Best CWE Podcasts (2026)

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The Eggnog Riot of 1826 (re-release) 8:03

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23h ago8:03

8:03

"Get your dirks and bayonets... and pistols if you have them." A quote heard during the Eggnog Riot at West Point on Christmas Eve in 1826. This is a quick re-visit of part of the Booze Riots and Rebellions series from Season 7. Happy Holidays & Cheers ~ Resources from this episode: Websites: Big Think: The Boozy and Violent Story Behind America's …

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A Happy Winter Wonderland Wine: Bugey-Cerdon [Re-Release] 16:03

20d ago16:03

16:03

This week I spied Santa Claus ... hanging out in a dumpster. I reflected on how something as cynical as identifying with Santa in a Dumpster can be a source of unexpected joy. Bugey-Cerdon, to me, is a holiday entertaining essential because of it fun fizz, sweetness, and its ability to rock everything from charcuterie to Christmas cookes. Oh, and t…

1
Interview with Marg Joiner, independent consultant, New Zealand 20:35

17d ago20:35

20:35

In an interview episode, I talk to Marg Joiner, an independent government relations consultant from New Zealand. We talked about Marg's route into public affairs and her wide ranging experience including her experience in mediation and conflict resolution. More details about the book that Marg contributed to, and her chapter on public affairs in Ne…

1
A Tale of Two Wine Cities: Verdicchio from Le Marche | S20E6 18:15

1M ago18:15

18:15

In this season finale we explore the Verdicchio wines of Le Marche's Jesi and Matelica appellations. Resources from this episode: Books: The Oxford Companion to Wine [5th Edition, Kindle Edition], Harding, J., Robinson, J., Thomas, T. (2023) Wine Grapes: A Complete Guide to 1,368 Vine Varieties, Including Their Origins and Flavours [Kindle Edition]…

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Orvieto: Wine Built this City, Paid Painters, and Bathed Popes | S20E5 15:23

2M ago15:23

15:23

Orvieto is a clifftop city, a wine region, and a wine culture all its own with a rich history loaded with silly anecdotes. When your host says there's more in a glass of wine than fermented grape juice, she's not kidding, and Orvieto is an excellent example of that. Resources from this episode: Books: The Oxford Companion to Wine [5th Edition, Kind…

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Hello Again Vino Novello, My Friend 19:28

2M ago19:28

19:28

Originally Released 8 November 2019 ~ Celebration is in the air as Beaujolais Nouveau is released each November. However, Vino Novello is released weeks prior. Some would say it's the Italian answer to the Nouveau, but there are some differences. This episode explores Vino Novello, carbonic maceration, as well as the celebrations that showcase the …

1
Let's Absinthe ... Again! (re-release for Halloween) 24:13

2M ago24:13

24:13

Just in time for spooky season we explore a treat of a fine spirit with a tricky past. Absinthe: what it is, how it behaves in the glass, the deal on wormwood, a brief history, and some thujone theory. Please absinthe responsibly, and apologies for the historical nugget on dog flatulence. Resources from this episode: Books: Absinthe: History in a B…

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Soave - A Classic White Wine from Veneto | S20E4 19:40

2M ago19:40

19:40

An exploration of Soave wine region, grapes, and styles, come Soave culture anecdotes, plus a silly "ricco Soave" joke. Resources from this episode: Books: Wine Grapes: A Complete Guide to 1,368 Vine Varieties, Including Their Origins and Flavours [Kindle Edition], Robinson, J., Harding, J., Vouillamoz, J. (2013) Websites: Drunkard's Almanac: Sinat…

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Super Tuscany and Spiritual Swagger | S20E3 19:34

3M ago19:34

19:34

An exploration of the origins of Super Tuscans & the spirit of free thinking, progress, and stepping (or sippng) outside the box. Resources from this episode: Websites: Antinori: The Antinori Family https://www.antinori.it/en/family/ Author's Calendar: Giosuè Carducci (1835 - 1907) https://authorscalendar.info/carducci.htm Bolgheri DOC: https://www…

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Interview with Daniel Rice, 5654, and Sam Cooper, MessageSpace 42:55

3M ago42:55

42:55

In an interview episode, I talk to Daniel Rice, Director at 5654, and Sam Cooper, Managing Director at MessageSpace. As well as learning more about Daniel and Sam and their paths into public affairs and political communication, we focused on the findings of their recent joint report, "Influence and Information: Media Habits of Westminster." You can…

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A Quick Exploration of Emilia-Romagna Wine | S20E2 17:01

3M ago17:01

17:01

Emilia Romagna: An exploration of North-Central Italy's eclectic collection of wines and vines. Resources from this episode: Books: The Oxford Companion to Wine [5th Edition, Kindle Edition], Harding, J., Robinson, J., Thomas, T. (2023) Wine Grapes: A Complete Guide to 1,368 Vine Varieties, Including Their Origins and Flavours [Kindle Edition], Rob…

1
Ligurian Wine | S20E1 24:55

4M ago24:55

24:55

An exploration of the wines and the region of Liguria on Italy's northwestern coast Resources from this episode: Books: The Oxford Companion to Wine [5th Edition, Kindle Edition], Harding, J., Robinson, J., Thomas, T. (2023) Wine Grapes: A Complete Guide to 1,368 Vine Varieties, Including Their Origins and Flavours [Kindle Edition], Robinson, J., H…

1
Summer Splash: Getting Our Grappa On - Again! (Re-release) 14:47

4M ago14:47

14:47

Since we have been all immersed in vino Italiano this season, I thought it would be fun to revisit this episode while I'm , let's just say, out of the cellar this month: Getting Our Grappa On (S10E3) A deep dive into grappa—the bold Italian spirit made from pomace, with anecdotes on its enduring appeal across centuries . As summer transitions to ha…

1
Summer Splash: Rosato Refresh - Italian Rosé Re-release 18:26

5M ago18:26

18:26

Since we're between seasons where we're exploring Italian wine and working our way down Italy's boot, I thought we'd revisit the Rosato episode from way back in Season 1. Rosato, Italian for rosé wine, it's literally what's in my glass right now. T I hope you can find a glass of Italian rosé to help you wind down your summer while we take a lovely …

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The Great White Wines of Piemonte, a Nymph, a Rascal, and a Princess | S19E6 26:31

5M ago26:31

26:31

An exploration of the major white wines and grapes, and legends of Piemonte (Piedmont), Italy Resources from this episode: Books: The Oxford Companion to Wine [5th Edition, Kindle Edition], Harding, J., Robinson, J., Thomas, T. (2023) Wine Grapes: A Complete Guide to 1,368 Vine Varieties, Including Their Origins and Flavours [Kindle Edition], Robin…

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The Wine & Region of Valle d'Aosta, Italy ... and a Saint Bernard? |S19E5 21:30

6M ago21:30

21:30

An exploration of the wines, grapes, and the gorgeously mountainous region of Valle d'Aosta Italy, where we meet up with a Saint Bernard. Resources from this episode: Books: The Oxford Companion to Wine [5th Edition, Kindle Edition], Harding, J., Robinson, J., Thomas, T. (2023) Wine Grapes: A Complete Guide to 1,368 Vine Varieties, Including Their …

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The Wines and the Region of Lombardia, Italy | S19E4 27:48

6M ago27:48

27:48

An exploration of the vast, diverse styles of wines, grapes, and the stunning region of Lombardia, Italy Resources from this episode: Books: The Oxford Companion to Wine [5th Edition, Kindle Edition], Harding, J., Robinson, J., Thomas, T. (2023) Wine Grapes: A Complete Guide to 1,368 Vine Varieties, Including Their Origins and Flavours [Kindle Edit…

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Wine from Friuli-Venezia Giulia in Italy |S19E3 26:24

7M ago26:24

26:24

An exploration of the wines, grapes, and region of Friuli Venezia Giulia. Some serious grape gabbery & cork dorkery in this one! Resources from this episode: Books: The Oxford Companion to Wine [5th Edition, Kindle Edition], Harding, J., Robinson, J., Thomas, T. (2023) Wine Grapes: A Complete Guide to 1,368 Vine Varieties, Including Their Origins a…

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Interview with Richard Gard, Nissan 28:55

7M ago28:55

28:55

In an interview episode, I talk to Richard Gard, Director and Head of External and Government Affairs Africa, Middle East, Europe, India, Oceania at Nissan Motor Corporation. We talk about his background and how he got into public affairs, how he leads a small team covering such a huge region, his use of agency support, how the work of agencies has…

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Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol Wine Regions in Italy | S19E2 21:34

7M ago21:34

21:34

An episode chock full of new grapes & places & wine styles unlike other regions of Italy we've explored so far. Click play to see what's unique, yet necessary, to find & sip from Trentino-Alto Adige. Resources from this episode: Books: The Oxford Companion to Wine [5th Edition, Kindle Edition], Harding, J., Robinson, J., Thomas, T. (2023) Wine Grap…

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Trentodoc on Deck: Classic Method Sparkling Wine from Northern Italy | S19E1 13:40

8M ago13:40

13:40

Kicking off Season 19 with classic method sparkling wine from Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol: a brief history, style summary and some extras. Quick, dirty, and delicious. Resources from this episode: Books: The Oxford Companion to Wine [5th Edition, Kindle Edition], Harding, J., Robinson, J., Thomas, T. (2023) Tom Stevenson's Champagne and Sparkling …

1
Interview with Robert Magyar, Weber Shandwick 34:04

9M ago34:04

34:04

In an interview episode, I talk to Robert Magyar, Head of Healthcare, APAC at Weber Shandwick. We talk about his background and how he got into public affairs, his experience of public affairs and lobbying across Asia and, in particular, China, and how his experience of running a consultancy. More details about the book that Robert contributed to, …

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Nagambie Lakes Australia: Wines, History, & Some Grape Geekery | S18E6 11:19

9M ago11:19

11:19

In this final episode of this series about wine regions near lakes, we sail to the southern hemisphere to visit Nagambie Lakes in Australia. This lake region is quite different than the others we have explored in this season and in the past; click play to learn more in this short but punchy episode. Resources from this episode: Books: The Oxford Co…

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Lake Garda - Surrounded by Wine Regions | S18E5 21:59

10M ago21:59

21:59

Italy's largest lake is surrounded by vines and three different wine regions. The variety of wine styles, grapes, and scenery - paired with fascinating history - is where we are quenching our thirst this week as we embark on the penultimate episode of Glass in Session®'s season dedicated to wine from regions impacted by lakes. Resources from this e…

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Interview With Matt Day, Adobe 29:42

10M ago29:42

29:42

In an interview episode, I talk to Matt Day, Head of Government Relations, UK & Ireland. We talk about his background and how he got into public affairs, his experience of working for in consultancy and in-house roles, and how he sees the profession developing in the future. Learn more about me and my services @CWE Communications Thanks to my edito…

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Lake Constance: One Lake, Wine from Three Countries | S18E4 21:19

10M ago21:19

21:19

Exploring the wine regions around Lake Constance in Germany, Switzerland, and Austria. We find grapes on an island, and wine aged under the lake. Resources from this episode: Books: The Oxford Companion to Wine [5th Edition, Kindle Edition], Harding, J., Robinson, J., Thomas, T. (2023) Wine Grapes: A Complete Guide to 1,368 Vine Varieties, Includin…

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Wine from Lake Neusiedl | S18E3 22:41

11M ago22:41

22:41

Exploring the wines & region of Lake Neusiedl, Austria. Resources from this episode: Books: The Oxford Companion to Wine [5th Edition, Kindle Edition], Harding, J., Robinson, J., Thomas, T. (2023) Websites: Austrian Wine: https://www.austrianwine.com Austrian Vineyards [wine maps]: https://www.austrianvineyards.com Burgenland:UNESCO World Heritage …

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Michigan Wine | S18E2 15:45

11M ago15:45

15:45

Exploring the wine, grapes and regions of the Mitten State. What pairs best with a wet burrito, and what does a Cadillac have to do with any of this? Resources from this episode: Books: The Oxford Companion to Wine [5th Edition, Kindle Edition], Harding, J., Robinson, J., Thomas, T. (2023) Wine Grapes: A Complete Guide to 1,368 Vine Varieties, Incl…

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Finger Lakes Wine Fun | S18E1 13:50

12M ago13:50

13:50

A sail on the Finger Lakes of New York focusing on the lakes, wine regions and grapes. Resources from this episode: Books: The Oxford Companion to Wine [5th Edition, Kindle Edition], Harding, J., Robinson, J., Thomas, T. (2023) Wine Grapes: A Complete Guide to 1,368 Vine Varieties, Including Their Origins and Flavours [Kindle Edition], Robinson, J.…

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Interview with John Johnston, Politico, London Influence 48:07

12M ago48:07

48:07

In an interview episode, I talk to John Johnston, author of the weekly London Influence email for Politico which covers campaigning, lobbying and political influence in the U.K. We talk about his background and how he got into journalism, how he has found navigating the industry, and trends for 2025. There is also mention of the current consultatio…

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Wine of Moldova | S17E6 14:54

1y ago14:54

14:54

A basic introduction to the wine of the Moldova, this episode explores some of the history, regions, grapes and wines. Resources from this episode: Books: The Oxford Companion to Wine [5th Edition, Kindle Edition], Harding, J., Robinson, J., Thomas, T. (2023) Wine Grapes: A Complete Guide to 1,368 Vine Varieties, Including Their Origins and Flavour…

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Wine from Bulgaria | S17E5 15:58

1y ago15:58

15:58

A basic introduction to the wine region, history, and grapes Bulgaria. Resources from this episode: Books: The Oxford Companion to Wine [5th Edition, Kindle Edition], Harding, J., Robinson, J., Thomas, T. (2023) Wine Grapes: A Complete Guide to 1,368 Vine Varieties, Including Their Origins and Flavours [Kindle Edition], Robinson, J., Harding, J., V…

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Romanian Wine, Dracula, Gods and Goddesses | S17E4 19:56

1y ago19:56

19:56

A basic introduction to the wine of the Romania this episode explores some of the history, regions, grapes, and unique wine styles. Dracula stops by for "a taste" and we bring it all home with gods and goddesses. Resources from this episode: Books: The Oxford Companion to Wine [5th Edition, Kindle Edition], Harding, J., Robinson, J., Thomas, T. (20…

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Hungarian Wine and Feasting While Crying | S17E3 23:11

1y ago23:11

23:11

A basic introduction to the wine of the Hungary this episode explores some of the history, regions, grapes and unique wine styles. Resources from this episode: Books: The Oxford Companion to Wine [5th Edition], Harding, J., Robinson, J., Thomas, T. (2023) Wine Grapes: A Complete Guide to 1,368 Vine Varieties, Including Their Origins and Flavours [K…

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Wine of the Slovak Republic | S17E2 14:35

1+ y ago14:35

14:35

A basic introduction to the wine of the Slovak Republic, this episode explores some of the history, regions, grapes and wine styles. Resources from this episode: Books: The Oxford Companion to Wine [5th Edition], Harding, J., Robinson, J., Thomas, T. (2023) The World Atlas of Wine [7th Edition], Johnson, H., & Robinson, J. (2013) Websites: Decanter…

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Wine of the Czech Republic | S17E1 20:42

1+ y ago20:42

20:42

A basic introduction to the wine of the Czech Republic, this episode explores some of the history, regions, grapes and some of the unique wine styles. Resources from this episode: Books: The Oxford Companion to Wine [5th Edition], Harding, J., Robinson, J., Thomas, T. (2023) Websites: Bohemia Sekt: https://www.bohemiasekt.cz/en/about-us/ Brittanica…

1
Wine Caves: Bonus Episode 9:37

1+ y ago9:37

9:37

This is a bonus episode created from another project I was working on this month. It's got a little less corkdorkery than the original episode from way back in Season 3, but I've linked it up in case you would like to revisit it, as well as the original sourcing material. Wine Caves: Dishing the Dirt https://glassinsession.libsyn.com/s3e3-wine-cave…

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Belgian Wines (updated) and PIWI Grapes | S16E3 Re-release 16:00

1+ y ago16:00

16:00

A light, quick nip at the wines of Belgium, as well as a little corkdorkery on PIWI grapes. *UPDATED with July 2024 stats and information* Resources from this episode: Books: The Oxford Companion to Wine [5th Edition], Harding, J., Robinson, J., Thomas, T. (2023) Websites and Digital Document Files: Belgium Map 360: Belgium Wine Map https://belgium…

1
Interview with Doug Pinkham, President, Public Affairs Council 1:00:15

1+ y ago1:00:15

1:00:15

In an interview episode, I talk to Doug Pinkham, President of the Public Affairs Council. We talk about the importance of public affairs, its role in reputation management, how the industry has changed and what we can expect from the future. We also couldn't avoid talking about the forthcoming US Presidential election! This episode was recorded bef…

1
Aquavit: The Spirit of Scandinavia |S16E6 19:58

1+ y ago19:58

19:58

Aquavit or Akvavit or Akevitt: The spirit of Scandinavia, gin's Nordic cousin, snaps, it goes by many names around the world. Some even sails around the world before it's bottled. This episode explores some of the history, styles, and origins of the spirit, as well as some tasty tales of potato priests, black death, and drinking songs. Resources fr…

1
Interview with Zoe Cohen, board level director, Master Coach and Activist 46:08

1+ y ago46:08

46:08

In an interview episode, I talk to Zoe Cohen, a highly experienced board-level director and Master Coach. We talk about the importance of taking action to save the planet, climate communications, her activism and work with Extinction Rebellion, Insulate Britain and Just Stop Oil. This episode was recorded before the recent UK General Election and *…

1
Wine from the North Island of New Zealand | S16E5 23:40

1+ y ago23:40

23:40

A quick zip around the North Island of New Zealand's wine regions, a bit of history, and - well - some silliness, because the host, once again, cannot freaking help herself. Warning: the host was not/NOT involved in the throwing of either fowl or fake phallus, but has marked this episode as explicit due to some adult - stupid & humorous, but adult …

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Interview with John Harrington, Editor, PR Week UK 38:04

1+ y ago38:04

38:04

In an interview episode, I talk to John Harrington, Editor, PR Week UK. We talk about his work at PR Week, stories that he is particularly proud of, the main challenges facing the public affairs, and how it may evolve in the coming years. Learn more about me and my services @CWE Communications Thanks to my editor Callums World.…

1
Washington Wine | S16E4 23:23

1+ y ago23:23

23:23

Exploring Washington's wine regions, history, and grapes. Trivia? Bush flattery? An old hobo ditty about cigarette trees? Yep, got that too. Resources from this episode: Books: The Oxford Companion to Wine [5th Edition], Harding, J., Robinson, J., Thomas, T. (2023) Websites and Digital Document Files: Brittanica: Hudson's Bay Company (4 June 2024) …

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Belgian Wines and PIWI Grapes |S16E3 14:31

1+ y ago14:31

14:31

A light, quick nip at the wines of Belgium, as well as a little corkdorkery on PIWI grapes. Resources from this episode: Books: The Oxford Companion to Wine [5th Edition], Harding, J., Robinson, J., Thomas, T. (2023) Websites and Digital Document Files: Belgium Map 360: Belgium Wine Map https://belgiummap360.com/belgium-wine-map Britannica: List of…

1
Oh, Canadian Wine | S16E2 20:22

1+ y ago20:22

20:22

We're taking off to the great wine north to explore the regions of Canada. Of course we gathered a little history and fun pop culture nuggets along the way. Resources from this episode: Books: The Oxford Companion to Wine [5th Edition], Harding, J., Robinson, J., Thomas, T. (2023) Websites and Digital Document Files: Canadian Encyclopedia: Hoser [e…

1
Austrian and German Sekt | S16E1 17:57

1+ y ago17:57

17:57

We're exploring the early days and styles of sekt: sparkling wine from Austria and Germany. Resources from this episode: Books: The Oxford Companion to Wine [5th Edition], Harding, J., Robinson, J., Thomas, T. (2023) Websites and Digital Document Files: Austrian Wine: Austrian Sekt https://www.austrianwine.com/austrian-sekt/ The Drinks Business: Se…

1
Risk Appetite in Communications: A Catalyst for Innovation and Growth 4:40

1+ y ago4:40

4:40

All organisations need to manage risk. Some do it better than others. Some make basic mistakes; others try to drive out all aspects of risk. But the reality is that some risk needs to be maintained, not least in communications, otherwise innovation can die. Thanks to my editor Callums World.By Stuart Thomson

1
Parlez-vous Pastis? | S15E6 11:53

2y ago11:53

11:53

A quick tour of a favorite French tipple, Pastis. It was created to scratch the itch of the once banned Absinthe. How is it different? How should one drink it? Why does the word show up in some political circles? Click play, enjoy. Resources from this episode: Books: Society of Wine Educators: Certified Specialist of Spirits (CSS) Study Guide, Nick…

1
Five Challenges All Election Candidates Must Be Prepared For 7:28

2y ago7:28

7:28

Originally written for LabourList, and with Scott Goodstein, this episode outlines five crucial challenges for which every candidate should be prepared in creating their own winning election scenario. Learn more about me and my services @CWE Communications Thanks to my editor Callums World.By Stuart Thomson