Wright on the Nail

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Episodes

163

Latest episode

Aug 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

September 12, 202656 min

The Far-Right Surge: Can They Be Stopped? Europe, Britain, and Trump's America

Chris Wright is joined by longtime journalist and Media Executive, now the Founder of The Alliance For Trust In Media, Eric Schurenberg (US), co-presenter of “Weekend Breakfast” on Times Radio, Rosie Wright , and Jean-Monnet Professor of European Integration at the National University of Ireland Maynooth, John O’Brennan . Topics: Rise of far-right parties in Europe Role of social media and misinformation Economic inequality as a driver of extremism Media landscape and regulation challenges Historical parallels with 1920s and 1930s Europe Impact of foreign interference and Russian footprints Future of elections and political stability Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Current Political Climate in Europe 01:53 The Rise of the Alternative for Deutschland Party 03:03 Historical Context and Parallels with 1920s-30s Europe 04:59 The Role of Economic Inequality in Extremism 08:02 Campaign Strategies and Voter Psychology in Germany 10:11 The Influence of Social Media and Russian Interference 13:01 The Misinformation Landscape and Its Impact 16:49 Media Literacy and the Future of News Consumption 19:02 The Decline of Literacy and Education Challenges 20:48 AI and Technology's Role in Society and Education 22:53 UK Political Landscape and Immigration Policies 27:12 Reform UK Conference and Political Scandals 31:06 The Future of Immigration and Public Perception 35:13 US Politics, Trump and Midterm Elections 44:08 Global Economic Impact of War and Debt 50:02 Media Censorship and Political Discourse in the US 52:57 Election Campaigns and Political Strategies 54:03 Closing Remarks and Future Outlook '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 Sapien Soundsapien.com

August 5, 202658 min

Burnham’s Challenge: Fixing Social Care Would Vastly Change UK Politics!

The recurring theme of this episode is Burnham’s pledge to fix social care in the UK. We discuss how it can be funded including the implications of a wealth tax & others, plus the significance of immigrant workers. Chris and panel (below) debate how these factors impact across the board in British politics, including whether Farage and Reform are on the decline… Guests: Writer, broadcaster, and columnist Christina Patterson , Managing Editor and Deputy Editorial Director of the Institute of Economic Affairs Daniel Freeman , and Member of Labour’s National Executive Committee Jess Barnard . Chapters 00:00 Introduction to UK Political Climate 03:43 Party Fractures and Membership Engagement 09:03 Media Attacks and Public Perception of Burnham 12:45 Policy Impact and Public Support for Burnham 17:01 Policy Proposals and Funding Strategies 20:24 Wealth Tax and Property Valuation Challenges 24:43 International Taxation and Mobility of Wealth 27:27 Public Perception of Social Care and Wastage 28:49 Nigel Farage's Decline and Party Dynamics 30:43 Brexit, Immigration, and Public Sentiment 32:53 Reform Party Influence and Electoral Impact 34:35 Perception of Outsiders and Political Messaging 36:12 Media Narratives and Political Communication 37:52 Potential for Snap Elections and Political Stability 38:58 Immigration, Border Control, and Public Opinion 42:00 Migration, Economy, and International Role 44:48 Balancing Immigration and Domestic Employment 53:23 Youth Employment, Education, and Infrastructure 55:13 The Human Side of Immigration and Social Policy 56:25 Concluding Remarks and Future Outlook '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 Sapien Soundsapien.com

July 10, 202657 min

Trump, Fifa, Farage & Burnham. Good Week or Bad Week?

This week Chris Wright is joined by the China correspondent, and formerly the Middle East correspondent at The Times , Richard Spencer, co-presenter of “Weekend Breakfast” on Times Radio , Rosie Wright, and Jean-Monnet Professor of European Integration at the National University of Ireland Maynooth, John O’Brennan. This week, we ask whether Donald Trump's strikes on Iran squandered a rare chance for America to unite ahead of its 250th anniversary, and why politics continues to overshadow what should have been a triumphant World Cup. We also examine Nigel Farage's surprise by-election gamble against Count Binface, whether mounting financial scrutiny could become a genuine political problem, and why Andy Burnham is suddenly being talked about as Labour's next great hope. Finally, we explore whether a summer of sporting success could give Britain the lift it needs—or even spark a "Burnham Boost." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Current Events and Trump 02:20 Trump's Challenges in Iran and Global Perception 05:17 Media Coverage and Trump's Communication Style 09:43 Trump's Influence on Football and FIFA 18:24 Nigel Farage's Political Maneuvering and By-Election 23:59 Public Sentiment and Political Integrity 29:57 The Political Landscape in Clacton 32:42 The Implications of By-Elections 35:37 The Role of Money in Politics 40:14 The Future of Andy Burnham 46:51 The Dynamics of Leadership and Policy 53:10 The Road Ahead for Devolution and Governance '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 Sapien Soundsapien.com

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 Schneider Labour Member of the London Assembly for Merton and Wandsworth since 2016, Leonie Cooper Highly 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. Chapters 00:00 The Political Landscape in the UK 04:54 Challenges of Modern Governance 09:27 Inequality and Economic Instability 14:20 The Role of Communication in Politics 19:07 Labour Party's Positioning and Strategy 23:54 Global Issues and Domestic Politics 28:16 Future Directions for the Labour Party 34:29 Local Initiatives and Regional Politics 37:49 The Brexit Dilemma 39:59 Emotional Politics and Public Sentiment 47:27 Inequality and Political Choices 53:29 The Makerfield By-Election: A Crucial Battle 01:04:21 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 Sapien Soundsapien.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, and Michael Gallagher , a freelance writer who specialises in the Middle East and North Africa, bringing firsthand insight into how politics and economics impact the region. Chapters 00:00 Consequences of Poor Political Advice 03:18 Failures in U.S. Foreign Policy 15:10 Middle Eastern Geopolitics and Ceasefire Efforts 18:17 Global Reactions to U.S. Actions 22:02 The Role of Military Aid in Conflict 23:34 Public Perception and the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict 27:28 Conflation of State Actions and Ethnic Identity 34:23 Nuclear Weapons and Political Strategy 43:11 Impact of Political Endorsements 47:48 Royal Family and Political Legitimacy 49:37 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 Sapien Soundsapien.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. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Current Events 01:22 The Political Landscape in the UK 05:21 Challenges Facing Keir Starmer 11:29 Critiques of Starmer's Leadership 15:45 Potential Successors to Starmer 21:13 Media Influence and Political Narratives 25:56 The Role of American Politics 33:38 The Future of UK Politics 42:33 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 Sapien Soundsapien.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. Chapters 00:00 The State of UK Politics: A Year in Review 02:47 Keir Starmer's Leadership Challenges 05:28 The Impact of Brexit on the Economy 08:36 Media Influence and Public Perception 11:35 Welfare System and Economic Incentives 14:15 Political Alternatives: Who Could Lead? 17:14 The Future of the Labour Party 20:21 Coalition Politics and Electoral Strategies 22:48 The Role of the Green Party and Other Left-Wing Movements 25:59 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 Sapien Soundsapien.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. Chapters 00:00 The Erosion of Trust in Political Leaders 10:13 The Impact of Populism and Media Dynamics 18:50 The Role of Economic Factors in Political Popularity 27:12 The Polarization of Political Parties 35:06 The Influence of Social Media on Political Perception 44:43 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 Sapien Soundsapien.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 Troll Sir Philip Davies – former Conservative MP for Shipley Rosie Wright – broadcaster & Times Radio presenter Together, 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 Sapien Soundsapien.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 Sapien Soundsapien.com