Best Bench Units Podcasts (2025)

1
Weekend Round-Up: Underhanded 1:29:46

9d ago1:29:46

1:29:46

Spain concludes the season with a Final Four that lead to one final, seemingly inevitable, clash of the titans. And a team lifting the trophy after going 35-2 across all competitions. In France, we got two do-or-die second legs of the playoff semi-finals, culminating in two of the gutsiest wins of the year as the matchup is set for the Finals. To c…

1
UK Farm Animal Welfare: Cages, Imports, and the Path Forward 13:19

1d ago13:19

13:19

This episode explores a UK parliamentary debate on animal welfare in farming. Key themes include ending the use of cages and crates for farmed animals, like enriched cages for hens and farrowing crates for sows. Speakers highlight concerns about low-welfare imports undermining UK farmers and standards, calling for mandatory animal welfare labelling…

1
Mpox surging in Sierra Leone 26:29

2d ago26:29

26:29

As mpox cases rise in Sierra Leone, we check-in with Professor Trudie Lang to understand the implications of the continuing spread of the disease and what progress is being made in responding to the outbreak. In a breakthrough for HIV research, scientists have used mRNA to reveal the virus hiding in white blood cells. For now, it is only in a labor…

1
Caring About The Club World Cup, No RTE Panel, Box To Box, Transcendent Tennis 31:10

2d ago31:10

31:10

Welcome to our weekly World Service taster menu which this week includes Tim Vickery on South America's keen interest in Infantino's Club World Cup, Dion Fanning and David Sneyd on RTE's panel, Ire V Lux and Tuchel's tricky start to life as England coach. We also discuss football midfielders' brain power requirements, transcendent tennis, we previe…

1
UK Grocery Fairness: Can the Adjudicator Fix the Food Chain? 11:22

3d ago11:22

11:22

Today we explore the role and limitations of the Groceries Code Adjudicator (GCA), which oversees fair trading between large UK supermarkets and their direct suppliers. Despite being intended to protect producers and consumers, many argue its remit is too narrow, covering only the largest retailers and often missing primary producers further down t…

1
Yer Fired, Mate 57:24

3d ago57:24

57:24

Join Amogh, Mukesh and Nathan as we round up the season!Let us know what your thoughts are in the comments, or write in to us on our social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cornerflagpod/Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/cornerflagpod/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CornerFlagPod/Subscribe to us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or wherever you…

1
Saving Your Local Pub: Community Power & Funding Explained 8:30

4d ago8:30

8:30

Discover why local pubs are vital community hubs, providing jobs, supporting local businesses, and boosting social connection. Learn about the financial challenges pubs face, like rising costs and taxes, leading to many closures. This episode explores how communities are stepping up to save beloved pubs, often aiming for community ownership. We dis…

1
Ep 3267: Cork Take Limerick In Epic, Lilies In Bloom, TV Killed The Podcast Star - 09/06/25 58:46

4d ago58:46

58:46

Cork won a Munster final that "began at tea-time and didn't finish until bed-time", as Denis Walsh put it on Saturday night - a win on penalties over Limerick after a raucous, controversial, enthralling match that was perfect in its imperfection, as Jamie Wall explains to us. Kilkenny won a sixth Leinster title in a row, but the real headlines from…

1
Ep 3267: Nations League Finale, The Ronaldo Reign, Lux Redux, Godwin Author Joseph O'Neill In Studio - 09/06/25 1:14:01

4d ago1:14:01

1:14:01

The Nations League final four turned out to be pretty good but it's clear that what international football needs right now is to reverse the FIFA diktat to make every emotional stadium moment sound the exact same. We talk about Ireland's draw with Senegal and look ahead to tomorrow's season-closing friendly in Luxembourg, before the PEN/Faulkner Aw…

1
Stopping Banking Fraud: Understanding Scams and the Fight Against Them in the UK 8:58

5d ago8:58

8:58

This episode explores the significant issue of banking fraud in the UK. We'll cover the two main types: unauthorised fraud, where criminals make payments without permission, and authorised push payment (APP) fraud, where victims are tricked into sending money themselves. Learn about the scale of losses – £1.2 billion stolen in 2023. We'll discuss h…

1
Dublin Wit, Dublin Miss, Munster Hurling Final Preview 24:00

7d ago24:00

24:00

Welcome to our weekly World Service taster menu! For access to all our shows go to secondcaptains.com/join – its 5 euro a month with no sign-up fee, no minimum stay, no sneaky contract, and no ads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

1
The Future of UK Public Libraries: Challenges & Strategies 7:37

8d ago7:37

7:37

UK MPs recently debated the future of public libraries, highlighting their vital role as community hubs providing books, digital access, study spaces, and support. Despite facing real-terms cuts since 2010, leading to closures and reduced hours, libraries continue to deliver immense educational, economic, and social value. Speakers stressed the nee…

1
Local Government: Accountability and Oversight 7:14

9d ago7:14

7:14

Our fourth and final episode on local government discovers how local government in England is held accountable. Councils answer to both their local voters and the central government. They are financially independent with their own assets and ability to borrow. Central oversight comes through the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities …

1
Exercise and immunotherapy improving cancer outcomes 26:28

9d ago26:28

26:28

A new immunotherapy regime has shown significant improvements in treatment for head and neck cancer. Meanwhile, exercise is boosting outcomes for colon cancer patients. BBC journalist Philippa Roxby explains what’s been shown in these studies. Aflatoxins are a toxin produced by a fungi which can be found in crops. They’re having a severe impact on …

1
Local Government: Finances 8:10

10d ago8:10

8:10

Understanding local council money in England is complex. Councils primarily get funds from four sources: Council Tax from residents, Business Rates from companies (partially retained locally), Central Government Grants, and Local Fees and Charges for services. Most of these funds aren't 'ring-fenced', giving councils spending flexibility. The Local…

1
Local Government: Elections and Boundaries 8:23

11d ago8:23

8:23

Part 2 of how local government works in England, focusing on elections and the changing structure of councils. We'll explore the First Past the Post electoral system used in wards, how boundaries are set by the LGBCE, and different election cycles like electing "by thirds". Discover the ongoing trend towards creating unitary authorities and merging…

1
Local Government: Structure & Evolution 7:52

12d ago7:52

7:52

Part 1 of our series on Local Government explores structure and evolution. Learn about the two-tier system (county and district councils) and the shift towards unitary authorities that handle all local functions. We'll cover the current setup of 317 main councils, plus other important bodies like parish councils and combined authorities. Discover h…

1
Ep 3262: Paris Reach Holy Grail, Just Doué It, Luis Love, Ken V German Police - 01/06/25 1:12:37

12d ago1:12:37

1:12:37

PSG are the champions of Europe after crushing Inter 5-0 in the most one-sided final in European Cup history. The night was a complicated mix of emotions; awe at the sheer brilliance of PSG's performance, respect and affection for their charismatic coach Luis Enrique, sympathy for the hopelessly outclassed Inter, unease and foreboding at a second C…

1
Bernie Sanders In Studio, John Egan Live In Cork, Champions League Final, Wedding Plans 23:32

14d ago23:32

23:32

Bernie Sanders has been one of the most electrifying figures in American life for half a century, and is one of the most high-profile global political figures of the current moment. He joined us in our studio in Dublin this week for an exclusive interview, and we have a taster of the chat on today's best of show. In what was a massive week for Seco…

1
Understanding UK Parking Rules: Fines, Private Land, and Devolved Policies 33:49

15d ago33:49

33:49

Navigating parking in the UK can be complex due to devolved policy, meaning rules differ across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. This episode breaks down key aspects, from council-controlled parking and penalty charges to rules on private land enforced by private parking companies. We cover topics like DVLA data sharing, scams, grace…

1
Northumberland & Newcastle School Buildings: Safety, Funding, and Student Futures 6:59

16d ago6:59

6:59

This episode explores a parliamentary debate on the state of school buildings in Northumberland and Newcastle. The discussion highlights concerns about crumbling infrastructure, like the closure of Prudhoe community high school due to structural cracks just nine years after being built. MPs also raise issues like mouldy toilets and inadequate inves…

1
A new way to screen for cancer in dense breasts 26:28

16d ago26:28

26:28

Women with dense breasts are four times more likely to develop breast cancer than women with low breast density and it’s also harder for cancer to be detected with existing screening methods. But now, the findings in a new study could dramatically improve the chances of having the disease spotted early on. We speak to the study’s lead author is Pro…

1
Weekend Round-Up: The Rumpus 51:12

18d ago51:12

51:12

This week we ponder an existential question: why do we even play the games? Spain’s Final Four is locked in, with the same semifinal matchups as last year. Meanwhile, two longtime stalwarts of the league are each halfway to the French Finals. If it sounds familiar, that's because there are only two certainties in wheelchair basketball: the same tea…

1
Understanding Asthma in the UK: Care, Costs, and Calls for Change 6:51

17d ago6:51

6:51

This episode explores a UK parliamentary debate on World Asthma Day, highlighting the significant impact of asthma across the nation. We explore key statistics: 7.2 million people live with asthma, and tragically, four people die from it daily. Many deaths are preventable, linked to unequal access to care and socioeconomic factors. The debate cover…

1
The Future of British Film and Television: Navigating Challenges and Opportunities 9:18

18d ago9:18

9:18

This episode explores the state of the British film and high-end television (HETV) industries based on recent analysis. We look at how big international investments drive growth but also the struggles faced by independent UK films trying to tell British stories. We discuss challenges like funding gaps, skills shortages, and protecting creative idea…

1
Ep 3257: Parade Season - 26/05/25 1:09:07

18d ago1:09:07

1:09:07

We're into the time of celebrations, drifting clouds of flare smoke, players grabbing mics and managers maybe dropping them. Palace, Liverpool and Tottenham all celebrated their big trophy wins in the last few days while Katie McCabe has been leading Arsenal's celebrations after winning the Women's Champions League. Spurs fans: we see you, we belie…

1
Thank God It's Over 52:17

18d ago52:17

52:17

It's done. Finally. The PL seaso 2024-25 comes to a close. Liverpool won. congratulations and all that. Ugh. Join Amogh, Mukesh and Nathan as they break down all the drama from the last day of the PL and speculate on what happens next season! Let us know what your thoughts are in the comments, or write in to us on our social media:Instagram: https:…

1
Ep 3256: Clare Bow Out, Lines On A Map, Allez Les Verts, Bernie Chats Muhammad Ali - 26/05/25 48:25

18d ago48:25

48:25

We have our provincial hurling final pairings, but Cork didn't exactly roar into the Munster final, enduring a nervy second half before finally putting Waterford away in Páirc Úi Chaoimh. They'll face Limerick in two weeks' time, and Jamie Wall and Liam Rushe say farewell to All-Ireland champions Clare, while looking ahead to Galway/Kilkenny in the…

1
Student Mental Health in England: Navigating Support & Duty of Care 10:34

19d ago10:34

10:34

This episode explores the growing issue of student mental health in English universities. We look at how many students are affected, what factors contribute to poor mental health, and the debate around whether universities have a legal "duty of care" to their students. We discuss key court cases like Abrahart v University of Bristol and existing le…

1
Ange Delivers, Amorim Sticks, Pope University, Chalamet Sings, Colin Healy Exclusive 30:20

21d ago30:20

30:20

Welcome to our weekly World Service taster menu which this week includes an in-depth look at a Europa League final result that's produced so many talking points for both Spurs and Man Utd, US Murph on the New York sports fan and Pope University, Paul Flynn on Dublin's (surprise?) win over Galway, and Timothee Chalamet being a good sport. We also ha…

1
UK Parliament: All-Party Parliamentary Groups 9:22

22d ago9:22

9:22

This episode looks at All-Party Parliamentary Groups (APPGs). These are informal, cross-party groups in the UK Parliament, focused on specific topics or countries. Although not official parliamentary bodies, they have faced concerns regarding governance and potential improper access or influence, particularly from lobbyists, commercial entities, or…

1
UK Parliament: How Bills Get Carried Over Between Sessions 7:30

23d ago7:30

7:30

This episode explores bill carry-over in the UK Parliament, a procedure that allows public bills to continue their progress from one parliamentary session to the next instead of falling at the end of a session. Initially suggested by the Modernisation Committee in 1997 to reduce legislative workload fluctuations and improve scrutiny, carry-over aim…

1
A promising new antimalarial 26:28

23d ago26:28

26:28

A new anti-malarial compound has been designed to target disease-causing parasites responsible for up to 90% of malaria cases in humans. Stephanie Tam reports on a new online training programme designed to help address the mental health care gap in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq that is heavily impacted by conflict. Donald Trump has signed a new exec…

1
Weekend Round-Up: Happening In A Simulation 1:17:11

25d ago1:17:11

1:17:11

In Italy and Germany, we have our champions! In Spain and France, our final four is set! Get full access to Bench Units at benchunits.substack.com/subscribeBy Bench Units

1
UK Parliament: Directly-Elected Mayors in England and Wales 8:36

24d ago8:36

8:36

Our topic this episode discusses directly-elected mayors in England and Wales, a system introduced by the Local Government Act 2000. There are three main ways local authorities can be run: mayor and cabinet, leader and cabinet, or the committee system. Discover how mayors are introduced, either by referendum or council resolution, and why most refe…

1
UK Parliament: Select Committees - The Evolution of Core Tasks 6:26

25d ago6:26

6:26

This episode looks at how the essential jobs, or "core tasks," of UK House of Commons select committees have changed over time. First set in 2002 to make committee work more organised and accountable, these tasks were updated in 2012 to match growing demands and add new areas like "Strategy" and "Public Engagement". More recent proposals, like in 2…

1
Ep 3250: Palace Make Wembley Shake, Peno Game Theory, Amorim V Glasner - 19/05/25 1:18:54

25d ago1:18:54

1:18:54

The FA Cup: good when the underdogs actually win. We look at some key moments of Palace's epic and emotional victory. Why didn't the VAR send Dean Henderson off? Why did Erling Haaland let Marmoush take the penalty? And did Oliver Glasner get in Pep Guardiola's head when he warned him, you play that system against us again and we will solve it? And…

1
Ep 3250: Limerick Quell Rebels, Naked Mountaineering, Maestro Lynch 48:51

25d ago48:51

48:51

Limerick and Cork has been the marquee hurling rivalry of the recent past - but yesterday in the Gaelic Grounds, Limerick sent out a fairly thundering message that they are the team to beat in this year's All-Ireland championship. Liam Rushe and Jamie Wall are in studio again to talk to us about Kyle Hayes' dominance, Cork's naive puck-out defence,…

1
UK Lobbying: Regulation, Scandals, and the Push for Transparency 9:48

26d ago9:48

9:48

This episode looks at the world of lobbying in UK politics, exploring its definition, perceived benefits and drawbacks. We discuss the existing regulatory framework, primarily the Transparency of Lobbying Act 2014, which focuses on consultant lobbyists. Drawing on scrutiny and academic analysis, we highlight key criticisms of the Act, such as its n…

1
Palace Stun City at Wembley | Arteta On Summer Transfers And Silverware | Europa League Final 48:55

26d ago48:55

48:55

Preview Hayley McQueen is joined by The Mirror’s Darren Lewis and Sky Sports News’ Ben Ransom to reflect on the weekend’s sporting action. We begin with Crystal Palace’s victory over Man City at Wembley. Darren praises Henderson’s outstanding goalkeeping performance, but should Palace’s goalkeeper have been sent off? Next, James Savundra sits down …

1
Road Safety and Active Travel to School 7:20

29d ago7:20

7:20

Do you worry about the safety of children on their way to school? Are you concerned about the decline in walking and cycling and the impact this has on their health and our environment? A recent debate in the House of Commons addressed these crucial issues, exploring how we can create safer routes and encourage more active travel to school. This ep…

1
Brazil And Argentina's Football Cultures, Glorious GAA, The Great Kate, Ken's War - 15/05/25 45:10

29d ago45:10

45:10

Welcome to our weekly World Service taster menu which this week includes the mighty Kate O'Connor live in Belfast on her incredible year of success, Ken on his US civil war ancestor, a brilliant GAA show with Paul Flynn and Oisin McConville, and fan favourite Tim Vickery on why Brazil and Argentina have such different football philosophies. For acc…

1
Hair Today, Gone Tomorrow? The UK Salon Crisis You Need to Know 12:19

1M ago12:19

12:19

Is your local salon facing an uncertain future? Parliament's recent debate exposed a critical situation for the UK's hair and beauty industry. Soaring costs and unfair tax policies are squeezing these vital community hubs, threatening jobs and apprenticeships. Understand the challenges and why it matters to your high street. This episode examines t…

1
Listening to your body's signals 26:28

30d ago26:28

26:28

Claudia is joined by Caroline Williams to learn about the cutting-edge science of interoception – that’s how the brain interprets signals that come from inside our body. We find out how honing this skill can sometimes be helpful and why at other times it can have a negative impact on us. Tuberculosis remains one of the deadliest infectious diseases…

1
Carlisle Floods: Understanding Past Devastation and Future Preparations 10:37

1M ago10:37

10:37

Today we explore the critical issue of flood preparedness in Carlisle. This episode highlights the challenges the city faces and ongoing efforts to protect residents and properties from future flooding events, especially with the increasing risks posed by climate change. Carlisle experienced devastating floods in 2005, the worst since 1822, causing…

1
Europa League Of Losers 1:01:29

1M ago1:01:29

1:01:29

16th vs 17th in the Europa League final. What has the world become?! Amogh, Mukesh, Nathan and Ronaq discuss all that plus Trent getting booed, Xabi Alonso going to Real Madrid and Amogh's inherent Arnab-ness. Fun times. Also, BIG NEWS! The Corner Flag is nominated for 'Best Sports Podcast' at the HT Podmasters Awards 2025! We need your support, so…

1
Fixing the Maternal Health Crisis: Black Women Face Shocking Disparities in the UK 10:29

1M ago10:29

10:29

While the UK is generally safe for childbirth, persistent and deadly inequalities exist for Black and minority ethnic women. Black women are three times more likely to die during pregnancy or childbirth than white women. This critical issue demands urgent attention and action. Key takeaways. Beyond mortality, Black women face higher rates of miscar…

1
Ep 3245: Can Clare Beat The Odds?, Skorts Saga Rumbles On, Cork & Limerick Go Again, Louth Take Leinster - 12/05/25 45:16

1M ago45:16

45:16

The All-Ireland champions Clare are on the precipice after their defeat at home to Tipperary in a packed Cusack Park in Ennis on Saturday - but our analysts Liam Rushe and Jamie Wall reckon there's still a chance they survive. We also discuss the skorts issue that continues to rumble on inexplicably, John McGrath's late-career renaissance, Shane O'…

1
Ep 3244: Trent's Bernaboo, Ruben Amorim Pundit Of The Season, The Moose Is Loose, Classic Classico 1:18:16

1M ago1:18:16

1:18:16

The spectrum of football emotion runs wide. At one end, Trent Alexander-Arnold, once beloved and now accursed by his own people. At the other the Moose, surfing to his first LOI goal on a tidal wave of inexplicable love. Football can be a confusing place for footballers. We talk about another epic Clasico as Real Madrid fall apart in a comical firs…

1
UK Master's Funding Explained 12:03

1M ago12:03

12:03

Hey there, future master's student! Thinking about postgraduate studies in the UK but worried about the cost? You're not alone! Navigating the world of funding can seem daunting, but there are actually many potential avenues to explore. We want to give you a clear picture of the possibilities. Today on The Bench Report, Amy and Ivan break down the …

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