Coffee House Shots
The Spectator
SummaryCoffee House Shots is your essential daily briefing on the pulse of British politics. Bringing together a rotating cast of The Spectator’s sharpest writers—including Tim Shipman, Isabel Hardman, and James Heale—this podcast cuts through the noise of Westminster to offer rigorous, clear-eyed analysis of the stories that actually matter. Whether it is dissecting the latest developments in Downing Street, scrutinizing the internal power struggles within the Labour and Conservative parties, or debating the long-term impact of major policy shifts like the net-zero transition, this show provides the context you won’t find in the headlines. Our team doesn't just report on what is happening; they explore the deeper philosophical and practical challenges facing our leaders. From the rise of regional political figures like Andy Burnham to the structural economic crises affecting the next generation, we delve into the tensions between ideological ambition and the harsh realities of governance. Expect lively, inquisitive conversations that move beyond the partisan talking points. Through a mix of expert panels, exclusive interviews, and balanced debates, Coffee House Shots challenges the status quo and asks the tough questions that politicians often try to dodge. If you are looking for intelligent, skeptical, and fast-paced political commentary that respects your time and your intelligence, pull up a chair and join the discussion.
Updated May 30, 2026
Episodes
Why politics hasn’t recovered from 2008 | with Lord Wood
Political leaders are struggling to overcome a stagnant economic and political landscape that has persisted since 2008.
Who has a winning vision for Labour – Blair, Burnham or Starmer?
Tony Blair has laid down a challenge to Labour, but do Wes Streeting, Andy Burnham, or Keir Starmer have a vision?
Is it too late for Britain's 'lost generation'?
Britain is facing a staggering NEETs crisis as over a million young people are currently out of work or education.
Can Andy Burnham really do it?
Is Andy Burnham an instinctive leader who could transform Westminster or a politician lacking the core for top office?
What did Nicola Sturgeon know?
Nicola Sturgeon faces a reckoning as husband Peter Murrell admits to embezzling hundreds of thousands in SNP funds.
Can Kemi really save the Tories? | with Lee Cain
Kemi Badenoch faces a critical crossroads as the Tories struggle to shed their status quo image for radical change.
Which Andy Burnham will we get this time?
As Andy Burnham launches his latest leadership bid, we examine if his populist style can hide a lack of substance.
LIVE: The Net Zero Debate | Liam Halligan & Lord Lilley vs Bob Ward & Shahrar Ali
Liam Halligan and Lord Lilley face off against Bob Ward and Shahrar Ali to debate the future of Britain’s Net Zero.
The calm before Labour’s next storm
Keir Starmer navigates a surreal political limbo as Labour leadership tensions simmer behind the scenes.
Will the bond markets undo Burnham?
Andy Burnham pivots to fiscal caution as bond market volatility forces a reality check on Labour leadership ambitions.
Burnham vs Reform: why Makerfield matters
Andy Burnham’s personality is colliding with the surge of Reform in a by-election that could decide the next PM.
Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 17/05/2026
Labour faces internal turmoil as high-profile ministers resign to challenge Keir Starmer for the party leadership.
'It's an orgy of chaos': Steve Baker on how to oust a Prime Minister
Former Tory MP Steve Baker explains the ruthless mechanics of ousting a leader and why Labour is failing at it.
LIVE: Steve Reed on Streeting, Burnham & what happened to levelling up?
Steve Reed joins to discuss evolving the levelling up agenda and the challenges of delivering real local change.
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