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154 episodes

Political Currency, page 5

by Persephonica · English

Ed Balls and George Osborne take us behind closed doors into the rooms where decisions are made. Having battled it out across the despatch box, the former Chancellor and shadow chancellor now meet in the studio to discuss the decisions that affect the nation’s pockets. Our frenemies have the knowledge and experience to explain how good politics follows the economics - and expose how the powerful become powerless when faced with market forces and political currents they can’t control. Join us every Thursday. Send your messages or voice notes to [email protected] Find us on social media @polcurrency Political Currency is a Persephonica production. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

All episodes, page 5

Sir Ed Davey on his plan to take the fight to the far right

In this special episode, Ed Balls interviews Sir Ed Davey, leader of the Liberal Democrats and recognized as the politician of the year for 2024.

24 Dec 2025 · 48m

EMQs: What's your most embarrassing moment as a politician?

In this episode, Ed Balls and George Osborne share their most embarrassing political moments, discuss listener questions, and reflect on their experiences as politicians.

22 Dec 2025 · 27m

Which party will dominate 2026?

The podcast explores the intersection of politics and economics, shedding light on decision-making processes in the UK government.

18 Dec 2025 · 54m

EMQs: What’s the hardest question you’ve had to answer?

In this episode, Ed Balls and George Osborne reflect on their experiences with tough questions from school children, discuss the political implications of leadership after electoral losses, and…

15 Dec 2025 · 35m

Is the US turning its back on Europe?

Economic and political decisions affecting the UK and US

11 Dec 2025 · 1h 2m

EMQs: Is it time to abolish the state pension triple lock?

Discussion on the feasibility and political implications of abolishing the triple lock on pensions, along with reflections on political strategies and historical political events.

8 Dec 2025 · 35m

When will Labour’s communication catastrophe end?

In this episode, Ed and George discuss the fallout from Chancellor Rachel Reeves' recent budget presentation, including the resignation of Richard Hughes, chair of the Office of Budget Responsibility…

4 Dec 2025 · 54m

EMQs: How much power do chancellors have?

In this episode, the hosts discuss the significant influence chancellors have on prime ministers, recounting historical instances where chancellors intervened to save their PMs from poor decisions.

1 Dec 2025 · 32m

Has Chancellor Rachel Reeves abandoned growth?

In this episode, Ed Balls and George Osborne analyze Chancellor Rachel Reeves' recent budget statement and discuss its implications for growth in the UK economy.

27 Nov 2025 · 1h 1m

Budget Hot Take: Has Chancellor Rachel Reeves saved herself? | LIVE reaction

Budget Hot Take: Has Chancellor Rachel Reeves saved herself? | LIVE reaction

26 Nov 2025 · 37m

EMQs: Is it time for a Tory/Labour truce?

Discussion on the potential for a coalition between the Conservative Party and Labour amidst rising radicalism in politics, the implications of recent budgets, and the importance of effective…

24 Nov 2025 · 44m

Is Shabana Mahmood the heir to Blair?

A podcast offering insights into political decisions that impact the economy, hosted by former political rivals.

20 Nov 2025 · 1h 12m

EMQs: Is PMQs just 'political theatre'?

In this episode of *Political Currency*, hosts Ed Balls and George Osborne reflect on the nature of Prime Minister's Questions (PMQs), addressing the theatricality of political interactions, the…

17 Nov 2025 · 40m

Starmer v Streeting: Is it curtains for Keir?

In this episode, Ed Balls and George Osborne discuss a recent political crisis within the UK Labour Party, focusing on the alleged coup by Health Secretary Wes Streeting against Leader Keir Starmer.

13 Nov 2025 · 1h 12m

EMQs: What does 'fairness' actually mean in politics?

A deep dive into political decisions affecting economics and the nation’s finances, exploring the relationships between market forces and political currents.

10 Nov 2025 · 38m

Is this Rachel Reeves’ last throw of the dice?

A weekly discussion between the former Chancellor and shadow chancellor about political decisions impacting the economy and public finances.

6 Nov 2025 · 59m

EMQs: TikTok, Strictly, and foreign aid

A look behind closed doors at political decision-making and its impact on the economy.

3 Nov 2025 · 35m

Can Starmer hold on as PM?

Discussion of UK political decisions and their economic implications, exploring the relationship between politics and market forces.

30 Oct 2025 · 1h 7m

EMQs: Is the political centre dead?

In this episode of Political Currency, hosts Ed Balls and George Osborne delve into the state of the political centre in British politics, reflecting on the growing influence of populism and the…

27 Oct 2025 · 33m

Why blaming Brexit won’t save Rachel Reeves

In this episode, Ed Balls and George Osborne analyze the current political climate surrounding Rachel Reeves, the Labour Chancellor, as she prepares for an upcoming Budget.

23 Oct 2025 · 1h 2m

EMQs: Would you serve in your political rival’s cabinet?

Discussion of political dilemmas and the current state of UK politics, focusing on coalition governments and their implications.

20 Oct 2025 · 54m

Inside the China spy crisis shaking Starmer’s government

In this episode, Ed Balls and George Osborne delve into the political ramifications of the collapse of a high-profile China spy trial, the implications of Middle Eastern diplomacy led by Donald…

16 Oct 2025 · 1h 9m

EMQs: Could George Osborne still be a Tory MP?

In this episode, Ed Balls and George Osborne delve into the current state of the Conservative Party, reflecting on whether it has moved away from the principles established during the Cameron-Osborne…

13 Oct 2025 · 35m

Has Kemi Badenoch saved herself?

In this episode, hosts Ed Balls and George Osborne discuss the recent Conservative Party conference, focusing on Kemi Badenoch's impactful speech amidst a tumultuous backdrop.

9 Oct 2025 · 1h 1m