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
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.
Has Zack Polanski inflamed antisemitism fears?
Met police defend the “extraordinary” response in the Golders Green terrorist attack after fierce backlash to Zack Polanski’s post accusing officers of violence. Was this a reckless misstep or a justified call for scrutiny? James breaks down the fallout as the stabbing suspect appears in court.Plus, Police review London pro-Palestine marches amid rising terror concerns, reigniting heated debate. W
How do we stamp out antisemitic violence?
Yesterday’s antisemitic attack in Golders Green has shaken London’s Jewish community, prompting urgent calls for “more protection.” But with little agreement on what that actually means in practice, the tragedy is already being pulled into political point-scoring.And, just a week after warnings about the dangers of cryptocurrency money flowing into politics, explosive revelations have emerged abou
What happened in the Golders Green terrorist attack?
A targeted stabbing in Golders Green has sent shockwaves through the Jewish community, with Keir Starmer calling it “deeply concerning” as counter terrorism steps in. Fears are growing over rising antisemitic attacks, online radicalisation, and the dangerous blurring of lines between political rhetoric and real-world violence.Plus, The King’s US Speech lays out a vision of unity, diversity, and su
Should the government freeze rents because of the Iran war?
The King has met Trump with a message: Britain and America willl always find common ground. But why now? And what does Keir Starmer really wants out of this high-stakes moment on the world stage?And, former Foreign Office chief says there was “absolutely” pressure to rush vetting. Meanwhile, criticism mounts over Mandelson’s ambassador appointment called a “serious error of judgement.”Plus, Rachel
King Charles is off to visit Trump… what’s the worst that could happen?
King Charles embarked today on his US state visit to the White House, despite gunshots being fired at a dinner attended by Donald Trump on Saturday night. Assassination attempts aside, what’s the best and worst case scenarios for his time spent with the US President?And, over the past decade, healthy life expectancy in the UK has dropped by around two years to just under 61. Why the UK? Why the la
Should assisted dying be legal? And, Starmer rejects Trump’s warmongering
A proposed law to legalise assisted dying in England and Wales will run out of time on Friday, almost 17 months after MPs first voted in favour of it…although the their may be another attempt to get the bill through in the next session of Parliament. James’ callers candidly share their experiences, and whether people should, under certain circumstances, be allowed to end their life.And, James beli
Is the UK-US "special relationship" over?
James unpacks growing doubts over the future of the UK-US “special relationship”, after stark warnings from former NATO figures were met by firm reassurances from the American ambassador. Is the alliance over? If so, how should Britain respond?Then, as social media executives deny their platforms are inherently addictive to children, the callers share whether social media mirrors more traditional
Has the Mandelson scandal shown that Starmer can't hack being Prime Minister?
Considering how the Peter Mandelson scandal has been dealt with over the last few days, is Sir Keir Starmer actually up to the job of Prime Minister?And, half of young people have said they would categorically never fight for Britain, according to the Youth Poll. If that's you - why?This episode was recorded on the 22nd of April. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.
Who is actually at fault in the Starmer-Mandelson scandal?
Today, former Foreign Office official, Olly Robbins, sacked by Sir Keir Starmer for not disclosing Lord Mandelson’s vetting failure, told the Foreign Affairs Select Committee that No 10 had a "dismissive" approach to Mandelson's vetting - Downing Street denies this.James is joined by LBC’s Political Editor, Natasha Clark, to break down the 2.5 hours of evidence provided by Robbins, and asks the li
What's the evidence that Trump has gone mad?
With Keir Starmer facing MPs in the Commons over the Peter Mandelson scandal, James asks how serious the mounting pressure really is - and what today’s showdown could mean for his leadership.And, as three very different columnists separately conclude that Donald Trump has “gone mad”, what evidence do you see of mental decline?This episode was recorded on the 20th of April. Catch James O'Brien week
The Peter Mandelson debacle: Should Starmer go?
The Foreign Office's most senior civil servant has been effectively sacked by the Prime Minister, who claims the office failed to inform him that Peter Mandleson had failed his security vetting for the role of US ambassador. Does is even matter whether Starmer knew or not - and should he go?This episode was recorded on the 17th of April. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.
Why the rich live longer
New findings reveal that well-off people can expect to live 20 more “good years” than those with financial stress. Why does this gap exist, what drives it, and what practical steps could help close it? And, LBC’s Political Editor, Natasha Clark, joins James to discuss her interview with the Prime Minister today, during which Sir Keir Starmer told her there is an “overwhelming case” for tighter soc
Should those who failed to stop the Southport killer be named and shamed?
Following the Southport Inquiry, the lawyer for the murdered girls’ families says that the local authority officials at fault should be “named and shamed”, unless suitable disciplinary measures are taken. Would this be fair?Also, James is joined by the UK's leading money saving expert, Martin Lewis, who, alongside his charity, is set to fix the currently vicious council tax debt collection system.
Southport Inquiry: What is it like to fear your own child?
The Southport murders could have been prevented by the killer’s parents and the authorities, according to an inquiry. What could have been done differently, and what is it like to fear your own child?And, a former Nato secretary general, Lord George Robertson, has warned that the UK’s security is "in peril". How do we know we’re at risk of military attack, and why isn’t the public more concerned?T
Trump's Iranian blockade has begun
The US blockade of Iran’s ports has begun, while the Strait of Hormuz stays closed, with oil prices surging above $100 a barrel. What's going to happen next? Joining James to break it all down is the inimitable Simon Marks, LBC's Washington Correspondent.This episode was recorded on the 13th of April. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10am on LBC.
Is Israel driving the Iran war?
Lewis Goodall sits in for James O’Brien at the end of a week where the temporary ceasefire in Iran seems increasingly out of reach. With the US and Iran willing to have talks and a possibility of relative stability in the Middle East on the horizon - why is Israel pressing ahead with attacks on southern Lebanon? Is there anything that could persuade Netanyahu to sign up for a ceasefire that includ
US-Iran ceasefire in chaos
Lewis Goodall sits in for James O’Brien as the US-Iran ceasefire is called into question. Within 24 hours of the ceasefire agreement, Iran has closed the Strait of Hormuz again in response to Israeli strikes on Lebanon. Israel and the US say that Lebanon wasn’t covered by the ceasefire - Iran disagrees. So, which side do you believe? And why has this agreement crumbled so quickly? Alex Gandler, sp
Has Iran won the war?
Lewis Goodall sits in for James O’Brien as yet more momentous events unfold in the Middle East. A two-week ceasefire has been agreed: the Strait of Hormuz is reopened, and the guns, bombs and rockets have fallen silent across Iran. So, who is the winner here? Did Donald Trump blink, or will he claim this as a victory? And does this change the US’s political standing on the world stage?As Keir Star
Has Trump lost his mind?
Lewis Goodall sits in for James O’Brien on the eve of the day that Donald Trump has threatened to destroy Iran’s power plants and bridges unless it reopens the Strait of Hormuz. With the president threatening moves that could be considered as war crimes against the Iranian civilian population, and given the president’s profane statements made over the Easter weekend: has Trump lost what’s left of
Mystery Hour: Why are there so many breads?
Time for your next Easter 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 7th April. Have a very happy easter!
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