Talk Media (The Big Light )

Stuart and Eamonn are joined by broadcaster and reporter Zara Janjua to discuss controversy surrounding a recent BBC Panorama, ongoing challenges for the Scottish newspaper industry and issues related to the NHS’s contact-tracing app and Zoom. Stuart, Eamonn and Zara also share their personal media recommendations.

Stuart: Netflix documentary, ‘Tell Me Who I Am’ www.netflix.com/title/80214706

Eamonn: Netflix limited-series, ‘Inside Bill’s Brain: Decoding Bill Gates’ www.netflix.com/title/80184771

Zara: Amazon Prime series, ‘Harlots’ www.amazon.co.uk/Harlots-Season-1/dp/B07FSL9RNV

Support the podcast and gain access to bonus content: www.patreon.com/talkmedia

Keep up to date with the show on Twitter: @TBLTalkMedia

For more information, visit: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

At the end a question from Denis Maxwell.

Recommendations:

Eamonn:

A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens

Puffin Clothbound Classics are stunning collectable gift editions of some of the best-loved classics in the world - get into the Christmas spirit and celebrate the 180th anniversary of A Christmas Carol with this irresistible clothbound edition.

https://www.waterstones.com/book/a-christmas-carol/charles-dickens/9780241411193

A Christmas Carol BBC4

Simon Callow enacts the story of Ebeneezer Scrooge, the miserly owner of an old counting house, who is visited by the ghost of his dead business partner, Jacob Marley, on Christmas Eve. Marley warns Scrooge he is doomed in the afterlife unless he pays heed and learns from three ghosts who will visit him during the night. The Ghosts of Christmas Past, Christmas Present and Christmas Yet to Come show Scrooge how his mean, uncaring behaviour has oppressed those around him as they visit episodes from his past, his present and his future life. By the end Scrooge is humbled and redeemed and transforms into a generous, kind-hearted man.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m0001kwg

Paddy:

Die Hard

A New York City police officer tries to save his estranged wife and several others taken hostage by terrorists during a Christmas party at the Nakatomi Plaza in Los Angeles.

https://www.disneyplus.com/en-gb/movies/die-hard/1NWCEanaAK2b

Casablanca BBC2 Saturday

Classic romantic drama. Rick's Cafe is a centre for criminals, refugees, resistance fighters and Nazis. Its cynical owner takes risks for no-one - until the arrival of Ilsa.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m000mmc2

Refugees of Casablanca

https://nwhyte.livejournal.com/2363302.html

Catriona:

The Bishop’s Wife

An angel in human form enters the life of a bishop in order to help him build a new cathedral and repair his fractured marriage.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Bishops-Wife-Cary-Grant/dp/B08CVT7W7H

Stuart:

Sir Ian Botham's charity handed up to £94,000 to his daughter's PR company last year 'but NOTHING to charitable causes’

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-5696579/Sir-Ian-Bothams-charity-handed-94-000-daughters-PR-company.html

Stuart and Eamonn are joined by writer and broadcaster, Billy Kay! This week - the cancellation of cultural events in Scotland, a news story about an Afghan family living in Scotland, reactions to the release of new JFK files and a listener question about social media. At the end of the show, Stuart, Eamonn and Billy share their personal media recommendations.

To listen to the full hour-long episode, and for the list of media recommendations, join the Talk Media Club (99p per week + VAT): patreon.com/talkmedia

After I’ve joined the club, how do I listen? Download the Patreon app (iOS/Android) and login with your account details.

For more information about Talk Media, go to: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

Included questions from Paul Hampton, David Arnott and Muriel Cockburn.

A deep dive into the fast moving situations in both the Middle East and Ukraine, discuss the threat of strikes at The Guardian and The Observer and we consider the latest drama to spark court dealings - this time it’s the Netflix and the Mendez Brothers.

Recommendations:

David

UN Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese calls David Lammy a 'genocide denier'

Trump team divided over Ukraine war end plan, debates demilitarized zone, NATO freeze

Semi-Invisible Man: The Life of Norman Lewis

Norman Lewis Books

Eamonn

Dominic Dunne Vanity Fair

The Mansions of Limbo by Dominick Dunne

Justice: Crimes, Trials and Punishment by Dominick Dunne

Another City, Not My Own by Dominick Dunne

Eamonn is back at the helm with a show packed full of great observations. At the end of the show we had more questions lined up but no time to fit them in so apologies to you that missed the cut.

This week's recommendations:

Angela

Women on Death Row.

Of the nearly 3000 inmates on death row in America, only 51 are women. This documentary series examines these women's stories. Part of True Crime on Channel 4.

Presumed Innocent

A horrific murder upends the Chicago Prosecuting Attorney's' office when one of its own is suspected of the crime.

David

KIM SENGUPTA

Fearless, intrepid, dogged – Kim Sengupta never gave up on a story

Independent’s Kim Sengupta Named Journalist of the Year 2016

Eamonn

Art Matters

Melvyn Bragg draws on a career spanning more than 60 years, making a rousing case for why the arts matter - exploring his early years and the stories of influential interviewees.

Stuart and Eamonn are joined by Herald journalist, Catriona Stewart! This week - the Sue Gray 'update', Raith Rovers' decision to sign David Goodwillie, UK devolved governments and Brexit plans, Joe Rogan's podcast on Spotify and a listener question about leadership.

To listen to the full hour-long episode, and for a full list of recommendations, join the Talk Media Club (99p per week + VAT): patreon.com/talkmedia

After I’ve joined the club, how do I listen? Download the Patreon app (iOS/Android) and login with your account details.

For more information about Talk Media, go to: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

Stuart and Eamonn are joined by Susan Stewart - Director of the Open University in Scotland. This week - the Downing Street party, Andrew Neil v Jennifer Arcuri on Twitter, Omicron in Scotland and a listener question about cultural issues. At the end of the episode, Stuart, Eamonn and Susan share their personal media recommendations.

As of next week, all future episodes of Talk Media will be published via Patreon. Sign up here (99p per week): www.patreon.com/talkmedia

RECOMMENDATIONS:

Susan:

1. ‘O Caledonia’ - novel by Ellspeth Barker (“Barker’s dazzling, gothic coming-of-age story reflects the refuge and joy to be found in nature and literature amidst an isolated life, as richly resonant today as at the time of its original publication. Republished in 2021. It's been described as "one of the best overlooked novels that should be read by everyone.") www.waterstones.com/book/o-caledonia/elspeth-barker/maggie-ofarrell/9781474620512
2. ‘There Is Nothing For You Here’ - book by Fiona Hill (“Trump’s former Russia adviser charts her journey from County Durham to DC, showing how populism thrives when communities are abandoned.”) www.waterstones.com/book/there-is-nothing-for-you-here/fiona-hill/9780358574316

Stuart: ‘The Tragedy of Macbeth’ - film - American drama written and directed by Joel Coen, based on Shakespeare's play. Starring Denzel Washington and Frances McDormand. Scheduled for a limited release on Xmas Day, prior to streaming on Apple TV+ on 14th January. a24films.com/films/the-tragedy-of-macbeth

Eamonn:

1. ‘The Ponds’ - Netflix documentary (“Winter or summer, rain or shine, swimmers frequent the ponds at London's Hampstead Heath throughout the year. These are their stories.”) www.netflix.com/title/81409006
2. ‘A Castle for Christmas’ - Cheesy Netflix film set in Scotland! www.netflix.com/title/81026181

First published: 8/12/21

Stuart and Eamonn are joined again by writer and journalist, Angela Haggerty! This week - the Holyrood election results, the sentencing of Craig Murray and ongoing issues related to COVID coverage in Scotland, England and India. At the end of the episode, Stuart, Eamonn and Angela share their personal media recommendations.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

Stuart: ‘Mandy Harris Williams Is Challenging You To #BrownUpYourFeed’ - Huffington Post feature - www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/entry/mandy-harris-williams-ideal-black-female_n_607cfddae4b0eac4813f6368

Angela: ‘Three Families’ - 2-part series on BBC One - www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m000w0sn

Eamonn: ‘Nike’s Big Bet’ - documentary available on Sky - www.imdb.com/title/tt14403518/

For more information about Talk Media, visit: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

Stuart and Eamonn are joined again by Ahmed Baba (co-founder of Rantt Media) to analyse and discuss the US election and its aftermath. In part 2, Stuart and Eamonn go on to discuss John Major’s comments about IndyRef2 and reports of a ‘culture of racism’ at Fettes College in Edinburgh. As always, Ahmed, Stuart and Eamonn share their personal media recommendations.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

Ahmed: 'Why Trump Can't Afford to Lose' by Jane Mayer - New Yorker article - https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2020/11/09/why-trump-cant-afford-to-lose

Stuart: 'A Soldier's Sad Story: Vietnam Through The Eyes Of Black America 1966-73' on Kent Records - https://acerecords.co.uk/a-soldiers-sad-story-vietnam-through-the-eyes-of-black-america-1966-73

Eamonn: 'The Booksellers' - documentary - https://booksellersdocumentary.com

Follow Ahmed on Twitter: @AhmedBaba_

Support the podcast and gain access to bonus content: www.patreon.com/talkmedia

Keep up to date with the show on Twitter: @TBLTalkMedia

For more information about the podcast, visit: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Stuart and Eamonn are joined by Shona Craven (writer and columnist) to discuss the Johnny Depp trial, Chris Grayling's appointment as head of the Intelligence Committee and Donald Trump's recent commutation of Roger Stone. Stuart, Eamonn and Shona also share their personal media recommendations.

Stuart: 'Freedom Is a Constant Struggle' by Angela Davis https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25330108-freedom-is-a-constant-struggle

Eamonn:

1. Jeffrey Epstein: Filthy Rich on Netflix https://www.netflix.com/gb/title/80224905
2. 'Stand Before your God' by Paul Watkins https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61000.Stand_Before_Your_God

Shona: 'I Am an Island' by Tamsin Calidas https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/49569631-i-am-an-island

Support the podcast and gain access to bonus content: www.patreon.com/talkmedia

Keep up to date with the show on Twitter: @TBLTalkMedia

For more information about the podcast, visit: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Stuart and Eamonn are joined by Scottish film-maker Anthony Baxter (You’ve Been Trumped, A Dangerous Game) to discuss the future of the licence fee in Scotland, calls from UK broadcasters for tighter media regulations in an effort to compete with streaming services, and President Trump’s new golf course in Aberdeenshire. Stuart, Eamonn and Anthony go on to share their personal media recommendations.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

Stuart: ‘The Trial of the Chicago 7’ - Aaron Sorkin film on Netflix -www.netflix.com/title/81043755

Eamonn: ‘Bandit Capitalism: Carillion and the Corruption of the British State’ - book by Bob Wylie - www.birlinn.co.uk/product/bandit-capitalism/

Anthony: ‘Scotland, Slavery and Statues’ - BBC Scotland programme - www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m000nrpb

Support the podcast and gain access to bonus content: www.patreon.com/talkmedia

Keep up to date with the show on Twitter: @TBLTalkMedia

For more information about the podcast, visit: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Stuart and Eamonn are joined by international mezzo-soprano, Andrea Baker, to discuss Boris Johnson's devolution comments, issues related to music ownership (following the sale of Taylor Swift's master tapes) and the publication of Barack Obama's memoir, A Promised Land. Stuart, Eamonn and Andrea go on to share their personal media recommendations.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

Stuart: 'The Queen's Gambit' - Netflix series - https://www.netflix.com/gb/title/80234304

Eamonn: 'News and How to Use It: What to Believe in a Fake News World' - book by Alan Rusbridger - https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/55668999-news-and-how-to-use-it

Andrea: 'My Family, The Holocaust and Me' - two-part programme on BBC1 - https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m000pbwk

Andrea's show: www.singsistahsing.com

Andrea's website: www.andreabaker.org

Follow Andrea on Twitter: @ABakerMezzo

Support the podcast and gain access to bonus content: www.patreon.com/talkmedia

Keep up to date with the show on Twitter: @TBLTalkMedia

For more information about the podcast, visit: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Stuart and Eamonn are joined by theatre critic and political commentator, Joyce McMillan. This week - Brexit consequences, controversy surrounding The Daily Record & Heart and Hand Podcast and Fran Unsworth’s departure from BBC News. Stuart, Eamonn and Joyce share their media recommendations.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

Stuart: ‘Worth’ - drama film on Netflix - www.netflix.com/gb/title/80226212

Joyce: ‘Islander’ - film available via Dundee Rep - dundeerep.co.uk/whats-on/islander

Eamonn: ‘The Jaws Log: Expanded Edition (Shooting Script)’ - book by Carl Gottlieb - harpercollins.co.uk/products/the-jaws-log-expanded-edition-shooting-script-carl-gottlieb?variant=39320266571854

For more information about the podcast, go to: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

Stuart and Eamonn are joined by Briana Pegado (director of Creative Edinburgh) to discuss the politics of statues, ongoing controversy surrounding Prince Andrew's past relationship with Jeffrey Epstein and criticism directed towards J.K Rowling on Twitter. Stuart, Eamonn and Briana go on to share media recommendations.

Stuart: 'The Bible Belt' by Ricky Ross http://www.rickyross.com/blog/?p=4957

Briana: 'They/Them/Their: A Guide to Nonbinary & Genderqueer Identities' by Eris Young https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/44428763-they-them-their

Eamonn: 'McMillion$' Sky Documentaries series https://www.sky.com/watch/mcmillions?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI5Irns6v46QIVkLt3Ch1Hrw6zEAAYASAAEgLV_vD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds

Support the podcast and gain access to bonus content: www.patreon.com/talkmedia

Keep up to date with the show on Twitter: @TBLTalkMedia

For more information about the podcast, visit: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

At the end of the show a question from David Stark

Recommendations:

Eamonn: Private Eye

The official site for Private Eye magazine, the UK's number one best-selling news and current affairs publication edited by Ian Hislop.

https://www.private-eye.co.uk/ 

Paddy: Nothing Compares - SKY Tv

Directed by Belfast-born filmmaker Kathryn Ferguson, the archive-led documentary takes viewers back to Sinead’s prophetic words and deeds from 1987-1993. It reflects on the legacy of a fearless artist through a contemporary feminist lens and features era-defining music videos and concert performances, previously unseen footage, and a present-day interview with Sinead. The docu-film is a tapestry of Sinead’s impact on the world around her and ties together intimate first-hand interviews and insights from contemporary artists, musicians and social commentators who introduce broader themes of Irish history, politics, and global activism, all the while reflecting on Sinead’s artistry and far-reaching, global impact.

https://www.skystore.com/product/nothing-compares/a9b42c34-f6af-40ad-86c1-1e14b87ad9f7 

Ruth: Moorcroft - National Theatre of Scotland

Garry’s turned 50 but doesn’t feel like celebrating. Exhausted from years spent wrapped in regret, he begins to relive ‘the glory days’, trying to understand his mistakes, answer questions and right some wrongs in a bid to make peace with his past and find renewed purpose.

Inspired by true stories, Moorcroft follows a group of young lads in search of an escape from working class life. But can playing football save them from the challenges they face and make them the men they want to be?

With true friendship and the tenacity of working class people at its heart, Moorcroft tackles toxic masculinity in Scotland and asks ‘what is a real man?’ The hit show returns for extra-time after a sell-out run in 2022.

https://www.nationaltheatrescotland.com/events/moorcroft 

The Spy Across the Water - The Will Flemyng Thrillers (Hardback) :James Naughtie

From one of our most treasured BBC broadcasters, The Spy Across the Water is the the third instalment in James Naughtie's brilliant spy series, woven around three brothers bound together forever through espionage.

We live with our history, but it can kill us.

Faces from the past appear from nowhere at a family funeral, and Will Flemyng, spy-turned-ambassador, is drawn into twin mysteries that threaten everything he holds dear. From Washington, he's pitched back into the Troubles in Northern Ireland and an explosive secret hidden deep in the most dangerous but fulfilling friendship he has known. And while he confronts shadowy adversaries in American streets, and looks for solace at home in the Scottish Highlands, he discovers that his government's most precious Cold War agent is in mortal danger and needs his help to survive.

In an electric story of courage and betrayal, Flemyng learns the truth that his life has left him a man with many friends, but still alone.

https://www.waterstones.com/book/the-spy-across-the-water/james-naughtie/9781784080235 

At the end of the show 2 listener questions from Niall MacKay and Paul Hampton.

Recommendations:

Stuart

Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin) - book - Sly Stone

One of the few indisputable geniuses of pop music, Sly Stone is a trailblazer who created a new kind of music, mixing Black and white, male and female, funk and rock; penned some of the most iconic anthems of the 1960s and 70s, from "Everyday People" to "Family Affair"; and electrified audiences with a persona and stage presence that set a lasting standard for pop culture performance. Yet he has also been a cautionary tale, known as much for how he dropped out of sight as for what put him in the spotlight in the first place. As much as people know the music, the man remains a mystery.

In Thank You, his much-anticipated memoir, he's finally ready to share his story - a story that many thought he'd never have the chance to tell. Written with Ben Greenman, who has written memoirs with George Clinton and Brian Wilson among others, Thank You will include a foreword by Questlove. The book was created in collaboration with Sly Stone's manager Arlene Hirschkowitz.

"For as long as I can remember folks have been asking me to tell my story," says Stone. "I wasn't ready. I had to be in a new frame of mind to become Sylvester Stewart again to tell the true story of Sly Stone. It's been a wild ride and hopefully my fans enjoy it too."

Stephen

Shogun - Drama - Disney+

An original adaptation of James Clavell’s novel, FX’s Shōgun is set in Japan in the year 1600 at the dawn of a century-defining civil war. Lord Yoshii Toranaga is fighting for his life as his enemies on the Council of Regents unite against him. When a mysterious European ship is found marooned in a nearby fishing village, its English pilot, John Blackthorne, comes bearing secrets that could help Toranaga tip the scales of power and devastate the formidable influence of Blackthorne’s own enemies — the Jesuit priests and Portuguese merchants. Toranaga’s and Blackthorne’s fates become inextricably tied to their translator, Toda Mariko, a mysterious Christian noblewoman and the last of a disgraced line. While serving her lord amidst this fraught political landscape, Mariko must reconcile her newfound companionship with Blackthorne, her commitment to the faith that saved her and her duty to her late father.

Ukraine Russia War Talk - podcast - Phillips P O'Brien

A regular series of podcasts, with guests, in which we discuss the Russo-Ukraine war and larger geopolitical questions.

Eamonn

Pictures from Ukraine - documentary - David Pratt BBC

Veteran photojournalist David Pratt travels to Ukraine after war breaks out. His goal: to bear witness to the biggest unfolding crisis in Europe since World War Two.

Stuart

NIGHT TRAIN TO ODESA - book - Jen Stout

Stuart and Eamonn are joined by Dorothy Byrne - former Channel 4 Head of News and Current Affairs. This week - holding power to account, the privatisation of Channel 4, COVID unlocking in Scotland and media salaries. At the end of the show, the trio go on to share their media recommendations.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

Stuart: ‘Repentance’ - book by by Eloísa Díaz -www.goodreads.com/book/show/56149991-repentance

Eamonn: Hoax: ‘Donald Trump, Fox News, and the Dangerous Distortion of Truth’ - book by Brian Stelter - www.simonandschuster.com/books/Hoax/Brian-Stelter/9781982142452

Dorothy: ‘To Throw Away Unopened’ - book by Viv Albertine - www.waterstones.com/book/to-throw-away-unopened/viv-albertine/9780571326228

For more information about Talk Media, go to: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

Stuart Cosgrove and Eamonn are joined by broadcaster and commentator, Afua Hagan! This week - Liz Truss ignores Nicola Sturgeon, Beyoncé changes a song lyric, Nancy Pelosi travels to Taiwan and a listener question about England’s victory in the Women’s Euros.

To listen to the full hour-long episode, and for a full list of recommendations, join the Talk Media Club (99p per week + VAT): patreon.com/talkmedia

After I’ve joined the club, how do I listen? Download the Patreon app (iOS/Android) and login with your account details.

For more information about Talk Media, go to: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

At the end of the show a question from Gerry Mulvenna.

Recommendations:

David:

The Pigeon Tunnel - Apple TV

Academy Award-winning documentarian Errol Morris pulls back the curtain on the storied life and career of former British spy David Cornwell — better known as John le Carré, author of such classic espionage novels as The Spy Who Came in from the Cold, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy and The Constant Gardener. Set against the turbulent backdrop of the Cold War leading into present day, the film spans six decades as le Carré delivers his final and most candid interview, punctuated with rare archival footage and dramatized vignettes. "The Pigeon Tunnel" is a deeply human and engaging exploration of le Carré's extraordinary journey and the paper-thin membrane between fact and fiction.

https://www.apple.com/uk/tv-pr/originals/the-pigeon-tunnel/ 

The Pigeon Tunnel: Stories from My Life (Paperback)

https://www.waterstones.com/book/the-pigeon-tunnel/john-le-carre/9780241976890 

Stuart:

The Boat Story - BBC

Two strangers. One boat. Nothing to lose. An unexpected discovery could mean a second chance - or a bloody end. Dark comic thriller with Paterson Joseph and Daisy Haggard.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episodes/p0glbknc/boat-story

Eamonn:

Lockerbie - Sky

LOCKERBIE, a new mini-series that will be based on the bombing of Pan Am Flight 103 and the search for justice by Dr Jim Swire and his wife Jane who lost their beloved daughter, Flora, in the air disaster in 1988.

The five-part series will be written by Academy Award nominees Jim Sheridan (In The Name of The Father, My Left Foot) and Kirsten Sheridan (In America, Dollhouse).

All 259 passengers and crew were killed when the bomb exploded over Lockerbie 38 minutes after take-off, with a further 11 residents losing their life as the plane came down over the quiet, Scottish town. Thirteen years later, in 2001, Libyan national Abdelbaset al-Megrahi was convicted of the crime and later released on compassionate grounds in 2009.

Shortly after the Lockerbie bombing, one of the worst terrorist attacks in history, some families of the victims joined together to launch a campaign for truth and justice. Among them was Dr Jim Swire whose campaign has taken him to the sand dunes of Libya to meet face-to-face with Colonel Gaddafi, to 10 Downing Street to meet with successive Prime Ministers and to the corridors of power in the US where he worked with the American victims’ groups to mount pressure on Washington for tighter airport security, well before 9/11.

The moving series will explore events from 1988 to the present day, while providing an intimate account of a man, a husband, and a father who pushes his marriage, his health, and his sanity to the edge.

https://www.sky.com/watch/title/series/8a3430f6-066b-3397-abec-1d72b380ed90 

We've taken this opportunity to welcome Talk Media regular David Pratt in to the studio to record this 2 part series starting with Palestine.

With Trump taking up so much of the news space, this gives us a chance to do a deep dive into this horrific conflict that seems to have dropped down the news cycle.

A huge thanks to David for taking the time to come in and give us the benefit of his experience and expertise.

Part 2 Ukraine will be available next week.

Listener questions from Kay Springham and Iain Campbell.

Recommendations:

Eamonn

The Only Girl In the Orchestra - Netflix

This short documentary celebrates trailblazing double bassist Orin O'Brien, the first woman to become a full-time member of the New York Philharmonic.

Angela

Cover - BBC Sounds

The man tasked with finding and killing alleged IRA informers was an informer all along. Reporter Mark Horgan traces the story of the secret British Army Agent known as Stakeknife.

David

My Silent War - The Autobiography of a Spy - Kim Philby

In the annals of espionage, one name towers above all others: that of H. A. R. "Kim" Philby, the ringleader of the legendary Cambridge spies.

A member of the British establishment, Philby joined the Secret Intelligence Service in 1940, rose to the head of Soviet counterintelligence, and, as M16's liaison with the CIA and the FBI, betrayed every secret of Allied operations to the Russians, fatally compromising covert actions to roll back the Iron Curtain in the early years of the Cold War.

Written from Moscow in 1967, My Silent War shook the world and introduced a new archetype in fiction: the unrepentant spy. It inspired John Le Carre's Smiley novels and the later espionage novels of Graham Greene. Kim Philby was history's most successful spy. He was also an exceptional writer who gave us the great iconic story of the Cold War and revolutionized, in the process, the art of espionage writing.

Stuart and Eamonn are joined by broadcaster and commentator, Afua Hagan! This week - Tory peer Michelle Mone and PPE Medpro, Scottish Government IndyRef2 spending, Matt Hancock out of the jungle and a listener question about Twitter as a vital platform for journalists. At the end of the show, media recommendations.

To listen to the full hour-long episode, and for a full list of recommendations, join the Talk Media Club (99p per week + VAT): patreon.com/talkmedia

After I’ve joined the club, how do I listen? Download the Patreon app (iOS/Android) and login with your account details.

For more information about Talk Media, go to: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

Welcome to the very first episode of Talk Media, brought to you by The Big Light - Scotland's podcast network. This week, Stuart and Eamonn are joined by journalist Marianne Taylor (The Herald) to discuss the future of the BBC, amid an ongoing debate about the licence fee, and Amal Clooney's proposals to safeguard press freedom around the world. Stuart, Eamonn and Marianne also share their media recommendations.

Marianne's recommendation: https://www.audible.co.uk/pd/Unfree-Speech-Audiobook/0753557959

Eamonn's: https://www.hbo.com/documentaries/agnelli

Stuart's: https://www.netflix.com/title/80217478

Keep up to date with the show on Twitter: @TBLTalkMedia

For more information, visit: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Stuart and Eamonn discuss media slogans and mission statements and the extent to which they help or hinder a brand.

Series 5 of Talk Media starts on 31 August. Thank you to all of our listeners and supporters.

To listen to the full hour-long episode, and for a full list of recommendations, join the Talk Media Club (99p per week + VAT): patreon.com/talkmedia

After I’ve joined the club, how do I listen? Download the Patreon app (iOS/Android) and login with your account details.

For more information about Talk Media, go to: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

This week - BBC Scotland , Harry and the Phone Hackers, Margaret Ferrier expelled from Parliament and the Art of the obituary / with Michael Stewart

At the end of the show a listener's question from Rodger Hyam on BBC Verify

Recommendations:

Eamonn:

David Grann 'The Devil and Sherlock Holmes

https://www.davidgrann.com/book/the-devil-and-sherlock-holmes/ 

Michael:

'The Offer' 

https://tv.apple.com/us/show/the-offer/umc.cmc.4vfyyn1lemjp494nznhmpeium 

https://www.paramountplus.com/shows/the-offer/ 

The Real Anthony Fauci: Bill Gates, Big Pharma, and the Global War on Democracy and Public Health - Children's Health Defense (Hardback) Robert F. Kennedy Jr. (author)

https://www.waterstones.com/book/deluxe-boxed-set-the-real-anthony-fauci/robert-f-kennedy/9781510774117

Stuart:

Can the Wrexham effect help sell a Scottish Soccer Team

https://www.sportico.com/leagues/soccer/2023/wrexham-effect-scottish-club-st-johnstone-1234725121/

Welcome to Wrexham

https://www.disneyplus.com/en-gb/series/welcome-to-wrexham/4NwOxyDF4T3A

This week, the boys are really happy to have the company of Chris Mullin - journalist responsible for exposing the false convictions of the Birmingham Six , author and ex-labour MP. 

At the end a question from Jim Hunter.

Recommendations:

Chris Mullin Books:

Error of Judgement,

Didn’t You Used to be Chris Mullin,

A Very British Coup,

Secret State and

Walk on Part

and Many More…

https://www.waterstones.com/author/chris-mullin/77471

Film:

The Investigation Inside a Terrorist Bombing 1990 Martin Shaw John Hurt

www.youtube.com/watch?v=KAvevePIp4c Stuart:

Now Then: A Biography of Yorkshire by Rick Broadbent

Written from the perspective of an exiled Yorkshireman this bestselling, award-winning author returns to his native county to discover and reveal its soul.

We all know the tropes - Geoffrey Boycott incarnate, ferret-leggers and folk singers gambolling about Ilkley Moor without appropriate headgear - but why is Yorkshire God's Own County?

Exiled Yorkshireman Rick Broadbent sets out to find out whether Yorkshireness is something that can be summed up and whether it even matters in a shrinking world. Along the way he meets rock stars, ramblers and rhubarb growers as he searches for answers and a decent cup of tea.

Now Then is a biographical mosaic of a place that has been victimised and stereotyped since the days of William the Conqueror. Incorporating social history, memoir and author interviews, Now Then is not a hagiography. Broadbent visits the scenes of industrial neglect and forgotten tragedy, as well as examining the truth about well-known Yorkshire figures and institutions. Featuring Kes, the Sheffield Outrages and the most controversial poem ever written, as well as a heroic dog, a lost albatross and a stuffed crocodile, Now Then is an affectionate but unsparing look at a county, its inhabitants and their flinty vowels.

This is a funny, wise and searching account of a place that claims to have given the world its first football club and England its last witch-burning. It does include cobbles, trumpets and stiff-necked, wilful obstinacy, but it is also about ordinary Yorkshire and its extraordinary lives.

https://www.waterstones.com/book/now-then/rick-broadbent/9781838957360

Eamonn:

Homage to Catalonia by George Orwell

Every line of serious work that I have written since 1936 has been written, directly or indirectly, against totalitarianism and for democratic Socialism as I understand it.

Thus wrote Orwell following his experiences as a militiaman in the Spanish Civil War, chronicled in Homage to Catalonia. Here he brings to bear all the force of his humanity, passion and clarity, describing with bitter intensity the bright hopes and cynical betrayals of that chaotic episode: the revolutionary euphoria of Barcelona, the courage of ordinary Spanish men and women he fought alongside, the terror and confusion of the front, his near-fatal bullet wound and the vicious treachery of his supposed allies.

A firsthand account of the brutal conditions of the Spanish Civil War, George Orwell's Homage to Catalonia includes an introduction by Julian Symons in Penguin Modern Classics.

https://www.waterstones.com/book/homage-to-catalonia/george-orwell/julian-symon/9780141183053

Chris Mullin:

How they broke Britain by James O’Brien

Something has gone really wrong in Britain.

Bold and incisive as ever, James O'Brien reveals the shady network of influence that has created a broken Britain of strikes, shortages and scandals. He maps the web connecting dark think tanks to Downing Street, the journalists involved in selling it to the public and the media bosses pushing their own agendas. Over ten chapters, each focusing on a particular person complicit in the downfall, James O'Brien reveals how a select few have conspired - sometimes by incompetence, sometimes by design - to bring Britain to its knees.

https://www.waterstones.com/book/how-they-broke-britain/james-obrien/9780753560341

Stuart and Eamonn are joined by musician and Orwell-prize winning author, Darren McGarvey! This week - the 3rd anniversary of Brexit, Will & Kate visit a foodbank, integrity and the UK Government, and a listener question on Chat GPT. At the end of the episode...media recommendations.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

EAMONN: 'STUTZ' - Netflix documentary - compelling mental health documentary in which Hollywood star, Jonah Hill has frank discussions with psychologist, Phil Stutz, who wrote the NY Times best-selling book, 'The Tools' netflix.com/title/81387962 

STUART: 'The Best of William Bell' - 3 album collection of tracks by the great Memphis singer - on Ace Records acerecords.co.uk/the-best-of-william-bell 

DARREN - THE LAST OF US - on NOW TV (also first episode available to watch free on YouTube.) HBO TV adaptation of the popular video game of the same name, set in a post-apocalyptic USA www.nowtv.com/watch/the-last-of-us

For more information about Talk Media, go to: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

Stuart and Eamonn are joined by author Val McDermid to discuss recent press criticism of the UK government’s handling of COVID-19, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle decision to end all cooperation with the UK tabloids and anti-lockdown protests in the US. Eamonn and Val also share their personal media recommendations.

Stuart's recommendation: Bloody Scotland session, 'Ian Rankin interviewed by Nicola Sturgeon' (brought to you by The Tartan Noir Show) www.patreon.com/ttns

Val: BBC Radio 4 drama series 'Annika Stranded' https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b049fg98/episodes/player

Eamonn: 'The Adventures and Misadventures of Peter Beard in Africa' book by Jon Bowermaster https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/233847.The_Adventures_and_Misadventures_of_Peter_Beard_in_Africa

Support the podcast and gain access to bonus content: www.patreon.com/talkmedia

Keep up to date with the show on Twitter: @TBLTalkMedia

For more information, visit: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Thanks for lending us your ears in 2023. We'll be back in 2024 full of energy and opinions.

Happy New Year from everyone at Talk Media and The Big Light.

Stuart and Eamonn are joined by Andrea Baker down the line from Toronto. This week: The BBC Bafta Edit, Zelensky in the UK and Alex Cole-Hamilton and a listener question about media presenters of the 70’s. At the end of the show the trio share their media recommendations.

Recommendations:

ANDREA :

Obituary: Legendary & Trailblazing Mezzo-Soprano Grace Bumbry Dies at 86

https://operawire.com/obituary-legendary-trailblazing-mezzo-soprano-grace-bumbry-dies-at-86/ 

1)Talking Derry Girls podcast on The Big Light Network.

https://www.thebiglight.com/talkingderrygirls 

2) Edinburgh International Festival, the first by new Scottish Director, Nicola Benedetti, which has the theme, 'Where Do We Go From Here?' 

https://www.eif.co.uk/ 

EAMONN: 

New Film - AIR, available on Amazon.

Directed by Ben Affleck. Cast includes Viola Davis and Matt Damon .

The film follows the history of shoe salesman Sonny Vaccaro, and how he led Nike in its pursuit of the greatest athlete in the history of basketball, Michael Jordan. 

https://press.amazonstudios.com/us/en/original-movies/air

STUART: 

Weak Teeth - Excellent debut novel by Edinburgh-based writer, LYNSEY MAY, exploring lost love, grief ...and toothache 

https://birlinn.co.uk/product/weak-teeth/ 

Here's a free listen to the first topic from this week's show. If you want to hear the other two topics, listener questions and recommendations, go to www.patreon.com/talkmedia and help us to continue our independent look at the stories hitting the news and the media behind them.

This week, with Stuart and Eamonn on holiday, we have a wee treat in store - a girl power double header with Talk Media favourites Catriona Stewart and Shona Craven.

At the end of the show a listener question suggested by Brian Brussels.

Recommendations:

Shona

Invisible Child - Book - Andrea Elliot

Based on nearly a decade of reporting, Invisible Child follows eight dramatic years in the life of Dasani Coates, a child with an imagination as soaring as the skyscrapers near her Brooklyn homeless shelter. Born at the turn of a new century, Dasani is named for the bottled water that comes to symbolise Brooklyn's gentrification and the shared aspirations of a divided city. As Dasani moves with her family from shelter to shelter, this story traces the passage of Dasani's ancestors from slavery to the Great Migration north.

Dasani comes of age as New York City's homeless crisis is exploding. In the shadows of this new Gilded Age, Dasani leads her seven siblings through a thicket of problems: hunger, parental drug addiction, violence, housing instability, segregated schools and the constant monitoring of the child-protection system.

When, at age thirteen, Dasani enrolls at a boarding school in Pennsylvania, her loyalties are tested like never before. Ultimately, she faces an impossible question: What if leaving poverty means abandoning the family you love?

By turns heartbreaking and revelatory, provocative and inspiring, Invisible Child tells an astonishing story about the power of resilience, the importance of family and the cost of inequality.

https://www.waterstones.com/book/invisible-child/andrea-elliott/9781529156102

Catriona:

American Fiction - Film - Cord Jefferson

AMERICAN FICTION is Cord Jefferson's hilarious directorial debut, which confronts our culture’s obsession with reducing people to outrageous stereotypes. Jeffrey Wright stars as Monk, a frustrated novelist who’s fed up with the establishment profiting from “Black” entertainment that relies on tired and offensive tropes. To prove his point, Monk uses a pen name to write an outlandish “Black” book of his own, a book that propels him to the heart of hypocrisy and the madness he claims to disdain.

https://www.mgm.com/movies/american-fiction

Glasgow School of Art fire - Features - The Herald

Almost a decade has passed since the unique and world-renowned Mackintosh Building at Glasgow School of Art was badly damaged in a fire as final year students prepared for their degree show. 

Four years later, the category A-listed landmark - widely regarded as Charles Rennie Mackintosh's masterpiece - suffered a second, more significant fire as it was nearing the end of a £35 million restoration effort to repair the damage incurred during the 2014 fire.

https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/24199850.complete-timeline-glasgow-school-art-fires/

Here's a wee look back at April on Talk Media.

• Autism Awareness Month - 10th with Paddy Duffy
• UK Jets Defend Israel - 17th with David Pratt
• English Patriotism & Keir Starmer - 24th with Ruth Wishart
• Listener Question - 'BBC Understands' (10th with Paddy)

If you want to keep up to date with the podcast, go to www.patreon.com/talkmedia

Stuart and Eamonn are joined by journalist Gayle Anderson to discuss President Trump's turbulent press conference on Monday, reactions to a controversial Herald article on domestic abuse, and the news that Ofcom is assessing comments made by Eamonn Holmes about a conspiracy linking 5G to COVID-19. Stuart, Eamonn and Gayle also share their personal media recommendations.



Stuart's recommendation: 'No Filter: The Inside Story of Instagram' book by Sarah Frier https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/No-Filter/Sarah-Frier/9781982126803

Gayle: 'Sidney & Friends' film https://sidneyandfriends.com

Eamonn: 'The Fifth Risk: Undoing Democracy' book by Michael Lewis https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/46266188-the-fifth-risk

Support the podcast and gain access to bonus content: www.patreon.com/talkmedia

Keep up to date with the show on Twitter: @TBLTalkMedia

For more information, visit: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Stuart and Eamonn are joined by Nazir Afzal (former Chief Crown Prosecutor for North West England) to discuss renewed scrutiny of Dominic Cummings and his trip to Durham, Marcus Rashford's successful school meals campaign and the race to become the next US President. Stuart, Eamonn and Nazir also share their media recommendations.

Stuart: 'Da 5 Bloods' on Netflix https://www.netflix.com/title/81045635

Nazir: 'The Prosecutor' book https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/45893872-the-prosecutor

Eamonn: 'Hillary' documentary series https://www.nowtv.com/watch/hillary/iYEQYZ6xzLBzuyYqY9tCRw

Support the podcast and gain access to bonus content: www.patreon.com/talkmedia

Keep up to date with the show on Twitter: @TBLTalkMedia

For more information about the podcast, visit: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Stuart and Eamonn are joined by Afua Adom. This week - Omicron variant, new Twitter CEO, Labour Party reshuffle and a listener question about Scottish accents. At the end of the show, Stuart, Eamonn and Afua share their media recommendations.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

Eamonn: Nick Broomfield documentary, ‘My Father and Me’ (“Documentary filmmaker, Nick Broomfield, takes a distinctly personal look at his relationship with his humanist-pacifist father, Maurice Broomfield, a factory worker turned photographer of vivid images of postwar England.”) https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m000thyl

Stuart: Stuart is looking forward to visiting the Pantheon in Paris to pay his respects to Josephine Baker, the French-American civil rights activist, music hall superstar and second world war resistance hero, who has become the first Black woman to enter France’s Panthéon mausoleum of revered historical figures – taking the nation’s highest honour at a moment when tensions over national identity and immigration are dominating the run-up to next year’s presidential race. More info: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/nov/30/black-french-american-rights-activist-josephine-baker-enters-pantheon

Afua: ‘You Got Anything Stronger?’ - New book of stories by New York Times best-selling author, Gabrielle Union - https://www.harpercollins.com/products/you-got-anything-stronger-gabrielle-union?variant=39325216112674.

For more information about Talk Media, go to: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

Stuart is joined by journalist and photographer, David Pratt and Susan Stewart, Director of the Open University in Scotland. This week - the latest Partygate developments, ScotRail timetable changes, Mhairi Black’s Commons speech and a listener question about the first war crimes trial in Ukraine. At the end of the show, Stuart, David and Susan share their personal media recommendations.

Mhairi Black’s speech (published by PoliticsJOE): youtube.com/watch?v=nVZ3QwA5wy8&t=67s

To listen to the full hour-long episode, and for a full list of recommendations, join the Talk Media Club (99p per week + VAT): patreon.com/talkmedia

After I’ve joined the club, how do I listen? Download the Patreon app (iOS/Android) and login with your account details.

For more information about Talk Media, go to: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

Stuart is off this week so we have brought in the wonderful Angela Haggerty and David Pratt to discus this week's topics with Eamonn at the helm.

Recommendations:

Angela

Darren McGarvey's trauma industrial complex

Royal Society of Edinburgh

Darren McGarvey – author of Poverty Safari and The Social Distance Between Us – began his new project, “The Trauma-Industrial Complex”, by delivering a Signature Lecture at the Royal Society of Edinburgh on Tuesday this week.

Youtube

David

Mozart - Rise of a Genuis

Child prodigy, flawed human, musical giant. Letters, manuscripts and performances reveal the making of a man who created some of the world’s most magnificent music.

Eamonn

Wise Guy David Chase and The Sopranos - Amazon Prime

In WISE GUY David Chase and The Sopranos, acclaimed filmmaker Alex Gibney delves deep into the psyche of renowned "Sopranos" creator and writer, David Chase, to illuminate his life and career while offering a unique window into his unparalleled work on the iconic program.

At the end of the show a question from Neil.

Recommendations:

Stuart

The Richard Burton Diaries - Book Chris Williams (editor), Richard Burton (author)

Irresistibly magnetic on stage, mesmerizing in movies, seven times an Academy Award nominee, Richard Burton rose from humble beginnings in Wales to become Hollywood's most highly paid actor and one of England's most admired Shakespearean performers. His epic romance with Elizabeth Taylor, his legendary drinking and story-telling, his dazzling purchases (enormous diamonds, a jet, homes on several continents), and his enormous talent kept him constantly in the public eye. Yet the man behind the celebrity façade carried a surprising burden of insecurity and struggled with the peculiar challenges of a life lived largely in the spotlight. This volume publishes Burton's extensive personal diaries in their entirety for the first time. His writings encompass many years—from 1939, when he was still a teenager, to 1983, the year before his death—and they reveal him in his most private moments, pondering his triumphs and demons, his loves and his heartbreaks. The diary entries appear in their original sequence, with annotations to clarify people, places, books, and events Burton mentions. From these hand-written pages emerges a multi-dimensional man, no mere flashy celebrity. While Burton touched shoulders with shining lights—among them Olivia de Havilland, John Gielgud, Claire Bloom, Laurence Olivier, John Huston, Dylan Thomas, and Edward Albee—he also played the real-life roles of supportive family man, father, husband, and highly intelligent observer. His diaries offer a rare and fresh perspective on his own life and career, and on the glamorous decades of the mid-twentieth century.

Eamonn

Less: Stop Buying So Much Rubbish: How Having Fewer, Better Things Can Make Us Happier - Book Patrick Grant

We used to care a lot about our clothes. We didn’t have many but those we had were important to us. We’d cherish them, repair them and pass them on. And making them provided fulfilling work for millions of skilled people locally.

Today the average person has nearly five times as many clothes as they did just 50 years ago. Last year, 100 billion garments were produced worldwide, most made from oil, 30% of which were not even sold, and the equivalent of one bin lorry full of clothing is dumped in landfill or burned every single second. Our wardrobes are full to bursting with clothes we never wear so why do we keep buying more?

In this passionate and revealing book about loving clothes but despairing of a broken global system Patrick Grant considers the crisis of consumption and quality in fashion, and how we might make ourselves happier by rediscovering the joy of living with fewer, better-quality things.

David

Watch Koudelka: Shooting Holy Land - Documentary Josef Koudelka

Josef Koudelka is a fiercely independent artist. Branded an exile, stateless for many years after the end of the Prague Spring, photography is for him a powerful act that shows both humanity and its unsettling strangeness. His images are imbued with bohemian freedom and a dull, inhospitable promise. So when he was asked to go and photograph in Israel, the fear of being politically exploited, the fact of having to accept his designated young guide (to control him? he wondered)... mistrust almost won out. It was overcome by a mixture of rejection of "the wall" and attraction for this symbolic land. He simply insisted on paying for his own plane ticket, so as not to owe anything to anyone. What happened next, between him and his young guide Gilad Baram, is a truly romantic story. A friendship was born between the old photographer and the young filmmaker. Gilad Baram had the intelligence to turn these moments into a magnificent film, adopting the right distance and documenting the work of this demanding photographer.

Stuart and Eamonn are joined by Allan Rennie - former newspaper editor and honorary Professor of Media Studies at the University of Stirling. This week - Holyrood election and indyref2 coverage, the trial of Derek Chauvin in the USA, media reactions to the Super League and Channel 4 v the Conservative Party. At the end of the discussion, Stuart, Eamonn and Allan share their media recommendations.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

Stuart: 'Different League: The Derry City Story' - BBC documentary - https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m000vcdr/different-league-the-derry-city-story

Allan: 'Brain fog: how trauma, uncertainty and isolation have affected our minds and memory' - Guardian article by Moya Sarner - https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2021/apr/14/brain-fog-how-trauma-uncertainty-and-isolation-have-affected-our-minds-and-memory

Eamonn: 'Is the Church Racist?' - Panorama on BBCiPlayer - https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m000vc34/panorama-is-the-church-racist

Allan's website: https://renniemedia.co.uk

For more information about Talk Media, visit: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

Today's episode of course looks at the election results and the huge win for Labour all over the mainland.

This week we have David Pratt joining us, so it is a great opportunity to get his specialist insights in to the continuing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza.

We've missed having Stuart with us so to welcome back Stuart and to celebrate, we've let him talk about one of his bugbears in "Why so Trivial?"

At the end of the show a question from Paul Hampton regarding the Labour result.

Recommendations:

Stuart

An open letter to supporters from Adam Webb

David

The White Cities: Reports From France 1925-1939 - book - Joseph Roth

Eamonn

The Friday Afternoon Club: A Family Memoir - book - Griffin Dunne

Stuart and Eamonn are joined by Amy Macdonald to discuss media portrayals of the First Minister, Scottish Football (following a strange end to the season) and the music industry’s response to the pandemic. Stuart, Eamonn and Amy also share their personal media recommendations.

Amy: ‘The Last Dance’ Netflix series https://www.netflix.com/title/80203144

Eamonn: John Grisham and Stephen King In Conversation www.youtube.com/watch?v=-xXj3jcRWs4

Stuart: Storytime with President and Mrs. Obama www.youtube.com/watch?v=U-hTKWCX7hc

Support the podcast and gain access to bonus content: www.patreon.com/talkmedia

Keep up to date with the show on Twitter: @TBLTalkMedia

For more information about the podcast, visit: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Stuart and Eamonn are joined by mezzo-soprano Andrea Baker. This week - Our "Views of the News", Nicola Sturgeon publishes her tax returns, Rishi Sunak reshuffles his cabinet amid the ghosts of Prime Ministers past and a listener question on where to get reliable Scottish news. At the end of the episode, media recommendations.

To listen to the full hour-long episode, and for a full list of recommendations, join the Talk Media Club (99p per week + VAT): patreon.com/talkmedia

After I’ve joined the club, how do I listen? Download the Patreon app (iOS/Android) and login with your account details.

For more information about Talk Media, go to: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

Media events in history: In this special holiday re-release of three mini-episodes, Stuart and Eamonn reflect on the Lockerbie bombing (1988), the death of Princess Diana (1997) and the 2014 Scottish independence referendum.

What did these events mean for the media? How were they covered and what impact did they have? Listen to find out.

To listen to the full hour-long episode, and for a full list of recommendations, join the Talk Media Club (99p per week + VAT): patreon.com/talkmedia

After I’ve joined the club, how do I listen? Download the Patreon app (iOS/Android) and login with your account details.

For more information about Talk Media, go to: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

Stuart and Eamonn are joined by Ahmed Baba (Co-Founder & President of Rantt Media) to discuss protests in the US (in response the murder of George Floyd) new media voices and wider issues related to racial equality. Stuart, Eamonn and Ahmed also share their personal media recommendations.

Stuart: Washington Post article, ‘This can’t be happening’: An oral history of 48 surreal, violent, biblical minutes in Washington

https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/style/this-cant-be-happening-an-oral-history-of-48-surreal-violent-biblical-minutes-in-washington/2020/06/02/6683d36e-a4e3-11ea-b619-3f9133bbb482_story.html

Ahmed:

1. 'Star Trek: The Next Generation' https://www.netflix.com/title/70158329
2. 'Stamped from the Beginning: The Definitive History of Racist Ideas in America' by Ibram X. Kendi https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25898216-stamped-from-the-beginning

Eamonn: The Bonfire of the Vanities by Tom Wolfe https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2666.The_Bonfire_of_the_Vanities

Support the podcast and gain access to bonus content: www.patreon.com/talkmedia

Keep up to date with the show on Twitter: @TBLTalkMedia

For more information about the podcast, visit: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Stuart and Eamonn are joined by journalist and critic Joyce McMillan. This week - “Views on the News”, The Herald gets handy with Photoshop, Starmer sends Sue a party invite and a listener’s question about journalistic ethics. At the end of the show, the trio share their media recommendations.

To listen to the full hour-long episode, and for a full list of recommendations, join the Talk Media Club (99p per week + VAT): patreon.com/talkmedia

At the end of the show a question from John Daly.

Recommendations:

David

'Brave Men' by Ernie Pyle

The classic, human-scale account of the soldiers who fought in World War II, by Pulitzer Prize winner Ernie Pyle—America’s most famous and most loved war correspondent—featuring a new introduction by David Chrisinger, the author of the new Ernie Pyle biography, The Soldier's Truth

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Brave-Men-Ernie-Pyle/dp/0143137174

https://www.penguinrandomhouseaudio.com/book/700425/brave-men/

The Soldier's Truth: Ernie Pyle and the Story of World War II

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Soldiers-Truth-Ernie-Story-World/dp/1984881310

Eamonn

https://twitter.com/ #RTEgate

Stuart

Wham

Through archival interviews and footage, George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley relive the arc of their Wham! career, from 70s best buds to 80s pop icons.

Starring:George Michael,Andrew Ridgeley

https://www.netflix.com/gb/title/81137188

With Stuart yet to touch down in The Big Light Studio, Eamonn talks with Ricky Ross and Paddy Duffy. 

This week, as the SNP go from nightmare to nightmare, some parts of the press are in a feeding frenzy as they try to find more sticks to bash Scotland’s governing party. Is there a risk that certain parts of the press have taken their eye off the ball when it comes to legitimate targets?

Fox v Dominion

and

Biden in Belfast.

Recommendations:

Walking Back Home - Ricky Ross

https://www.waterstones.com/book/walking-back-home/ricky-ross/9781472289278

EAMONN: The Irish Times view on Joe Biden’s visit to Northern Ireland: peace as a work-in-progress

The US president reiterated the US commitment to investment in Northern Ireland, signalling that there is a further peace dividend if the Executive can resume its role.

https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/editorials/2023/04/12/the-irish-times-view-on-joe-bidens-visit-to-northern-ireland-peace-as-a-work-in-progress/

PADDY: BBC RADIO 4'S ROUND BRITAIN QUIZ (Paddy is a panelist!)

https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b007qxpr/episodes/player

RICKY: THE MORNING SHOW (Apple TV+) Series starring Jennifer Aniston and Steve Carrell about a fictional US daily morning TV show.

https://tv.apple.com/us/show/the-morning-show/umc.cmc.25tn3v8ku4b39tr6ccgb8nl6m

Stuart and Eamonn are joined by actor and comedian Omid Djalili! This week - the vaccine (combatting fake news), stand-up comedy and Boris Johnson’s proposed trip to Scotland. At the end of the show, Stuart, Eamonn and Omid go on to share their media recommendations.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

Stuart: ‘Call My Agent’ - Netflix series - www.netflix.com/title/80133335

Omid:

1. ‘Cobra Kai’ - Netflix series - www.netflix.com/title/81002370
2. ‘Masterclass’ featuring Carols Santana - www.masterclass.com/classes/carlos-santana-teaches-the-art-and-soul-of-guitar

Eamonn: ‘What Would Sophia Loren Do'?’ - Netflix documentary - www.netflix.com/title/81404845

Omid’s website: www.omidnoagenda.com

For more information about Talk Media, visit: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

Stuart and Eamonn are joined by writer and commentator, Jane Graham. This week - reactions to the SNP/Green Party deal, the Jess Brammar ‘bias’ controversy and a listener question about breaking difficult stories. At the end of the show, Stuart, Eamonn and Jane share their media recommendations.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

Stuart: ‘Designated Survivor’ - drama series on Netflix - www.netflix.com/gb/title/80113647

Eamonn: ‘The Boys In The Boat: An Epic Journey to the Heart of Hitler's Berlin’ - book by Daniel James Brown’ - www.waterstones.com/book/the-boys-in-the-boat/daniel-james-brown/9781447210986

Jane: ‘Borges and Me: An Encounter’ - book by Jay Parini - www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/621066/borges-and-me-by-jay-parini/

For more information about Talk Media, go to: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

Stuart and Eamonn are joined by journalist and commentator, Ruth Wishart. This week - new COVID guidelines in Scotland, the Ministerial Code and leaks to the press, plans for a UK version of Saturday Night Live and a listener question about advertising revenue. At the end of the show, Stuart, Eamonn and Ruth share their media recommendations. 

To listen to the full hour-long episode, and for the list of media recommendations, join the Talk Media Club (99p per week + VAT): patreon.com/talkmedia

After I’ve joined the club, how do I listen? Download the Patreon app (iOS/Android) and login with your account details.

For more information about Talk Media, go to: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

Stuart and Eamonn are joined by journalist, Shona Craven! This week - the death of Queen Elizabeth II and the accession of King Charles III, Scotland and the monarchy, Ukraine updates and a listener question about media mistakes. At the end of the show, Stuart, Eamonn and Shona share their personal media recommendations.

To listen to the full hour-long episode, and for a full list of recommendations, join the Talk Media Club (99p per week + VAT): patreon.com/talkmedia

After I’ve joined the club, how do I listen? Download the Patreon app (iOS/Android) and login with your account details.To listen to the full hour-long episode, and for a full list of recommendations, join the Talk Media Club (99p per week + VAT): patreon.com/talkmedia

After I’ve joined the club, how do I listen? Download the Patreon app (iOS/Android) and login with your account details.

For more information about Talk Media, go to: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

Here's the first topic of today's Talk Media. To hear the full episode go to www.patreon.com/talkmedia

Today's show was recorded before Israel announced their delay in releasing Palestinian prisoners.

Listen questions from Jim Hunter, James Ross and Linda.

Recommendations:

Eamonn

The Rose of Tibet - Lionel Davidson

David

War was my comfort zone, until I had to walk away - BBC Outlook

Stuart Cosgrove and Eamonn O’Neill are joined by journalist, Shona Craven! This week - devolution and the Gender Recognition Reform (Scotland) Bill, consequences for tech bosses, GB News and a listener question on context. At the end of the show, the trio share their personal media recommendations.

To listen to the full hour-long episode, and for a full list of recommendations, join the Talk Media Club (99p per week + VAT): patreon.com/talkmedia

After I’ve joined the club, how do I listen? Download the Patreon app (iOS/Android) and login with your account details.

For more information about Talk Media, go to: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

Stuart and Eamonn are joined by Catriona Stewart (journalist) to discuss the response to Jason Leitch’s ‘virtual Christmas’ comments on BBC Radio Scotland, the final countdown to the US election and the role of social media in raising awareness of police brutality in Nigeria. Stuart, Eamonn and Catriona go on to share their personal media recommendations.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

Stuart: ‘Writing the FutureBasquiat and the Hip-Hop Generation’ - exhibition at the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston - www.mfa.org/exhibition/writing-the-future

Catriona: ‘Gilead’ - book by Marilynne Robinson - www.goodreads.com/book/show/68210.Gilead

Eamonn: ‘The International Brigades: Fascism, Freedom and the Spanish Civil War’ - book by Giles Tremlett - www.bloomsbury.com/uk/the-international-brigades-9781408854006/

Support the podcast and gain access to bonus content: www.patreon.com/talkmedia

Keep up to date with the show on Twitter: @TBLTalkMedia

For more information about the podcast, visit: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

To hear the full episode go HERE!

The boys are in great form today. Recorded just before the SNP manifesto.

At the end of the show a question from Roger Hyam.

Recommendations:

Stuart

Mercedes-Benz Museum

Porsche Museum

Eamonn

The Parisian Agency: Exclusive Properties - Netflix

Eamonn is joined by mezzo-soprano, Andrea Baker and Nazir Afzal, former Chief Crown Prosecutor for North West England. This week - the migrant crisis, Elon Musk's Twitter takeover, coverage of Halloween and Bonfire Night and a listener question about the relationship between journalists and politicians. At the end of the show, the trio share their personal media recommendations. 

To listen to the full hour-long episode, and for a full list of recommendations, join the Talk Media Club (99p per week + VAT): patreon.com/talkmedia

After I’ve joined the club, how do I listen? Download the Patreon app (iOS/Android) and login with your account details.

For more information about Talk Media, go to: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

Stuart and Eamonn are joined by mezzo-soprano, Andrea Baker. This week - Obama arrives at COP26, Boris Johnson's poll ratings slump , and Travis Scott - the festival tragedy. At the end of the show, Stuart, Eamonn and Andrea share their media recommendations.

Listen and subscribe to COP26 Daily: www.thebiglight.com/cop26

RECOMMENDATIONS:

Stuart: Esquire magazine article by Mick Brown, 'Teenage Dreams: My Life as a Soul Boy' ("Writer Mick Brown reflects on his enduring fixation with Motown, soul and R&B, and encounters with greats such as James Brown and Aretha Franklin"). https://www.esquire.com/uk/culture/a38185595/soul-history-motown-singers/

Eamonn: Book, 'Affluenza' ("Psychologist, Oliver James' 2007 book - still relevant today. There is currently an epidemic of 'affluenza' throughout the world - an obsessive, envious, keeping-up-with-the-Joneses - that has resulted in huge increases in depression and anxiety among millions. Over a nine-month period, bestselling author, Oliver James, travelled around the world to try and find out why.") https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/102/1021521/affluenza/9780091900113.html

Andrea: Netflix 6 part series - 'Colin in Black & White' - Netflix Series: 'COLIN IN BLACK & WHITE' (An exploration of former NFL player, Colin Kaepernick's, high school years and experiences that led him to become an activist. American six-episode fictionalized drama series, narrated by Colin Kaepernick.) www.netflix.com/title/80244479

For more information about Talk Media, go to: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

Here's the first topic of today's Talk Media. To hear the full episode go to www.patreon.com/talkmedia

In the first episode of a brand new series of Talk Media, Stuart and Eamonn are joined by journalist and critic, Joyce McMillan. This week - the NHS in crisis, Prince Harry takes on the media and his own family, The Westminster Accounts and a listener question about pro-independence media. At the end of the show, media recommendations!

To listen to the full hour-long episode, and for a full list of recommendations, join the Talk Media Club (99p per week + VAT): patreon.com/talkmedia

After I’ve joined the club, how do I listen? Download the Patreon app (iOS/Android) and login with your account details.

For more information about Talk Media, go to: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

At the end of the show a question from Andy McNeil

Our apologies for the sound issues we encountered on this episode.

Recommendations

Paddy

Jon Stone

There’s been a reassessment of the Blair/Brown government on the Left in recent years: you hear more about its achievements than you used you. that’s good, but it’s also important not to forget that it regularly did things a Tory government would be criticised for

https://twitter.com/joncstone/status/1231543272943898626?lang=en

Putin Vs The West- Norma Percy

A new three-part series from award-winning film-maker Norma Percy tells the inside story of how, through a decade of clashes, the West has struggled to deal with Vladimir Putin as he tries to exert his power on the world stage.

https://www.bbc.com/mediacentre/proginfo/2023/05/putin-vs-the-west

The Fifty Years War- Norma Percy

The main decision-makers from Israel, the Arab states, Russia and the US tell the inside story of the Arab-Israel conflict. Made in 1998.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episodes/p0glc7yp/the-fifty-years-war-israel-and-the-arabs

Elusive Peace- Norma Percy

As today’s headlines continue to be dominated by the latest news from Israel and Gaza, award-winning film-maker Norma Percy looks back on her 2005 series Elusive Peace, sharing memories of her encounters with key players like Bill Clinton, Ariel Sharon and Yasser Arafat as she explored the story behind the efforts to end the conflict made around the start of the new millennium. Norma also talks about her experiences securing rare interviews with those behind some of the suicide bombings that destroyed lives and also the chances of peace.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m001swsb

David

The Jazz Loft Project- W Eugene Smith

Smith’s Jazz Loft Project has been legendary in the worlds of art, photography, and music for more than forty years, but until the publication of this book, no one had seen his extraordinary photographs or read any of the firsthand accounts of those who were there and lived to tell the tales.

https://www.waterstones.com/book/the-jazz-loft-project/w-eugene-smith/sam-stephenson/9780226824840

W. Eugene Smith’s Warning to the World

The Magnum photographer made his last photo essay about industrial mercury poisoning in the Japanese city of Minamata, helping to bring justice and visibility to the victims

https://www.magnumphotos.com/arts-culture/society-arts-culture/w-eugene-smith-minamata-warning-to-the-world/

Minimata- Film

Revered photojournalist W. Eugene Smith (Johnny Depp) is coaxed out of retirement by a commission from Life magazine editor Robert Hayes (Bill Nighy). He is sent to Minamata, a Japanese city ravaged by mercury poisoning, the result of decades of gross corporate negligence. There, Smith documents the people living with Minamata Disease, the assignment quickly turning into a life-changing experience

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Minamata-Johnny-Depp/dp/B099NBF5H3

Eamonn

Slow Horses- Season 3

Spy drama following a dysfunctional team of M15 agent - and their obnoxious boss Jack Lamb - as they navigate the espionage world’s smoke and mirrors to defend England from sinister forces.

https://tv.apple.com/gb/show/slow-horses/umc.cmc.2szz3fdt71tl1ulnbp8utgq5o?ctx_brand=tvs.sbd.4000&mttn3pid=Google%20AdWords&mttnagencyid=a5e&mttncc=UK&mttnsiteid=143238&mttnsubad=OUK2019944_1-684757160536-c&mttnsubkw=136907710791__RTZ7DK1w_&mttnsubplmnt=_adext_

Stuart and Eamonn are joined by writer and broadcaster, Paddy Duffy. This week - a Russian state-TV studio disruption, the Ukrainian refugee scheme in Scotland and the UK, music plagiarism and a listener question about the reporting of legal matters. At the end of the episode, Stuart, Eamonn and Paddy share their personal media recommendations.

To listen to the full hour-long episode, and for a full list of recommendations, join the Talk Media Club (99p per week + VAT): patreon.com/talkmedia

After I’ve joined the club, how do I listen? Download the Patreon app (iOS/Android) and login with your account details.

For more information about Talk Media, go to: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

Happy New Year! Stuart and Eamonn discuss some of the biggest 2021 media stories in Scotland and the UK. Series 4 starts next week.

To listen to the full hour-long episode, and for the list of media recommendations, join the Talk Media Club (99p per week + VAT): patreon.com/talkmedia

After I’ve joined the club, how do I listen? Download the Patreon app (iOS/Android) and login with your account details.

For more information about Talk Media, go to: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

An action packed episode taking a look at the SNP/Scottish Government developments and the SNP leadership reporting.

At the end of the show a listener question from Ian Currie.

Recommendations:

Stuart:

Fragile Animals - book - Genevieve Jagger

When an ex-catholic woman develops a sexual relationship with a vampire, she is forced to confront the memories that haunt her religious past.

Struggling to deal with the familial trauma of her Catholic upbringing, hotel cleaner, Noelle, travels to the Isle of Bute. There, she meets a man who claims to be a vampire, and a relationship blooms between them based solely on confession. But as talk turns sacrilegious, and the weather outside grows colder, Noelle struggles to come to terms with her blasphemous sexuality. She becomes hounded by memories of her past: her mother’s affair with the local priest, and the part she played in ending it.

Catriona:

Night Train to Odesa - book - Jen Stout

When Russian tanks rolled into Ukraine, millions of lives changed in an instant. Millions of people were suddenly on the move. In this great flow of people was a reporter from Shetland. Jen Stout left Moscow abruptly, ending up on a border post in southeast Romania, from where she began to cover the human cost of Russian aggression. Her firsthand, vivid reporting as she travelled alone, hauling around body armour, brought the war to audiences back home, as she reported from front lines and cities across Ukraine. Stories from the night trains, birthday parties, military hospitals and bunkers: stories from the ground, from a writer with a deep sense of empathy, always seeking to understand the bigger picture, the big questions of identity, history, hopes and fears in this war in Europe.

Eamonn:

THE GHOST AND THE DARKNESS - film 

In 1896, a construction engineer from the British Army, J.H. Patterson (Kilmer) is sent to build a railway bridge across Uganda's Tsavo River for the British East African Railway. Soon after he arrives, workmen begin to disappear at night from their tents never to be seen alive again.

Stuart and Eamonn are joined by former BBC Scotland Special/Science Correspondent, Kenneth Macdonald! This week - reactions to Scottish football fans in London, Brian Wilson’s article in The Stornoway Gazette about Highlands & Islands broadcasting and GB News Fails.

Brian Wilson’s article: www.stornowaygazette.co.uk/business/please-bbc-give-us-back-a-decent-radio-highland-like-it-used-to-be-3271370

RECOMMENDATIONS:

Stuart: "The best front cover of a Scottish newspaper, celebrating's Scotland's victory..." on Wednesday 23rd June.

Eamonn: ‘Exercised: 'The Science of Physical Activity, Rest and Health’ - book by Daniel Lieberman - www.penguin.co.uk/books/305/305451/exercised/9780141986364.html

Ken: POLITICO’s London Playbook - ‘What's driving the day in Westminster. Politics and policymaking in the UK capital’ - www.politico.eu/newsletter/london-playbook/

For more information about Talk Media, go to: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

Stuart and Eamonn are joined by journalist and broadcaster, Steve Richards. This week - the murder of David Amess MP, reactions to Blair & Brown: A New Labour Revolution, listener questions and Bill Gates. At the end of the show, Stuart, Eamonn and Steve share their media recommendations.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

Steve: ‘The Odyssey’ by Homer (“The epic tale of Odysseus and his ten-year journey home after the Trojan War forms one of the earliest and greatest works of Western literature.”) - www.waterstones.com/book/the-odyssey/homer/peter-jones/9780140449112

Eamonn: ‘John Lewis: Good Trouble’ - documentary (“Representative John Lewis fights for civil rights, voting rights, gun control, health care reform and immigration.”) - www.amazon.co.uk/John-Lewis-Good-Trouble/dp/B089M54WFD/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3OOXTH24CMJMS&dchild=1&keywords=john+lewis+good+trouble&qid=1634742054&s=dvd&sprefix

Stuart: ‘The Maradona method may offer Bank’s ratesetters a helping hand’ - Times article by David Smith - www.thetimes.co.uk/article/the-maradona-method-may-offer-bank-s-ratesetters-a-helping-hand-rpb2nsgzl

First published: 20/10/21

Happy New Year to you all from everyone at The Big Light.

Here's a free listen to the first topic from this week's show. If you want to hear the other two topics, listener questions and recommendations, go to www.patreon.com/talkmedia and help us to continue our independent look at the stories hitting the news and the media behind them.

We're really happy to be back in the studio and delighted to have such a packed first episode.

Stuart and Eamonn are joined by Pennie Taylor (journalist and broadcaster) to discuss The Sun's losses, a recent surge in culture streaming (amid the cancellation of concerts and events as a result of COVID-19), and Israel’s controversial use of mobile phone data. Stuart, Eamonn and Pennie also share their media recommendations.

Pennie’s recommendations:

(1) Bill Gates TEDx Talk, ‘The Next Outbreak? We’re Not Ready.’ www.ted.com/talks/bill_gates_the_next_outbreak_we_re_not_ready?language=e

(2) ‘Netflix Party’ www.netflixparty.com

(3) The Financial Times www.ft.com

Eamonn’s recommendation: Tom Junod article, ‘My Father’s Fashion Tips’ www.gq.com/story/fashion-generation-tips-national-magazine-award

Stuart’s: ‘Imagine A Country: Ideas for a Better Future’ book by Val McDermid and Jo Sharp www.waterstones.com/book/imagine-a-country/val-mcdermid/jo-sharp/9781838851699

Support the podcast and gain access to bonus content: www.patreon.com/talkmedia

Keep up to date with the show on Twitter: @TBLTalkMedia

For more information, visit: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

At the end of the show a question from Andrew Anderson

Recommendations

Stuart:

‘Poor Things’

From filmmaker Yorgos Lanthimos and producer Emma Stone comes the incredible tale and fantastical evolution of Bella Baxter (Stone), a young woman brought back to life by the brilliant and unorthodox scientist Dr. Godwin Baxter (Willem Dafoe). Under Baxter’s protection, Bella is eager to learn. Hungry for the worldliness she is lacking, Bella runs off with Duncan Wedderburn (Mark Ruffalo), a slick and debauched lawyer, on a whirlwind adventure across the continents. Free from the prejudices of her times, Bella grows steadfast in her purpose to stand for equality and liberation.

https://www.searchlightpictures.com/poor-things/

Eamonn:

Napoleon (Film)

Napoleon is a spectacle-filled action epic that details the checkered rise and fall of the iconic French Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte, played by Oscar®-winner Joaquin Phoenix. Against a stunning backdrop of large-scale filmmaking orchestrated by legendary director Ridley Scott, the film captures Bonaparte's relentless journey to power through the prism of his addictive, volatile relationship with his one true love, Josephine, showcasing his visionary military and political tactics against some of the most dynamic practical battle sequences ever filmed.

https://www.napoleon.movie/home/

My Rembrandt (Doc)

Aristocrats cherish, experts rule, art dealers hunt, collectors crave and museums battle for Rembrandt. 350 years after the grand master of intimacy’s death, entire nations are more than ever obsessed with his paintings. My Rembrandt is an epic art thriller into the super exclusive world of the Old Masters collectors.

https://tv.apple.com/gb/movie/my-rembrandt/umc.cmc.6fjqvjy45ins0rtvlbas04yst

David:

The Legacy Of Mark Rothko (Paperback)

At the time of Mark Rothko's apparent suicide in 1970, the deeply troubled, pioneering artist of Abstract Expressionism was at the height of fame and financial success yet within months of the funeral, his three trusted friends, acting as executors, relinquished his entire legacy of 800 paintings to the powerful, international Marlborough Galleries (run by Frank Lloyd) for a fraction of their real worth on terms suspiciously unfavourable to the estate. The suit that Rothko's daughter brought against the executors and Marlborough rocked the art world with its shocking revelations of corruption in the international art trade: from the deceptions practiced on Rothko when he was alive to the scandals after his death involving conspiracies and cover-ups, double dealings and betrayals, missing paintings and manipulated markets, phony sales and laundered profits, forgery and fraud.

https://www.waterstones.com/book/the-legacy-of-mark-rothko/lee-seldes/9780306807251

MARK ROTHKO Exhibition - Fondation Louis Vuitton

The Fondation Louis Vuitton presents the first retrospective in France dedicated to Mark Rothko (1903-1970) since the exhibition held at the Musée d’Art moderne de la Ville de Paris in 1999. The retrospective brings together some 115 works from the largest international institutional collections, including the National Gallery of Art in Washington D.C., the Tate in London and the Phillips Collection in Washington D.C., and from international private collections, including the artist's family collection.

https://www.fondationlouisvuitton.fr/en/events/mark-rothko

Stuart and Eamonn discuss some of the biggest USA media stories of 2021 (including: the Capitol riot, Harry and Meghan's Oprah interview and the Derek Chauvin trial). Series 4 of the podcast starts on 12 January 2022.

To listen to the full hour-long episode, and for the list of media recommendations, join the Talk Media Club (99p per week + VAT): patreon.com/talkmedia

After I’ve joined the club, how do I listen? Download the Patreon app (iOS/Android) and login with your account details.

For more information about Talk Media, go to: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

Stuart and Eamonn are joined by former BBC Scotland journalist and broadcaster, Isabel Fraser! This week - media coverage of Prince Philip’s death, David Cameron and the lobbying scandal and issues related to the upcoming Holyrood election. At the end of the show, Stuart, Eamonn and Isabel go on to share their personal media recommendations.

Stuart: ‘How To Get Away With Murder’ - series on Netflix - www.netflix.com/title/80024057

Isabel:

1. ‘Klara and the Sun’ - book by Kazuo Ishiguro - www.waterstones.com/book/klara-and-the-sun/kazuo-ishiguro/9780571366217
2. ‘The Tyranny of Merit’ - book by Michael J. Sandel - www.penguin.co.uk/books/313/313112/the-tyranny-of-merit/9780241407592.html

Eamonn: ‘The Worricker Trilogy’ - series on Amazon - www.amazon.co.uk/The-Worricker-Trilogy-Season-01/dp/B00JXN3V74

For more information about Talk Media, visit: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

Stuart and Eamonn are joined again by journalist, Shona Craven. This week - Joanna Cherry and the SNP, the EU vaccine row, anonymity online and the GameStop/Reddit controversy. At the end of the episode, Stuart, Eamonn and Shona go on to share their media recommendations.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

Stuart: ‘Presidents come and go, but these curtains are forever’ - Washington Post article - www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/home/oval-office-curtains-biden/2021/01/30/987f59b4-5f51-11eb-afbe-9a11a127d146_story.html

Eamonn: ‘Off the Rails’ - Axios audio - www.axios.com/off-the-rails-episodes-cf6da824-83ac-45a6-a33c-ed8b00094e39.html

Shona: ‘Scabby Queen’ - book by Kirstin Innes - www.waterstones.com/book/scabby-queen/kirstin-innes/9780008342296

Support the podcast and gain access to bonus content: www.patreon.com/talkmedia

Keep up to date with the show on Twitter: @TBLTalkMedia

For more information about the podcast, visit: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

In the first episode of a brand new series, Stuart and Eamonn are joined by Andrea Baker! This week - BYOB No. 10 party, the Colston Four, an article by Neil Mackay on Scottish Labour & the independence campaign in Scotland and a listener question on Adam McKay’s new Netflix film, Don’t Look Up.

Neil Mackay’s Herald article: ‘How Scottish Labour can change the game when it comes to independence’ - www.heraldscotland.com/politics/19836718.neil-mackay-scottish-labour-can-change-game-comes-independence/

Don’t Look Up (Adam McKay film) on Netflix: www.netflix.com/title/81252357

To listen to the full hour-long episode, join the Talk Media Club (99p per week + VAT): patreon.com/talkmedia

After I’ve joined the club, how do I listen? Download the Patreon app (iOS/Android) and login with your account details.

This week, in the second of our series of deep dives, we are talking about Ukraine with Talk Media pal David Pratt.

We are really grateful to David for bringing his real life experiences and insights to the podcast and listeners.

This podcast was recorded in advance of release.

Stuart and Eamonn reflect on the concept of The Making Of….

Series 5 of Talk Media starts on 31 August. Thank you to all of our listeners and supporters.

Tickets for Blethered Live at SWG3 with Aimen Dean - Tue 30 August:: https://www.ticketmaster.co.uk/blethered-live-tickets/artist/5388843

To listen to the full hour-long episode, and for a full list of recommendations, join the Talk Media Club (99p per week + VAT): patreon.com/talkmedia

After I’ve joined the club, how do I listen? Download the Patreon app (iOS/Android) and login with your account details.

For more information about Talk Media, go to: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

With Stuart off on his book tour (rock 'n roll), Eamonn is joined by Catriona Stewart and Simon Pia for a great discussion on the week's stories.

This week we've included questions by John Nichol and Alex MacDonald.

Recommendations:

Eamonn

The Long Way Up

Best friends Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman, reunite for Long Way Up, after more than a decade since their last motorbike adventure around the world.

Covering 13,000 miles over 100 days through 16 border crossings and 13 countries, starting from the city of Ushuaia at the tip of South America, Ewan and Charley journey through the glorious and underexposed landscapes of South and Central America.

Using cutting-edge technology on the back of their prototype electric Harley-Davidsons, the new series follows Ewan and Charley as they journey through Argentina, Chile, Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador and up through Colombia, Central America, Mexico and the USA.

Also joining them are their longtime collaborators, directors David Alexanian and Russ Malkin, following them in their electric Rivians.

https://tv.apple.com/us/show/long-way-up/umc.cmc.1nv0tluok21c2f8549mdjqdnh 

Simon

Curb Your Enthusiasm

Larry David stars as an over-the-top version of himself in this comedy series the shows how seemingly trivial details of day-to-day life can precipitate a catastrophic chain of events.

https://www.nowtv.com/watch/curb-your-enthusiasm/iYEQZ2uDbPiuTXRbUUJCcA?DCMP=knc-google:nc_ents&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiA8YyuBhBSEiwA5R3-E12wUhtETCYFiZ9J7czZ9lBujNDwaQzL5_xUjTqAFdk4VcjZB3-3MxoCXYwQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds

Catriona

A Teen's fatal plunge in to the London Underworld

After Zac Brettler mysteriously plummeted into the Thames, his grieving parents discovered that he’d been posing as an oligarch’s son. Would the police help them solve the puzzle of his death?

https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2024/02/12/a-teens-fatal-plunge-into-the-london-underworld 

Electoral Disfunction

Beth Rigby, Jess Phillips and Ruth Davidson team up for a new political podcast from Sky News

https://news.sky.com/story/electoral-dysfunction-beth-rigby-jess-phillips-and-ruth-davidson-team-up-for-a-new-political-podcast-from-sky-news-13065409 

We’re back! Stuart and Eamonn are joined by Catriona MacPhee (co-chair of Women in Journalism Scotland). This week - the media and political fallout from the Capitol riot in the USA, the findings of a new Women in Journalism Scotland survey and online abuse of women using Scots language. At the end of the episode, Stuart, Eamonn and Catriona share their personal media recommendations.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

Stuart: Vogue’s cover featuring Vice President-Elect Kamala Harris - www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-55631499

Eamonn: ‘Pretend It’s a City’ - Netflix series - www.netflix.com/title/81078137

Catriona:

1. ‘The Comey Rule’ - two-part series - www.sky.com/watch/title/series/91a48d7d-7a66-4b3f-81c5-ad25dd9d33d5/the-comey-rule
2. Robert Moore's report from inside the US Capitol on January 6 (ITV) - www.itv.com/news/2021-01-12/storming-the-capitol-itv-news

Support the podcast and gain access to bonus content: www.patreon.com/talkmedia

Keep up to date with the show on Twitter: @TBLTalkMedia

For more information about the podcast, visit: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Stuart and Eamonn are joined by Sunny Hundal (writer, journalist and commentator) to discuss Keir Starmer and different interpretations of 'patriotism' around the UK, climate change coverage and the death of Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Stuart, Eamonn and Sunny go on to share their personal media recommendations.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

Stuart: 'A Tomb With a View: The Stories and Glories of Graveyards' book Peter Ross - https://www.waterstones.com/book/a-tomb-with-a-view/peter-ross/9781472267795

Sunny:

1. 'The Overstory' book by Richard Powers - https://www.waterstones.com/book/the-overstory/richard-powers/9781784708245
2. 'What Next' podcast https://slate.com/podcasts/what-next

Eamonn:

1. 'The Debates Could Seal Biden's Fate' Atlantic article by Edward-Isaac Dovere - https://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2020/09/trump-biden-first-debate-preview/616396/
2. 'Meditations' by Marcus Aurelius - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Meditations-Marcus-Aurelius/dp/1470089734

Follow Sunny on Twitter: @sunny_hundal

Support the podcast and gain access to bonus content: www.patreon.com/talkmedia

Keep up to date with the show on Twitter: @TBLTalkMedia

For more information about the podcast, visit: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Stuart and Eamonn are joined again by Joyce McMillan (theatre critic and political journalist). This week - media reactions to Harry and Meghan's Oprah interview, controversy surrounding celebrations by Rangers FC fans and reforms to defamation law in Scotland. At the end of the episode, Stuart, Eamonn and Joyce go on to share their personal media recommendations.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

Stuart: 'The Ali-Frazier 1971 ‘Fight of the Century’ provided cover for a mission to expose the FBI' - Washington Post article - https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2021/03/07/ali-frazier-fight-century-cointelpro/

Joyce: 'Sound Stage' plays (Pitlochry Theatre and Lyceum) - https://pitlochryfestivaltheatre.com/sound-stage-2021/

Eamonn: 'Harry and Meghan: The union of two great houses, the Windsors and the Celebrities, is complete' - Irish Times article - https://www.irishtimes.com/culture/tv-radio-web/harry-and-meghan

Follow Joyce on Twitter: @joycemcm

Support the podcast and gain access to bonus content: www.patreon.com/talkmedia

Keep up to date with the show on Twitter: @TBLTalkMedia

For more information about the podcast, visit: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Friday the 13th Special

‘The Labour Party Conference’ and ‘Israel at War’ / with David Pratt

Thank you for all your questions for David

Recommendations:

Stuart:

The Reckoning

Factual drama examining the crimes of Jimmy Savile, with testimony from survivors.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episodes/p0g4swnr/the-reckoning

Eamonn:

Race across the World

In a frenetic race across the world, travellers can choose any route they like - but no flights or phones are allowed. On the trip of a lifetime, which pair will finish first?

https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m0002tvs 

David:

We Could Have Been Friends, My Father and I: A Palestinian Memoir

The author and activist Raja Shehadeh reflects on his complex relationship with his late father - fellow activist Aziz - in this searing and emotionally candid memoir that views the Palestinian struggle through the prism of a singular family dynamic.

A vocal and fearless opponent, Aziz resists under the British mandatory period, then under Jordan, and, finally, under Israel. As a young man, Raja fails to recognise his father's courage and, in turn, his father does not appreciate Raja's own efforts in campaigning for Palestinian human rights.

When Aziz is murdered in 1985, it changes Raja irrevocably. This is not only the story of the battle against the various oppressors of the Palestinians, but a moving portrait of a particular father and son relationship.

https://www.waterstones.com/book/we-could-have-been-friends-my-father-and-i/raja-shehadeh/9781788169974 

This is the news media and article that David mentioned

Israel Can’t Imprison Two Million Gazans Without Paying a Cruel Price

https://www.haaretz.com/opinion/2023-10-09/ty-article-opinion/.premium/israel-cant-imprison-2-million-gazans-without-paying-a-cruel-price/0000018b-1476-d465-abbb-14f6262a0000 

If you want to hear the full episode got to https://www.patreon.com/posts/douglas-ross-and-106068960?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_link

It costs the same as a cup of coffee a month!

Stuart and Eamonn are back with a brand new series of Talk Media. They’re joined by journalist, photographer and broadcaster, David Pratt. This week - the fallout from the US withdrawal from Afghanistan and the return of the Taliban, debate surrounding the Cambo oil field in Scotland and a listener question. At the end of the show, Stuart, Eamonn and David share their media recommendations.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

Stuart: ‘Untold: Malice at the Palace’ - documentary on Netflix - www.netflix.com/gb/title/81026439

Eamonn: ‘Write Around The World’ - travel series presented by Richard E. Grant on BBC4 - www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p09nldzc

David: ‘Afghan Napoleon: The Life of Ahmad Shah Massoud’ – book by Sandy Gall, with intro by Rory Stewart - www.waterstones.com/book/afghan-napoleon-the-life-of-ahmad-shah-massoud

For more information about Talk Media, go to: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

Stuart and Eamonn are joined by journalist and podcaster, Steve Richards! This week - Boris Johnson and the BBC Chairman, Nadhim Zahawi’s tax affairs, Jacinda Ardern’s resignation and a listener question on BBC reporting. At the end of the show, the trio share their personal media recommendations.

To listen to the full hour-long episode, and for a full list of recommendations, join the Talk Media Club (99p per week + VAT): patreon.com/talkmedia

After I’ve joined the club, how do I listen? Download the Patreon app (iOS/Android) and login with your account details.

For more information about Talk Media, go to: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

Stuart and Eamonn are joined by broadcaster, political columnist and podcast host (‘The Rock N Roll Politics Podcast’) Steve Richards to discuss media moguls, Nicola Sturgeon’s press briefings and Anti-Semitism on social media sites. Stuart, Eamonn and Steve also share their personal media recommendations.

Stuart:

• ‘Fear City: New York vs The Mafia’ series www.netflix.com/title/80218338
• ‘Miraculous’ film www.lockdown.thegaiety.co.uk/watch/miraculous-borderline-theatre-co

Eamonn: Whicker’s War documentary on YouTube www.youtube.com/watch?v=OIoVkmcy86c

Steve: ‘The Journals of Woodrow Wyatt’ book www.goodreads.com/book/show/7319454-the-journals-of-woodrow-wyatt-volume-one

Listen and subscribe to Steve's podcast, 'The Rock N Roll Politics Podcast': https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/steve-richards-presents-the-rock-n-roll-politics-podcast/id1384867286

Support the podcast and gain access to bonus content: www.patreon.com/talkmedia

Keep up to date with the show on Twitter: @TBLTalkMedia

For more information about the podcast, visit: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Eamonn is joined by podcast favourites Shona Craven and Paddy Duffy.

This week, Humza Yousaf becomes Scotland´s first First Minister, MI5 Spy reveals secret IRA talks as N.I. terrorist threat level hits severe and ´Trump, God and Guns´.

Recommendations:

SHONA - book by Hannah Barnes: Time to Think- the inside story of the collapse of the Tavistock’s Gender Service for Children.

https://www.waterstones.com/book/time-to-think/hannah-barnes/9781800751118

PADDY- book -RULE NOSTALGIA- by Hannah Rose Woods - A Backwards History of Britain.

https://www.waterstones.com/book/rule-nostalgia/hannah-rose-woods/9780753558744

EAMONN - new NYTimes article by Eli Saslow : ‘A Sandwich Shop - a Tent City & an American Crisis

https://www.nytimes.com/2023/03/24/podcasts/sandwich-shop-homeless-crisis-jeanette-wells-iraq.html

It’s the 150th episode of Talk Media! Stuart and Eamonn are joined by guest commentator, Paddy Duffy. This week - Clarkson’s Meghan column, the Rwanda Plan, Trump and the January 6th Committee and a listener question on ‘trusted’ media platforms. At the end of the show, the trio share their personal media recommendations.

To listen to the full hour-long episode, and for a full list of recommendations, join the Talk Media Club (99p per week + VAT): patreon.com/talkmedia

After I’ve joined the club, how do I listen? Download the Patreon app (iOS/Android) and login with your account details.

For more information about Talk Media, go to: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

Episode 244 of Talk Media discusses the media coverage following the sudden death of Scotland's First Minister Alex Salmond, who in 2014, took our country within touching distance of Independence.

Eamonn, joined by Catriona Stewart and David Pratt, have a frank discussion on the media coverage , a look at the horrors taking place in the Middle East and the frankly strange news of Labour pushing weight loss drugs in an attempt to cut back the welfare bill.

Recommendations:

Eamonn

The War Room- doc - Amazon Prime

This documentary follows President Clinton's campaign trail and focuses on his aides, James Carville and George Stephanopoulos.

Catriona

Break Up - : How Alex Salmond and Nicola Sturgeon Went to War - Book

Alex Salmond and Nicola Sturgeon's political partnership changed the face of Scotland, bringing the country to within 200,000 votes of independence and holding sway at Holyrood for more than a decade. So how and why has their thirty-year alliance irretrievably broken down?

Break-Up tells the inside story of how the once unbreakable unity of the Scottish National Party was ripped apart amid shocking claims of sexual assault. With unrivalled access to both camps and the women who made the allegations, and with rigorously fair-minded reporting, journalists David Clegg and Kieran Andrews go behind the headlines to uncover the truth about this extraordinary episode, in a piece of political history that reads like a thriller.

Now fully updated, this is a jaw-dropping tale of inappropriate behaviour in the highest reaches of power, of lies, distrust and alleged conspiracy, with profound implications not only for Salmond and Sturgeon themselves but for Scotland's governing party and the wider independence campaign.

David

Wild Thing - book

Paul Gauguin is chiefly known as the giant of post-Impressionist painting whose bold colours and compositions rocked the Western art world. It is less well known that he was a stockbroker in Paris and that after the 1882 financial crash he struggled to sustain his artistry, and worked as a tarpaulin salesman in Copenhagen, a canal digger in Panama City, and a journalist exposing the injustices of French colonial rule in Tahiti.

In Wild Thing, the award-winning biographer Sue Prideaux re-examines the adventurous and complicated life of the artist. She illuminates the people, places and ideas that shaped his vision: his privileged upbringing in Peru and rebellious youth in France; the galvanising energy of the Paris art scene; meeting Mette, the woman who he would marry; formative encounters with Vincent van Gogh and August Strindberg; and the ceaseless draw of French Polynesia.

Prideaux conjures Gauguin's visual exuberance, his creative epiphanies, his fierce words and his flaws with acuity and sensitivity. Drawing from a wealth of new material and access to the artist's family, this myth-busting work invites us to see Gauguin anew.

Stuart and Eamonn are joined by author and host of the Roll n’ Roll Politics Podcast, Steve Richards! This week - Truss v Sunak, travel delays, DoubleDown News and a listener question about North Sea oil. At the end of the show, Steve, Eamonn and Stuart share their personal media recommendations.

Tickets for Steve’s Fringe show, ‘Rock'n'Roll Politics’: tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics

DoubleDown News video discussed ('Peter Oborne Absolutely DESTROYS Boris Johnson'): doubledown.news/watch/2022/july/11/peter-oborne-absolutely-destroys-boris-johnson-everything-that-made-him-possible

To listen to the full hour-long episode, and for a full list of recommendations, join the Talk Media Club (99p per week + VAT): patreon.com/talkmedia

After I’ve joined the club, how do I listen? Download the Patreon app (iOS/Android) and login with your account details.

For more information about Talk Media, go to: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

This week Stuart and Eamonn are joined , for his first time on the show, by journalist and commentator Kevin McKenna. This week: BBC Verify, Madeleine McCann and unconscious bias v justified criticism. At the end of the show the trio share their media recommendations.

Recommendations:

Eamonn:

Dublin Narcos

The new three-part docu-series tells the story of how Dublin transformed from a recession-blighted city in the 1980’s to a growing metropolis in the 1990’s. As its fortune changed, so too did its criminals. They spotted new opportunities. Those opportunities were sourcing and selling a succession of illegal substances – heroin, ecstasy and cocaine. As these drugs exploded in popularity, they came to redefine life and crime in Ireland, making millions for some, while fuelling a rise in addiction, violence and organised crime for many others. 

https://www.skygroup.sky/article/-watch-official-trailer-for-sky-original-dublin-narcos-set-to-broadcast-on-sky-documentaries-this-march- 

Kevin:

The Stones and Brian Jones

A look at the relationships and rivalries within The Rolling Stones in their formative years, as well as the creative musical genius of Brian Jones, key to the success of the band.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m001m0sm 

Steeltown Murders

As the CID reopen an investigation into three murders from 1973, DCI Paul Bethell tries to piece together a past that has haunted both him and a community for almost 30 years. 

https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/p0fhkqgc/steeltown-murders-series-1-episode-1 

Stuart:

Thomas Crown Affair (1968)

Steve McQueen stars as a sophisticated but bored tycoon who pulls off a bank heist so stunning that even Boston's finest are baffled. Faye Dunaway is the sleek insurance investigator out to bring him in but who, ultimately, falls in love with him.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/video/detail/0R9Y5OYWLJOUN1H7E0192SY5KS?ref_=dvm_uk_sl_tit_mkw_srC8FZASrkY-dc&mrntrk=pcrid_657138592452_slid__pgrid_151485978169_pgeo_9046946_x__adext__ptid_kwd-379848772479&gclid=CjwKCAjw67ajBhAVEiwA2g_jEP4hAt_dqAV4gMcs7dtcSKhmma5ZJQpknU2mxxMbOIH8dipJwxyGxRoC9BYQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds 

Stuart and Eamonn are joined by journalist, Shona Craven! This week - Monday night’s confidence vote, Ukraine, Nicola Sturgeon and the Queen and a listener question about Channel 4 in an independent Scotland. At the end of the show, Stuart, Eamonn and Shona share their media recommendations.

To listen to the full hour-long episode, and for a full list of recommendations, join the Talk Media Club (99p per week + VAT): patreon.com/talkmedia

After I’ve joined the club, how do I listen? Download the Patreon app (iOS/Android) and login with your account details.

For more information about Talk Media, go to: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia 

Stuart and Eamonn are joined by writer and journalist, Jonathon Shafi. This week - Number 10 and the missing Times story, the fallout from a leaked SNP recording, reflections on the launch of the Scottish Government’s IndyRef2 campaign and a listener question about confirmation bias. At the end of the show, Stuart, Eamonn and Jonathon share their personal media recommendations.

Jonathon’s article, ‘Something Doesn’t Add Up’: jonathonshafi.substack.com/p/something-doesnt-add-up

To listen to the full hour-long episode, and for a full list of recommendations, join the Talk Media Club (99p per week + VAT): patreon.com/talkmedia

After I’ve joined the club, how do I listen? Download the Patreon app (iOS/Android) and login with your account details.

For more information about Talk Media, go to: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

Our first show of 2024!

At the end of the show a question from John Daly

Recommendations:

Catriona:

Priscilla

When teenage Priscilla Beaulieu meets Elvis Presley at a party, the man who is already a meteoric rock-and-roll superstar becomes someone entirely unexpected in private moments: a thrilling crush, an ally in loneliness, a gentle best friend. Through Priscilla’s eyes, Sofia Coppola tells the unseen side of a great American myth in Elvis and Priscilla's long courtship and turbulent marriage, from a German army base to his dream-world estate at Graceland, in this deeply felt and ravishingly detailed portrait of love, fantasy, and fame.

https://a24films.com/films/priscilla 

Eamonn:

Nyad

Athlete Diana Nyad sets out at 60 to achieve a nearly impossible lifelong dream: to swim from Cuba to Florida across more than 100 miles of open ocean.

https://www.netflix.com/gb/title/81447231 

Stuart:

Damascus Station

A riveting spy thriller that bears comparison with the works of Deighton, le Carré and Herron, Damascus Station revolves around a CIA operative and his latest recruit who find themselves enmeshed in lethal danger in Assad's Syria.

https://www.waterstones.com/book/damascus-station/david-mccloskey//9781800752696?sv1=affiliate&sv_campaign_id=531573&awc=3787_1704895983_9b6d2b139bd3979c1d62ad9b8d9a84a0&utm_source=531573&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=https%3A%2F%2Fshopforward.nl%2F 

At the end of the show a question from Alex MacDonald

Recommendations:

Eamonn

“Who Killed Jill Dando”

Revisit the shocking 1999 murder of beloved TV presenter Jill Dando, which continues to mystify experts and the public, in this in-depth documentary.

https://www.netflix.com/gb/title/81594933

Stuart

“Football And How To Survive It”

The former footballer and author of the acclaimed The Accidental Footballer recounts his turbulent tenure as both player and Chief Executive of Scottish First Division side Motherwell in this rollicking, eye-opening and moving account of running a professional football club.

Waterstones

Angela

“Truth”

Newsroom drama detailing the 2004 CBS 60 Minutes report investigating then-President George W. Bush's military service, and the subsequent firestorm of criticism that cost anchor Dan Rather and producer Mary Mapes their careers.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Truth-Cate-Blanchett/dp/B01HCILSY4

“She Said”

New York Times reporters Megan Twohey and Jodi Kantor break one of the most important stories in a generation — a story that helped launch the #MeToo movement and shattered decades of silence around the subject of sexual assault in Hollywood.

https://www.universalpictures.co.uk/micro/she-said

Stuart and Eamonn are joined by author and broadcaster Paddy Duffy. This week - "Views on the News", the Windsor Framework, What's up with Whattsapp and a listener question about press reliability. At the end of the show, the trio share their media recommendations. 

To listen to the full hour-long episode, and for a full list of recommendations, join the Talk Media Club (99p per week + VAT): patreon.com/talkmedia

After I’ve joined the club, how do I listen? Download the Patreon app (iOS/Android) and login with your account details.

For more information about Talk Media, go to: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

At the end of the show a question from producer Brian McAlpine

Recommendations:

Stuart

Reuters News

Reuters News delivers breaking news, analysis and market data from the world’s most trusted news organisation. Explore a seamless stream of articles, pictures and videos on your phone or tablet.

https://www.reuters.com/tools/mobile/us

Eamonn

Muscles & Mayhem: An Unauthorised Story of American Gladiators

In the '90s, TV's stunt-filled "American Gladiators" thrilled fans. This docuseries explores the show's success — and how it almost ended before it began.

https://www.netflix.com/gb/TITle/81462151

Angela

The Witch Trials of J.K. Rowling

The Witch Trials of J.K. Rowling is an audio documentary that examines some of the most contentious conflicts of our time through the life and career of the world’s most successful author. In conversation with host Megan Phelps-Roper, J.K. Rowling speaks with unprecedented candor and depth about the controversies surrounding her—from book bans to debates on gender and sex. The series also examines the forces propelling this moment in history, through interviews with Rowling’s supporters and critics, journalists, historians, clinicians, and more.

https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/66896636-8562-466b-a50d-81b85b14b8f2/the-witch-trials-of-j-k-rowling?ref_=dmm_acq_mrn_d_ds_rh_z_-c_c_632415191007_t_dsa-1670569866842&gclid=CjwKCAjwqZSlBhBwEiwAfoZUIMTHzFODREbxWIDWRyuVTIa84UjpuHsEM7MVLf8EpSsdMuLw6VAThRoCzkUQAvD_BwE

The Trouble with KanYe

In October 2022, Ye, formerly known as Kanye West, drew widespread condemnation after wearing a White Lives Matter T-shirt at his Paris Fashion Show. That controversy was swiftly followed up with a series of antisemitic statements on social media. With his dangerous statements making global headlines, Ye doubled down by sharing dangerous and inflammatory mistruths during a series of interviews. In the face of backlash, Ye told the paparazzi that he was planning to run for president of the United States in 2024.

Unfolding against the backdrop of Ye’s recent behaviour and his rumoured 2024 presidential campaign, this documentary sees award-winning journalist Mobeen Azhar travel to the United States to try and discover how one of America’s most celebrated artists became a megaphone for hate and division.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m001nc6f

Eamonn O'Neill and Shona Craven discuss the ongoing success of podcasts as a medium for long-form journalism.

To listen to the full episode, join the Talk Media Club (99p per week + VAT): patreon.com/talkmedia

After I’ve joined the club, how do I listen? Download the Patreon app (iOS/Android) and login with your account details.

For more information about Talk Media, go to: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

Stuart Cosgrove and Shona Craven are joined by mezzo-soprano, Andrea Baker. This week - Mick Lynch and the media, Elon Musk and the Twitter Files, fresh polling on Scottish independence and a listener question about the survival of print media. At the end of the show, the trio share their media recommendations.

To listen to the full hour-long episode, and for a full list of recommendations, join the Talk Media Club (99p per week + VAT): patreon.com/talkmedia

After I’ve joined the club, how do I listen? Download the Patreon app (iOS/Android) and login with your account details.

For more information about Talk Media, go to: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

Stuart and Eamonn are joined by broadcaster, Afua Adom. Coming up - COVID changes, Sarah Smith’s move to North America, BBC departures, Kwajo Tweneboa (social housing campaigner) and a listener question on the future of the BBC in an independent Scotland. At the end of the show, Stuart, Eamonn and Afua share their personal media recommendations.

To listen to the full hour-long episode, and for a full list of recommendations, join the Talk Media Club (99p per week + VAT): patreon.com/talkmedia

After I’ve joined the club, how do I listen? Download the Patreon app (iOS/Android) and login with your account details.

For more information about the podcast, go to: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

At the end of the show a question from Roger Hyam

Recommendations:

Ruth

The Glasgow Girl (Paperback) - Aasmah Mir 

A Glasgow Girl is the coming of age story of Aasmah Mir's childhood growing up in 1970s Glasgow. From a vivacious child to a teenage loner, Aasmah candidly shares the highs and lows of growing up between two cultures - trying to fit in at school and retreating to the safe haven of a home inhabited by her precious but distant little brother and Helen, her family's Glaswegian guardian angel.

Intricately woven into this moving memoir is the story of Aasmah's mother, as we follow her own life as a young girl in 1950s Pakistan to 1960s Scotland and beyond. Both mother and daughter fight, are defeated and triumph in different battles in this sharp and moving story. A Glasgow Girl is a remarkable memoir about family, identity and finding yourself where you are.

This book was previously titled A Pebble in the Throat.

https://www.waterstones.com/book/a-glasgow-girl/aasmah-mir/9781472288554 

Blue Lights - series - BBC

For three police recruits in Belfast, the pressure is immense. Facing criminal gangs and divided communities, they don't know who to trust. The odds are, they won't all make it.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episodes/p0f2cxpr/blue-lights 

Hollyrood Sources Podcast

The Holyrood Sources podcast analyses Scottish politics through the experiences of those who have lived and breathed it as Special Advisers to the Scottish Government, SNP and opposition parties. Join hosts Calum Macdonald, Geoff Aberdein (Chief of Staff to the First Minister, 2007-2014) and Andy Maciver (Former Head of Communications for the Scottish Conservatives). Their insight is second to none - they've been there. What does Scottish Politics look like after Nicola Sturgeon? Holyrood Sources bring you the insider information you need to navigate the next chapter.

https://holyroodsources.com/ 

Stuart

When a struggling comedian shows one act of kindness to a vulnerable woman, it sparks a suffocating obsession which threatens to wreck both their lives

https://www.netflix.com/gb/title/81219887 

Eamonn

Living - film - netflix

Overwhelmed at work and lonely at home, a council bureaucrat's life takes a heartbreaking turn when a medical diagnosis tells him his time is short. Influenced by a local decadent and a vibrant woman, he continues to search for meaning until a simple revelation gives him a purpose to create a legacy for the next generation.

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt9051908/ 

Stuart and Eamonn are joined by Journalist and Lecturer Simon Pia. This week - The Coronation Hangover, The Tories lose 1000 seats at English Local Elections, GB News in ‘significant breach’ of Ofcom rules and the news that a New York, civil case jury has found that Donald Trump sexually abused and defamed writer E Jean Carroll / with journalist and lecturer Simon Pia.

Recommendations

Stuart:

Future Economy Scotland is a non-partisan think tank that aims to create a new economy that is democratic, sustainable and just. We believe that Scotland cannot overcome the intertwined challenges it faces by making minor tweaks to the status quo. Instead, we must embrace bold new ideas to transform the economy.

https://www.futureeconomy.scot/ 

Simon:

Barry stars Bill Hader as a depressed, low-rent hitman from the Midwest. Lonely and dissatisfied in his life, he reluctantly travels to Los Angeles to execute a hit on an aspiring actor. Barry follows his “mark” into an acting class and ends up finding an accepting community in a group of eager hopefuls within the LA theater scene. 

https://www.hbo.com/barry 

The Devil's Chessboard: Allen Dulles, the CIA, and the Rise of America's Secret Government (Paperback)

https://www.waterstones.com/book/the-devils-chessboard/david-talbot/9780008159689 

Eamonn:

The Counteroffensive with Tim Mak

A war correspondent's open notebook, reporting live from Ukraine.

https://counteroffensive.substack.com/?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=reader2&utm_source=%2Fsearch%2Fcounter%2520offensive&utm_medium=reader2