sits in for James O’Brien and takes on a quiet but profound crisis: Britain’s birth rate has fallen so far that deaths are now outnumbering births for the first time.What does that mean for the future of the country, the economy, and the welfare state? And why are so many people choosing not to have children - or finding that they simply can’t afford to? From childcare costs and hous
Nigel Farage’s money problem
Lewis Goodall sits in for James and asks a blunt question about Nigel Farage: if you want to be Prime Minister, how much outside money is too much?With fresh questions over Farage’s earnings from a gold bullion company, on top of the already controversial £5 million gift from a crypto billionaire, Lewis explores whether Reform’s leader is starting to look less like an anti-establishment insurgent
Is Britain now ready for war?
Lewis Goodall sits in for James O’Brien and takes on one of the biggest questions facing the country: are we spending enough on defence in a far more dangerous world?As Keir Starmer unveils his final defence investment plan in what feels like one of the last big acts of his premiership, Lewis asks whether Britain is genuinely prepared for the threats ahead - from Russia and the High North to cyber
Can Andy Burnham really "rewire" Britain?
Lewis Goodall sits in for James O’Brien and reacts to Andy Burnham’s first major speech as Prime Minister-in-waiting.Broadcast from Manchester, Burnham sets out an ambitious vision for a “rewired Britain” - with a new Number 10 North, a huge shift of power away from Whitehall, major council house building, industrial strategy, and a promise to spread “good growth in every postcode and hope in ever
Is climate change denial over?
With scientists linking the extreme temperatures directly to fossil fuel emissions, James explores why so many people still look away, why net zero is under political attack, and whether the heat itself might finally succeed where years of warnings have failed.This episode was recorded on the 26th of June. James O'Brien Daily is a Global production, available every week day on Global Player, or wh
Record UK temperatures - how to survive the heat
As Britain braces for another record-breaking June scorcher, James O’Brien asks the question beyond the weather forecast: what are we actually going to do about extreme heat becoming the new normal?Then, with Andy Burnham reportedly looking to move part of Number 10’s operation to Manchester, James turns to a thorny political and cultural question: does it matter if the next Prime Minister has a n
The UK is cooking... why don't we care about climate change?
The UK is experiencing another red weather warning heatwave this week. So why, even as temperatures soar and climate warnings become impossible to ignore, don't we feel the urgency?And, on the 10th anniversary of Brexit, James O’Brien asks the question that still matters most: who was most responsible for it? From David Cameron and Boris Johnson to the media, Jeremy Corbyn and beyond, James and hi
Should Andy Burnham be crowned, or contested?
James reacts to the resignation of Keir Starmer and asks the question now hanging over British politics: should Labour move fast to "crown" Andy Burnham as Prime Minister, or does the party need a proper contest?This episode was recorded on the 23rd of June. James O'Brien Daily is a Global production, available every week day on Global Player, or wherever you get your shows. Make sure you subscrib
Keir Starmer is out
Keir Starmer is out. James reflects on where it all went wrong, why his premiership became so brittle, and whether Britain may come to regret forcing him out. With Andy Burnham moving quickly to the front of the pack, the conversation turns to what comes next for Labour - and whether a new leader can succeed where Starmer could not.Later, in honour of Windrush Day, James speaks to Justice4Windrush
Has Andy Burnham just put the nail in Starmer's coffin?
James reacts to the political shockwaves from Makerfield, where Andy Burnham’s victory piles huge pressure on Keir Starmer and raises the question that now feels unavoidable: should he fight on, or step aside?This episode was recorded on the 19th of June. James O'Brien Daily is a Global production, available every week day on Global Player, or wherever you get your shows. Make sure you subscribe s
It’s the World Cup… cue the racist abuse
Following the England men’s squad triumphant defeat of Croatia in their first game of the World Cup, James discusses that fact that, win or lose, it's inevitable that our black players will have to deal with racism both on, and off thew pitch.So damaging is the online racism that our players receive, England manager Thomas Tuchel has said it’d be better for players to stay off social media entirel
Should Keir Starmer go?
James asks if Starmer is really failing, or whether a culture of online conspiracy, media distortion and political chaos is shaping how the country sees him. Do you want to see a leadership challenge?Then, James turns to the future king’s education, and what Eton represents in modern Britain: privilege, power, tradition, and the enduring grip of class.This episode was recorded on the 17th of June.
Starmer's arsonist "rent boys": The conspiracy
James examines the widespread conspiracy theory - spread by Russia - that the firebombing of a house owned by Sir Keir Starmer was carried out by disgruntled "rent-boys" that he had failed to pay. Why are so many of us willing to believe obvious nonsense?Then, James turns to the heartbreaking case of baby Preston Davey, exploring whether repeated warning signs were missed by professionals - or whe
Starmer's social media ban
James welcomes Keir Starmer’s plan to ban under-16s from social media, calling it one of the boldest and most important decisions of his premiership. As James reflects on the damage these platforms can do - from addiction and anxiety to self-harm content and relentless bullying - callers share their own experiences of trying to protect children from an online world designed to keep them hooked.Thi
If Russia might bring war to the UK, why aren't we more scared?
If Britain really faces a growing military threat, why has no one made the case clearly enough to the public?After the resignations of two defence ministers heap fresh pressure on Keir Starmer, James opens up a bigger, more serious conversation about national security, cyber warfare, Russia, NATO and whether the UK is truly prepared for what may be coming. If the danger is real, what exactly shoul
Why are we not more excited about the World Cup?
James opens the phones on the biggest event in world sport and asks two deceptively simple questions: why aren’t more of us excited, and why aren’t more fans going? From eye-watering prices and tournament overload to FIFA, Donald Trump and the politics surrounding this year’s competition, callers explain why even lifelong football lovers are struggling to feel the usual magic.This episode was reco
Why does Elon Musk want racist violence on Britain’s streets?
James confronts the horror of anti-immigrant violence on UK streets after homes are attacked in Belfast, asking how crimes committed by individuals are being twisted into collective punishment against entire communities. He also turns to the role of Elon Musk, social media and far-right agitators in stoking hatred — and asks why this is being allowed to happen in plain sight.This episode was recor
Is University still worth it?
James asks a deeply uncomfortable question: is university still worth it? For generations, higher education was sold as the great route to opportunity, independence and a better life - but with soaring fees, huge debt and shrinking returns, James wonders whether that promise still holds true, or whether it now belongs to a different era.This episode was recorded on the 9th of June. James O'Brien D
Will tech giants ever protect kids from social media?
James asks why politicians, including Keir Starmer, still seem so timid in tackling the harm social media can do to children. With callers from the tech world weighing in, he explores whether the safeguards already exist and why the biggest platforms so often fail to act. Later, he analyses an extraordinary interview between NBC's Kristen Welker and Donald Trump, which the president ended abruptly
Is Twitter for the far-right and should the government come off it?
After misinformation spread on Twitter by Elon Musk and others about the police officers involved in the tragic murder of Henry Nowak, is it time the government, politicians and media companies come off the platform? In today's episode James takes passionate calls from the nation who give their verdict.And should we teach boys and girls differently in schools to help them reach their maximum poten
Farage disrespects Henry Nowak’s parent’s wishes - why?
Reflecting on the reaction to the killing of Henry Nowak, James examines how parts of the media and public life seize on race, policing and grievance - and asks what they really want when they sideline the truth.Later, he also speaks to Labour MP Jess Asato about taking legal action over the sexualised images of her created and published on X using the platform's AI chatbot, Grok, and what that sa
Kemi Badenoch says Henry Nowak's murder is a "Stephen Lawrence moment"
James contrasts the dignified plea from Henry’s father not to use his son’s death to fuel “division, hatred or tension” with Nigel Farage’s inflammatory intervention, asking why so many were willing to ignore the family and the judge’s remarks... and why in the world is Kemi Badenoch drawing comparisons with the racist killing of Stephen Lawrence?This episode was recorded on the 3rd of June. James
How Nigel Farage hijacked Henry Nowak's murder
James reflects on the killing of Henry Novak, the appalling police response in his final moments, and the anguish of a family now forced to watch their son’s death turned into a weapon of divison by Nigel Farage. James takes passionate contributions from listeners, including the former Metropolitan Police Assistant Commissioner Neil Basu.This episode was recorded on the 2nd of June. James O'Brien
Do you believe Nicola Sturgeon?
James unpacks the fallout around Nicola Sturgeon and asks the million dollar question: do you actually believe she knew nothing about her husband’s embezzlement of SNP funds? Later, the focus shifts to recent reports of NHS maternity care failures - from understaffed wards to traumatic postnatal experiences, callers share heartbreaking stories that reveal where the system is falling short.This epi
What has Trump actually done in Iran?
James tries to make sense of a week in which the White House line on Iran seemed to change by the day: ceasefire, threats, victory, retaliation, then talk of a "deal". James asks how Donald Trump has taken us here.Later, James turns to figures showing tens of thousands of school suspensions in England linked to racist, homophobic and ableist abuse. Parents share heartbreaking accounts of what happ
1M young people out of work & Carol Vorderman vs Reform
As new figures show more than a million 16 to 24-year-olds are not in education, employment or training, James opens the phones to hear from the people living it: young jobseekers, parents and employers. What actually happens to young people when they leave educattion and try to find work?Later, James speaks to Carol Vorderman after she called for an apology from Reform UK candidate Rob Kenyon ove
The day Tony Blair sounded like Trump
Tony Blair has stuck his neck back out, warning that Labour risks "relegating Britain" from the premier league of nations. Do you care what Tony Blair has to say any more? If you do, how do you explain the 180-degree change in his politics? And… is he right?And, as climate scientists sounded the alarm, the UK experienced its two hottest ever May days over the bank holiday weekend. The European hea
Two UK teenagers spared jail after rape - can this be right?
Today, top doctors warned that social media may be as harmful to young people as smoking — but what actually is the worst thing about it? Is it addiction, anxiety, misinformation, vanity, or something even harder to define?And after two boys avoided jail for rape because a judge feared prison would “damage” their futures, listeners try to make sense of a decision that has sparked outrage and confu
Mystery Hour: How do football commentators remember players?
Time for your bank holiday instalment of Mystery Hour, the game in which James invites his callers to ask and answer questions about absolutely anything. You are guaranteed to learn something new after listening to this (however please note James cannot guarantee the usefulness of any newly acquired knowledge).The James O'Brien Daily podcast is back from the 26th May.
Plummeting immigration & Brits abused in Israel
Immigration is plummeting - so why is the right-wing press screaming about a "brain drain"? James unpacks the ONS figures the Mail and Telegraph don't want you to understand.Plus, the disturbing footage of Israel's Security Minister abusing detained British citizens — including a 72-year-old RAF veteran whose hands were tied around his neck. James asks: why did he film it, and why hasn't he been s
Do the racists know that immigration has dropped off a cliff?
Net migration has plummeted to 193,000 - down more than 80% in just three years. So will it actually make any difference to the national conversation, or has the immigration debate moved beyond the reach of facts?Plus, James speaks with Claire Zugar, who's father, Malcolm Ducker, a 72 year-old-British RAF veteran, has been filmed being detained and taunted by Israel's far-right security minster, I
Gen Z haven't got any money
Life for young people seems to be harder than ever. How are young people coping with the astronomical cost of living, soaring house prices and rising youth employment?And, with AI use on the rise as it infiltrates daily life, James ponders the question, when does AI use become cheating? As judges of a writing competition can’t be sure that AI wasn’t involved – where is the line for ‘proper’ use of
Is 10 years old too young to be criminally responsible?
HS2 could cost up to £102.7bn (up from £32bn) and may not open until 2039. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander also explained today that the so-called “high-speed” trains will likely be ran slower, to trim costs. Why is HS2 taking so much time and money and why has the UK become so bad at building things?And, Justice Secretary David Lammy is to consider raising the age of criminal responsibility a
Did Labour just put Brexit back on the table?
Brexit is back in the political spotlight thanks to the two biggest threats to Keir Starmer’s leadership - former Health Secretary Wes Streeting and Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham. Streeting has advocated for a return to the EU, whereas Burnham believes re-running Brexit would leave the UK in rut.Do you welcome this renewed national conversation about rejoining the EU?This episode was re
Why is Andy Burnham so popular & will he challenge Keir Starmer?
Today, James tackles the political bombshell shaking Labour: MP Josh Simons has resigned, clearing a path for Andy Burnham to return to Westminster - and potentially mount a future leadership challenge. Is this a smart political move, blatant career choreography, or exactly what Labour needs right now? And if you’re from Manchester, why does Burnham remain so popular? From the Bee Network to his “
Does the country need stability or a full reset?
Has Keir Starmer developed a credibility problem with the public? As frustration grows across the country and speculation intensifies over divisions inside Labour, is there actually a real appetite for a leadership challenge right now? And if change did happen, would any alternative genuinely connect better with voters, or risk making things worse?Plus, the rumours and rising political pressure su
A coup in the air and The King's big promises
Keir Starmer came into office promising a clean break. An end to the chaos, the incompetence, and the slow decay that’s defined British politics since 2016. But the sense of political rot hasn’t gone away. Public trust is still shattered, institutions are fragile, and voters across the spectrum are more cynical than ever. So what went wrong? Why hasn’t Starmer managed to turn things and now as he
"I will not walk away" Starmer faces mounting pressure
The tide appears to have turned on Kier Starmer with reports that 81 Labour MPs want him to stand down. But Starmer says he won't go down without a leadership challenge. So, what’s actually gone wrong? And if Labour did move on from him, who could realistically step up and change the party’s direction?Plus, Zack Polanski admits he made a mistake after failing to pay council tax, adding to a diffic
Is Starmer's survival speech too little too late?
Keir Starmer is under pressure after Labour’s bruising losses last week.In an impassioned defence of his leadership, Starmer insisted he is “not going anywhere,” warning Labour MPs that changing leader wouldn’t solve the party’s problems. He also laid out priorities including closer ties with Europe, taking control of British Steel in the national interest, and renewed support for working people a
Labour’s terrible night as Reform & Greens surge
Britain’s political map is shifting, and Labour is feeling the backlash. The party has lost many council seats across the country, even in traditional strongholds.With gains for Reform and The Green Party, a big question looms: was Labour wrong to tact to the right, or is something deeper reshaping politics?Who’s gaining momentum, who’s on the back foot, and what do these first signals tell us abo
The accidental star of TV’s biggest mix-up
It started as a job interview, and ended as live TV history. Congolese finance graduate Guy Goma was mistakenly pulled into a BBC interview and thrust on air as a tech expert. What followed was panic, confusion, and accidental viral fame that still echoes 20 years later. Guy joins James in the studio to relive the moment that turned him into an internet legend.Plus, a Sainsbury’s worker has been s
Is Iran calling Trump's bluff?
Oil is spiking, ships are stranded, and the world’s most critical shipping lane is on edge. Now, President Trump says a peace deal with Iran is within reach. But is this real diplomacy, or just a pause before the next escalation, and who really wins if a deal happens?And, who is Zack Polanski really? The Green Party leader has quickly risen into the spotlight and is in the headlines for a second t
How did £5m gift to Farage slip under the radar?
Why isn’t this front-page news? Nigel Farage reportedly pocketed £5 million from a billionaire donor before becoming an MP, and yet the story has barely made a ripple.Meanwhile, tensions in the Middle East are escalating. Iran warns “we are just getting started” after attacks in the Strait of Hormuz, putting global security on edge.And back home, a major crackdown on antisemitism is underway. Univ
Why are there so many breads?
As it's a Bank Holiday Monday, we wanted to give you a dose of James O'Brien still - so here's a special Mystery Hour where he's discussing all about bread...as you were.James O'Brien Daily is a Global production, available every weekday on Global Player or wherever you get your podcasts. Make sure you subscribe so you never miss an episode.
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