Have you got a problem? Are you at the end of your tether? Perhaps you’d like to enlist the help of Michael & Hilary Whitehall? This podcast is your invitation to take a comfy seat in the Whitehall family home and garner their thoughts on everything from workouts to weddings, seaside towns to social media and everything in between. Expect rants, raves, harsh truths and expletives as Hilary & Michael consider your points of view and possibly even help you solve an issue! The Whitehalls are of ...
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Top advisers to our significant political leaders analyse the successes and failures of today's politics, sharing their experiences of working in Whitehall. Kirsty Buchanan worked with Theresa May as PM, and Liz Truss when she was Secretary of State. Journalist and broadcaster Calum Macdonald manages their in-tray of talking points, U-turns and crises. From parties in Westminster to the tactics of SpAds, this is your exclusive insight into how politics is done and how politicians work. We we ...
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Inside Whitehall demystifies many of the aspects we hear and read about in politics coverage every day. What really happens inside a Cabinet meeting? How is legislation made? What are Special Advisors? Hosted by former Special Advisor James Starkie, and current MP Jonathan Gullis, Inside Whitehall interviews people across the political divide and beyond to provide a unique perspective on modern British Politics. Follow and comment on Twitter @WhitehallPodUK
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Another week, another 'gate' at Whitehall Towers. What on Earth took place during 'shoegate'?! Plus, Julie from Taunton has a husband that refuses to pack a suitcase and Callum has a question about the early-adoption of flying cars. You can email your questions, thoughts or problems to TheWitteringWhitehalls@gmail.com Or, perhaps you'd like to send…
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Calum and Kirsty are joined by former Special Advisors Nikki Da Costa and Sam White to discuss the process to come regarding the much-talked-about Assisted Dying Bill - what's in store? Who can say what? And who will say what? Support the podcast by becoming a member at: https://plus.acast.com/s/whitehallsources. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/priv…
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LIFE LESSONS: "Dim the lights and relax."
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It's not often that things get testy at Whitehall Towers whilst the podcast is in session. Stronger words are usually reserved for pre and post-record. However, that is not a hard and fast rule and this week, the Whitehalls are on the warpath. You can email your questions, thoughts or problems to TheWitteringWhitehalls@gmail.com Or, perhaps you'd l…
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Wobbly Shoes, Hugh of Orange & Sightseeing On Tour
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It's an all sorts episode this week. There's an update from the DL who once dressed as Donald Duck (you remember, don't you?), a question about entertaining the kids and whether or not there's time for sightseeing when on tour. You can email your questions, thoughts or problems to TheWitteringWhitehalls@gmail.com Or, perhaps you'd like to send a Wh…
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This conversation reflects on the life and legacy of John Prescott, a significant figure in British politics and the Labour Party. The hosts, Calum MacDonald, Kirsty Buchanan, and Adam Boulton, share personal anecdotes and insights about Prescott's character, his role in the New Labour movement, and his impact on political discourse. They discuss h…
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At this time of year, the green-fingered DL knows that there's work to be done in the garden. Luckily, David the gardener is on hand with some handy hints if you need help getting started. You can email your questions, thoughts or problems to TheWitteringWhitehalls@gmail.com Or, perhaps you'd like to send a WhatsApp message or Voice note? Why not?!…
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Wardrobe Malfunctions, Toothgate & Katie from Kent
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Not all of us have suffered a wardrobe malfunction, but todays DL certainly did. Plus, some Christmas present advice and a cheeky voice note from Kent! You can email your questions, thoughts or problems to TheWitteringWhitehalls@gmail.com Or, perhaps you'd like to send a WhatsApp message or Voice note? Why not?! Send them in to +447712147236 This e…
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In this podcast episode, former Health Department Special Adviser, Ed Jones, joins Isabel Hardman - Assistant Editor of The Spectator and author of Fighting for Life - The Twelve Battles that Made Our NHS, and the Struggle for Its Future - along with Calum and Kirsty to discuss the current state of the NHS under the Labour government, focusing on W…
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LIFE LESSONS: "Get yourself a towel that nobody else has got."
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It's time for the maiden Wittering Whitehalls voice note! Remember to keep sending them in to the number below. Find out what DL Jenny's particular quandary was and how team WW's would have got around it. You can email your questions, thoughts or problems to TheWitteringWhitehalls@gmail.com Or, perhaps you'd like to send a WhatsApp message or Voice…
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Master of Ceremonies, A Photo Request & Musophobia
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You DL's know your stuff, that's for sure. This week, a soon to be married DL needed to put her fiancé right about what Mr Whitehall would and wouldn't do and it's likely that she's spot on. Plus, helpful rats doing a wonderful job and a request for a photograph, from Kenya! You can email your questions, thoughts or problems to TheWitteringWhitehal…
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LIFE LESSONS: "It's not ungrammatical, it's just silly."
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It's been a little while since the Whitehalls have called Uncle Neil and this weeks email is the perfect opportunity to check back in with him... You can email your questions, thoughts or problems to TheWitteringWhitehalls@gmail.com Or, perhaps you'd like to send a WhatsApp message or Voice note? Why not?! Send them in to +447712147236 This episode…
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Donald Trump is set to return to the White House, having promised action on issues including immigration, the economy and the war in Ukraine. He looks likely to enjoy plenty of support for his political agenda in Congress after his Republican Party regained control of the Senate. In his victory speech, Trump vowed: "I will govern by a simple motto:…
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Imposter Syndrome, The Wrong Present & Historical Jesus
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Does Michael Whitehall ever suffer from imposter syndrome? What do we think...? Plus, buying an anniversary present and some of the best place names yet! You can email your questions, thoughts or problems to TheWitteringWhitehalls@gmail.com Or, perhaps you'd like to send a WhatsApp message or Voice note? Why not?! Send them in to +447712147236 This…
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It's not long until Mr & Mrs Whitehall accompany their son to New York for a show at the Carnegie Hall! So, how are the preparations coming along? Make sure you're subscribed! You can email your questions, thoughts or problems to TheWitteringWhitehalls@gmail.com Or, perhaps you'd like to send a WhatsApp message or Voice note? Why not?! Send them in…
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In our first ever crossover episode with the Holyrood Sources podcast, we assess the implications of the UK Government budget. The first section of both podcasts features former advisers from across the political spectrum. The podcasts then return to their own list of guests and commentators and analysts. Search Holyrood Sources to listen to our si…
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Trick Or Treating, The Mystery Cone & A First Time Comedian
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We're into Mr Whitehall's favourite time of year... It's the spoooooooky season of halloween and he just can't get enough of it. On the slate this week - trick or treating, some odd goings on in an English village and a first time stand up comedian. You can email your questions, thoughts or problems to TheWitteringWhitehalls@gmail.com Or, perhaps y…
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Labour in the USA, Prisoners Released, The Budget
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Calum Macdonald and Kirsty Buchanan discuss various pressing political issues in the UK, including prison overcrowding, the Labour Party's involvement in US elections, and the upcoming budget. Kirsty shares insights from her experience in the Ministry of Justice, emphasising the complexities of the criminal justice system and the need for reform. T…
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LIFE LESSONS: "A bit of dirt never hurt."
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This week, a tired Mum of two is hoping that Mrs Whitehall can help to bring a bit of calm and order into the equation. Let's see... Make sure you're subscribed! You can email your questions, thoughts or problems to TheWitteringWhitehalls@gmail.com Or, perhaps you'd like to send a WhatsApp message or Voice note? Why not?! Send them in to +447712147…
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Unfortunately, for the arachnophobes among us, it's the time of year where our eight-legged visitors begin to show themselves. This week, an emailer encountered one and wanted it gone! Plus, a novel game of WW's bingo and 'The Great Garden Dispute of 2024.' You can email your questions, thoughts or problems to TheWitteringWhitehalls@gmail.com Or, p…
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Salmond, Budget previews, UK & US Polling
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Calum and Kirsty discuss recent budget leaks and their implications, the ongoing political controversy surrounding Taylor Swift's concert, and reflect on the legacy of Alex Salmond following his passing. They explore the impact of Salmond on Scottish politics and the broader UK landscape, emphasising his unique ability to engage with diverse audien…
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LIFE LESSONS: "The devil is in the detail!"
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A couple of weeks ago, Mr & Mrs Whitehall were invited to The British Podcast Awards to present some awards. What a lovely treat. However, on this weeks bonus episode, you'll find out why it wasn't a complete success! Make sure you're subscribed! You can email your questions, thoughts or problems to TheWitteringWhitehalls@gmail.com Or, perhaps you'…
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Attracting Attention, Family Crests & Going On Holiday With A Stranger
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There's almost nothing that Mr & Mrs Whitehall can't apply their wide-ranging experience and vast wisdom to and this week is no different. On the slate, we have how to attract attention in the digital age, an impressive bit of research into Whitehall family history and a question that you might not have asked yourself before... "Should I go on holi…
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LIFE LESSONS: "Try this trick when you're taking a picture..."
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There seem to be a lot of farmers getting in touch recently and today, it's the turn of Emmersen, a 'plant sex expert' from Canada. Gosh. Make sure you're subscribed! You can email your questions, thoughts or problems to TheWitteringWhitehalls@gmail.com This episode contains explicit language and adult themes that may not be suitable for all listen…
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BE MORE NORMAL! Tory Leadership Contest latest
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In this episode of Whitehall Sources, Calum Macdonald and Kirsty Buchanan discuss the mounting expectations surrounding the upcoming UK budget, the implications of Sue Gray's resignation, and the unexpected twists in the Conservative leadership contest. They explore the challenges facing the party, including issues of unity and direction, and the p…
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Elvis Presley, Winston Churchill & Oxford Airport
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It's a top tier edition of The Wittering Whitehalls this week. Find out the link between Winston Churchill and Oxford Airport and prepare to be taken back to a classic Travels With My Father moment, where Mr Whitehall was NOT having a good day. You can email your questions, thoughts or problems to TheWitteringWhitehalls@gmail.com This episode conta…
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LIFE LESSONS: "Try a six second kiss, or a twenty second hug."
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Oxytocin is important, apparently. This week, Mrs Whitehall gives you a shortcut to oxytocin-infused bliss. It's all inspired by an email about hugging people at work, so imagine what Mr Whitehall makes of that... Make sure you're subscribed! You can email your questions, thoughts or problems to TheWitteringWhitehalls@gmail.com This episode contain…
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In this episode of Whitehall Sources, Calum Macdonald and Kirsty Buchanan delve into the current political landscape, focusing on the escalating tensions in the Middle East and the ongoing Conservative leadership contest in the UK. They analyse the speeches of the four candidates vying for leadership, discussing their strengths, weaknesses, and the…
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The Whitehalls managed to sneak off for a little few days in Corfu, so how did it go? Plus, revisiting old romances and some big news regarding some live shows! You can email your questions, thoughts or problems to TheWitteringWhitehalls@gmail.com This episode contains explicit language and adult themes that may not be suitable for all listeners. P…
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LIFE LESSONS: "Honesty & openness is the way forward."
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There are several things they say you should never discuss, but none of the rules apply when it comes to conversations between The Whitehalls & their DL's. With that in mind, here's a tricky email about separate financial affairs in a marriage! Make sure you're subscribed! You can email your questions, thoughts or problems to TheWitteringWhitehalls…
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Political Forecast: What Lies Ahead for Labour?
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Calum and Kirsty are joined by Jo Tanner who's nursing some Lemsip after Labour Party Conference. We delve into the recent Labour Party conference, exploring its significance, the challenges faced by the new government, and the public's perception of their performance. Kirsty and Joe provide insights into the conference atmosphere, the handling of …
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Hoof Trimming, Teen Holidays & A Swedish Office Debacle
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Are you familiar with 'hoof trimming'? DO NOT look it up if you're eating, or generally hate things that are DISGUSTING. Plus, including the wrong recipient on an email and going on holiday with your mates at 18. You can email your questions, thoughts or problems to TheWitteringWhitehalls@gmail.com This episode contains explicit language and adult …
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LIFE LESSONS: "Never leave the house without a hat."
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Time for the 2nd dose of the week. Here's an email from an anonymous DL who is open to suggestions regarding his hair loss. Make sure you're subscribed! You can email your questions, thoughts or problems to TheWitteringWhitehalls@gmail.com This episode contains explicit language and adult themes that may not be suitable for all listeners. Please re…
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New Series "Drop", Donald Duck & Roast Potato Gate
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And just like that, they're back! Hilary & Michael, back on the sofa at Whitehall Towers answering your emails in the way only they can. Balance is restored. So what have they been up to and more importantly, how did that dinner party from the emailer last series, with all the dietary requirements go? Let's find out! You can email your questions, t…
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The PM in the Oval Office... with Lord Darroch
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Lord Darroch, Kim Darroch, joins to discuss Sir Keir Starmer's visit to the United States. The UK's former ambassador to the US says it's significant as it is his first visit to the White House. The purpose of the visit is to discuss various international issues, including Ukraine and Gaza. There is speculation about a potential meeting between Sta…
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In this episode of Whitehall Sources, Calum Macdonald discusses the current political landscape with Kirsty Buchanan and Theo Bertram. They touch on topics such as Keir Starmer's speech, the challenges facing the Labour government, and the upcoming budget. They also discuss the recent trip to Germany and the future of UK-EU relations. The main them…
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LIFE LESSONS: If there's the option of a picnic... Take it."
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So, here's the final say from the Whitehalls before a little break. Keep an eye out for their return in September! Meanwhile, a DL inspires talk of alfresco dining and leads to us all learning "why is it windy in the evening?" Make sure you're subscribed! You can email your questions, thoughts or problems to TheWitteringWhitehalls@gmail.com This ep…
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Ageing, Helping Out & Ditching The Booze (with special guest Nick Grimshaw!)
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Lovely Grimmy joins Michael & Hilary for the series finale to discuss how getting older works, why you should learn to say "no" and the upsides of taking it easy on the booze. Plus... Vegan curry, 'pig' dogs and weightlifting. You can email your questions, thoughts or problems to TheWitteringWhitehalls@gmail.com This episode contains explicit langu…
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In this conversation, Calum and Kirsty discuss various challenges and potential obstacles that the Labour government may face in achieving their growth agenda. They touch on topics such as the employment rights bill, train drivers' pay, and a recent Supreme Court ruling on environmental impact assessments. Kirsty highlights the importance of workin…
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LIFE LESSONS: "Keep up with the house maintenance!"
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There are ACTUAL experts on hand for todays life lessons, yes lessons plural! There's plenty to learn, so don't be distracted by Mr Whitehall standing up halfway through the episode to sort out his tranklements. Make sure you're subscribed! You can email your questions, thoughts or problems to TheWitteringWhitehalls@gmail.com This episode contains …
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Dietary Requirements, Playing A Character & 'Rawdogging'
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You might have heard the term 'rawdogging' before, but rest assured that it is not THAT which Mr & Mrs Whitehall find themselves discussing this week. Plus, is Michael Whitehall real and what would you like for dinner? You can email your questions, thoughts or problems to TheWitteringWhitehalls@gmail.com This episode contains explicit language and …
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LIFE LESSONS: "You can do an awful lot with rhubarb."
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This week, DL Rachel suggests that this type of episode should be called a recipe-sode. Nice. Still in the garden at the BBH with all sorts of aircraft interrupting the flow, The Whitehalls have plenty of thoughts to share with you before the weekend. Make sure you're subscribed! You can email your questions, thoughts or problems to TheWitteringWhi…
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Calum and Kirsty are joined by John McTernan, former political secretary to Tony Blair to discuss who is to blame for the riots across the country, who should have done more to prevent them to get this far and who could lead us from them. Support the podcast by becoming a member at: https://plus.acast.com/s/whitehallsources. Hosted on Acast. See ac…
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Doppelgängers, Hot Wax & Fatherhood with My Father
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And now for something completely different... This week, Mr & Mrs Whitehall come to you from the garden of the BBH (do we all know what that means now?) With birds singing in the background and the sun shining, it's time for one of the most wonderfully written emails in WW's history and another to make you say "ouch". You can email your questions, …
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LIFE LESSONS: "Always keep the receipt!"
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A receipt can save you a lot of aggravation if you can lay your hands on it and this week, Mrs Whitehall has a very good example of just that. Plus, dog training, a Teasmade and a few more cheeky place names. Make sure you're subscribed! You can email your questions, thoughts or problems to TheWitteringWhitehalls@gmail.com This episode contains exp…
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Life in the Lords, Rachel Reeves' Strategy and Tory Leadership... with Ayesha Hazarika
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Baroness Hazarika - Ayesha Hazarika, former Labour adviser - joins Calum and Kirsty Buchanan, former Special Adviser to Theresa May, to discuss the politics and policy of the moment. We consider why far-right thugs were able to stage a mini riot in the aftermath of the stabbing attack in Southport in which three young girls died. We also reflect on…
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What on earth is 'Throop'? Find out today! Plus, a tricky situation with a wedding dress, a relocation recommendation and the tale of Poundbury. You can email your questions, thoughts or problems to TheWitteringWhitehalls@gmail.com This episode contains explicit language and adult themes that may not be suitable for all listeners. Please review Glo…
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LIFE LESSONS: "The Grandparents know what they're doing!"
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This week, a DL whose going back to work and worried that the headstrong toddler might get the best of her grandparents! Mrs Whitehall says... Don't worry about a thing. Make sure you're subscribed! You can email your questions, thoughts or problems to TheWitteringWhitehalls@gmail.com This episode contains explicit language and adult themes that ma…
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Pimple Popping, Artificial Intelligence & Shakespeare
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Now THERE is an episode title! This week, hear exactly what happens as an 84 year old man is introduced to the spot popping part of the internet. Wow. Plus, an email from Chat GPT and a shocking performance of a Shakespearean classic. You can email your questions, thoughts or problems to TheWitteringWhitehalls@gmail.com This episode contains explic…
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In this conversation, Calum and Kirsty discuss various topics including the King's speech, the challenges of delivering on government promises, and the European political community meeting at Blenheim Palace. They highlight the importance of the first 100 days of a government in setting the tone and managing expectations. They also discuss the pote…
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LIFE LESSONS: "Setting your lights on timers before a holiday? Do this!"
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Security is important and if you're leaving your house for any length of time, you don't want anyone snooping around. Mrs Whitehall has the advice you need! Make sure you're subscribed! You can email your questions, thoughts or problems to TheWitteringWhitehalls@gmail.com This episode contains explicit language and adult themes that may not be suit…
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