Wright on the Nail

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Episodes

161

Latest episode

May 2026

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EN-GB

About the show

‘Wright on the Nail’ is a podcast hosted by music industry entrepreneur Chris Wright. Each week, he is joined by those in-the-know to discuss politics, media, business and lots more. Our episodes alternate between a ‘deep dive’ which gathers experts on a particular topic, and a ‘news roundtable’ where we chew over the biggest issues of the week with big-name journalists and decision-makers.

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60 recent

May 19, 20261 hr 8 min

Burnham By-Election The Only Hope To Beat Reform!?

Chris Wright is joined by:Communications Director for Progressive International, former advisor to Jeremy Corbyn, and author of ‘Our Bloc: How We Win’ James SchneiderLabour Member of the London Assembly for Merton and Wandsworth since 2016, Leonie CooperHighly acclaimed writer, journalist, and broadcaster Christina Patterson Jean-Monnet Professor of European Integration at the National University of Ireland Maynooth, John O’Brennan Chris asks the panel whether the current political saga whereby Starmer’s leadership is being challenged is a result of external conditions such as a right-wing media, or his own doing. In addition they discuss the lack of a program of wealth distribution, Starmer & Labour’s political ‘own goals’ since taking office, and the importance of communication. As the conversation develops focus turns to Andy Burnham and the significance of him going for the Labour leadership.Chapters00:00 The Political Landscape in the UK04:54 Challenges of Modern Governance09:27 Inequality and Economic Instability14:20 The Role of Communication in Politics19:07 Labour Party's Positioning and Strategy23:54 Global Issues and Domestic Politics28:16 Future Directions for the Labour Party34:29 Local Initiatives and Regional Politics37:49 The Brexit Dilemma39:59 Emotional Politics and Public Sentiment47:27 Inequality and Political Choices53:29 The Makerfield By-Election: A Crucial Battle01:04:21 Future of Labour Leadership'I Hit The Nail Right On The Head' by Billy Bremner. © Fridens liljor/Micke Finell.Rock around the clock productions AB.www.rockaroundtheclock.co This episode was produced by Sound SapienSoundsapien.com

April 14, 202657 min

Geopolitics in Freefall! Trump, Netanyahu, & Iran

A fast-moving, no-holds-barred discussion on the escalating Middle East crisis, the global fallout, and the unpredictable leadership of Donald Trump. As tensions rise and strategy falters, the panel asks: is anyone actually in control—and what happens next?Chris Wright is joined by highly acclaimed writer, journalist, and broadcaster Christina Patterson, co-presenter of Times Radio Breakfast Rosie Wright, andMichael Gallagher, a freelance writer who specialises in the Middle East and North Africa, bringing firsthand insight into how politics and economics impact the region.Chapters00:00 Consequences of Poor Political Advice03:18 Failures in U.S. Foreign Policy15:10 Middle Eastern Geopolitics and Ceasefire Efforts18:17 Global Reactions to U.S. Actions22:02 The Role of Military Aid in Conflict23:34 Public Perception and the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict27:28 Conflation of State Actions and Ethnic Identity34:23 Nuclear Weapons and Political Strategy43:11 Impact of Political Endorsements47:48 Royal Family and Political Legitimacy49:37 Energy Supply and Economic Stability'I Hit The Nail Right On The Head' by Billy Bremner. © Fridens liljor/Micke Finell.Rock around the clock productions AB.www.rockaroundtheclock.co This episode was produced by Sound SapienSoundsapien.com

February 10, 20261 hr 4 min

Scandal! What Starmer Has Got So Wrong As PM, & Who Could Possibly Replace Him?

To answer this question and much more, Chris Wright is joined by acclaimed writer, journalist, and broadcaster Christina Patterson, the China correspondent, and formerly the Middle East correspondent at The Times, Richard Spencer, and award-winning Broadsheet Columnist for the The i newspaper and many others, Yasmin Alibhai-Brown. In this episode, the panel discusses the current political landscape in the UK, focusing on Keir Starmer's leadership and the challenges he faces. They explore potential successors, the influence of media narratives, and the impact of American politics on UK affairs. The conversation culminates in predictions for the future of UK politics, particularly concerning the rise of figures like Nigel Farage and the fragmentation of traditional party lines.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Current Events01:22 The Political Landscape in the UK05:21 Challenges Facing Keir Starmer11:29 Critiques of Starmer's Leadership15:45 Potential Successors to Starmer21:13 Media Influence and Political Narratives25:56 The Role of American Politics33:38 The Future of UK Politics42:33 Predictions for 2029'I Hit The Nail Right On The Head' by Billy Bremner. © Fridens liljor/Micke Finell.Rock around the clock productions AB.www.rockaroundtheclock.co This episode was produced by Sound SapienSoundsapien.com

December 11, 20251 hr 0 min

The UK In 2026: Can Starmer Take Back Control?

In this end-of-year edition of Wright on the Nail, the panel discusses the challenges faced by the UK government, particularly under Keir Starmer's leadership. Chris is joined by Jean-Monnet Professor of European Integration at the National University of Ireland Maynooth John O’Brennan, Reem Ibrahim the Head of Media at the Institute of Economic affairs, a right-leaning free market think tank and Labour Councillor and Cabinet Member for Environment & Community Safety at Preston Council Freddie Bailey.They explore the impact of Brexit on the economy, the role of the media in shaping public perception, and the complexities of the welfare system. The conversation also delves into potential political alternatives and the future of the Labour Party, including the possibility of coalition politics and the influence of the Green Party. Predictions for the next Prime Minister are made, highlighting the evolving landscape of UK politics.Chapters00:00 The State of UK Politics: A Year in Review02:47 Keir Starmer's Leadership Challenges05:28 The Impact of Brexit on the Economy08:36 Media Influence and Public Perception11:35 Welfare System and Economic Incentives14:15 Political Alternatives: Who Could Lead?17:14 The Future of the Labour Party20:21 Coalition Politics and Electoral Strategies22:48 The Role of the Green Party and Other Left-Wing Movements25:59 The Next Prime Minister: Predictions and Possibilities'I Hit The Nail Right On The Head' by Billy Bremner. © Fridens liljor/Micke Finell.Rock around the clock productions AB.www.rockaroundtheclock.co This episode was produced by Sound SapienSoundsapien.com

October 11, 202553 min

3 Top Experts Debate: Why Are Our Politicians So Hated?

Chris Wright is joined by Vicky Pryce, renowned economist and Chief Economic Adviser at the Centre for Economics and Business Research — she’ll help us understand the economic undercurrents behind public disillusionment, Eric Schurenberg, former CEO of Inc. and Fast Company, and now founder of The Alliance for Trust in Media — here to discuss how misinformation and media dynamics have shaped the rise of populism, and finally, one of Wright On The Nail’s favourite commentators — author, journalist, broadcaster, and executive coach Christina Patterson.This conversation explores the declining trust in political leaders across the globe, examining factors such as government performance, media dynamics, and the rise of populism. The discussion highlights the impact of economic conditions, the polarisation of political parties, and the role of social media in shaping public perception. Additionally, the conversation addresses the influence of immigration policies and racism in contemporary politics, emphasising the complex interplay of these elements in the current political landscape.Chapters00:00 The Erosion of Trust in Political Leaders10:13 The Impact of Populism and Media Dynamics18:50 The Role of Economic Factors in Political Popularity27:12 The Polarization of Political Parties35:06 The Influence of Social Media on Political Perception44:43 Racism and Immigration Policies in Modern Politics'I Hit The Nail Right On The Head' by Billy Bremner. © Fridens liljor/Micke Finell.Rock around the clock productions AB.www.rockaroundtheclock.co This episode was produced by Sound SapienSoundsapien.com

August 29, 20251 hr 2 min

The Left vs The Right: Immigration Policy Debate with Marina Purkiss, Sir Philip Davies, and Rosie Wright

From Nigel Farage’s bold new plan to the government’s “smash the gangs” pledge, the debate has never been louder — or more divisive.On this week’s Wright on the Nail, Chris Wright is joined by:Marina Purkiss – political commentator & host of The TrollSir Philip Davies – former Conservative MP for ShipleyRosie Wright – broadcaster & Times Radio presenterTogether, they tackle the big questions:Is Nigel Farage closer than ever to political power?Should the UK scrap the Human Rights Act?Why has public sympathy for migrants shifted to anger?Is Keir Starmer now a lame duck?Expect sharp exchanges, tough questions, and fresh insight into one of the most urgent and divisive issues in British politics today.'I Hit The Nail Right On The Head' by Billy Bremner. © Fridens liljor/Micke Finell.Rock around the clock productions AB.www.rockaroundtheclock.co This episode was produced by Sound SapienSoundsapien.com

July 29, 20251 hr 10 min

What A Farage Government Would Really Look Like! Rupert Lowe MP, Nigel Nelson & Leonie Cooper AM

In this month's special edition of "Wright on the Nail," host Chris Wright delves into the turbulent landscape of British politics. With guests Rupert Lowe MP, Nigel Nelson, and Leonie Cooper AM, the episode explores the potential rise of Nigel Farage and the Reform UK party, examining what a government led by them might look like. The discussion covers the challenges of forming a new government, the implications of current polling, and the broader political shifts in the UK. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on the future of British politics. Don't miss it!'I Hit The Nail Right On The Head' by Billy Bremner. © Fridens liljor/Micke Finell.Rock around the clock productions AB.www.rockaroundtheclock.co This episode was produced by Sound SapienSoundsapien.com

July 5, 20251 hr 14 min

Top Israel-Iran Experts DEBATE, & The Real Reason The Chancellor Was Crying!

In this episode, Chris Wright and a panel of experts discuss the current geopolitical landscape, focusing on the Middle East, particularly the tensions between Israel and Iran, the implications of Trump's foreign policy, and the state of democracy in the U.S. The conversation delves into the complexities of regime change, the future of nuclear non-proliferation, and the challenges of expressing concerns about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The panelists also reflect on the rise of populism and its potential consequences for global politics. Finally they get to the bottom of why UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves was crying in The Commons…The Panel: Founder and Director of the Israeli Disarmament Movement, and the Middle East Treaty Organization, Sharon Dolev. Sharon was also the Israeli representative of the 2017 Nobel Peace Prize laureate International Campaign for Abolishing Nuclear Weapons (ICAN)The China correspondent, and formerly the Middle East correspondent at the Times, Richard Spencer. Since October 7th Richard has stayed reporting on the Middle East as well as China - most recently focussing on the US/Israeli conflict with Iran.Jean-Monnet Professor of European Integration at the National University of Ireland Maynooth, John O’BrennanWriter, broadcaster, and columnist, Christina PattersonDirector at the Middle East Treaty Organization and co-author of Weapons of Mass Destruction: A new approach to non-proliferation Emad KiyaeiChaptersIntroduction and Overview of Global IssuesMiddle East Tensions: Israel, Iran, and the Nuclear ThreatThe Question of Regime Change in IranIsrael's Objectives and the Impact of Recent AttacksThe Future of Nuclear Non-Proliferation in the Middle EastThe Complexity of Expressing Concerns about GazaGlobal Perceptions of the Israeli-Palestinian ConflictTrump's Foreign Policy and Its ImplicationsThe State of American DemocracyThe Rise of Populism and Its ConsequencesWhy Rachel Reeves was Crying & The Economy She InheritedHow To Stop Nigel Farage'I Hit The Nail Right On The Head' by Billy Bremner. © Fridens liljor/Micke Finell.Rock around the clock productions AB.www.rockaroundtheclock.co This episode was produced by Sound SapienSoundsapien.com

April 7, 202537 min

What The UK Right Think of Trump, Tariffs & The Tories with Rupert Lowe & Co

In this week’s episode Chris Wright is joined by: The Independent Member of Parliament for Great Yarmouth, Rupert Lowe, political commentator Lee Harris, and finally broadcast journalist and writer, Anna McGovern. The panel discusses Trump’s tariffs, UK-US trade, Labour’s role in trade decisions, and the civil service’s influence on policy. They explore trade opportunities, EU policies, economic challenges, AI’s impact on jobs, and the need for political reform and better representation as the UK heads toward future elections.Topics:Trump's tariffs are seen as detrimental to global trade.The UK is viewed as a sovereign nation post-Brexit.There are strategic opportunities for the UK amidst trade wars.The Labour Party's response to tariffs is uncertain.The civil service is perceived as ineffective and unaccountable.Political reform is necessary to address the two-party system in the UK.The panel believes that the British public is aware of their declining standard of living.There is skepticism about the Labour Party's ability to make smart trade decisions.The importance of respecting the 2016 Brexit vote is emphasized.The future of UK trade relations remains uncertain. The UK is facing higher tariffs compared to other countries entering the US market.Trade wars create a challenging environment with no clear winners.There are significant opportunities for the UK to negotiate better trade deals post-Brexit.The current government is perceived as failing to address economic challenges effectively.AI is transforming job markets, making it harder for graduates to find employment.The political landscape is shifting, with increasing public demand for change.The two-party system in the UK is seen as ineffective and outdated.Public sentiment is growing for a third party to emerge as a viable option.We hope you enjoy this episode and feel free to get in touch with messages, comments or feedback at tom@soundsapien.com Many thanks,WOTN Team'I Hit The Nail Right On The Head' by Billy Bremner. © Fridens liljor/Micke Finell.Rock around the clock productions AB.www.rockaroundtheclock.co This episode was produced by Sound SapienSoundsapien.com

March 28, 20251 hr 3 min

Top European Expert: “We Must Help Ukraine Win & Even Take Back Crimea!” “We Are On Our Own Now!” UK & International Politics Debate

In this week’s episode Chris Wright is joined by: Labour’s Member of the London Assembly for Merton and Wandsworth since 2016, Leonie Cooper, Jean-Monnet Professor of European Integration at the National University of Ireland Maynooth, John O’Brennan, and finally, former longtime editor of the Sunday Mirror, Nigel Nelson.Topics:Rachel Reeves’s Spring StatementIs it a choice between tackling growth or inequality? John’s strong stance on Putin as a European expert.The Axis of China, Russia, North Korea, and IranIs their method to Trump’s diplomatic bulldozing of the international community? Early signs of authoritarianism in the US.The conversation covers Rachel Reeves' recent Spring Statement, the implications of austerity measures, the impact of Brexit on the UK economy, and the evolving dynamics of international relations, particularly concerning the Ukraine conflict and the role of the United States in global security. The conversation delves into the complexities of the Ukraine war, the integration of Russian-speaking minorities in the Baltic states, and the geopolitical implications of NATO and EU expansion. The speakers discuss the current military situation in Ukraine, the challenges of negotiating peace with Russia, and the ongoing occupation of Crimea. They also explore the rise of strongman leaders globally and the state of American democracy, emphasizing the importance of a free press in maintaining democratic values.We hope you enjoy this episode and feel free to get in touch with messages, comments or feedback at tom@soundsapien.com 'I Hit The Nail Right On The Head' by Billy Bremner. © Fridens liljor/Micke Finell.Rock around the clock productions AB.www.rockaroundtheclock.co This episode was produced by Sound SapienSoundsapien.com