PODCAST · news
James O'Brien Daily
by Global
Welcome to the best bits of James O'Brien's LBC phone-in show.Listen back to all the highlights in a 60-minute bite sized chunk of his show with new episodes every weekday.James covers all the big stories which will make you think - and possibly change your outlook.You can email the show below and get involved at any [email protected] for regular listeners or [email protected] for subscribersJames O'Brien Daily is a Global ProductionFor advertising opportunities on this podcast, email: [email protected]
Episodes
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UK's 'broken' water system and Burnham's plan to take it back
Andy Burnham has reportedly told officials to rip up their plans for fixing Thames Water because they don't go far enough. James wants to know something simpler: how was this allowed to happen at all? A company Britain used to own is now sitting on £100m of outstanding fines, asking its own...
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France riots when Britain just puts up with it
Why are protests in France so different from those in Britain — and could the same anger ever explode on British streets? James examines unrest in France, exploring the country’s revolutionary tradition, its relationship with the state and why French citizens often see protest as both a right and…
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How deep does racism run in Reform UK?
An undercover ITV investigation exposes racist and misogynistic views among Reform UK candidates and activists, raising serious questions about Nigel Farage’s leadership, the party’s vetting process and its repeated claims to be keeping extremists out of politics. Plus, we teach children to read...
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Has Trump just handed Putin the upper hand?
What happens when America turns its back on Ukraine? Donald Trump’s apparent alignment with Vladimir Putin raises urgent questions about Ukraine’s future, from restrictions on Starlink and military intelligence to the possibility of Europe having to fill the gap left by a retreating America....
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The urgent need for more foster carers
A national campaign has launched in the hope of finding 10,000 new foster places. James hears extraordinary, emotional accounts from foster carers - from children arriving with almost nothing, to the painful and joyful reality of letting them go, these calls reveal why fostering can change…
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Britain is setting prisoners up to fail
Released from prison with a small discharge payment, no settled home and a long list of conditions: what could possibly go wrong? James explores why so many people return to prison so quickly, often not for a new crime but for breaching the terms of their release. Plus, Andy Burnham begins...
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Putin wanted Brexit - now we know why
Russia interfered in the Brexit referendum. So why did Vladimir Putin want Britain out of the European Union - and why are so many people still reluctant to confront the answer? James examines how division, disinformation and distrust can weaken a country far more cheaply than military force.…
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Trump is turning execution into entertainment
Donald Trump’s administration is preparing to broadcast a firing-squad execution. James asks what happens when state killing becomes a public spectacle - and why the presence of a camera makes it feel still more horrifying. Plus, James examines a major new review of young people’s mental health....
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Britain's political shocks have left lasting mental scars
Brexit, Covid lockdowns and Liz Truss's mini-budget have all taken a lasting toll on Britain's mental health, according to new research. James explores how major political decisions and global events can shake our sense of security, hearing from callers about anxiety, personal trauma and the...
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Inheritance tax is the price of being lucky
Inheritance tax affects a small proportion of estates, so why does it provoke such a powerful reaction in almost everyone else? James asks whether it is morally wrong to tax wealth passed down through families, or whether those receiving large inheritances should see themselves as fortunate.…
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Cancer is hitting people far younger than we think
Cancer is increasingly affecting people under 50 - but what does it feel like to receive a diagnosis at an age when you never imagined it could happen to you? From missed symptoms and life-saving persistence with GPs to treatment, anxiety and the long road afterwards, this is an honest…
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The Green Party vote that has alarmed Jewish members
The Green Party has voted to define Zionism as a form of racism, prompting concern from Jewish members who fear it could stigmatise people simply for attending synagogues or identifying with Israel’s right to exist. James explores the crucial distinction between condemning the Israeli…
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The scandal hiding inside Britain’s prisons
Half of prisoners in England and Wales are functionally illiterate. James asks what prison is actually for when education, rehabilitation and support on release are so limited - and why a system meant to reduce crime can leave people more likely to return. Then, James examines Suella Braverman’s...
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Brexit failed... now Britain wants back in the EU
Brexit has “done more harm than good”, says Andy Burnham, as he opens the door to a new national conversation about Britain’s future relationship with Europe. James asks if the country is ready to confront the consequences of leaving and whether the familiar lies could win again. Then, James...
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The Burnham speech that put hope back into politics
Andy Burnham’s conference speech sets out a vision for a healthier, wealthier and kinder Britain - from social care, housing and water to electoral reform and a closer relationship with Europe. James reflects on a speech that put hope back at the centre of politics, and asks whether Burnham can...
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End the triple lock & save social care
Could ending the state pension triple lock help fund a social care system that is free at the point of use? James examines Andy Burnham’s reported plans, asking whether pensioners could accept smaller annual increases in return for protection from devastating care costs. Then, after Martin Lewis...
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Britain’s long road back to the EU
Sadiq Khan wants Britain to start work on rejoining the EU, while Andy Burnham refuses to rule it out. James asks whether it is politically wise to reopen the Brexit argument — and whether the EU would trust Britain to stay. Plus, would you support Burnham’s proposed tax-funded social care…
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The 14-year-olds Britain is already writing off
Not every young person thrives in a traditional classroom, but is vocational education a route to opportunity or an early label that limits ambition? Plus, more than 52,000 people are claiming benefits for back pain with no specific cause - but why are so many of them treated with suspicion…
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A child led chants of “let them drown”
A child leading chants of “let them drown” at a protest over Channel crossings leaves James asking what is happening to Britain. Why is hatred being taught instead of challenged? James hears from callers who describe the fear felt by people of colour as anti-migrant rhetoric becomes more open…
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Young people aren’t snowflakes
Why is it harder to be young today? James asks why so many young people are experiencing mental distress - from insecure work and unaffordable housing to social media, climate anxiety and a future that feels impossible to plan for. Then, James examines one of Westminster’s enduring mysteries: why...
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The impossible task of meeting Donald Trump
Donald Trump has shredded the diplomatic rulebook - so what is a British Prime Minister supposed to do when meeting him? James examines the impossible task of dealing with a US President who demands loyalty, thrives on flattery and can reverse his position overnight. Then, as migration figures…
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Dementia doesn’t just break patients - it breaks carers too
What does it mean to lose someone while they are still physically there? James hears powerful accounts from families affected by dementia, as the disease is now being described by leading experts as Britain’s greatest health and social care crisis. Plus, women and equalities minister Bridget...
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They terrorised lifeboat volunteers for saving lives
A lifeboat station in Portsmouth has halted operations after RNLI volunteers faced abuse for rescuing people in distress at sea. What does it say about Britain when those who risk their lives to save strangers are branded “traitors” and targeted by masked protesters? Then, Charles Spencer has…
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The people building AI are telling us to be afraid
The people at the heart of artificial intelligence are warning that its development could pose a threat to humanity. James asks what we should really fear - from cyberattacks to the prospect of systems we may no longer be able to control. Plus, what is the difference between good strict and bad...
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A vote to leave the UK over migrant plan
A village votes to leave the UK over plans to house asylum seekers nearby. What is really behind the anger in Piddington and what does the reaction reveal about the debate over asylum, safety and integration? Plus, thousands of people are being pushed out of paid work to care for sick family...
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Is Great Britain on the brink of a break-up?
The UK’s political future is back in the spotlight as nationalist parties push for greater independence. What would actually happen if Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland went their separate ways and what would it mean for the rest of Britain? And, are we scrolling our brains away? Reading for...
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Reform’s £72m crypto cash: why should we be bothered?
Reform has been handed a record-breaking £72 million by two crypto billionaires. Who are they, what are they buying with that influence and does this mark a shift towards the kind of billionaire-funded politics we’ve seen in the US? And, self-driving cars could put thousands of jobs at risk. A...
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9/11: How one day, twenty-five years ago, reshaped the world
Twenty-five years after 9/11, James O’Brien asks how the attacks changed the world - from America’s sense of security to the suspicion and hostility faced by Muslim communities. James speaks to Michael Lomonaco about his extraordinary story. As executive chef at Windows on the World, he was due…
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Nobody can define ‘working class’ any more
What does 'working class' mean in Britain in 2026 and can a government genuinely build education policy around it? James O’Brien explores social mobility, poverty, privilege and the children most in need of support. Then, AI is being hailed as a potential cure for cancer. At the same time…
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Ed Miliband calls out Israel’s illegal settlements
Ed Miliband has declared that Britain will no longer treat illegal Israeli settlement activity as business as usual. James asks whether sanctions are a long-overdue assertion of international law, and why calling out the Israeli Government is so often wrongly conflated with antisemitism. Plus…
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Britain’s divisive sanctions on Israel
As the UK moves to sanction goods from illegal Israeli settlements, James explores the arguments from all sides: is it a long-overdue response to injustice in the West Bank, an inadequate symbolic gesture, or a damaging political mistake? Then, Nigel Farage wants to ban face coverings after…
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Farage’s supporters attacked a woman... and he laughed
Reform claims to stand for women’s safety and free speech. So why was a young woman assaulted for heckling Nigel Farage and why did party figures respond with mockery rather than condemnation? Plus, callers reflect on the “other life” they might have lived if their ADHD, autism or learning needs...
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How Farage is radicalising our relatives
Why do some people keep defending Nigel Farage, whatever happens? James considers the fresh allegations surrounding Reform’s funding and asks whether anger at the political establishment has become more powerful than facts, principles or self-interest. Plus, how do you cope when your mum, dad or...
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Farage’s "party of free speech" banned the journalists
Is this the beginning of the end for Nigel Farage? As Reform UK slips behind the Conservatives in a new poll and bans critical journalists from its conference, James examines the pressure building around a party that says it stands for free speech. Then, James explores the lives behind the…
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Putin’s man in the White House
Has Donald Trump swapped sides? James is joined by The Guardian’s Luke Harding to examine Trump’s extraordinary relationship with Vladimir Putin, his retreat from Ukraine and the dangerous new age of conquest unfolding across the world. But first, Andy Burnham says Britain’s malaise can be traced...
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Burnham’s plan to make Britain optimistic again
Six weeks into his premiership, Andy Burnham says he wants to bring optimism back to Britain. James asks why the country appears willing to believe in him — and whether authenticity, conviction and a willingness to challenge the old rules can survive the realities of government. Plus, as Burnham...
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Middlesbrough in crisis: what’s really going on?
More than 200 extra police officers have been sent into Middlesbrough following a series of violent incidents in recent days. But what’s behind the sudden surge in police presence and what is really happening on the streets? And, what if your dream home became a nightmare? Victims of cowboy...
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AI is coming for your job
Could AI replace your job? And, if it can, what should society do about it? James considers warnings that the technology may soon outpace our ability to manage its consequences, from mass unemployment to a crisis in education. Also, as easyJet more than doubles its over-50s cabin crew and...
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Israel is testing Andy Burnham’s Labour government
As Israel moves ahead with settlement plans that could destroy any remaining prospect of a two-state solution, James asks whether Andy Burnham’s government can continue to do nothing. Are sanctions now the only meaningful response? Plus, Britons are being urged to prepare for emergencies. From...
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We blame TikTok — but we’re watching the dangerous driving videos
Following the deaths of two police officers in a fatal wrong-way crash, James examines the online videos that glamorise dangerous driving. Is it enough to blame TikTok, or do millions of views reveal a demand that viewers are helping to create? Plus, as one in seven people in England are…
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The Conservatives’ identity crisis
As lifelong Conservative voters describe themselves as politically homeless, has Kemi Badenoch abandoned the party’s traditional values in favour of culture wars and social-media soundbites? And, with graduates facing an increasingly uncertain job market and AI threatening white-collar roles, are...
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The racists don’t even hide it anymore
Racism and sexism are becoming normalised in Britain, according to Equalities Minister Bridget Phillipson. From casual racist language to far-right narratives online, when did behaviour once considered beyond the pale start to feel ordinary? Then, as England has been described as a “maths...
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Britain was told to hate Meghan Markle
As Harry and Meghan prepare to return to the UK later this month, what would they need to do to make a life in Britain possible again? James explores the racism and misogyny surrounding Meghan’s treatment, and the media machine that helped turn affection into fury. Also, boys are catching up with...
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Children’s lungs recovered and the ULEZ haters went quiet
As Andy Burnham launches his 'national drive' to get rough sleepers off the streets by Christmas, James examines why homelessness has become part of the backdrop of city life. Plus, new research suggests London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone has helped children’s lungs recover from the effects of...
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We’ve normalised Donald Trump
Donald Trump has threatened to bomb US ally Oman if it “gets in the way” of talks with Iran. As he fuels instability across the world, why has the public conversation about Trump become quieter rather than louder? Have we become desensitised? Plus, as Wetherspoon bans customers from playing music...
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Jason Arday: when scrutiny became a witch-hunt
When does legitimate scrutiny become something crueler? James reflects on the death of former Cambridge professor Jason Arday, the media frenzy surrounding the allegations against him, and whether the gleefulness of some commentary demands a reckoning. Plus, as Andy Burnham is minded to approve a...
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The night Nigel Farage bottled it
In today’s episode, James unpicks the extraordinary events in Clacton, where Nigel Farage’s by-election gamble ended with an absent winner, a cancelled press conference and a growing sense of humiliation. Plus, why do so many men think they could become Olympians? After a survey found that four…
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The workers sent home without pay
No guaranteed hours, no guaranteed income and no way to plan ahead: James examines the lives shaped by zero-hours contracts and the government’s proposed ban. Then, after new figures suggest Andy Burnham’s devolution push could drive 90,000 bankers and lawyers out of London, James asks why people...
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The truth about asylum seekers in our communities
Why are we so reluctant to confront our fear about climate change? As extreme heat grips Britain, James asks what the government can do to prepare for a future of water shortages, failing crops and more frequent floods. Then, after the Prime Minister says wealthier areas should house more asylum...
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Should Andy Burnham decide when a killer deserves release?
Can Andy Burnham reverse the decline of Britain’s high streets? James explores why so many town centres are filled with empty units, vape shops and betting shops. Then, as the government looks for a way to prevent the early release of PC Andrew Harper’s killers, James asks whether public outrage...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Welcome to the best bits of James O'Brien's LBC phone-in show.Listen back to all the highlights in a 60-minute bite sized chunk of his show with new episodes every weekday.James covers all the big stories which will make you think - and possibly change your outlook.You can email the show below and get involved at any [email protected] for regular listeners or [email protected] for subscribersJames O'Brien Daily is a Global ProductionFor advertising opportunities on this podcast, email: [email protected]
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Global
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How many episodes does James O'Brien Daily have?
James O'Brien Daily currently has 458 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is James O'Brien Daily about?
Welcome to the best bits of James O'Brien's LBC phone-in show.Listen back to all the highlights in a 60-minute bite sized chunk of his show with new episodes every weekday.James covers all the big stories which will make you think - and possibly change your outlook.You can email the show below and...
How often does James O'Brien Daily release new episodes?
James O'Brien Daily publishes regularly with 458 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.
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Who hosts James O'Brien Daily?
James O'Brien Daily is created and hosted by Global.
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