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Published by Jonny Ball
Veterans In Politics is a set of interviews that sets out to explore how the military community can help make our politics a better place. We sit down with individuals from across the world of politics, sharing secrets, giving tips and advice and inspiring the next generation. Veterans In Politics podcast's mission is to inspire, enable and empower the Armed Forces community to stand up and serve again!
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Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Jez Kent, Mayor of Wrexham and long-time cadet volunteer, sits down with our host Jonny Ball and shares insights into the transformative power of the cadet movement, its strategic importance, and how community engagement shapes local leadership. We explore the impact of cadets on young people's development, community cohesion, and the evolving role of military-related programs in society. key topics The origins of Jez Kent's involvement with cadets Skills gained from cadet participation: leadership, resilience, communication The impact of cadets on young people's development and community cohesion The strategic importance of cadets in national defense and youth engagement Growth of cadet units in schools and their societal benefits Challenges and opportunities in expanding cadet programs in diverse communities The role of local government and policy in supporting cadet initiatives The influence of personal stories and community projects on public perception of cadets The importance of data and research in advocating for cadet programs The political journey of Jez Kent and the importance of reluctant politicians Don't forget to like and subscribe and to leave us a review! Resources Reserve Forces and Cadets Association - https://www.nwrfca.org.uk/ University of Northampton Study on Cadets - https://www.northampton.ac.uk/research/cadet-impact-study Wrexham Council - https://www.wrexham.gov.uk/ Guest links LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jez-kent/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/jez_kent Support the show ✅ Support The Show Help Us Grow! Help us reach more veterans by donating the cost of a cup of coffee today... 💳A small donation helps us pay our publishing fees & expenses and enables us to reach even more people by creating the content you love! You can do this for just a few pounds (or contact us about becoming a sponsor by emailing jonny@greatcampaigns.co.uk) Easy ways now are here: PAYPAL👉https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/ZKMAHSTCH2RNJ REGULAR GIVING 👉https://www.buzzsprout.com/1394725/support
Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Jonny Ball interviews Alistair Carns about his journey from military service to politics, the importance of service, and how veterans can shape society. They explore themes of leadership, resilience, and the power of community engagement. This is an episode not to be missed, and is one we have been asked about the most to produce! Big thanks to the support of Culbert Ellis for supporting the show. key topics Alistair Carns' military career and transition to politics The importance of service and community engagement Challenges faced by veterans and how to address them The role of veterans in shaping society and public life Invictus Games Birmingham 2027 and veteran integration Leadership lessons from military and political experience About our episode supporter: C ulbert Ellis is a boutique firm of London and Cambridge solicitors built around respected specialists and is a proud supporter of the Armed Forces Covenant and the UK Afghanistan Veterans Community. Founded by a Reservist , Culbert Ellis advises businesses on corporate transactions, commercial and tech/IP matters, employment, disputes/litigation as well as property and media work. Their Value Proposition is simple: Experienced lawyers 'in the room' when it matters the most. For more info: https://www.culbertellis.com/ Support the show ✅ Support The Show Help Us Grow! Help us reach more veterans by donating the cost of a cup of coffee today... 💳A small donation helps us pay our publishing fees & expenses and enables us to reach even more people by creating the content you love! You can do this for just a few pounds (or contact us about becoming a sponsor by emailing jonny@greatcampaigns.co.uk) Easy ways now are here: PAYPAL👉https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/ZKMAHSTCH2RNJ REGULAR GIVING 👉https://www.buzzsprout.com/1394725/support
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Veterans In Politics Podcast, Jonny Ball is joined by Major General Neil Marshall OBE , Chief Executive of the Forces Pension Society on their 80th Birthday , for a wide-ranging conversation about one of the most important — and often misunderstood — parts of military life: the Armed Forces pension. What does your pension really mean? How have recent changes affected serving personnel, veterans and those who have already left the military? And what should people be thinking about when planning their transition into civilian life? Neil brings his experience at the Forces Pension Society to a conversation designed to cut through the complexity and explain what service personnel and veterans need to know about their pension and how he goes about engaging with government. For more information on the Forces Pension Society, check out their website here https://forcespensionsociety.org/ Pensions can feel complicated, technical and a long way off — particularly when you're in the middle of a military career. But decisions made during service can have significant consequences later. This episode is an opportunity to understand the bigger picture, hear directly from one of the leading voices in the pensions debate and get a clearer sense of what veterans and serving personnel should be thinking about. About Major General Neil Marshall OBE Major General Neil Marshall OBE is the Chief Executive of the Forces Pension Society , a not-for-profit organisation representing and supporting members of the Armed Forces community on pension matters. He has led the Society since 2019 and has been closely involved in its work on AFPS 15, the McCloud Remedy, pension taxation and wider Armed Forces pension policy. Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review and share the episode with a veteran, service person or military family who might benefit from it. Support the show ✅ Support The Show Help Us Grow! Help us reach more veterans by donating the cost of a cup of coffee today... 💳A small donation helps us pay our publishing fees & expenses and enables us to reach even more people by creating the content you love! You can do this for just a few pounds (or contact us about becoming a sponsor by emailing jonny@greatcampaigns.co.uk) Easy ways now are here: PAYPAL👉https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/ZKMAHSTCH2RNJ REGULAR GIVING 👉https://www.buzzsprout.com/1394725/support
Send us Fan Mail Jonny Ball speaks with his former government colleague Derek Plews about a career that moved from journalism in Northern Ireland to reservist service, civil service communications, and senior defence media roles. The conversation explores how employer support shapes reservist life, why Defence Relationship Management was created, and why storytelling matters for veterans and the public record. Derek also discusses his book, Shamrock Among the Poppies , and the importance of preserving soldiers’ experiences in their own words. You can buy his book here: https://www.helion.co.uk/military-history-books/shamrocks-among-the-poppies-musa-qaleh-2006-a-bloody-siege-and-the-failures-behind-it.php The episode covers Derek’s time working with high-profile political figures including Michael Portillo, John Prescott, and Geoff Hoon, and what it is like to stay politically neutral while operating close to power. He reflects on the communications challenge around Afghanistan, especially the gap between official messaging and conditions on the ground in Helmand. Derek and Jonny discuss the growing influence of veterans in politics, including serving reservists and ex-servicemen bringing lived experience into Westminster. The conversation turns to the Armed Forces Covenant, employer recognition, and the practical case for industry to support reservists and cadet volunteers. Finally, Derek explains why he wrote Shamrock Among the Poppies : to tell the story of the siege of Musa Qala through the eyes of soldiers, NCOs, and junior ranks rather than just officers. He closes by stressing the importance of storytelling, mental health awareness, and preserving the historical record before memories are lost. Support the show ✅ Support The Show Help Us Grow! Help us reach more veterans by donating the cost of a cup of coffee today... 💳A small donation helps us pay our publishing fees & expenses and enables us to reach even more people by creating the content you love! You can do this for just a few pounds (or contact us about becoming a sponsor by emailing jonny@greatcampaigns.co.uk) Easy ways now are here: PAYPAL👉https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/ZKMAHSTCH2RNJ REGULAR GIVING 👉https://www.buzzsprout.com/1394725/support
Send us Fan Mail Jonny Ball welcomes Minister for Veterans & People at the UK Ministry of Defence, Calvin Bailey MBE MP. We talk about his growing up in South East London, what inspired him to join the RAF, and the power of football communities with the Armed Forces. This was recorded exclusively for Veterans In Politics. We also pay tribute to Operation Pitting, as we hit the 5 year anniversary of the withdrawal from Kabul, Afghanistan, where as a pilot, Calvin played a vital role. This episode is dedicated to all those who served and the civilians impacted by conflict. Calvin is the Labour MP for Leyton and Wanstead, elected on the 5th of July 2024. Born in Zambia, Calvin’s family moved to London, settling in Plumstead. Growing up in south-east London as a young Black man, he faced far-right violence and was deeply affected by the tragic murder of Stephen Lawrence, the older brother of his close friend Stuart. This event profoundly influenced Calvin’s politics and desire to serve the community. Calvin graduated with a Master of Engineering from the University of Exeter in 1999 and later completed a Master of Arts in War Studies at King's College London in 2017. Calvin spent over 24-years in the Royal Air Force, rising to the rank of Wing Commander. During his military service, he led humanitarian efforts and operations in conflict zones. He was awarded an MBE for his support of relief operations in Haiti and the Philippines. He also proudly led critical missions, including commanding the UK's largest deployed Air Wing during the COVID-19 pandemic and overseeing the evacuation of 14,000 people from Kabul during Operation Pitting where he made the critical decision to double the number of passengers taken per flight, recognising that the risk of overloading the aircraft was outweighed by the risk to the lives of those who would have been left behind. Calvin became a junior minister in Keir Starmer's government when he was appointed Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Veterans and People on 12 June 2026. A role he kept during the Burnham reshuffle. See more here: https://www.calvinbailey.co.uk/ Support the show ✅ Support The Show Help Us Grow! Help us reach more veterans by donating the cost of a cup of coffee today... 💳A small donation helps us pay our publishing fees & expenses and enables us to reach even more people by creating the content you love! You can do this for just a few pounds (or contact us about becoming a sponsor by emailing jonny@greatcampaigns.co.uk) Easy ways now are here: PAYPAL👉https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/ZKMAHSTCH2RNJ REGULAR GIVING 👉https://www.buzzsprout.com/1394725/support
Send us Fan Mail This week Jonny Ball chats to former Royal Marine David Reed MP, who started his political journey listening to this podcast! David is the Conservative Member of Parliament for Exmouth & Exeter East. He serves on the opposition front bench as Shadow Defence Whip, is a member of the International Development Committee, and Vice Chair of the APPG for Foreign Affairs. David began his career in the Royal Marines and Special Forces Support Group, serving in multiple conflict zones over seven years. He was also part of the Royal Navy Parachute Display Team and was selected for the Team GB Wingsuit Skydiving Squad. After leaving the military, he earned a First-Class degree in Business and a Master’s in International Security. Before entering Parliament in 2024, David led major cyberspace development portfolios across the public and private sectors, co-founded a software engineering company, and held a senior role at BAE Systems Digital Intelligence. To find out more about him check out his website here: https://www.davidreed.uk/ Support the show ✅ Support The Show Help Us Grow! Help us reach more veterans by donating the cost of a cup of coffee today... 💳A small donation helps us pay our publishing fees & expenses and enables us to reach even more people by creating the content you love! You can do this for just a few pounds (or contact us about becoming a sponsor by emailing jonny@greatcampaigns.co.uk) Easy ways now are here: PAYPAL👉https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/ZKMAHSTCH2RNJ REGULAR GIVING 👉https://www.buzzsprout.com/1394725/support
Send us Fan Mail This week, our host Jonny Ball catches up with an old friend, Dr Neil Shastri Hurst MP, who came on the show under very different circumstances in a previous season! *Warning- we cover the subject of suicide in this episode. Details on how you can find help are below. Neil was elected as the Member of Parliament for Solihull West and Shirley in July 2024. Born and raised in South Birmingham, Neil knows the values that make our community strong – hard work, compassion, and a deep sense of service to others. His parents both worked for the NHS – his mother a nurse, his father a GP – caring for families across our region. Their example of compassion, duty, and public service shaped his values from an early age. Following in their footsteps, Neil trained as a doctor and went on to serve in the British Army as a Medical Officer, supporting our Armed Forces both at home and overseas. After leaving the Army, Neil joined the NHS working at a number of hospitals across the West Midlands. His final medical post was with the Major Trauma Service at University Hospitals Birmingham, one of the most advanced trauma centres in the country, delivering world-class care for patients across our region, including here in Solihull West & Shirley. When a medical condition ended his surgical career, Neil retrained as a barrister, specialising in healthcare law. It was this blend of frontline experience – as a soldier, a surgeon, and a lawyer – that drove Neil to seek public office. He has seen first-hand the impact government and national policy can have on people’s lives – and he wanted to bring real-world experience to Westminster to shape that impact for the better. He believes that public service is about standing up for what is right – whether that is fighting for better local services, supporting those who serve our country, or ensuring that the next generation has the opportunities it deserves. Neil’s priority is simple: to listen, to serve, and to deliver for our community. He brings with him a commitment to integrity, service, and putting people first. As your Member of Parliament, Neil will always stand up for Solihull West & Shirley – and for the country he is proud to serve. call 116 123 to talk to Samaritans https://www.thecalmzone.net/get-support https://giveusashout.org/ https://www.gov.uk/guidance/managing-your-mental-health-as-a-veteran To sign up to Neil's Resilience Report find the link here: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/the-resilience-report-7386717617627242497/ Support the show ✅ Support The Show Help Us Grow! Help us reach more veterans by donating the cost of a cup of coffee today... 💳A small donation helps us pay our publishing fees & expenses and enables us to reach even more people by creating the content you love! You can do this for just a few pounds (or contact us about becoming a sponsor by emailing jonny@greatcampaigns.co.uk) Easy ways now are here: PAYPAL👉https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/ZKMAHSTCH2RNJ REGULAR GIVING 👉https://www.buzzsprout.com/1394725/support
Send us Fan Mail In this episode Jonny Ball meets Royal Navy Veteran Andrew Bowie MP. Andrew grew up in Aberdeenshire spending the first years of his life in Alford, a village within the constituency of West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine. Andrew moved at a young age to the town of Inverurie. Upon leaving school Andrew joined the Royal Navy in which he served as an officer for 3 years, a career that took him around the world to Brazil, Bahrain, Gibraltar and The Falklands. His duties back home included work for the ceremonial events commemoration team. Following this Andrew returned to the North East, studying politics and history at the University of Aberdeen. Andrew began his political career in 2014 when he became the Conservative campaign manager for the North of Scotland, organising the 2014 European Election, the Scottish Independence Referendum and 2015 General Election. Andrew then worked for Conservative MEP Ian Duncan as his Parliamentary Assistant and Rural Affairs Policy Adviser. Andrew was recruited by Liam Kerr MSP following his election to the Scottish Parliament in 2016 where he was Head of Office based in the Scottish Parliament. In 2017 Andrew was selected as the Conservative and Unionist candidate for West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine. Andrew was elected with a total of 24,704 votes, a majority of 7,949. Andrew became the first Conservative MP for West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine since its creation in 1997. Since June 2017 Andrew has represented the people of West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine as their Member of Parliament in Westminster. In March 2018 he became the first new Scottish MP and the first of the 2017 intake, to be promoted when he was appointed as the Parliamentary Private Secretary to the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport. In January 2019 Andrew was promoted to Parliamentary Private Secretary to the Prime Minister. In August 2019 Andrew was appointed Vice Chair of the Conservative Party, covering the Union and Youth within the party. Following a snap election in December 2019 Andrew was re-elected by the residents of West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine to represent them once again and was again re-elected in July 2024. Andrew was appointed Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Exports in October 2022 until February 2023. That month he was appointed Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State in the new Department for Energy Security and Net Zero. Following the election on the 4th July 2024 Andrew was appointed Shadow Minister for Veterans and Shadow Minister for Energy. Since the election of Kemi Badenoch as Leader of the Conservative Party Andrew has served as Shadow Secretary of State for Scotland and Shadow Minister for Energy. There are many way to support our show, including leaving a review or subscribing, becoming a sponsor, or you can give via the links below. This podcast is produced by The Great Campaigns Company Ltd- delivering great campaigns for great people. Support the show ✅ Support The Show Help Us Grow! Help us reach more veterans by donating the cost of a cup of coffee today... 💳A small donation helps us pay our publishing fees & expenses and enables us to reach even more people by creating the content you love! You can do this for just a few pounds (or contact us about becoming a sponsor by emailing jonny@greatcampaigns.co.uk) Easy ways now are here: PAYPAL👉https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/ZKMAHSTCH2RNJ REGULAR GIVING 👉https://www.buzzsprout.com/1394725/support
Send us Fan Mail Note- this was recorded prior to Danny's resignation . Danny Kinahan, is the first Veterans Commissioner for Northern Ireland and was appointed to this role by the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland in September 2020, as a result of the New Decade New Approach political agreement. He's a former Army officer, MLA and Member of Parliament. In this episode, our host Jonny Ball quizzes him about his military, civilian and political career as well as the role of Veterans' Commissioner. Danny's Key priorities: Ensuring the interests of veterans and their families are championed at all levels. Remembering, celebrating and promoting the contribution veterans have and continue to make to society. Ensuring that every veteran and their family living in Northern Ireland know where to turn, to access support, assistance or advice if they need it. Developing policy and improved services, in collaboration with government (both locally and across the UK) and other relevant organisations, to enhance veterans’ daily experiences. For more information, check out his website here: https://www.nivco.co.uk/about-the-ni-veterans-commissioner/ Dont forget to share with a friend, rate and leave a review. Support the show ✅ Support The Show Help Us Grow! Help us reach more veterans by donating the cost of a cup of coffee today... 💳A small donation helps us pay our publishing fees & expenses and enables us to reach even more people by creating the content you love! You can do this for just a few pounds (or contact us about becoming a sponsor by emailing jonny@greatcampaigns.co.uk) Easy ways now are here: PAYPAL👉https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/ZKMAHSTCH2RNJ REGULAR GIVING 👉https://www.buzzsprout.com/1394725/support
Send us Fan Mail Colonel (Retd) James Phillips is the first veterans commissioner for Wales. James, who lives in Pembrokeshire, left the Army after serving 33 years, including in Iraq, Afghanistan, Northern Ireland and the Balkans. He believes Wales has a "long tradition of service and sacrifice". His appointment means Wales joins Northern Ireland and Scotland in having a dedicated commissioner, though at the time of the recording, England is yet to appoint. This was recorded before the General Election and we thank James for his patience. We had to delay due to the restrictions placed on appointed persons like James, but as you will hear, it was an amazing chat. We cover his lengthy military career as well as what a commissioner's role is. Don't forget to listen to our host Jonny's 3 key takeaways at the end! Huge thanks to Bags at Bare Arms Support to Film & TV for the lend of the studio. For more on their work, see here: Bare Arms – Military Advisers to the Theatrical Industries – Film, TV, Theatre, Games Support the show ✅ Support The Show Help Us Grow! Help us reach more veterans by donating the cost of a cup of coffee today... 💳A small donation helps us pay our publishing fees & expenses and enables us to reach even more people by creating the content you love! You can do this for just a few pounds (or contact us about becoming a sponsor by emailing jonny@greatcampaigns.co.uk) Easy ways now are here: PAYPAL👉https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/ZKMAHSTCH2RNJ REGULAR GIVING 👉https://www.buzzsprout.com/1394725/support
Send us Fan Mail Daniel McBirnie is a Saffron Walden councillor and resident. He has fought developers and won concessions for local people and is a former Army Lieutenant Colonel who’s provided MoD briefings to the government on Covid and Mental Health. Daniel began his military career at the Army's 6th Form College, Welbeck, which is sadly no longer open. He went on to a full career in the Royal Logistics Corps' serving as an Ammunition Technical Officer (ATO) which is more colloquially known as 'Bomb Disposal.' We talk Afghanistan, his journey into a demanding and highly pressurised role, as well as his transition into business and local politics. During the episode we touch on the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme and Armed Forces Covenant which he advocates. This is administered by MOD's Defence Relationship Management, and you can find out more about them here: Defence Relationship Management - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) Don't forget to like, rate and follow the show! Support the show ✅ Support The Show Help Us Grow! Help us reach more veterans by donating the cost of a cup of coffee today... 💳A small donation helps us pay our publishing fees & expenses and enables us to reach even more people by creating the content you love! You can do this for just a few pounds (or contact us about becoming a sponsor by emailing jonny@greatcampaigns.co.uk) Easy ways now are here: PAYPAL👉https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/ZKMAHSTCH2RNJ REGULAR GIVING 👉https://www.buzzsprout.com/1394725/support
Send us Fan Mail Hailing from the West of Ireland, Rich’s vibrant childhood was filled with sports and weekend fun with his grandparents. After an ankle injury and subsequent loss of his left leg due to sepsis, Rich found a new path in athletics and indoor rowing. His resilience shone at the 2023 Invictus Games, where he claimed gold in the 100m, silver in table tennis, and bronze in the relay. And this is where our host Jonny Ball met him, on the same team for the UK. In their side bar conversations over Invictus, they soon learnt that they had politics in common too, so it's a delight to be able to share this side of his story. Moreover, it's a chance to talk about Rich's next challenge: The Limbitless Expedition: Conquering the Full Snowman Trek! He is doing this alongside another one of our team mates, Rich 'Dickie' Davies. To support their exped in support of amazing military charities go to their page here: https://www.justgiving.com/page/rich-potter-1707920143406 And please share with a friend! Good luck boys! Support the show ✅ Support The Show Help Us Grow! Help us reach more veterans by donating the cost of a cup of coffee today... 💳A small donation helps us pay our publishing fees & expenses and enables us to reach even more people by creating the content you love! You can do this for just a few pounds (or contact us about becoming a sponsor by emailing jonny@greatcampaigns.co.uk) Easy ways now are here: PAYPAL👉https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/ZKMAHSTCH2RNJ REGULAR GIVING 👉https://www.buzzsprout.com/1394725/support
Send us Fan Mail We return this week during Season 10 of the podcast to the Conservative Leadership race with former Secretary of State, Rt Hon James Cleverly MP. Our host Jonny Ball first met James back in the Noughties when they were both active in London Party Politics. Since then, James has gone on to great things, but in this episode, Jonny recalls an early moment from a Party Conference in 2008, to demonstrate perhaps that James hasn't really changed that much! Alongside a busy political career, James has also served as an Army Reservist in the Royal Artillery. James Cleverly was Secretary of State for the Home Department between 13 November 2023 and 5 July 2024. He was previously Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs between 6 September 2022 and 13 November 2023. He was Secretary of State for Education from July 2022 to September 2022. Before that, James was Minister of State for Europe and North America in the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) from February to July 2022. He was also Minister for Middle East, North Africa and North America from September 2020 to February 2022. James was first appointed as a joint Minister of State for Middle East and North Africa in the Foreign & Commonwealth Office and the Department for International Development on 13 February 2020. James was Minister without Portfolio from July 2019 to February 2020, and Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Department for Exiting the European Union from April 2019 to July 2019. He was first elected as the Conservative MP for Braintree in May 2015. To follow James's journey, see here: Homepage | Rt Hon James Cleverly (cleverly4braintree.com) Support the show ✅ Support The Show Help Us Grow! Help us reach more veterans by donating the cost of a cup of coffee today... 💳A small donation helps us pay our publishing fees & expenses and enables us to reach even more people by creating the content you love! You can do this for just a few pounds (or contact us about becoming a sponsor by emailing jonny@greatcampaigns.co.uk) Easy ways now are here: PAYPAL👉https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/ZKMAHSTCH2RNJ REGULAR GIVING 👉https://www.buzzsprout.com/1394725/support
Send us Fan Mail We kick off season 10 of the Veterans In Politics Podcast with Conservative Leadership hopeful, Tom Tugendhat! This is a fantastic start to the season, and you wont be surprised to learn that our host Jonny and Tom (whom share the same cap badge from their time in the army) talk about leadership... a lot! Tom was Minister of State (Minister for Security) between 6 September 2022 and 5 July 2024 and attended cabinet. He previously served as the Chair of the Foreign Affairs Select Committee from 2017 to 2022 and was first elected the MP for Tonbridge and Malling in 2015. Before being elected as an MP, Tom served on operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. He also worked for the Foreign Office, helping to set up the National Security Council of Afghanistan and the government in Helmand Province. On returning to the UK, Tom served as the military assistant and principal adviser to the Chief of the Defence Staff to the British Army, Lord Richards, and we talk about how he has inspired his leadership style in politics. Tom studied Theology at the University of Bristol, followed by a Master’s degree in Islamic studies at Cambridge University, which included learning Arabic in Yemen. After graduating, Tom worked in Beirut as a journalist, and soon after established one of Lebanon’s first public relations companies. On his return to the UK, Tom joined the Territorial Army. When the Iraq War broke out in 2003, he was mobilised as an Arabic-speaking intelligence officer to serve with the Royal Marines. In 2005, Tom was asked by the Foreign Office to travel to Afghanistan to establish the National Security Council. After two years in Afghanistan and a brief return to the UK, Tom was mobilised and served operationally for a further two years with the Royal Marines, for which he received an MBE, coming off his last patrol in July 2009. Tom went on to work on the Army Strategy Team helping to prepare for the Strategic Defence and Security Review. He later served as the Chief of the Defence Staff’s military assistant and principal adviser. He remains an Army Reserve officer. For more on Tom, see here: https://www.tomtugendhat.org/aboutom Support the show ✅ Support The Show Help Us Grow! Help us reach more veterans by donating the cost of a cup of coffee today... 💳A small donation helps us pay our publishing fees & expenses and enables us to reach even more people by creating the content you love! You can do this for just a few pounds (or contact us about becoming a sponsor by emailing jonny@greatcampaigns.co.uk) Easy ways now are here: PAYPAL👉https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/ZKMAHSTCH2RNJ REGULAR GIVING 👉https://www.buzzsprout.com/1394725/support
Send us Fan Mail Support the show ✅ Support The Show Help Us Grow! Help us reach more veterans by donating the cost of a cup of coffee today... 💳A small donation helps us pay our publishing fees & expenses and enables us to reach even more people by creating the content you love! You can do this for just a few pounds (or contact us about becoming a sponsor by emailing jonny@greatcampaigns.co.uk) Easy ways now are here: PAYPAL👉https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/ZKMAHSTCH2RNJ REGULAR GIVING 👉https://www.buzzsprout.com/1394725/support
Send us Fan Mail Jim was first elected to Ards Borough Council in 1985 and served as Mayor in 1991/92. He was elected as a member of the Northern Ireland Forum for Political Dialogue in 1996 until it completed its work in 1998. He was then subsequently elected to the Northern Ireland Assembly representing Strangford. Within the NI Assembly Jim served on both the Public Accounts Committee and Agriculture Committee. He was re-elected in both 2003 and 2007, stepping down from the NI Assembly in 2010. Jim was elected to Parliament at the General Election of 2010 where he received nearly 15,000 votes, with the next closest unionist receiving just over 9,000. He was again re-elected in 2015, 2017 and 2019. Jim is currently the DUP spokesperson on Health and Human Rights. He is also a member of the Ecclesiastical (Joint) Committee. In this episode we talk about his faith, his principles, his love of Leicester City FC and his service in the Armed Forces. Support the show ✅ Support The Show Help Us Grow! Help us reach more veterans by donating the cost of a cup of coffee today... 💳A small donation helps us pay our publishing fees & expenses and enables us to reach even more people by creating the content you love! You can do this for just a few pounds (or contact us about becoming a sponsor by emailing jonny@greatcampaigns.co.uk) Easy ways now are here: PAYPAL👉https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/ZKMAHSTCH2RNJ REGULAR GIVING 👉https://www.buzzsprout.com/1394725/support
Send us Fan Mail This week we are back with our 'Behind the Politics' segment, speaking to those behind the scenes, turning our attention to the world of journalism. Our guest is from The University of Northampton, Kate Ironside. Kate is a former political journalist, with 26 years experience in industry. She worked for the Reading Evening Post, Central Press, the Daily Express, Western Morning News and BBC Westminster. She spent two years reporting local government, 13 years at Westminster and 17 years writing an award-winning column on the European Union. Today she combines teaching, with regular contributions to the BBC, commentating on national politics. Kate sits on the executive board of the Broadcast Journalism Training Council, which accredits our journalism courses, and organised the nationwide reporting of the general election results by BJTC students across the UK in 2015, 2017 and 2019. Kate teaches public affairs, law, media regulation and practical reporting. She has won awards for her university teaching. She is a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy. Kate’s research centres on public affairs and media regulation. She is the author of Reporting Power, the official textbook on public affairs of the Broadcast Journalism Training Council, now on its third edition. We refer to the amazing work Kate does with students running election counts coverage. You can view the work here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TzttiNQSq4s&feature=youtu.be And to follow Kate on X, find her @IronsideKate Support the show ✅ Support The Show Help Us Grow! Help us reach more veterans by donating the cost of a cup of coffee today... 💳A small donation helps us pay our publishing fees & expenses and enables us to reach even more people by creating the content you love! You can do this for just a few pounds (or contact us about becoming a sponsor by emailing jonny@greatcampaigns.co.uk) Easy ways now are here: PAYPAL👉https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/ZKMAHSTCH2RNJ REGULAR GIVING 👉https://www.buzzsprout.com/1394725/support
Send us Fan Mail Tom Blenkinsop was born in Middlesbrough, brought-up in Marton and graduated from Teesside University with a BSc in Philosophy, Politics and Economics, and the University of Warwick with an MA in Continental philosophy. Tom joined the Army Reserve in 2017 in the Royal Military Police in which he still serves today, and was an MP whilst training to be an RMP, something we explore in this episode. Tom worked as a constituency researcher for Ashok Kumar, Labour MP for Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland, from 2002 to 2008. He became a campaign manager for the Community Trade Union in 2008 and continued in the role until his election to Parliament in 2010. Tom was selected as the Labour candidate for Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland in April 2010, following Ashok Kumar's unexpected death the previous month. He was elected at the May 2010 general election. In his first Parliamentary term, he was a member of the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Select Committee from 2010 to 2012, the Standards and Privileges Committee from 2010 to 2011 and the Treasury Select Committee in 2011. He joined the opposition front bench under the leadership of Ed Miliband, serving as a whip from 2011 to 2015. He was re-elected at the 2015 general election. During his second Parliamentary term, he was a member of the Energy and Climate Change Committee from 2015 to 2016, the Privileges Committee from 2015 to 2017, the Standards Committee from 2015 to 2017, and the Northern Ireland Affairs Committee from 2016 to 2017. After the calling of the 2017 general election, Blenkinsop announced that we would not seek re-election as an MP as he could not campaign for Labour whilst Corbyn served as party leader. Again, this is something we discuss at length in the podcast. Blenkinsop returned to the Community union as a London-based project manager after leaving Parliament, and became a public affairs advisor for the Federation of Small Business in 2020. We thank Tom for sharing his story with us! Support the show ✅ Support The Show Help Us Grow! Help us reach more veterans by donating the cost of a cup of coffee today... 💳A small donation helps us pay our publishing fees & expenses and enables us to reach even more people by creating the content you love! You can do this for just a few pounds (or contact us about becoming a sponsor by emailing jonny@greatcampaigns.co.uk) Easy ways now are here: PAYPAL👉https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/ZKMAHSTCH2RNJ REGULAR GIVING 👉https://www.buzzsprout.com/1394725/support
Send us Fan Mail About this week's guest: Dr. Sebastian Gorka is a Talk Show Host on the Salem Radio Network Platform, and began his show AMERICA FIRST on New Years Day, 2019. With parents who had lived as children under fascism and then escaped Communist Hungary, Sebastian was raised to love freedom. And his love of talk-radio developed early. As a child he would listen late into the night to the shows of the London Broadcasting Company with a small transistor radio under his pillow. It was with this special family background, and growing up under the influence of Margaret Thatcher, that Sebastian learned how to fight totalitarian ideologies, be they Fascism, Communism, or Global Jihadism. He would end up serving in the British Army reserve in a Military Intelligence unit, then after the fall of the Berlin Wall, in the first freely-elected Conservative administration in Hungary. The after the 9/11 attacks he became a professor on a Pentagon-funded counter-terrorism program run out of Germany. In 2008 he moved to America with his family where he continued to work for the Defense Department and become a proud American citizen in 2012. He obtained his doctorate in Political Science from Corvinus University in Budapest and was a fellow at Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government. In Washington, he served as Associate Dean for Congressional Affairs and Relations to the Special Operations Community at National Defense University and has also taught on the Masters program at Georgetown University. In 2020, President Donald Trump named Gorka to the National Security Education Board. This board provides strategic consultation and was established by congressional act in 1991. Dr. Gorka has briefed the CIA, the DIA, the US Navy Seals, the Commandant of the Marine Corps, served as an expert for the DoJ during the Boston Bombing trial, and testified before Congress on the threat of Global Jihadism. He remains a guest instructor at the John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School, at Fort Bragg, the home of the Green Berets. Gorka writes for The Hill and has written two books for Regnery Publishing. His first “Defeating Jihad,” was a national best-seller and his latest, released in October, is called “Why We Fight…Defeating America’s Enemies with No Apologies.” Before launching his SALEM show, “AMERICA FIRST with Sebastian Gorka,” he was an advisor to candidate Donald J. Trump and served on the staff of the White House in 2017 as Deputy Assistant to the President for Strategy. Support the show ✅ Support The Show Help Us Grow! Help us reach more veterans by donating the cost of a cup of coffee today... 💳A small donation helps us pay our publishing fees & expenses and enables us to reach even more people by creating the content you love! You can do this for just a few pounds (or contact us about becoming a sponsor by emailing jonny@greatcampaigns.co.uk) Easy ways now are here: PAYPAL👉https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/ZKMAHSTCH2RNJ REGULAR GIVING 👉https://www.buzzsprout.com/1394725/support
Send us Fan Mail The Rt Hon Dr Andrew Murrison MP is a Minister at the MOD and we were excited to record this episode in the heart of our nation's Defence HQ at MOD Main Building. We talk about the Invictus Games, Ukraine, his service in the Royal Navy as a doctor, both regular and reserve, his family, Defence and the various ministerial roles he has served in. We also share a special message this Christmas time to all those from the Armed Forces serving over the break. Big thanks to the MOD for their help in delivery this episode. About the Minister Dr Andrew Murrison was appointed Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Ministry of Defence on 30 October 2022. He was previously Minister of State at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and the Department for International Development from 9 May 2019 to 13 February 2020. He was elected Conservative MP for South West Wiltshire in May 2010, and was first elected as the Conservative MP for Westbury in June 2001. In November 2003 he was appointed to the Conservative front bench as a health spokesman, transferring in July 2007 to defence. In May 2010 Andrew became Parliamentary Private Secretary to Secretary of State for Health and was asked by the Prime Minister to review and make recommendations on health care for members of the services community. The principal recommendations in the subsequent reports, ‘Fighting Fit’ and ‘A Better Deal for Military Amputees’, are being rolled out by the government. In November 2011 Prime Minister David Cameron appointed him as his special representative for the centenary commemoration of the First World War, a post he was re-appointed to by Theresa May. Andrew previously served as Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Ministry of Defence and Minister for International Security Strategy from September 2012 until July 2014. He then served as Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Northern Ireland Office from July 2014 to March 2015. He chaired the Northern Ireland Affairs Select Committee from July 2017 to May 2019. Career outside politics Andrew served for 18 years as a medical officer in the Royal Navy, leaving in October 2000 as a Surgeon Commander. In 2003 he was recalled to serve in Iraq. In 2021 was mobilised to lead vaccination teams as part of Operation Rescript. He remains an active reservist. Personal life Andrew and his wife live near Warminster. They have 5 daughters, 2 of whom serve in the Armed Forces. Useful links: OP Courage: Mental health support for veterans, service leavers and reservists - NHS (www.nhs.uk) Combat Stress is the UK’s leading mental health charity for veterans Call them on 0800 138 1619, text them on 07537 404 719 or email helpline@combatstress.org.uk. Medical assistance for veterans in: England: NHS 111 service or call 111 when you need medical help fast but it’s not a 999 emergency, or contact NHS Scotland: Scotland’s Health on the Web or call 111 Wales: NHS Direct Wales or call 0845 46 47 Northern Ireland: nidirect government services - telephone contact details are available from the website Samaritans Call 116 123 to speak to a Samaritan. Support the show ✅ Support The Show Help Us Grow! Help us reach more veterans by donating the cost of a cup of coffee today... 💳A small donation helps us pay our publishing fees & expenses and enables us to reach even more people by creating the content you love! You can do this for just a few pounds (or contact us about becoming a sponsor by emailing jonny@greatcampaigns.co.uk) Easy ways now are here: PAYPAL👉https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/ZKMAHSTCH2RNJ REGULAR GIVING 👉https://www.buzzsprout.com/1394725/support
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Observed September 11, 2026. Cached outside the daily freshness window; the positions keep the date they were taken on.
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