Afleveringen

  • Natalie Fleet


    Natalie has only been an MP since July but has already established herself as one of the most impressive members of the new intake.


    She has had to overcome a lot to become an MP and talks passionately about how hard it is to succeed if you're working class in modern Britain.


    This is gripping from start to finish. 


    FOLLOW Natalie on X: @NatalieFleetMP


    SEE Matt at on tour until March 2025, including his extra date at The Bloomsbury Theatre: https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows


    2025


    29 January: Norwich, Playhouse - EXTRA DATE

    2 February: Salford, Lowry

    4 February: Leeds, City Varieties

    5 February: Sheffield, The Leadmill

    6 February: Chelmsford Theatre

    7 February: Bedford, The Quarry Theatre

    12 February: Bath, Komedia

    13 February: Southend, Palace Theatre

    16 February: Cambridge, The Junction

    20 February: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts

    23 February: Brighton, Komedia

    25 February: Cardiff, Glee Club

    26 February: Bury St Edmunds, Theatre Royal

    28 February: Chelmsford Theatre - EXTRA DATE

    2 March: Bristol, Tobacco Factory

    4 March: Colchester Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE

    6 March: Birmingham, Glee Club - EXTRA DATE

    7 March: Maidenhead, Norden Farm - EXTRA DATE

    11 March: Aberdeen, Lemon Tree

    12 March: Glasgow, Glee Club

    27 March: Oxford, Glee Club - EXTRA DATE

    28 March: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE

    4 April: London, Bloomsbury Theatre - EXTRA DATE


    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • David Yelland


    This is a gripping inside account of editing The Sun when tabloids were still dominant.


    David tried to take the paper in a different direction. But did Rupert Murdoch approve?


    Plus, does Elon Musk's use of X have its roots in tabloid culture and influence?


    FOLLOW David on X: @davidyelland


    SEE Matt at on tour until March 2025, including his extra dates at The Bloomsbury Theatre: https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows

    2024


    14 December: London, Bloomsbury Theatre - EXTRA DATE


    2025


    29 January: Norwich, Playhouse - EXTRA DATE

    2 February: Salford, Lowry

    4 February: Leeds, City Varieties

    5 February: Sheffield, The Leadmill

    6 February: Chelmsford Theatre

    7 February: Bedford, The Quarry Theatre

    12 February: Bath, Komedia

    13 February: Southend, Palace Theatre

    16 February: Cambridge, The Junction

    20 February: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts

    23 February: Brighton, Komedia

    25 February: Cardiff, Glee Club

    26 February: Bury St Edmunds, Theatre Royal

    28 February: Chelmsford Theatre - EXTRA DATE

    2 March: Bristol, Tobacco Factory

    4 March: Colchester Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE

    6 March: Birmingham, Glee Club - EXTRA DATE

    7 March: Maidenhead, Norden Farm - EXTRA DATE

    11 March: Aberdeen, Lemon Tree

    12 March: Glasgow, Glee Club

    27 March: Oxford, Glee Club - EXTRA DATE

    28 March: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE


    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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  • Policy! Football! Pies!


    It's the interview with everything.


    After years in opposition, Alison is now an Employment Minister and is keen to get on and change things. She explains the changes she's making to Jobcentres and the difference they'll make.


    Plus... will Alison become the latest politician to start a podcast?


    FOLLOW Alison on X: @Alison_McGovern


    ORDER a Homebaked pie: https://www.homebakedbakery.com/


    SEE Matt at on tour until March 2025, including his extra dates at The Bloomsbury Theatre: https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows

    2024


    6 December: London, Bloomsbury Theatre - EXTRA DATE

    14 December: London, Bloomsbury Theatre - EXTRA DATE


    2025


    29 January: Norwich, Playhouse - EXTRA DATE

    2 February: Salford, Lowry

    4 February: Leeds, City Varieties

    5 February: Sheffield, The Leadmill

    6 February: Chelmsford Theatre

    7 February: Bedford, The Quarry Theatre

    12 February: Bath, Komedia

    13 February: Southend, Palace Theatre

    16 February: Cambridge, The Junction

    20 February: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts

    23 February: Brighton, Komedia

    25 February: Cardiff, Glee Club

    26 February: Bury St Edmunds, Theatre Royal

    28 February: Chelmsford Theatre - EXTRA DATE

    2 March: Bristol, Tobacco Factory

    4 March: Colchester Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE

    6 March: Birmingham, Glee Club - EXTRA DATE

    7 March: Maidenhead, Norden Farm - EXTRA DATE

    11 March: Aberdeen, Lemon Tree

    12 March: Glasgow, Glee Club

    27 March: Oxford, Glee Club - EXTRA DATE

    28 March: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE


    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • This is inspirational. 

     

    David was the Conservative MP for Banff and Buchan for 7 years.

     

    Then he suffered a spinal stroke. Incredibly he wasn't allowed to defend his seat in the general election. 

     

    This is the remarkable story of how he recovered, why he was blocked and how he's remained so positive. 

     

     

    FOLLOW David on X: @david_duguid

     

    SEE Matt at on tour until March 2025, including his extra dates at The Bloomsbury Theatre: https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows

    2024

     

    27 November: Chipping Norton Theatre

    28 November: Leicester, Y Theatre

    29 November: Eastleigh, The Berry

    31 November: Faversham, The Alexander Centre

    6 December: London, Bloomsbury Theatre - EXTRA DATE

    14 December: London, Bloomsbury Theatre - EXTRA DATE

     

    2025

     

    29 January: Norwich, Playhouse - EXTRA DATE

    2 February: Salford, Lowry

    4 February: Leeds, City Varieties

    5 February: Sheffield, The Leadmill

    6 February: Chelmsford Theatre

    7 February: Bedford, The Quarry Theatre

    12 February: Bath, Komedia

    13 February: Southend, Palace Theatre

    16 February: Cambridge, The Junction

    20 February: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts

    23 February: Brighton, Komedoa

    25 February: Cardiff, Glee Club

    26 February: Bury St Edmunds, Theatre Royal

    28 February: Chelmsford Theatre - EXTRA DATE

    2 March: Bristol, Tobacco Factory

    4 March: Colchester Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE

    6 March: Birmingham, Glee Club - EXTRA DATE

    7 March: Maidenhead, Norden Farm - EXTRA DATE

    11 March: Aberdeen, Lemon Tree

    12 March: Glasgow, Glee Club

    27 March: Oxford, Glee Club - EXTRA DATE

    28 March: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE

     


    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • Salma Shah is back!

     

    The Tory strategist gives her entertaining assessment of Kemi Badenoch and how the Tories are doing.

     

    This is such a great chat in which I have my centre-left prejudices thoroughly checked. 

     

    Talking about the Opposition has never been more fun.

     

     

    FOLLOW Salma on X: @Ommasalma

     

    SEE Matt at on tour until March 2025, including his extra dates at The Bloomsbury Theatre: https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows

    2024

     

    20 November: York, The Crescent

    21 November: Chorley, Little Theatre

    27 November: Chipping Norton Theatre

    28 November: Leicester, Y Theatre

    29 November: Eastleigh, The Berry

    31 November: Faversham, The Alexander Centre

    6 December: London, Bloomsbury Theatre - EXTRA DATE

    14 December: London, Bloomsbury Theatre - EXTRA DATE

     

    2025

     

    29 January: Norwich, Playhouse - EXTRA DATE

    2 February: Salford, Lowry

    4 February: Leeds, City Varieties

    5 February: Sheffield, The Leadmill

    6 February: Chelmsford Theatre

    7 February: Bedford, The Quarry Theatre

    12 February: Bath, Komedia

    13 February: Southend, Palace Theatre

    16 February: Cambridge, The Junction

    20 February: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts

    23 February: Brighton, Komedoa

    25 February: Cardiff, Glee Club

    26 February: Bury St Edmunds, Theatre Royal

    28 February: Chelmsford Theatre - EXTRA DATE

    2 March: Bristol, Tobacco Factory

    4 March: Colchester Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE

    6 March: Birmingham, Glee Club - EXTRA DATE

    7 March: Maidenhead, Norden Farm - EXTRA DATE

    11 March: Aberdeen, Lemon Tree

    12 March: Glasgow, Glee Club

    27 March: Oxford, Glee Club - EXTRA DATE

    28 March: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE


    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • Seth Harris - US Election Special


    Well, it happened. 


    This is a comprehensive and entertaining analysis of why and how Trump won the election with friend of the show, Seth Harris.


    Seth served in Obama's Cabinet and worked closely with both Joe Biden and Kamala Harris. 


    If you're looking for answers, you'll find them here. 


    FOLLOW Seth on X: @MrSethHarris


    SEE Matt at on tour until March 2025, including his extra dates at The Bloomsbury Theatre: https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows

    2024


    14 November: Basingstoke, The Haymarket

    15 November: Colchester Arts Centre

    20 November: York, The Crescent

    21 November: Chorley, Little Theatre

    27 November: Chipping Norton Theatre

    28 November: Leicester, Y Theatre

    29 November: Eastleigh, The Berry

    31 November: Faversham, The Alexander Centre

    6 December: London, Bloomsbury Theatre - EXTRA DATE

    14 December: London, Bloomsbury Theatre - EXTRA DATE


    2025


    29 January: Norwich, Playhouse - EXTRA DATE

    2 February: Salford, Lowry

    4 February: Leeds, City Varieties

    5 February: Sheffield, The Leadmill

    6 February: Chelmsford Theatre

    7 February: Bedford, The Quarry Theatre

    12 February: Bath, Komedia

    13 February: Southend, Palace Theatre

    16 February: Cambridge, The Junction

    20 February: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts

    23 February: Brighton, Komedoa

    25 February: Cardiff, Glee Club

    26 February: Bury St Edmunds, Theatre Royal

    28 February: Chelmsford Theatre - EXTRA DATE

    2 March: Bristol, Tobacco Factory

    4 March: Colchester Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE

    6 March: Birmingham, Glee Club - EXTRA DATE

    7 March: Maidenhead, Norden Farm - EXTRA DATE

    11 March: Aberdeen, Lemon Tree

    12 March: Glasgow, Glee Club

    27 March: Oxford, Glee Club - EXTRA DATE

    28 March: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE


    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • Darren Jones - Budget Special


    This is a cracker.


    A full Budget briefing from the Chief Secretary to the Treasury which includes some excellent breakfast chat.


    SEE Matt at on tour until March 2025, including his extra dates at The Bloomsbury Theatre: https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows

    2024


    6 November: Exeter, Phoenix

    8 November: Tunbridge Wells, Trinity Theatre

    14 November: Basingstoke, The Haymarket

    15 November: Colchester Arts Centre

    20 November: York, The Crescent

    21 November: Chorley, Little Theatre

    27 November: Chipping Norton Theatre

    28 November: Leicester, Y Theatre

    29 November: Eastleigh, The Berry

    31 November: Faversham, The Alexander Centre

    6 December: London, Bloomsbury Theatre - EXTRA DATE

    14 December: London, Bloomsbury Theatre - EXTRA DATE


    2025


    29 January: Norwich, Playhouse - EXTRA DATE

    2 February: Salford, Lowry

    4 February: Leeds, City Varieties

    5 February: Sheffield, The Leadmill

    6 February: Chelmsford Theatre

    7 February: Bedford, The Quarry Theatre

    12 February: Bath, Komedia

    13 February: Southend, Palace Theatre

    16 February: Cambridge, The Junction

    20 February: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts

    23 February: Brighton, Komedoa

    25 February: Cardiff, Glee Club

    26 February: Bury St Edmunds, Theatre Royal

    28 February: Chelmsford Theatre - EXTRA DATE

    2 March: Bristol, Tobacco Factory

    4 March: Colchester Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE

    6 March: Birmingham, Glee Club - EXTRA DATE

    7 March: Maidenhead, Norden Farm - EXTRA DATE

    11 March: Aberdeen, Lemon Tree

    12 March: Glasgow, Glee Club

    27 March: Oxford, Glee Club - EXTRA DATE

    28 March: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE


    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • One of our most gifted political writers reflects on the death of Alex Salmond and the current state of Scottish politics.

     

    This is engrossing from the very first second. 

     

    SUBSCRIBE to the Ponsonby and Massie podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-ponsonby-and-massie-podcast/id1749779794

     

    SEE Matt at on tour until March 2025, including his extra dates at The Bloomsbury Theatre: https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows

    2024

     

    6 November: Exeter, Phoenix

    8 November: Tunbridge Wells, Trinity Theatre

    14 November: Basingstoke, The Haymarket

    15 November: Colchester Arts Centre

    20 November: York, The Crescent

    21 November: Chorley, Little Theatre

    27 November: Chipping Norton Theatre

    28 November: Leicester, Y Theatre

    29 November: Eastleigh, The Berry

    31 November: Faversham, The Alexander Centre

    6 December: London, Bloomsbury Theatre - EXTRA DATE

    14 December: London, Bloomsbury Theatre - EXTRA DATE

     

    2025

     

    29 January: Norwich, Playhouse - EXTRA DATE

    2 February: Salford, Lowry

    4 February: Leeds, City Varieties

    5 February: Sheffield, The Leadmill

    6 February: Chelmsford Theatre

    7 February: Bedford, The Quarry Theatre

    12 February: Bath, Komedia

    13 February: Southend, Palace Theatre

    16 February: Cambridge, The Junction

    20 February: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts

    23 February: Brighton, Komedoa

    25 February: Cardiff, Glee Club

    26 February: Bury St Edmunds, Theatre Royal

    28 February: Chelmsford Theatre - EXTRA DATE

    2 March: Bristol, Tobacco Factory

    4 March: Colchester Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE

    6 March: Birmingham, Glee Club - EXTRA DATE

    7 March: Maidenhead, Norden Farm - EXTRA DATE

    11 March: Aberdeen, Lemon Tree

    12 March: Glasgow, Glee Club

    27 March: Oxford, Glee Club - EXTRA DATE

    28 March: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE


    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • Sir Graham Brady


    What's it like telling a Prime Minister their time is up?


    Sir Graham chaired the 1922 Committee throughout the tenure of five Conservative Prime Ministers. 


    In this entertaining interview he tells us what those private moments with them were like and how each of them used their power differently.


    This is the thrilling inside account of the most tumultuous political time in living memory. 


    BUY Sir Graham's book 'Kingmaker' here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Kingmaker-Secrets-Truth-about-Ministers/dp/1804188263


    SEE Matt at on tour until March 2025, including his extra dates at The Bloomsbury Theatre: https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows

    2024


    24 October: Hull, Truck Theatre

    6 November: Exeter, Phoenix

    8 November: Tunbridge Wells, Trinity Theatre

    14 November: Basingstoke, The Haymarket

    15 November: Colchester Arts Centre

    20 November: York, The Crescent

    21 November: Chorley, Little Theatre

    22 November: Salford, The Lowry

    27 November: Chipping Norton Theatre

    28 November: Leicester, Y Theatre

    29 November: Eastleigh, The Berry

    31 November: Faversham, The Alexander Centre

    6 December: London, Bloomsbury Theatre - EXTRA DATE

    14 December: London, Bloomsbury Theatre - EXTRA DATE


    2025


    29 January: Norwich, Playhouse - EXTRA DATE

    4 February: Leeds, City Varieties

    5 February: Sheffield, The Leadmill

    6 February: Chelmsford Theatre

    7 February: Bedford, The Quarry Theatre

    12 February: Bath, Komedia

    13 February: Southend, Palace Theatre

    16 February: Cambridge, The Junction

    20 February: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts

    23 February: Brighton, Komedoa

    25 February: Cardiff, Glee Club

    26 February: Bury St Edmunds, Theatre Royal

    28 February: Chelmsford Theatre - EXTRA DATE

    2 March: Bristol, Tobacco Factory

    4 March: Colchester Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE

    6 March: Birmingham, Glee Club - EXTRA DATE

    7 March: Maidenhead, Norden Farm - EXTRA DATE

    11 March: Aberdeen, Lemon Tree

    12 March: Glasgow, Glee Club

    27 March: Oxford, Glee Club - EXTRA DATE

    28 March: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE


    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • Thangam Debbonaire


    Thangam is one of the brightest stars of the Labour movement. As Shadow Culture Secretary she was all set to command the brief in government. 


    But things didn't go to plan. On 4 July, Thangam lost Bristol Central to the Green Party. 


    A classically trained cellist. Thangam has a range of life experience. 


    She's one of the most charismatic and engaging politicians in the country and her reflections on her career so far are thoughtful and hopeful. 


    SEE Matt at on tour until March 2025, including his extra dates at The Bloomsbury Theatre: https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows

    2024


    24 October: Hull, Truck Theatre

    6 November: Exeter, Phoenix

    8 November: Tunbridge Wells, Trinity Theatre

    14 November: Basingstoke, The Haymarket

    15 November: Colchester Arts Centre

    20 November: York, The Crescent

    21 November: Chorley, Little Theatre

    22 November: Salford, The Lowry

    27 November: Chipping Norton Theatre

    28 November: Leicester, Y Theatre

    29 November: Eastleigh, The Berry

    31 November: Faversham, The Alexander Centre

    6 December: London, Bloomsbury Theatre - EXTRA DATE

    14 December: London, Bloomsbury Theatre - EXTRA DATE


    2025


    29 January: Norwich, Playhouse - EXTRA DATE

    4 February: Leeds, City Varieties

    5 February: Sheffield, The Leadmill

    6 February: Chelmsford Theatre

    7 February: Bedford, The Quarry Theatre

    12 February: Bath, Komedia

    13 February: Southend, Palace Theatre

    16 February: Cambridge, The Junction

    20 February: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts

    23 February: Brighton, Komedoa

    25 February: Cardiff, Glee Club

    26 February: Bury St Edmunds, Theatre Royal

    28 February: Chelmsford Theatre - EXTRA DATE

    2 March: Bristol, Tobacco Factory

    4 March: Colchester Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE

    6 March: Birmingham, Glee Club - EXTRA DATE

    7 March: Maidenhead, Norden Farm - EXTRA DATE

    11 March: Aberdeen, Lemon Tree

    12 March: Glasgow, Glee Club

    27 March: Oxford, Glee Club - EXTRA DATE

    28 March: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE


    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • Pam Duncan-Glancy 

     

    Pam is the Shadow Education and Skills Secretary in Scotland. 

     

    She's only been an MSP for four years but has already made a huge impact. 

     

    Her life story is fascinating, as is her route into politics. As the first permanent wheelchair user in Holyrood, she has to overcome daily challenges in order to do her job. 

     

    Pam is an optimist and this is an amazing story about the power of politics and how to get the most out of life.  

     

     

    SEE Matt at on tour until March 2025, including his extra dates at The Bloomsbury Theatre: https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows 

    2024 

    9 October: Middlesbrough, The Crypt 

    10 October: London, Leicester Square Theatre 

    24 October: Hull, Truck Theatre 

    6 November: Exeter, Phoenix 

    8 November: Tunbridge Wells, Trinity Theatre 

    14 November: Basingstoke, The Haymarket 

    15 November: Colchester Arts Centre 

    20 November: York, The Crescent 

    21 November: Chorley, Little Theatre 

    22 November: Salford, The Lowry 

    27 November: Chipping Norton Theatre 

    28 November: Leicester, Y Theatre 

    29 November: Eastleigh, The Berry 

    31 November: Faversham, The Alexander Centre 

    6 December: London, Bloomsbury Theatre - EXTRA DATE 

    14 December: London, Bloomsbury Theatre - EXTRA DATE 

     

    2025 

     

    29 January: Norwich, Playhouse - EXTRA DATE 

    4 February: Leeds, City Varieties 

    5 February: Sheffield, The Leadmill 

    6 February: Chelmsford Theatre 

    7 February: Bedford, The Quarry Theatre 

    12 February: Bath, Komedia 

    13 February: Southend, Palace Theatre 

    16 February: Cambridge, The Junction 

    20 February: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts 

    23 February: Brighton, Komedoa 

    25 February: Cardiff, Glee Club 

    26 February: Bury St Edmunds, Theatre Royal 

    28 February: Chelmsford Theatre - EXTRA DATE 

    2 March: Bristol, Tobacco Factory 

    4 March: Colchester Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE 

    6 March: Birmingham, Glee Club - EXTRA DATE 

    7 March: Maidenhead, Norden Farm - EXTRA DATE 

    11 March: Aberdeen, Lemon Tree 

    12 March: Glasgow, Glee Club 

    27 March: Oxford, Glee Club - EXTRA DATE 

    28 March: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE 

     


    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • Iain McNicol 

     

    This. Is. Class.  

     

    Iain was General Secretary of the Labour Party from 2011 to 2018.  

     

    He tells us what it was like having to run the party during the most tumultuous time in its history. 

     

    You'll be hanging on his every word.  

     

     

    SEE Matt at on tour until March 2025, including his 2 extra dates at The Bloomsbury Theatre: https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows 

    2024 

     

    31 July - 25 August: Edinburgh, The Pleasance 

    2 October: Norwich Playhouse 

    3 October: Maidenhead, Norden Farm 

    9 October: Middlesbrough, The Crypt 

    10 October: London, Leicester Square Theatre 

    24 October: Hull, Truck Theatre 

    6 November: Exeter, Phoenix 

    8 November: Tunbridge Wells, Trinity Theatre 

    14 November: Basingstoke, The Haymarket 

    15 November: Colchester Arts Centre 

    20 November: York, The Crescent 

    21 November: Chorley, Little Theatre 

    22 November: Salford, The Lowry 

    27 November: Chipping Norton Theatre 

    28 November: Leicester, Y Theatre 

    29 November: Eastleigh, The Berry 

    31 November: Faversham, The Alexander Centre 

    6 December: London, Bloomsbury Theatre 

    14 December: London, Bloomsbury Theatre 

     

    2025 

     

    4 February: Leeds, City Varieties 

    5 February: Sheffield, The Leadmill 

    6 February: Chelmsford Theatre 

    7 February: Bedford, The Quarry Theatre 

    12 February: Bath, Komedia 

    13 February: Southend, Palace Theatre 

    16 February: Cambridge, The Junction 

    20 February: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts 

    23 February: Brighton, Komedoa 

    25 February: Cardiff, Glee Club 

    26 February: Bury St Edmunds, Theatre Royal 

    2 March: Bristol, Tobacco Factory 

    11 March: Aberdeen, Lemon Tree 

    12 March: Glasgow, Glee Club 


    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • Siobhan Baillie

     

    What's it like to lose your seat after one term, when your political career was really starting to flourish?

     

    Siobhan was the MP for Stroud and had worked hard to do the job properly. But that experience was cut short in July. 

     

    As well as opening up about the emotional impact of losing the seat, Siobhan has clear ideas about what improvements she'd make to politics and the role of different politicians. 

     

    Despite the heartache of defeat, this is engrossing hour with a positive, optimistic and upbeat politician who still has lots more to achieve. 

     

     

    SEE Matt at on tour until March 2025, including his extra date at The Bloomsbury Theatre: https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows

    2024

     

    31 July - 25 August: Edinburgh, The Pleasance

    2 October: Norwich Playhouse

    3 October: Maidenhead, Norden Farm

    9 October: Middlesbrough, The Crypt

    10 October: London, Leicester Square Theatre

    24 October: Hull, Truck Theatre

    6 November: Exeter, Phoenix

    8 November: Tunbridge Wells, Trinity Theatre

    14 November: Basingstoke, The Haymarket

    15 November: Colchester Arts Centre

    20 November: York, The Crescent

    21 November: Chorley, Little Theatre

    22 November: Salford, The Lowry

    27 November: Chipping Norton Theatre

    28 November: Leicester, Y Theatre

    29 November: Eastleigh, The Berry

    31 November: Faversham, The Alexander Centre

    6 December: London, Bloomsbury Theatre

     

    2025

     

    4 February: Leeds, City Varieties

    5 February: Sheffield, The Leadmill

    6 February: Chelmsford Theatre

    7 February: Bedford, The Quarry Theatre

    12 February: Bath, Komedia

    13 February: Southend, Palace Theatre

    16 February: Cambridge, The Junction

    20 February: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts

    23 February: Brighton, Komedoa

    25 February: Cardiff, Glee Club

    26 February: Bury St Edmunds, Theatre Royal

    2 March: Bristol, Tobacco Factory

    11 March: Aberdeen, Lemon Tree

    12 March: Glasgow, Glee Club


    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • Emma Revell 


    What does a Thatcherite think tank do when the Tories are out of office?


    Emma Revell from the Centre for Policy Studies briefs us on what's next for one of Britain's most influential organisations. 


    Plus... why being a Lib Dem first is becoming a right of passage...


    SEE Matt at on tour until March 2025: https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows

    2024


    31 July - 25 August: Edinburgh, The Pleasance

    2 October: Norwich Playhouse

    3 October: Maidenhead, Norden Farm

    9 October: Middlesbrough, The Crypt

    10 October: London, Leicester Square Theatre

    24 October: Hull, Truck Theatre

    6 November: Exeter, Phoenix

    8 November: Tunbridge Wells, Trinity Theatre

    14 November: Basingstoke, The Haymarket

    15 November: Colchester Arts Centre

    20 November: York, The Crescent

    21 November: Chorley, Little Theatre

    22 November: Salford, The Lowry

    27 November: Chipping Norton Theatre

    28 November: Leicester, Y Theatre

    29 November: Eastleigh, The Berry

    31 November: Faversham, The Alexander Centre


    2025


    4 February: Leeds, City Varieties

    5 February: Sheffield, The Leadmill

    6 February: Chelmsford Theatre

    7 February: Bedford, The Quarry Theatre

    12 February: Bath, Komedia

    13 February: Southend, Palace Theatre

    16 February: Cambridge, The Junction

    20 February: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts

    23 February: Brighton, Komedoa

    25 February: Cardiff, Glee Club

    26 February: Bury St Edmunds, Theatre Royal

    2 March: Bristol, Tobacco Factory

    11 March: Aberdeen, Lemon Tree

    12 March: Glasgow, Glee Club


    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • Murdo Fraser - Scottish Conservative Leadership Special

     

    What's next for the Conservatives in the UK and in Scotland?

     Murdo Fraser wants to lead the party into the Holyrood election in 2026.

     But what's a realistic ambition for them and how do they make a case for conservative values and policies at such a challenging time?

     PLUS... a brilliant story about the time Donald Trump gave evidence to Murdo's committee in person at Holyrood. 

     

    SEE Matt at on tour until March 2025: https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows


    2024 

    31 July - 25 August: Edinburgh, The Pleasance

    2 October: Norwich Playhouse

    3 October: Maidenhead, Norden Farm

    9 October: Middlesbrough, The Crypt

    10 October: London, Leicester Square Theatre

    24 October: Hull, Truck Theatre

    6 November: Exeter, Phoenix

    8 November: Tunbridge Wells, Trinity Theatre

    14 November: Basingstoke, The Haymarket

    15 November: Colchester Arts Centre

    20 November: York, The Crescent

    21 November: Chorley, Little Theatre

    22 November: Salford, The Lowry

    27 November: Chipping Norton Theatre

    28 November: Leicester, Y Theatre

    29 November: Eastleigh, The Berry

    31 November: Faversham, The Alexander Centre

     

    2025

    4 February: Leeds, City Varieties

    5 February: Sheffield, The Leadmill

    6 February: Chelmsford Theatre

    7 February: Bedford, The Quarry Theatre

    12 February: Bath, Komedia

    13 February: Southend, Palace Theatre

    16 February: Cambridge, The Junction

    20 February: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts

    23 February: Brighton, Komedoa

    25 February: Cardiff, Glee Club

    26 February: Bury St Edmunds, Theatre Royal

    2 March: Bristol, Tobacco Factory

    11 March: Aberdeen, Lemon Tree

    12 March: Glasgow, Glee Club


    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • Sarah lived in Downing Street for the entirety of the last Labour government. 

     

    What is the role of a political spouse? Why doesn't the UK formalise the role?

     

    More importantly, what was Sarah and Gordon's first date like?

     

    This is the hilarious inside story of what it was like living on Britian's most famous street for 13 years. 

     

     

    WATCH the goal that Gordon hurried home for: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vGQplbF_akc

     

    SEE Matt at on tour until March 2025: https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows

    2024

     

    31 July - 25 August: Edinburgh, The Pleasance

    2 October: Norwich Playhouse

    3 October: Maidenhead, Norden Farm

    9 October: Middlesbrough, The Crypt

    10 October: London, Leicester Square Theatre

    24 October: Hull, Truck Theatre

    6 November: Exeter, Phoenix

    8 November: Tunbridge Wells, Trinity Theatre

    14 November: Basingstoke, The Haymarket

    15 November: Colchester Arts Centre

    20 November: York, The Crescent

    21 November: Chorley, Little Theatre

    22 November: Salford, The Lowry

    27 November: Chipping Norton Theatre

    28 November: Leicester, Y Theatre

    29 November: Eastleigh, The Berry

    31 November: Faversham, The Alexander Centre

     

    2025

     

    4 February: Leeds, City Varieties

    5 February: Sheffield, The Leadmill

    6 February: Chelmsford Theatre

    7 February: Bedford, The Quarry Theatre

    12 February: Bath, Komedia

    13 February: Southend, Palace Theatre

    16 February: Cambridge, The Junction

    20 February: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts

    23 February: Brighton, Komedoa

    25 February: Cardiff, Glee Club

    26 February: Bury St Edmunds, Theatre Royal

    2 March: Bristol, Tobacco Factory

    11 March: Aberdeen, Lemon Tree

    12 March: Glasgow, Glee Club


    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • Jacob Rees-Mogg: LIVE at the Edinburgh Festival

     

    After an earthquake of an election for Jacob and the Conservatives, what does the future hold?

     

    Jacob Rees-Mogg opens up on why the Tories lost, how they can win again and whether he'll stand next time.

     

    Plus... how does he stay so trim? His diet tips may surprise you...

     

    SEE Matt on tour until March 2025: https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows

    2024

     

    31 July - 25 August: Edinburgh, The Pleasance

    2 October: Norwich Playhouse

    3 October: Maidenhead, Norden Farm

    9 October: Middlesbrough, The Crypt

    10 October: London, Leicester Square Theatre

    24 October: Hull, Truck Theatre

    6 November: Exeter, Phoenix

    8 November: Tunbridge Wells, Trinity Theatre

    14 November: Basingstoke, The Haymarket

    15 November: Colchester Arts Centre

    20 November: York, The Crescent

    21 November: Chorley, Little Theatre

    22 November: Salford, The Lowry

    27 November: Chipping Norton Theatre

    28 November: Leicester, Y Theatre

    29 November: Eastleigh, The Berry

    31 November: Faversham, The Alexander Centre

     

    2025

     

    4 February: Leeds, City Varieties

    5 February: Sheffield, The Leadmill

    6 February: Chelmsford Theatre

    7 February: Bedford, The Quarry Theatre

    12 February: Bath, Komedia

    13 February: Southend, Palace Theatre

    16 February: Cambridge, The Junction

    20 February: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts

    23 February: Brighton, Komedoa

    25 February: Cardiff, Glee Club

    26 February: Bury St Edmunds, Theatre Royal

    2 March: Bristol, Tobacco Factory

    11 March: Aberdeen, Lemon Tree

    12 March: Glasgow, Glee Club


    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • After Labour's stunning general election victory. Anas Sarwar is on the brink of becoming First Minister. 

     

    But what would Labour do if they won in Scotland? 

     

    And more importantly, will Anas be getting a makeover?

     

     

    SEE Matt at the Edinburgh Festival in August and on tour until March 2025: https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows

    2024

     

    31 July - 25 August: Edinburgh, The Pleasance

    2 October: Norwich Playhouse

    3 October: Maidenhead, Norden Farm

    9 October: Middlesbrough, The Crypt

    10 October: London, Leicester Square Theatre

    24 October: Hull, Truck Theatre

    6 November: Exeter, Phoenix

    8 November: Tunbridge Wells, Trinity Theatre

    14 November: Basingstoke, The Haymarket

    15 November: Colchester Arts Centre

    20 November: York, The Crescent

    21 November: Chorley, Little Theatre

    22 November: Salford, The Lowry

    27 November: Chipping Norton Theatre

    28 November: Leicester, Y Theatre

    29 November: Eastleigh, The Berry

    31 November: Faversham, The Alexander Centre

     

    2025

     

    4 February: Leeds, City Varieties

    5 February: Sheffield, The Leadmill

    6 February: Chelmsford Theatre

    7 February: Bedford, The Quarry Theatre

    12 February: Bath, Komedia

    13 February: Southend, Palace Theatre

    16 February: Cambridge, The Junction

    20 February: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts

    23 February: Brighton, Komedoa

    25 February: Cardiff, Glee Club

    26 February: Bury St Edmunds, Theatre Royal

    2 March: Bristol, Tobacco Factory

    11 March: Aberdeen, Lemon Tree

    12 March: Glasgow, Glee Club


    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • James Frith 

     

    JUST ANNOUNCED: 

     

    Come and see The Political Party LIVE at the Edinburgh Festival with the following guests: 

     

    13 August: Anas Sarwar 

    18 August: Jacob Rees-Mogg 

    19 August: Sarah Brown 

     

    Tickets: https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows 

     

    James won the Bury North seat for Labour in 2017. He lost it in 2019 by just 105 votes. 

     

    A few weeks ago James won the seat for a second time with a majority of nearly 7000. 

     

    So what is going on in Bury and how much of a role, if any, did Reform play in the result? 

     

    Why hasn't Bury seen rioting by the hard right when other places have? 

     

    And more importantly, will James ever go to Glastonbury again?  

     

    SEE Matt on tour at the Edinburgh Festival and nationwide 


    2024 

    31 July - 25 August: Edinburgh, The Pleasance 

    2 October: Norwich Playhouse 

    3 October: Maidenhead, Norden Farm 

    9 October: Middlesbrough, The Crypt 

    10 October: London, Leicester Square Theatre 

    24 October: Hull, Truck Theatre 

    6 November: Exeter, Phoenix 

    8 November: Tunbridge Wells, Trinity Theatre 

    14 November: Basingstoke, The Haymarket 

    15 November: Colchester Arts Centre 

    20 November: York, The Crescent 

    21 November: Chorley, Little Theatre 

    22 November: Salford, The Lowry 

    27 November: Chipping Norton Theatre 

    28 November: Leicester, Y Theatre 

    29 November: Eastleigh, The Berry 

    31 November: Faversham, The Alexander Centre 

     

    2025 

     

    4 February: Leeds, City Varieties 

    5 February: Sheffield, The Leadmill 

    6 February: Chelmsford Theatre 

    7 February: Bedford, The Quarry Theatre 

    12 February: Bath, Komedia 

    13 February: Southend, Palace Theatre 

    16 February: Cambridge, The Junction 

    20 February: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts 

    23 February: Brighton, Komedoa 

    25 February: Cardiff, Glee Club 

    26 February: Bury St Edmunds, Theatre Royal 

    2 March: Bristol, Tobacco Factory 

    11 March: Aberdeen, Lemon Tree 

    12 March: Glasgow, Glee Club 


    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • Toby Perkins 

     

    Toby won his Chesterfield seat for the fifth time at the recent general election. But how did he retain his seat throughout Labour's darkest years when colleagues around him were losing theirs? 

     

    One of the most likeable MPs in the Commons was a Shadow Minister but didn't get appointed to the frontbench after the election. 

     

    He talks openly and honestly about the mixed feelings he has about Labour finally forming a government, but not being a minister in it.  

     

    A massive football fan, Toby also reveals which football manager he thinks he'd most be like if he chairs the Environmental Audit Committee. 

      

    SEE Matt at the Edinburgh Festival in August and on tour until March 2025: https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows


    2024 

     

    31 July - 25 August: Edinburgh, The Pleasance 

    2 October: Norwich Playhouse 

    3 October: Maidenhead, Norden Farm 

    9 October: Middlesbrough, The Crypt 

    10 October: London, Leicester Square Theatre 

    24 October: Hull, Truck Theatre 

    6 November: Exeter, Phoenix 

    8 November: Tunbridge Wells, Trinity Theatre 

    14 November: Basingstoke, The Haymarket 

    15 November: Colchester Arts Centre 

    20 November: York, The Crescent 

    21 November: Chorley, Little Theatre 

    22 November: Salford, The Lowry 

    27 November: Chipping Norton Theatre 

    28 November: Leicester, Y Theatre 

    29 November: Eastleigh, The Berry 

    31 November: Faversham, The Alexander Centre 

     

    2025 

     

    4 February: Leeds, City Varieties 

    5 February: Sheffield, The Leadmill 

    6 February: Chelmsford Theatre 

    7 February: Bedford, The Quarry Theatre 

    12 February: Bath, Komedia 

    13 February: Southend, Palace Theatre 

    16 February: Cambridge, The Junction 

    20 February: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts 

    23 February: Brighton, Komedoa 

    25 February: Cardiff, Glee Club 

    26 February: Bury St Edmunds, Theatre Royal 

    2 March: Bristol, Tobacco Factory 

    11 March: Aberdeen, Lemon Tree 

    12 March: Glasgow, Glee Club 


    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.