Best Persephonica Podcasts (2025)

1
Inside COP: Is The US Still In? And Gavin Newsom on ‘invasive species’ Trump 37:08

Play Pause

20m ago37:08

37:08

Day three of COP30, and there’s one elephant not in the room. While there are plenty of United States citizens at this COP, for the first time, there are no US delegates. Christiana Figueres, Tom Rivett-Carnac and Fiona McRaith consider this notable absence, and ask: can a country that keeps flipping between progress and denial still claim climate …

1
36: Retro Robbie Williams & Garden Clogs 38:57

13h ago38:57

38:57

Jo’s back from Brighton with sea swims, a moonlit Beach Box sauna and a bit of silver-birch “wellness” (yes, really). Zoe gets misty-eyed over the John Lewis Christmas ad and those tender parent-teen moments. There’s Mighty Boosh fancy dress at Butlins, Robbie Williams nostalgia via The Word, and… are garden clogs actually chic? SUBSCRIBE TO OUR FR…

1
Inside COP: Brazil's Climate Leadership - the COP30 host takes centre stage 43:22

23h ago43:22

43:22

What is Brazil trying to achieve with COP30? It's Day Two in Belém and all eyes are on the host nation. Join Christiana Figueres and Tom Rivett-Carnac as they unpack how the country is shaping the first days of COP30 - and the quiet strategy behind Ambassador André Corrêa do Lago’s leadership. With the release of the Call of Belém for the Climate, …

1
Inside COP: The COP30 President Speaks, the Summit Begins 38:58

1d ago38:58

38:58

COP30 is here! Day one dawns in the Amazon, and all eyes are on the host nation - and on the man tasked with steering the talks. On the eve of what could be the most consequential COP since Paris, Christiana Figueres and Tom Rivett-Carnac sat down with Ambassador André Corrêa do Lago, Brazil’s COP30 President, for an inside look at his priorities: …

1
Listen Bitch! It Takes Two To Tango? 38:36

1d ago38:36

38:36

Miquita Oliver and Jordan Stephens answer your questions about orgasms. Next week, we want to hear your questions about THE GREAT BRITISH SUNDAY ROAST. Please send us a voice note on WhatsApp: 08000 30 40 90. Or, if you like, send us an email: [email protected]. This episode contains very strong language, adult themes, and discussion of sex througho…

1
35: DIG IN: Menopause Special with Dr Naomi Potter 40:38

3d ago40:38

40:38

Jo and Zoe are joined by menopause specialist Dr Naomi Potter for a no-nonsense, warm and wonderfully honest chat about everything from HRT and hormones to vaginal health, sex, and self-confidence. MORE FROM DR NAOMI POTTER: Menopause Care Clinic – https://www.menopausecare.co.uk Follow Naomi on Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/dr_naomipotter/…

1
EMQs: What does 'fairness' actually mean in politics? 38:10

30m ago38:10

38:10

What political rival would you share a 12-hour flight with? Ed Balls and George Osborne dive into this very question, revealing the old foes and opposite numbers who would make the best long-haul companions. And can an unpopular leader tank a popular policy? The pair debate how a leader’s image affects a government, and whether an unpopular messeng…

1
Inside COP: Ed Miliband on Multilateralism, Leadership and the UK’s Climate Dilemma 35:40

2d ago35:40

35:40

Why hasn’t the UK contributed to Brazil's flagship Tropical Forests Forever Facility it helped design? With COP30 about to open in Belém, the UK’s absence from this major forest finance deal is raising eyebrows. Meanwhile, Prince William, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Energy and Climate Change Minister Ed Miliband have been in Brazil this week…

1
Inside COP: World Leaders Gather in Belém - with Jacinda Ardern and Selwin Hart 43:17

3d ago43:17

43:17

As COP30 opens in Belém, world leaders have gathered for the first major moment of this Amazon-based summit in the shadow of growing doubts about global cooperation. With some major countries absent and others already signalling caution, the urgency of credible action is louder than ever. Brazil has launched it’s flagship Tropical Forests Forever F…

1
Inside COP: The Power of Cities - from the Local Leaders Forum 36:56

4d ago36:56

36:56

Behind the national plans and global headlines, a quieter revolution is already underway. Almost 100 major cities - representing 23% of the world’s economy - are proving what local leadership can do. From clean-air targets and green-job creation to citizen-led adaptation, these C40 cities are already showing that climate action works for the planet…

1
Is this Rachel Reeves’ last throw of the dice? 59:10

3h ago59:10

59:10

Rachel Reeves has set the stage for a dramatic Budget, seemingly signaling a "massive political gamble" by preparing to raise taxes on working people. Ed Balls and George Osborne analyse her pitch-rolling: has she boxed herself in, becoming the market's "guarantor" against her own party? And can she possibly sell this to an already-squeezed public?…

1
Inside the Earthshot Prize 2025: Royal Vision, Real Change 43:35

6h ago43:35

43:35

In a year when climate news can feel relentlessly bleak, the Earthshot Prize offers something vital - proof of progress. And in this year’s fifteen finalists, that proof is taking many forms, across many corners of the globe. This week, Christiana Figueres, Tom Rivett-Carnac and Fiona McRaith bring us behind the scenes of the Earthshot Prize. Recor…

1
Are Men En Vogue? 37:10

4d ago37:10

37:10

Miquita Oliver and Jordan Stephens discuss boyfriends (embarrassing?), couples’ posts and contraception. This episode contains very strong language, adult themes and discussions around sex. Credits:Producer: Natalie JamiesonTechnical Producer: Will Gibson SmithAssistant Producer: Caillin McDaidProduction Coordinator: Rose WilcoxExecutive Producer: …

1
34: Bonfires, Bird on a Perch and the Barry White of Gardening 33:31

8d ago33:31

33:31

Jo relives the wild bonfire bash that ended with her “cool mum” status in tatters, while Zoe swaps party mayhem for peace in a walled garden retreat. Plus gardening wisdom from Adam “the Barry White of Gardening” Kirtland and bonfire safety tips from gardner and fireman Johnny Hinks. GET IN TOUCH 📧 Email us: [email protected] 📱 Text or Voice…

1
Listen Bitch! Nostalgia Used to be an Illness 37:40

3d ago37:40

37:40

Miquita Oliver and Jordan Stephens answer your questions about the things that scare us. Next week, we want to hear your questions about ORGASMS. Please send us a voice note on WhatsApp: 08000 30 40 90. Or, if you like, send us an email: [email protected]. This episode contains very strong language, adult themes and discussion around phobias. Credit…

1
33: Dig In: Dating Post-Divorce & A Very 'Indecent' Proposal 28:02

10d ago28:02

28:02

This week, Alpa’s dipping her toe back into dating after divorce, Sam’s wondering if leaving London was a terrible idea, and Kaye tells us about her ‘indecent’ proposal. SUBSCRIBE TO OUR FREE SUBSTACK Stay up to date with Dig It — new updates every Friday straight to your inbox. 👉 https://digitpod.substack.com/subscribe GET IN TOUCH 📧 Email us: que…

1
EMQs: TikTok, Strictly, and foreign aid 34:55

4d ago34:55

34:55

Why won't Labour make rejoining the EU its new "silver bullet" against Nigel Farage? A listener challenges Ed Balls and George Osborne on tackling the "political third rail" of Brexit. Ed argues the EU wouldn't even want the UK back on its old terms - likely forcing the Euro and Schengen - while George predicts Britain will inevitably "creep back" …

1
Can Starmer hold on as PM? 1:06:39

8d ago1:06:39

1:06:39

Keir Starmer has weathered one of the most brutal weeks of his tenure. The Caerphilly by-election collapse, a divisive Deputy Leadership election, and the mistaken release of a high-risk prisoner have ignited leadership speculation and exposed deep party tensions. Ed Balls and George Osborne debate where it's all gone wrong, and whether Starmer can…

1
Inside COP: Looking for a Plan in Finance - the trillion dollar transition 39:13

12d ago39:13

39:13

It’s the trillion-dollar problem: funds are on the table - but the money isn’t always flowing to where it’s needed most. As Hurricane Melissa batters the Caribbean, it leaves behind a stark reminder of what’s at stake when finance fails to reach the most climate-vulnerable places. This week on Inside COP, Christiana Figueres, Tom Rivett-Carnac, Pau…

1
Do You Believe in Magic? 45:17

7d ago45:17

45:17

Miquita Oliver and Jordan Stephens discuss the impact of Lily’s album, and whether to go all out, or not, on Halloween costumes and tattoos. This episode contains very strong language, adult themes, and discussions about eating disorders.. Credits:Producer: Natalie JamiesonTechnical Producer: Will Gibson SmithAssistant Producer: Caillin McDaidProdu…

1
32: Bush Thongs, Strictly Shock & Jo’s New Addition 41:38

15d ago41:38

41:38

Jo welcomes a new family member — Nemo the kitten — while Zoe is reeling from the news that Claudia and Tess are leaving Strictly Come Dancing. The pair chat about Lily Allen’s explosive new album, the rise of rage rooms, and a surreal debate over the now-infamous “bush thong.” GET IN TOUCH 📧 Email us: [email protected] 📱 Text or Voice Note:…

1
Listen Bitch! Not Everything Has to Make Sense 38:40

10d ago38:40

38:40

Jordan Stephens and Miquita Oliver answer your questions about boredom. Next week, we want to hear your questions about THINGS THAT SCARE US. Please send us a voice note on WhatsApp: 08000 30 40 90. Or, if you like, send us an email: [email protected]. This episode contains very strong language and adult themes. Credits:Producer: Natalie JamiesonTec…

1
31: Dig In: Tool Belts, Van Life & How to Survive Your 20s 36:07

17d ago36:07

36:07

This week, Jo and Zoe share the lessons they wish they’d known in their twenties - from being completely hopeless with bills and cooking to finally figuring out what truly matters. They read listener letters about health scares, parenting fears, and that big question: when’s the right time for baby number two? Plus, Zoe discovers she’s become part …

1
EMQs: Is the political centre dead? 32:47

17d ago32:47

32:47

Is the centre ground of British politics dead? A 15-year-old listener challenges George Osborne and Ed Balls on the surge of Reform and the Greens, forcing them to ask if the centre can truly fight back against populism. And why are bats, newts, and even spiders causing such chaos for British planning? The pair dive into the costly industry of spec…

1
Why blaming Brexit won’t save Rachel Reeves 1:01:43

15d ago1:01:43

1:01:43

As Chancellor Rachel Reeves prepares for a tough Budget, a new narrative is emerging: it's all Brexit's fault. Ed Balls and George Osborne examine whether the 'Brexit blame game' is a smart political strategy or a 'backward-looking excuse' that voters won't buy. And they discuss if it's too late for Labour to build a compelling economic story. Then…

1
Inside COP: Teaming Up for the Planet - The Global Mutirão 45:20

19d ago45:20

45:20

Nearly 9 out of 10 people worldwide want their governments to do more on climate. So why does it feel like progress is so slow? And what happens when countries start bending the rules? This week on Inside COP, Tom Rivett-Carnac, Christiana Figueres, Paul Dickinson and Fiona McRaith react to the shock postponement of the IMO’s net-zero shipping deal…

1
Sweet and Raw 38:27

14d ago38:27

38:27

Jordan Stephens and Miquita Oliver discuss Lily Allen’s new album and the complex art of music videos This episode contains very strong language and adult themes. Credits: Producer: Natalie Jamieson Technical Producer: Will Gibson Smith Assistant Producer: Caillin McDaid Production Coordinator: Rose Wilcox Executive Producer: Dino Sofos Assistant C…

1
30: Facelift or Full Beard? 38:22

22d ago38:22

38:22

This week on Dig It, Jo says a heartfelt goodbye to her beloved dog Brodie and hello to a beautiful new dogwood tree planted in her family pet’s memory. Zoe shares her own “ashes confusion” story, and together they swap tales of scattering gone wrong (beware the wind!). SUBSCRIBE TO OUR FREE SUBSTACK Stay up to date with Dig It — new updates every …

1
Listen Bitch! Freedom is the Absence of Want 39:01

18d ago39:01

39:01

Jordan Stephens and Miquita Oliver answer your questions about addiction. If you’re affected by addiction, eating disorders or mental health issues, visit bbc.co.uk/actionline for support. This episode contains strong language and discussion around addiction, body dysmorphia and adult themes. Next week, we want to hear your questions about BOREDOM.…

1
29: Dig In: Love, Loss & Ligaments 33:27

24d ago33:27

33:27

This week, Jo and Zoe tackle love, loss and ligaments - from whether you should keep a diary for your kids, to how to honour a loved one’s memory at Christmas. Plus, “Shredded Tendons”: a great band name, a terrible medical condition. SUBSCRIBE TO OUR FREE SUBSTACK Stay up to date with Dig It — new updates every Friday straight to your inbox. 👉 htt…

1
EMQs: Would you serve in your political rival’s cabinet? 53:58

19d ago53:58

53:58

Could Ed Balls ever be tempted to become a Tory? And would George Osborne ever consider joining the Labour Party? The pair are forced to confront the ultimate political taboo after a listener asks if they could “pull a Winston Churchill” and cross the floor. George also recounts his recent on-stage reunion with Sir Nick Clegg, discussing with Ed wh…

1
Inside the China spy crisis shaking Starmer’s government 1:08:57

23d ago1:08:57

1:08:57

Has the collapse of the China spy trial permanently damaged the Prime Minister? Ed Balls and George Osborne discuss how the ongoing saga of who knew what and when is causing untold damage to the Government. And as Donald Trump declares ‘a new dawn’ in the Middle East, with the ceasefire appearing to be holding in Gaza, the pair debate if the US Pre…

1
Inside COP: The New World Order - power, politics and the green pie 37:39

26d ago37:39

37:39

The global balance of power is shifting. Can climate diplomacy keep up? As China rises, the BRICS expand and the United States retreats, new power blocks formed by competition and conflict will take centre stage in the negotiations in Belem. In this week’s Inside COP, Tom Rivett-Carnac, Christiana Figueres, Paul Dickinson and Fiona McRaith ask: wha…

1
Full of So Many Feelings 42:05

27d ago42:05

42:05

Jordan Stephens and Miquita Oliver discuss grief and grandparents and crying over driving tests. This episode contains very strong language and adult themes and discussion of bereavement and end of life care. Credits: Producer: Natalie Jamieson Technical Producer: Will Gibson Smith Assistant Producer: Caillin McDaid Production Coordinator: Rose Wil…

1
28: Should You Put Magnets in Your Bra?! 35:27

29d ago35:27

35:27

This week, Zoe’s recommending magnets in bras and men in tool belts, while Jo’s knee-deep in kitchen paint charts. They weigh in on Alan Carr’s betrayal, share gameshow tactics, and Jo plants a tree with a touching twist. Plus, gardening expert Ish gives us October’s ‘what to cut-back?’ guide. SUBSCRIBE TO OUR FREE SUBSTACK Stay up to date with Dig…

1
Listen Bitch! Zeddy & Mimi & Spike 39:16

25d ago39:16

39:16

Jordan Stephens and Miquita Oliver answer your questions about dogs. Next week, we want to hear your questions about ADDICTION. Please send us a voice note on WhatsApp: 08000 30 40 90. Or, if you like, send us an email: [email protected]. This episode contains very strong language and adult themes. Credits: Producer: Natalie Jamieson Technical Produ…

1
27: DIG IN: “I Danced My Coil Out At Butlin’s!” 31:49

1M ago31:49

31:49

This week, Jo and Zoe are in hysterics over a listener story that might just top them all - Tracy’s coil made an unscheduled exit after a weekend rave at Butlins. There's plenty of gossip (the good kind), friendship dilemmas and tall-girl truths. SUBSCRIBE TO OUR FREE SUBSTACK Stay up to date with Dig It — new updates every Friday straight to your …

1
EMQs: Could George Osborne still be a Tory MP? 34:33

1M ago34:33

34:33

Is the modern Conservative Party a repudiation of the Cameron-Osborne years? George Osborne is challenged by Ed Davey, who asks him to consider whether Kemi Badenoch's leadership means there's no place for him in the party he once helped lead. Then, Ed Balls sets the record straight on one of New Labour's defining policies, revealing the true story…

1
Has Kemi Badenoch saved herself? 1:01:25

1M ago1:01:25

1:01:25

Empty chairs, misspelling Britain, and a surprisingly good speech from Kemi Badenoch have brought a rollercoaster Conservative conference to a close. Ed Balls and George Osborne weigh up whether the highs outweighed the lows and ask if Badenoch has bought herself more time. And, with the threat from Reform looming, they ask: is a pact still on the …

1
Inside COP: A New Economy Rising - from promises to progress 46:56

1M ago46:56

46:56

Will COP30 be the COP of ‘implementation’? And what would that actually mean? Beyond the famous negotiating halls, climate action is already happening. Businesses, investors and cities are driving real change, and the new green economy is rising in tandem with diplomacy. So can Belém mark the moment when implementation promises turn into reality? T…

1
A Month. 45:54

29d ago45:54

45:54

Miquita Oliver and Jordan Stephens discuss the playfulness in inventions, to vegan or not to vegan, and Black History Month This episode contains very strong language and adult themes. Credits: Producer: Natalie JamiesonTechnical Producer: Will Gibson SmithAssistant Producer: Caillin McDaidProduction Coordinator: Rose WilcoxExecutive Producer: Dino…

1
26: Prince William’s Letter & Celebrity Traitors 38:20

1M ago38:20

38:20

This week, Jo and Zoe catch up on their time on The Weakest Link - and want to know, have you ever been on a TV game show with a great story? Get in touch, we’d love to hear it! They’re also buzzing for Celebrity Traitors, which kicks off tonight (if you’re listening on Wednesday). Plus, Mike the Gardener shows us how to make a mini wildlife pond t…

1
Listen Bitch! Just to Love and Be Loved in Return 40:41

1M ago40:41

40:41

Miquita Oliver and Jordan Stephens answer your questions about lyrics. Next week, we want to hear your questions about DOGS. Please send us a voice note on WhatsApp: 08000 30 40 90. Or, if you like, send us an email: [email protected]. This episode contains very strong language and adult themes. Credits:Producer: Natalie JamiesonTechnical Producer: …

1
25: DIG IN: Is HRT the Game-Changer for Midlife? 36:55

1M ago36:55

36:55

This week on Dig In, Jo and Zoe share their experiences with HRT and what’s worked for them, reflect on the ups and downs of parenting teenagers, and ask: what makes the perfect Halloween party for kids? SUBSCRIBE TO OUR FREE SUBSTACK Stay up to date with Dig It — new updates every Friday straight to your inbox. 👉 https://digitpod.substack.com/subs…

1
EMQs: The return of the TBGBs? 43:53

1M ago43:53

43:53

Why is New Labour suddenly going viral on TikTok? In this week’s Ex-Ministers’ Questions, Ed Balls and George Osborne respond to their Gen Z fans who are remixing their greatest political moments into social media edits. With Labour conference just finished, Ed and George ask whether Keir Starmer is really a Blairite, a Brownite, or breaking with N…

1
Remembering Jane Goodall 37:08

1M ago37:08

37:08

Following the sad news this week of Jane Goodall’s passing, Christiana Figueres and Tom Rivett-Carnac remember her extraordinary work, personality and humility. They are joined by Mary Lewis, Vice President of the Jane Goodall Institute and Jane’s long-time friend, who shares her memories of her remarkable colleague and her reflections on the incre…

1
Will Starmer's attack on Farage pay off? 1:01:56

1M ago1:01:56

1:01:56

Keir Starmer went into the Labour Party Conference in a perilous position, fighting off a 'rolling assault' from within his own party. In a make-or-break speech, he shifted his fire from the Conservatives to a new opponent: Nigel Farage. Was this a clever tactic to unite his base and redefine the political battlefield, or a risky gamble that elevat…

1
Inside COP: How to Build a COP 48:58

1M ago48:58

48:58

How do you build a COP? With just a few weeks to go until COP30 in Belém, we take listeners inside the high stakes and the complex mechanics of a climate summit: how they’re structured, who’s running the show, and what makes this one different. Christiana Figueres, Tom Rivett-Carnac, Paul Dickinson and Fiona McRaith unpack how high-level climate co…

1
Like Drinking Cordial Straight 36:29

1M ago36:29

36:29

Jordan Stephens and Miquita Oliver discuss the challenges with reviews, finding your life path, and the qualities needed for leadership This episode contains very strong language and adult themes. Credits:Producer: Natalie JamiesonTechnical Producer: Will Gibson SmithAssistant Producer: Caillin McDaidProduction Coordinator: Rose WilcoxExecutive Pro…

1
24: AI Phone Scams, Strictly Legends and Bulb Lasagnes 35:35

1M ago35:35

35:35

It’s the first of October… which apparently means people have already started the Christmas countdown online (honestly, who shares that? Please stop). Zoe’s been inspired by a new cookbook and a night of sparkle at the Palladium with Strictly legends, while Jo has a serious warning about scams and just how scarily real AI voices can sound. Plus, Br…