Avsnitt
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Watch the full uncut interview HERE: https://thebrinkpodcast.substack.com/
In this episode of The Brink, Andrew and Jake are joined by Iran expert Kasra Aarabi to examine the state of the Iranian regime after the recent conflict with Israel and the United States, and to ask whether the Islamic Republic is weaker than it appears.
Drawing on sources inside Iran and years of research into the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, Kasra explains the internal power struggles unfolding within the regime, the growing influence of younger and more radical elements of the IRGC, and why the battle for succession after Ayatollah Khamenei could reshape the future of the Islamic Republic.
The conversation explores the regime’s ideology, its nuclear ambitions, and the role of the IRGC in projecting Iranian power across the Middle East. We discuss the recent negotiations with the Trump administration, the future of Hezbollah, and why Tehran believes time is on its side despite suffering significant military setbacks.
Kasra also examines the relationship between Iran and regional actors such as Qatar, Pakistan, and Turkey, the wider geopolitical implications of the conflict, and the growing tensions between Washington, Jerusalem, and European capitals.
Finally, we turn to the Iranian people. Kasra explains why many Iranians continue to oppose the regime despite years of repression, why protest movements remain a serious threat to the Islamic Republic, and whether the current moment could mark the beginning of the end for one of the world's most entrenched authoritarian systems.
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Chapters
00:00 Introduction
03:42 Who Really Controls Iran Now?
08:30 The Islamic Republic Is A Mafia State
12:10 Purges Are Coming To Iran's Regime
14:43 Has The Regime Become More Extreme?
15:30 The Radicalisation Of The IRGC
20:35 The Rise Of Iran's Hardline Next Generation
21:54 Mahdism, Apocalypse & The IRGC Worldview
25:47 What Does Iran Actually Want From A Deal?
30:39 How Tehran Plans To Split Trump And Netanyahu
33:04 Iran's Nuclear Strategy: Delay, Delay, Delay
36:32 Why The Regime Fears Donald Trump
42:11 Does Iran Have Any Real Allies Left?
46:45 What Do Ordinary Iranians Think?
49:50 Why Many Iranians Still Trust Trump?
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Watch the full uncut interview HERE: https://open.substack.com/pub/thebrinkpodcast/p/is-there-a-silver-lining-to-trumps?r=63dafp&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true
In this bonus episode of The Brink, Andrew and Jake unpack the fallout from Donald Trump’s proposed Iran deal and ask whether the United States has just handed a major strategic victory to the Iranian regime.
The conversation explores what went wrong after the 12 Day War, why the original campaign against Iran appeared to lose momentum, and whether a different outcome was possible. We discuss the role of Donald Trump, JD Vance, Benjamin Netanyahu, and the wider network of regional actors shaping events behind the scenes.
Andrew and Jake also examine the future of Israel’s relationship with the United States, the growing tensions between Washington and Jerusalem, and what this means for the balance of power across the Middle East. From Lebanon and Hezbollah to the Gulf states and the Strait of Hormuz, they consider how the region is being reshaped in real time.
Finally, the discussion turns to the Iranian people, the future of the regime, and whether there is still hope for meaningful change despite the setbacks of recent weeks.
Chapters
00:00 Iran Deal and Its Implications
02:28 Debate on the Iran Deal's Silver Linings
09:43 Trump's Role and the Impact on U.S. Strategy
15:29 The Role of Other Countries and Influence on Trump
18:34 Psychological Profiling and Trump's Vulnerabilities
30:53 The Impact on U.S.-Israel Relationship
35:20 Bibi's Leadership and Israel's Challenges
39:29 The Conflict in Lebanon and Its Implications
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Saknas det avsnitt?
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Watch the full uncut interview HERE: https://thebrinkpodcast.substack.com/p/media-gazaology-exposed-former-ap?r=63dafp
In this episode of The Brink, Andrew and Jake are joined by journalist and author Matti Friedman for a wide-ranging conversation on media bias, anti-Semitism, propaganda, and the growing gap between reality and perception in the coverage of Israel.
Drawing on decades of experience reporting from Israel, Friedman reflects on his time at the Associated Press and explains why he became convinced that much of the Western media no longer seeks to describe reality but to advance ideological narratives. He discusses his concept of “Gazology”, the growing industry of books, commentary, and activism that uses Gaza as a vehicle for broader political and cultural causes often disconnected from events on the ground.
The conversation explores why Israel receives such disproportionate attention from the international media, the role of social media and alternative outlets in shaping public opinion, and how anti-Semitic narratives have evolved in the modern age. We also examine the information war surrounding October 7th, claims of genocide, the treatment of journalists in Gaza, and the challenges of separating reporting from activism.
Finally, we discuss the future of Israel, the decline of trust in Western institutions, the shifting relationship between Israel and the United States, and whether Israeli society can emerge stronger from the profound challenges it has faced since October 7th.
A fascinating and deeply insightful discussion about journalism, propaganda, anti-Semitism, and the future of both Israel and the West.
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Chapters
00:00 Why Gaza Dominates Western Attention
03:16 Media Bias, Activism & The AP
08:32 Why Israel Matters More Than Sudan Or China
12:07 The West’s Obsession With The Jews
13:55 Was Israel Always Going To Be Blamed?
16:41 Gazology: How Gaza Became An Ideological Symbol
18:59 Why People Care More About Israel Than Reality
24:04 Social Media, Misinformation & The Gaza Narrative
30:06 Why Trust In The Media Has Collapsed
35:04 The Claim That Israel Is Killing Journalists
40:15 Hamas Propaganda & Western Reporting
43:01 Trump, Netanyahu & The Future Of Israel
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Watch the full uncut interview HERE: https://open.substack.com/pub/thebrinkpodcast/p/gad-saad-suicidal-empathy-and-the?r=63dafp&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true
In this episode of The Brink, Andrew and Jake are joined by evolutionary psychologist, bestselling author, and podcast host Gad Saad to discuss his new book, Suicidal Empathy, and the ideas he believes are driving the West towards cultural and political self-destruction.
Gad explains the concept of "suicidal empathy" and argues that many of the West’s biggest challenges stem from a well-meaning but ultimately self-defeating inability to balance compassion with self-preservation. From mass immigration and cultural relativism to identity politics and DEI, he explores how empathy can become detached from reality and produce disastrous consequences.
The conversation examines the origins of these ideas, the role of universities and elite institutions in spreading them, and why so many people feel unable to challenge prevailing orthodoxies. We also discuss meritocracy, free speech, the decline of intellectual curiosity, and the growing divide between common sense and elite opinion.
Finally, Gad reflects on Israel, October 7th, propaganda, and the psychological forces shaping public opinion in the West. He explains why he believes societies must rediscover the confidence to defend their values, culture, and institutions before it is too late.
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Watch the full uncut interview HERE: https://open.substack.com/pub/thebrinkpodcast/p/francis-foster-henry-nowak-proves?r=63dafp&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true
In this episode of The Brink, Andrew and Jake are joined by comedian, commentator, and Triggernometry co-host Francis Foster for a wide-ranging conversation on identity politics, education, free speech, and the growing cultural divisions shaping modern Britain.
The discussion begins with the murder of Henry Nowak and the debate over two-tier policing. Francis argues that modern Britain has become increasingly divided by race and identity, warning that policies designed around immutable characteristics have fuelled resentment, mistrust, and social fragmentation.
Drawing on his experience as a teacher, Francis explains why he believes the education system is fundamentally broken. From declining standards and behavioural issues to ideological training and the "bigotry of low expectations", he reflects on the challenges facing schools and why so many teachers are leaving the profession.
The conversation also explores the rise of identity politics across public institutions, comedy, and the media. Francis describes how debates around race, gender, and national identity have transformed public life, and why many people now feel unable to speak openly about controversial issues.
We also discuss the Israel-Hamas war, anti-Semitism, and the importance of intellectual curiosity in an increasingly polarised age. From interviewing Benjamin Netanyahu to navigating online backlash, Francis argues that understanding opposing viewpoints is essential if difficult problems are ever to be solved.
Finally, he reflects on the extraordinary growth of Triggernometry, the collapse of trust in mainstream institutions, and why honest conversation remains one of the most powerful tools for tackling society’s biggest challenges.
A thought-provoking and often humorous discussion about education, culture, free speech, and the future of Britain.
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Chapters
00:00 Henry Nowak & Two-Tier Britain
02:29 The Dangers Of Identity Politics
06:31 Anti-Racism, Racism & Anti-Semitism
09:08 Multiracial vs Multicultural Britain
11:14 Why Britain Feels Like A Powder Keg
12:15 Education, Ideology & The Classroom
18:51 Communism, History & Ignorance
22:23 Why Francis Left Teaching
25:15 “How To Teach Black Boys”
31:52 Israel, Anti-Semitism & The Crisis Of Ideas
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Watch the full uncut interview HERE: https://thebrinkpodcast.substack.com
In this episode of The Brink, Andrew and Jake are joined by former US Special Representative for Iran Elliott Abrams for a wide-ranging conversation on the aftermath of the Iran war, Donald Trump’s foreign policy, and the future of American power in the Middle East.
We examine the state of Iran’s nuclear programme after the 12-day war and ask whether the current negotiations are simply delaying the problem rather than solving it. Abrams warns that any sanctions relief risks strengthening the regime while doing little to address its missiles, proxy militias, or long-term ambitions.
The conversation also explores Hezbollah, Lebanon, and the wider collapse of Iran’s so-called Ring of Fire following October 7th. Abrams argues that while Israel severely weakened Iran’s regional network, the underlying threat remains unresolved unless the regime itself is ultimately confronted.
We also discuss Donald Trump’s approach to power and foreign policy. From the Strait of Hormuz crisis to Venezuela, NATO, and Ukraine, Abrams reflects on Trump’s strengths, weaknesses, and governing style, including the lack of long-term strategic planning inside the administration.
Finally, we look ahead to the future of American politics, the battle between traditional conservatives and the MAGA movement, and whether figures like Marco Rubio or JD Vance could define the next era of the Republican Party.
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Chapters
00:00 Introduction
04:55 Iran's Proxy Militia and Regional Dynamics
10:09 Nuclear Deal and Missile Concerns
15:12 Proxy Militia and Lebanon's Role
20:31 Economic Impact and Sanctions Relief
25:50 Trump's Negotiation Strategy and Military Planning
30:50 Lessons Learned and Future Prospects
35:50 Venezuela and Trump's Legacy
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Watch the full uncut interview HERE: https://open.substack.com/pub/thebrinkpodcast/p/the-brink-in-somaliland-rageh-omar?r=63dafp&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true
In this episode of The Brink, Andrew and Jake are joined by journalist and broadcaster Rageh Omaar for a conversation from Hargeisa on the extraordinary story of Somaliland and why this unrecognised state is suddenly becoming one of the world’s most important geopolitical flashpoints.
We explore Somaliland’s history as a former British protectorate, its brutal war for independence from Somalia, and how it rebuilt itself into a relatively stable and democratic country despite receiving almost no international recognition. Rageh explains why Somaliland sees itself as a nation that has been unfairly locked out of the international system, even while functioning more effectively than many recognised states.
The conversation then turns to the historic decision by Israel to formally recognise Somaliland in December 2025. Rageh discusses why the move transformed Somaliland’s international profile overnight and why relations between Somaliland and Israel have developed so warmly despite Somaliland being a deeply conservative Muslim society.
We also examine the wider geopolitical battle unfolding across the Horn of Africa. From China and Turkey’s growing influence in Somalia and Djibouti to the strategic importance of the Bab el-Mandeb shipping route, we discuss why global powers are increasingly focusing on Somaliland and whether Britain is making a major strategic mistake by failing to recognise it.
Finally, we discuss Somalia’s ongoing instability, the threat posed by Al Shabaab, the role of the Somaliland diaspora in rebuilding the country, and why Somaliland could become one of the West’s most important allies in Africa in the years ahead.
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Chapters
0:00 Introduction
4:47 Historical Context and Geographic Setting of Somaliland
7:26 Somaliland's Struggle for Independence and International Recognition
13:24 Israel's Recognition of Somaliland and Its Implications
18:58 Strategic Interests and Diplomatic Challenges
27:56 Somaliland's Relationship with Other Countries and International Recognition
35:19 Britain's Role and the Future of Somaliland's Recognition
43:53 The Impact of Recognition on Somaliland's Future
45:32 The Future of Somaliland's Relationship with Israel and Other Countries
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Watch the full uncut interview HERE: https://open.substack.com/pub/thebrinkpodcast/p/the-real-reason-british-politics?r=63dafp&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true
In this episode of The Brink, Andrew and Jake are joined by broadcaster and journalist Julia Hartley-Brewer.
The discussion begins with the mounting pressure on Keir Starmer, with Julia arguing that his leadership has exposed deeper systemic failures across British politics. From Brexit and the civil service to taxation, public services, and political leadership, we explore why trust in both Labour and the Conservatives has collapsed so dramatically.
The conversation then turns to the media and the cultural establishment. Julia reflects on her career in British journalism and explains why she increasingly found herself at odds with elite opinion on issues like Brexit, lockdowns, net zero, and gender ideology. We examine whether legacy media has lost public trust and what has filled the vacuum online.
A major focus of the episode is anti-Semitism and the war in Israel. Julia shares her experience visiting Israel after October 7th, including visits to the Nova festival site and communities attacked by Hamas. She explains why the trip profoundly affected her understanding of the conflict and why she believes much of the Western public has been misled about Israel by media narratives and political activism.
Finally, we discuss the future of British politics, the rise of Reform, and whether the country is entering a period of deeper instability and fragmentation.
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Chapters
00:00 Intro
03:35 Keir Starmer and Labour
07:18 What’s wrong with UK politics
17:44 What a “truth-telling” PM would say
23:20 Julia’s media career and outsider role
30:00 Media bias and clickbait culture
38:38 Extremism, antisemitism and protests
41:36 Julia’s Israel trip and what Britain can learn
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Watch the full uncut interview HERE: https://open.substack.com/pub/thebrinkpodcast/p/i-was-no-friend-of-israel-then-i?r=63dafp&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true
In this episode of The Brink, Andrew and Jake are joined by Claire Fox for a wide-ranging conversation on Britain’s political realignment, the rise of populism, free speech, and the cultural fallout from October 7th.
Fox argues that both Labour and the Conservatives have become increasingly detached from ordinary people, creating the conditions for populist movements to surge across Britain. From Brexit and the financial crash to identity politics and the decline of national pride, we explore why so many voters feel alienated from the political establishment.
The discussion also examines censorship and self-censorship across universities, public institutions, and politics. Fox warns that ideological conformity and fear of social punishment are reshaping public life, while identity politics and multiculturalism have weakened a shared sense of citizenship.
The conversation then turns to the aftermath of October 7th and the rise of anti-Semitism in Britain. Fox reflects on how her own views on Israel changed over time and argues that hostility toward Israel increasingly reflects a deeper crisis within Western societies themselves.
A provocative and timely discussion about Britain’s future, democratic change, and the growing battle over national identity and free speech.
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Watch the full uncut interview HERE: https://open.substack.com/pub/thebrinkpodcast/p/weve-got-to-fight-back-katharine?r=63dafp&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true
In this episode of The Brink, Andrew and Jake are joined by Katharine Birbalsingh to discuss education, culture and the pressing crisis facing young people today.
Their conversation begins with a fundamental question: what is education truly for? She warns that many in the West underestimate the profound impact schools and wider culture have on younger generations’ attitudes and behaviours.
The discussion then shifts to the modern classroom. We explore how schools have become battlegrounds for broader cultural debates, influenced by political activism, ideological sway and evolving curricula. Birbalsingh contends that a shift away from discipline, tradition and moral clarity is having serious consequences for academic standards, behaviour, mental health and social cohesion.
From the influence of smartphones and social media to the decline of parental authority and the rise of online radicalisation, it examines why many young people feel anxious, confused and increasingly detached. Birbalsingh stresses that without strong guidance from schools and families, children are vulnerable to harmful influences.
Finally, the conversation expands to some of Britain’s most contentious issues, including identity, gender, anti-Semitism and integration. Drawing on her experience leading one of the country’s most talked-about schools, Birbalsingh offers a stark warning: unless parents and society take decisive action, these issues will continue to fester.
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In this episode of The Brink, Andrew and Jake are joined by Daniel Hannan for a wide-ranging conversation on freedom, identity, and the political challenges facing Britain today.
The discussion begins with a debate around freedom of worship and the place of Islam in a liberal society. We explore how questions of integration, national security, and cultural confidence are increasingly colliding in modern Britain.
The conversation then turns to the deeper causes behind social division. From economic stagnation to a loss of national identity, we examine why trust in institutions has eroded and how this creates fertile ground for both extremism and political fragmentation.
We also discuss the state of British politics under Keir Starmer, with a sharp critique of what Hannan describes as managerial leadership and a lack of clear direction.
Finally, the conversation widens to the global stage. We examine the impact of Donald Trump on Western alliances, the growing threat posed by Iran, and the risk of nuclear proliferation in an increasingly unstable world.
Watch the full uncut interview HERE: https://open.substack.com/pub/thebrinkpodcast/p/can-the-west-survive-its-own-tolerance?r=63dafp&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true
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Chapters
00:00 Introduction
03:52 Challenges of Integration and National Security
08:40 Historical Parallels and Integration Efforts
18:48 Economic and Social Factors Influencing Extremism
26:29 Keir Starmer's Leadership and Management Style
30:58 The Impact of Trump on Global Conservatism
43:12 The Role of the US in British Foreign Policy
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In this episode of The Brink, Andrew is joined by Lebanese historian and political analyst Makram Rabah for a deep dive into Hezbollah, Iran’s regional influence, and the fragile state of Lebanon.
The conversation explores how Hezbollah has evolved from a militant group into a dominant political and military force within Lebanon, and what that means for the country’s sovereignty. Rabah explains how Hezbollah operates not just as a proxy of Iran, but as a parallel state, shaping institutions, security, and everyday life.
We examine the wider regional picture, from Iran’s strategic ambitions to the role of proxy warfare across the Middle East. Rabah argues that Lebanon has effectively become a frontline in a much larger geopolitical struggle, with consequences that extend far beyond its borders.
The discussion also turns to the internal collapse of Lebanon itself. From economic breakdown to political paralysis, Rabah outlines how corruption, sectarianism, and external influence have hollowed out the state, leaving ordinary citizens to bear the cost.
Finally, we ask what comes next. Is there a path back to sovereignty for Lebanon, or has the balance of power shifted too far? And what does this mean for Israel, the wider region, and the future of Western policy in the Middle East?
A sharp and sobering conversation on power, proxy conflict, and the realities shaping the modern Middle East.
Watch the full uncut interview HERE: https://open.substack.com/pub/thebrinkpodcast/p/hezbollah-is-the-enemy-of-humanity?r=63dafp&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true
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Watch the full and ad-free interview HERE: https://open.substack.com/pub/thebrinkpodcast/p/whos-the-real-winner-air-marshal?r=63dafp&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true
In this episode of The Brink, Andrew and Jake are joined by Air Marshall Edward Stringer, for a timely and wide-ranging conversation on Iran, NATO, and the future of Western power.
We explore the question at the heart of today’s conflicts: who is actually winning? Against the backdrop of rising tensions with Iran and a shifting global order, Stringer challenges the idea that military strikes alone can deliver lasting outcomes, arguing that without a clear political end state, even successful operations risk achieving very little.
The discussion looks at the limits of air power and modern warfare, and why technological superiority is no substitute for coherent strategy. Stringer explains how interventions can shape events in the short term, but cannot create stability on their own, raising serious questions about recent Western actions in the Middle East.
We also examine the state of NATO and Western defence more broadly. Stringer warns that capabilities have declined significantly, with the UK and its allies falling behind in readiness and resilience, even as threats become more immediate and complex.
Finally, the conversation turns to the bigger picture. From Iran and global energy security to the role of allies and so-called middle powers, this episode asks whether the West is entering a period of strategic drift and what it would take to reverse that trajectory.
A clear-eyed and thought-provoking discussion on war, power, and the future of the West.
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Chapters
00:00 Introduction
02:36 Stringer’s Military Background & Experience
05:04 The Libya Campaign Explained
07:51 Libya: Did Air Power Really Work?
09:00 Why You Can’t “Bomb Your Way To Victory”
15:39 Iran Today: What Does “Success” Look Like?
19:26 Was War With Iran Inevitable?
20:16 Can Air Power Ever Deliver Regime Change?
25:51 Trump’s War Rhetoric & Its Consequences
28:07 Social Media, War & Political Messaging
31:21 The Problem With US Global Leadership
35:49 Has The US Always Controlled NATO?
38:07 Europe’s Military Weakness Explained
40:31 Will Things “Go Back To Normal” After Trump?
41:57 A Fundamental Shift In Global Power
43:26 Has The UK Fallen Behind On Defence?
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In this episode of The Brink, Andrew and Jake discuss modern feminism, anti-Semitism, and the contradictions in contemporary culture with journalist and academic Zoe Strimpel.
Strimpel shares her shocking experience visiting an anti-Semitic art exhibit in Margate, describing the disturbing imagery and rhetoric. She challenges the artist, raising questions about political expression, hate, institutions, and the normalisation of extreme ideas.
The conversation explores how modern feminist movements have evolved and sometimes lost sight of their original aims. Strimpel argues that while feminism has made gains, its contemporary form is entangled with identity politics, victimhood narratives, and ideologies that undermine individual agency and social cohesion. The episode examines how these ideas intersect with attitudes towards Israel, the West, and liberal democracy.
A central theme is the paradox of modern progressive movements: how feminist strands that claim to champion women’s rights can align with ideologies and regimes that oppose them. Strimpel traces a recurring pattern of anti-Semitism within feminist spaces, arguing that this is not new but increasingly visible.
The conversation explores deeper cultural questions, such as the decline of family formation, changing attitudes to relationships and sexuality, and whether modern societies can sustain long-term fulfilment. Strimpel challenges assumptions about power, freedom, and gender, arguing that Western liberalism, despite its flaws, remains the most successful framework for human flourishing, especially for women.
Watch the full uncut interview HERE: https://open.substack.com/pub/thebrinkpodcast/p/why-do-feminists-have-a-problem-with?r=63dafp&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
02:59 Inside the Gallery: “This Was Next Level”
05:21 Nazi Imagery and Blood Libels
07:46 Confronting the Artist and Crowd Intimidation
10:41 Calling the Police and Institutional Failure
13:37 Civil Society Complicity and Cultural Silence
17:55 Why Progressive Women Support Hamas
20:42 Feminism and Jihadism: An Impossible Alliance
21:06 The History of Anti-Semitism in Feminism
23:24 Class, Elites and Anti-Jewish Sentiment
24:17 Why Moral Clarity on Israel Is Rejected
25:00 Identity Politics and the Corruption of Feminism
27:46 Cognitive Dissonance in Western Activism
28:28 The “Problem With Women” in Modern Politics
31:54 Victimhood Culture and Feminist Identity
33:01 Hypocrisy in Modern Feminism
36:55 The Backlash to Good Slut
37:56 Bonnie Blue and the Limits of Liberal Society
40:07 Sexual Freedom vs Social Collapse
41:40 Family, Community and the Future of Society
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Watch the full uncut interview HERE: https://open.substack.com/pub/thebrinkpodcast/p/what-would-thatcher-do-iran-islam?r=63dafp&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true
In this episode of The Brink, we sit down with Charles Moore, former editor of The Daily Telegraph and The Spectator, and the definitive biographer of Margaret Thatcher, to examine a West in crisis.
With geopolitical tensions rising, the transatlantic alliance under strain, and Britain facing deep internal divisions, Moore offers a sweeping diagnosis of where things have gone wrong and what might come next.
The conversation begins with one of the most difficult and urgent questions facing Europe today: how Islam fits within Western societies. Moore reflects on decades of thought on the subject, arguing that the challenge is not simply demographic, but philosophical, rooted in unresolved tensions between religion, state, and pluralism. From integration and extremism to the failures of government policy, he lays out why current approaches may be empowering the wrong voices.
We then turn to British politics, where the collapse of trust in the main parties has given rise to insurgent movements on both left and right. Moore explains why this fragmentation is both understandable and dangerous, and why populist parties often diagnose problems better than they solve them.
The discussion also explores the weakening of the transatlantic relationship in the age of Trump, the rise of ideological extremes in American politics, and the growing confusion in the information age, where truth, propaganda, and narrative increasingly blur together.
This is a wide-ranging and deeply thought-provoking conversation about identity, leadership, and the future of the West.
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Chapters
00:00 Introduction
01:42 Why the Public No Longer Believes the Establishment
03:58 The Rise of Ideology Over Evidence
06:12 How Elite Institutions Became Politicised
08:47 The Media’s Role in Shaping Public Narrative
11:05 Truth vs Narrative: What Changed?
13:26 Social Media, Censorship and Information Control
15:52 The Expert Class and the Illusion of Authority
18:34 Covid, Groupthink and Institutional Failure
21:06 The Incentives That Drive Bad Decisions
23:41 Why Dissent Is Shut Down
26:12 Identity Politics and Institutional Capture
29:05 How Bureaucracies Protect Themselves
32:18 Political Leadership and Failure of Accountability
35:44 The Consequences for Democracy
39:12 Immigration, Culture and Social Fragmentation
42:36 Economic Stagnation and Policy Failure
46:18 Britain vs the United States: A Growing Divide
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Watch the full uncut interview HERE: https://open.substack.com/pub/thebrinkpodcast/p/you-cant-even-debate-this-uks-islamism?r=63dafp&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true
In this episode of The Brink, Andrew and Jake are joined by former British diplomat and intelligence expert John Jenkins for a deep dive into the influence of Islamism, the Muslim Brotherhood, and the growing challenges facing Britain and the West.
The conversation begins with the controversy surrounding public religious displays in Britain, and whether questions around cultural dominance and the use of public space can still be debated openly. Jenkins argues that these are legitimate issues, but increasingly difficult to discuss without accusations shutting down the conversation.
Drawing on his 2015 government review, he explains how Islamism differs from Islam, and why movements like the Muslim Brotherhood present a long-term ideological challenge to Western liberal democracies. The discussion explores how these ideas operate not just politically, but through social networks, charities, universities, and community structures.
The episode also examines the concept of “creeping influence” within public life, from changing social norms to the role of identity and integration in Britain. Jenkins stresses that the problem is not simple or singular, but part of a broader ideological ecosystem that interacts with wider cultural and economic factors.
Turning to foreign policy, the conversation shifts to Iran, with Jenkins arguing that Western governments have consistently misunderstood the nature of the regime. He critiques decades of policy shaped by wishful thinking, warning that Iran operates as a revolutionary state with global ambitions and deep links to militant networks.
Finally, the discussion focuses on what Britain should do next. Jenkins outlines a clear approach: restore open debate, follow the money behind extremist networks, rebuild institutional expertise, and confront subversive activity before it escalates into violence.
A wide-ranging and provocative conversation about ideology, security, and the future of the West.
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Chapters
00:00 Introduction
02:49 Who Is Sir John Jenkins? Background and Experience
03:26 Is Public Religious Display a Political Signal?
05:21 Why Islamism Challenges Western Liberal Democracy
07:48 Islam as Religion vs Islamism as Political System
08:59 Can Islam Be Compatible With Western Democracy?
12:01 Islamism as a Totalising Ideology
14:41 The Muslim Brotherhood’s Long-Term Strategy
17:33 Why Debate on Islamism Is Being Shut Down
18:50 Social Media, Intimidation and Closed Debate
19:34 Universities, DEI and Ideological Monoculture
21:33 The Muslim Brotherhood as a Global Network
24:20 Follow the Money: Financing Islamist Movements
27:52 Integration, Identity and Segregation in Britain
30:17 Economic Growth vs Cultural Fragmentation
31:04 Mosques, Preaching and Inflammatory Rhetoric
33:03 The Rise of a Global Muslim Identity
34:40 Iran Strategy: Where the West Got It Wrong
36:45 The Nuclear Deal, Wishful Thinking and Reality
40:41 Foreign Office Failures and Loss of Expertise
42:29 Is Iran a Revolutionary State and Active Threat?
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In this episode of The Brink, we are joined by Lionel Shriver for a wide-ranging conversation anchored in the results of the Gorton and Denton by-election and what they reveal about the changing political landscape in Britain.
Using the by-election as a starting point, we explore how immigration, identity politics, and cultural division are reshaping British politics. Lionel reflects on the growing disconnect between political elites and the public, and why questions around national identity, integration, and social cohesion are increasingly dominating the political conversation.
The discussion also turns to the wider cultural climate in the West. We examine the pressures shaping public debate, the influence of identity politics in media and institutions, and why many writers and public figures now feel constrained in what they can say openly. Lionel explains why she believes a culture of self-censorship has taken hold and how this affects journalism, literature, and democratic discourse.
Finally, we ask what the future holds for Western societies as these tensions deepen. Are we witnessing a political realignment driven by cultural issues, and what does that mean for the stability of democratic institutions?
This is a candid and thought-provoking conversation about politics, culture, and the forces now reshaping Britain and the wider West.
Watch the full uncut interview HERE: https://open.substack.com/pub/thebrinkpodcast/p/sectarian-muslim-voting-is-changing?r=63dafp&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true
Don't forget to check out our merch store: https://www.thebrinkmerch.com/
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
03:22 Reaction to the Gorton & Denton By-Election
05:37 Immigration, Demographics and Political Power
07:08 Tribal Voting and the Breakdown of Assimilation
08:16 Identity Politics and the Green Party Alliance
10:18 Israel, Palestine and Progressive Politics
10:58 Who Is Manipulating Whom? Greens vs Muslim Voters
12:32 The Muslim Brotherhood and Political Strategy
15:22 Is Islam Compatible With Liberal Democracy?
18:38 Historical Parallels: Lessons from the Iranian Revolution
20:15 Lionel Shriver’s Novel A Better Life and Immigration
24:20 Borders, Nationhood and the Ideological Divide
26:32 Immigration as “Home Invasion” — The Novel’s Metaphor
27:26 Old Immigration vs Modern Immigration
31:14 Choosing the Right Immigration Policy
36:23 Disorder, Gang Culture and Failed Integration
37:12 Meet the Characters: Gloria and Progressive Compassion
39:16 Nico and the Collapse of the Work Ethic
43:41 Domingo, Masculinity and Cultural Conflict
48:29 The Decline of Western Work Ethic
51:03 Is There a Sensible Middle Ground on Immigration?
54:40 The Crisis of Western Identity
56:13 Civilisations in Decline and Cultural Self-Hatred
59:19 Complacency, Fragility and the Future of the West
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In this bonus episode of The Brink, recorded in Kyiv, Andrew and Jake speak with American photojournalist Christopher Occhicone, who has spent years documenting the war in Ukraine from the front line.
Chris explains what it is like to report from the battlefield with nothing but a camera, capturing the brutal realities of trench warfare, drone attacks, and the human cost of the conflict. Having worked closely with Ukrainian soldiers, medics, and civilians since 2014, he reflects on the desperation faced by those fighting and living through the war, and the difficulty of communicating that reality to audiences in the West.
The conversation explores what many Europeans and Americans still fail to grasp about the conflict, from the psychological toll on Ukrainian society to the stark difference between watching war on a screen and experiencing it firsthand. Chris also shares how his work has evolved beyond journalism, helping wounded soldiers access treatment and prosthetics while continuing to document the stories of those caught in the conflict.
Finally, he reflects on the personal motivations that brought him to Ukraine in the first place, including a desire to understand the wartime experiences of his grandfather and the powerful bonds formed among people facing danger together.
This is a raw and deeply personal conversation from the heart of a country still fighting for its survival.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this episode of The Brink, we are joined by Richard Dearlove, former Chief of the Secret Intelligence Service, for a wide-ranging conversation about intelligence, geopolitics, and the mounting confrontation between the West and the Iranian regime.
Sir Richard draws on decades of experience at the heart of Britain’s intelligence community to explain how the current crisis with Iran should be understood. We discuss the strategic calculations behind Western and Israeli actions, how intelligence agencies assess regime stability, and why the Islamic Republic remains such a persistent threat to regional and global security.
The conversation also explores the role of intelligence in modern conflict, from covert operations and alliance cooperation to the limits of diplomacy when dealing with ideological regimes. Sir Richard reflects on how Western intelligence services interpret signals from Tehran, the risks of escalation in the Middle East, and what the conflict could mean for the wider balance of power.
Finally, we look at the long-term future of the Iranian regime and whether internal pressure, economic strain, and external confrontation could ultimately lead to its collapse.
This is a rare and revealing conversation with one of Britain’s most experienced intelligence figures about espionage, statecraft, and the high-stakes struggle now unfolding in the Middle East.
Watch the full uncut interview HERE: https://open.substack.com/pub/thebrinkpodcast/p/mi6-spymaster-reveals-the-shadow?r=63dafp&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true
Don't forget to check out our merch store: https://www.thebrinkmerch.com/
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In this episode of The Brink, we are joined by military analyst and former Royal Navy officer Tom Sharpe to examine Britain’s response to the escalating crisis in the Middle East and the deeper problems facing the UK’s armed forces.
We begin by looking at the current military situation around Iran and the Strait of Hormuz, including the role of naval deployments, missile threats, and the strategic importance of keeping global shipping lanes open. Tom explains why the UK’s naval presence matters in this kind of conflict and what capabilities British forces could realistically contribute alongside the United States.
The conversation then turns to a wider critique of Britain’s defence posture. From delays in deploying ships to chronic shortages of equipment and personnel, we explore how decades of decline have left the Royal Navy and wider armed forces stretched dangerously thin. Tom also breaks down the failures in defence procurement, the waste within the system, and why Britain struggles to translate a large defence budget into real military capability.
Finally, we discuss the strategic choices facing the UK. Should Britain focus on European security and the Russian threat, or continue playing a global role alongside the United States in regions like the Middle East? And what would it actually take to rebuild a military capable of meeting the challenges of an increasingly unstable world?
This is a candid and sobering discussion about Britain’s military decline, the realities of modern warfare, and the urgent reforms needed if the UK is to remain a credible power.
Watch the full uncut interview HERE: https://open.substack.com/pub/thebrinkpodcast/p/what-the-royal-navys-shame-says-about?r=63dafp&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true
Don't forget to check out our merch store: https://www.thebrinkmerch.com/
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- Visa fler
