The Memo with Kaylem Shepherd

George Abaraonye - Childhood, Charlie Kirk & The Controversy (Part 1)

In this episode of The Memo - Part 1, Kaylem sits down with George Abaraonye, the former President-elect of the Oxford Union, for a raw and honest conversation about life behind the headlines.Before the controversy, before the scrutiny, there was a story. In this first chapter, George opens up about his early life, the influences that shaped him, and his journey into the world of debating where ambition, intellect, and identity all collided.From lecture halls to the debating chamber, this is the story of a young man on the rise… until one moment changed everything.After private messages surfaced that sparked national backlash, George reflects on what it’s really like to be thrown into the public eye and the emotional toll of having your character questioned in real time.Unfiltered, reflective, and deeply human, this is the start of a story that goes beyond the headlines.It’s not about the drama. It’s about context. It’s about understanding. And it’s about what comes before the fall.Drop your thoughts and questions, join the conversation.Subscribe & follow for more:» Subscribe to The Memo: /@thememopodcast» Follow us on TikTok: tiktok.com/@thememopodcast» Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/kaylemshepherd» Listen on Spotify: Spotify – The Memo» Listen on Apple Podcasts: Apple Podcasts – The Memo

Trump’s War on Iran | Sam Kiley

In this special episode of The Memo, Kaylem is joined by Sam Kiley, World Affairs Editor of The Independent and one of today’s most experienced foreign correspondents. With more than three decades reporting from war zones around the globe from Iraq and Afghanistan to Israel and Ukraine. Sam brings unparalleled insight into the unfolding conflict between the United States and Iran. We take a dive into Donald Trump’s escalating war on Iran, unpacking the strategic missteps, regional implications, and global repercussions of America’s decision to launch military action against Tehran. From the killing of Iran’s supreme leader and questions about the future of Iranian leadership, to the broader consequences for Middle East stability and international law. Whether you’re trying to make sense of the headline-grabbing developments or seeking a grounded analysis of what comes next. Sam’s frontline experience and expert perspective will help you understand not just what happened - but why it matters. Join the conversation by sharing your thoughts and questions.Subscribe & follow for more:» Subscribe to The Memo: /@thememopodcast» Follow us on TikTok: tiktok.com/@thememopodcast» Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/kaylemshepherd» Listen on Spotify: Spotify – The Memo» Listen on Apple Podcasts: Apple Podcasts – The Memo

High Level Immigration: Julia Willemyns on Reforming Britain’s Exceptional Talent System

In this episode of The Memo, Kaylem sits down with Julia Willemyns, Co-founder of The Centre for British Progress, to explore how Britain can better attract and retain exceptional talent from around the world. From visa reforms to the Global Talent and High Potential Individual routes, Julia explains why the UK’s exceptional talent system is underused, how it can be made more visible and accessible, and why drawing top scientists, founders, creatives, and technologists is critical for Britain’s economic future. Kaylem and Julia dive into the role of immigration in driving innovation, the challenges of current policies, and the reforms that could help Britain compete globally for the best and brightest minds. Join the conversation by sharing your thoughts and questions. Subscribe & follow for more: » Subscribe to The Memo: /@thememopodcast » Follow us on TikTok: tiktok.com/@thememopodcast » Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/kaylemshepherd » Listen on Spotify: Spotify – The Memo » Listen on Apple Podcasts: Apple Podcasts – The Memo

YIMBY vs NIMBY: Kane Emerson on the UK Housing Crisis

In this episode of The Memo, Kaylem sits down with Kane Emerson to break down the YIMBY vs NIMBY debate and what it means for the future of housing in the UK.From planning reform to housing supply, Kane explains the rise of the YIMBY movement, why housing has become one of the UK’s most contentious political battles, and how local opposition continues to shape — and limit — development.Kaylem and Kane dive into the realities of the UK housing crisis, the political and social barriers to building more homes, and whether YIMBY offers a real solution to affordability, access, and opportunity for the next generation.Join the conversation by sharing your thoughts and questions.Subscribe & follow for more:» Subscribe to The Memo: /@thememopodcast» Follow us on TikTok: tiktok.com/@thememopodcast» Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/kaylemshepherd» Listen on Spotify: Spotify – The Memo» Listen on Apple Podcasts: Apple Podcasts – The Memo

UK Youth Parliament: George Main Sin on Why Young People Matter in Politics

In this episode of The Memo, Kaylem sits down with George Main Sin, a member of the UK Youth Parliament, to talk about why young people’s voices are more important than ever in modern politics.From shaping policy to challenging the status quo, George shares his experiences in the Youth Parliament, the impact young people can have on government decisions, and how engagement today can shape the leaders of tomorrow.Kaylem and George dive into the challenges of youth representation, the barriers young people face in politics, and why getting involved now is crucial for the future of the UK.Join the conversation by sharing your thoughts and questions.Subscribe & follow for more:» Subscribe to The Memo: /@thememopodcast» Follow us on TikTok: tiktok.com/@thememopodcast» Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/kaylemshepherd» Listen on Spotify: Spotify – The Memo» Listen on Apple Podcasts: Apple Podcasts – The Memo