Last Week on Earth

Episode 7 - Russia and the former USSR

This week on Last Week on Earth, host Louisa Magnussen sits down with Joe Barnes, a political journalist and author who has spent his career covering Russia and the former Soviet Union and is currently based in Almaty, Kazakhstan, which was a member of the USSR (Soviet Union) until 1991. With Russia and the war in Ukraine dominating global headlines, Joe offers an insider’s perspective on the impact of the break-up on the former USSR (Soviet Union) and how it is viewed by the different generations today. Was it a positive or negative development for the region and the countries that emerged from the break up? Joe reflects on whether China could overtake Russia as the dominant influence across Central Asia in the post-Soviet space. The conversation concludes with a thought-provoking look at what “independence” really means in the 21st century. Tune in for clear, accessible analysis of one of the world’s most complex geopolitical regions. Search Last Week on Earth, like, subscribe, and download to stay up to date with our weekly deep dives into the global news agenda.

Episode 6 - Immigration

Immigration dominates headlines and polls alike — but what’s really driving the public debate? This week on Last Week on Earth, journalist Louisa Magnussen sits down with communications professional Anne Cantelo to unravel one of the most divisive issues in British politics. With decades of experience advising both government and business, Anne explains how successive governments have failed to communicate clearly about immigration, and how that failure has deepened public mistrust. This podcast explores the real numbers behind the headlines, from record migration peaks to the small but highly publicised issue of illegal crossings, and ask: what’s the truth, and why has it been so hard to tell? In this thought-provoking conversation, Anne examines the emotional landscape surrounding immigration, from fears about culture and community to the economic facts that often go unheard. She challenges misconceptions about migrants’ impact on the economy, highlights the communication missteps that have fuelled division, and offers pragmatic ideas for rebuilding trust. With public opinion hardening and Reform’s rise reshaping the political map, this episode offers clarity, context, and insight on one of the UK’s most defining debates.

Episode 5 - Reputation of the Royal Family

This week, journalist Louisa Magnussen sits down with Fractional Communications Director Anne Cantelo for a deep dive into the reputation of the Royal Family — exploring power, perception, and the battle for public trust.  Anne advises companies at board level on comms and crisis strategy and has previously worked in the Cabinet Office, advising the then Deputy Prime Minister. From the Firm’s “never complain, never explain” strategy to the impact of modern scandals and generational shifts, they ask: 👑 Do we still need a royal family in the modern world? 📰 Can the monarchy control its narrative in a 24/7 media landscape? 💬 What would an effective PR strategy for “The Firm” look like today? A candid, strategic look at image, influence, and authenticity inside one of the world’s most scrutinised institutions.

Episode 4 - France's Politics

What’s really happening inside France’s political system. Why is President Emmanuel Macron facing one of the most turbulent moments of his career? In this episode, broadcaster Louisa Magnussen sits down with journalist Gavin O’Toole to unpack the turmoil shaking French politics. Together, they explore: * The background to the crisis that’s been building in Paris * What triggered this week’s dramatic events * Why France’s problems have come to a head in recent months * What the political storm means for President Macron.  Why has his popularity has plummeted? * The economic and structural challenges driving discontent * Does the turmoil reflect a deeper crisis in democracy shared with other nations?  * And what does this all means for Europe and the UK? Is France’s political drama a symptom of something larger, or a uniquely French phenomenon? And where does the country go from here? Tune in to find out, where we unpack the stories shaping our planet, one week at a time.

Episode 3 - Ukraine - The War that Won't End?

In this compelling episode of Last Week on Earth, Louisa Magnussen sits down with journalist and author Gavin O’Toole to unpack the latest developments in the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine. From the human and political toll of the conflict to the elusive search for peace, Gavin O’Toole offers sharp insight into why diplomacy has stalled, the challenges facing Vladimir Putin and Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and what the future might hold for both nations and the wider world. They also examine Donald Trump’s unfulfilled promises, Europe’s uneasy response, and the possible paths forward in one of the most consequential conflicts of our time. Download for clear analysis, candid commentary, and a look at what comes next for Ukraine, Russia, and the rest of us.