The Brink

The Brink
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Welcome to your much-needed antidote to centrist dad podcasts. Presented by Daily Telegraph columnist and foreign correspondent Jake Wallis Simons and former parachute regiment officer and geopolitical analyst Andrew Fox, The Brink brings their wealth of real-life experience to bear upon the most important topics of the day, from Israel to immigration, Ukraine to Islamism, asylum hotels to the rise of Reform UK. With a host of stellar guests and an emphasis on common sense, Jake and Andrew explore what it will take to bring the West back from the brink. A podcast from the edge of what’s coming. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. “America is losing…” Trump’s former Iran expert Elliott Abrams

    3 days ago

    “America is losing…” Trump’s former Iran expert Elliott Abrams

    Watch the full uncut interview HERE: https://thebrinkpodcast.substack.com In this episode of The Brink, Andrew and Jake are joined by former US Special Representative for Iran Elliott Abrams for a wide-ranging conversation on the aftermath of the Iran war, Donald Trump’s foreign policy, and the future of American power in the Middle East. We examine the state of Iran’s nuclear programme after the 12-day war and ask whether the current negotiations are simply delaying the problem rather than solving it. Abrams warns that any sanctions relief risks strengthening the regime while doing little to address its missiles, proxy militias, or long-term ambitions. The conversation also explores Hezbollah, Lebanon, and the wider collapse of Iran’s so-called Ring of Fire following October 7th. Abrams argues that while Israel severely weakened Iran’s regional network, the underlying threat remains unresolved unless the regime itself is ultimately confronted. We also discuss Donald Trump’s approach to power and foreign policy. From the Strait of Hormuz crisis to Venezuela, NATO, and Ukraine, Abrams reflects on Trump’s strengths, weaknesses, and governing style, including the lack of long-term strategic planning inside the administration. Finally, we look ahead to the future of American politics, the battle between traditional conservatives and the MAGA movement, and whether figures like Marco Rubio or JD Vance could define the next era of the Republican Party. Don't forget to check out our merch store: https://www.thebrinkmerch.com/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction 04:55 Iran's Proxy Militia and Regional Dynamics 10:09 Nuclear Deal and Missile Concerns 15:12 Proxy Militia and Lebanon's Role 20:31 Economic Impact and Sanctions Relief 25:50 Trump's Negotiation Strategy and Military Planning 30:50 Lessons Learned and Future Prospects 35:50 Venezuela and Trump's Legacy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    41 min
  2. The Brink in Somaliland: Rageh Omar on Israel and the new scramble for Africa

    21 May

    The Brink in Somaliland: Rageh Omar on Israel and the new scramble for Africa

    Watch the full uncut interview HERE: https://open.substack.com/pub/thebrinkpodcast/p/the-brink-in-somaliland-rageh-omar?r=63dafp&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true In this episode of The Brink, Andrew and Jake are joined by journalist and broadcaster Rageh Omaar for a conversation from Hargeisa on the extraordinary story of Somaliland and why this unrecognised state is suddenly becoming one of the world’s most important geopolitical flashpoints. We explore Somaliland’s history as a former British protectorate, its brutal war for independence from Somalia, and how it rebuilt itself into a relatively stable and democratic country despite receiving almost no international recognition. Rageh explains why Somaliland sees itself as a nation that has been unfairly locked out of the international system, even while functioning more effectively than many recognised states. The conversation then turns to the historic decision by Israel to formally recognise Somaliland in December 2025. Rageh discusses why the move transformed Somaliland’s international profile overnight and why relations between Somaliland and Israel have developed so warmly despite Somaliland being a deeply conservative Muslim society. We also examine the wider geopolitical battle unfolding across the Horn of Africa. From China and Turkey’s growing influence in Somalia and Djibouti to the strategic importance of the Bab el-Mandeb shipping route, we discuss why global powers are increasingly focusing on Somaliland and whether Britain is making a major strategic mistake by failing to recognise it. Finally, we discuss Somalia’s ongoing instability, the threat posed by Al Shabaab, the role of the Somaliland diaspora in rebuilding the country, and why Somaliland could become one of the West’s most important allies in Africa in the years ahead. Don't forget to check out our merch store: https://www.thebrinkmerch.com/ Chapters 0:00 Introduction 4:47 Historical Context and Geographic Setting of Somaliland 7:26 Somaliland's Struggle for Independence and International Recognition 13:24 Israel's Recognition of Somaliland and Its Implications 18:58 Strategic Interests and Diplomatic Challenges 27:56 Somaliland's Relationship with Other Countries and International Recognition 35:19 Britain's Role and the Future of Somaliland's Recognition 43:53 The Impact of Recognition on Somaliland's Future 45:32 The Future of Somaliland's Relationship with Israel and Other Countries Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    46 min
  3. “Which is worse…Piers Morgan or the BBC?” Julia Harley-Brewer on the media collapse

    13 May

    “Which is worse…Piers Morgan or the BBC?” Julia Harley-Brewer on the media collapse

    Watch the full uncut interview HERE: https://open.substack.com/pub/thebrinkpodcast/p/the-real-reason-british-politics?r=63dafp&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true In this episode of The Brink, Andrew and Jake are joined by broadcaster and journalist Julia Hartley-Brewer. The discussion begins with the mounting pressure on Keir Starmer, with Julia arguing that his leadership has exposed deeper systemic failures across British politics. From Brexit and the civil service to taxation, public services, and political leadership, we explore why trust in both Labour and the Conservatives has collapsed so dramatically. The conversation then turns to the media and the cultural establishment. Julia reflects on her career in British journalism and explains why she increasingly found herself at odds with elite opinion on issues like Brexit, lockdowns, net zero, and gender ideology. We examine whether legacy media has lost public trust and what has filled the vacuum online. A major focus of the episode is anti-Semitism and the war in Israel. Julia shares her experience visiting Israel after October 7th, including visits to the Nova festival site and communities attacked by Hamas. She explains why the trip profoundly affected her understanding of the conflict and why she believes much of the Western public has been misled about Israel by media narratives and political activism. Finally, we discuss the future of British politics, the rise of Reform, and whether the country is entering a period of deeper instability and fragmentation. Don't forget to check out our merch store: https://www.thebrinkmerch.com/ Chapters 00:00 Intro 03:35 Keir Starmer and Labour 07:18 What’s wrong with UK politics 17:44 What a “truth-telling” PM would say 23:20 Julia’s media career and outsider role 30:00 Media bias and clickbait culture 38:38 Extremism, antisemitism and protests 41:36 Julia’s Israel trip and what Britain can learn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    49 min
  4. “I Was No Friend Of Israel… Then I Went There” | Claire Fox On The Collapse Of Britain

    7 May

    “I Was No Friend Of Israel… Then I Went There” | Claire Fox On The Collapse Of Britain

    Watch the full uncut interview HERE: https://open.substack.com/pub/thebrinkpodcast/p/i-was-no-friend-of-israel-then-i?r=63dafp&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true In this episode of The Brink, Andrew and Jake are joined by Claire Fox for a wide-ranging conversation on Britain’s political realignment, the rise of populism, free speech, and the cultural fallout from October 7th. Fox argues that both Labour and the Conservatives have become increasingly detached from ordinary people, creating the conditions for populist movements to surge across Britain. From Brexit and the financial crash to identity politics and the decline of national pride, we explore why so many voters feel alienated from the political establishment. The discussion also examines censorship and self-censorship across universities, public institutions, and politics. Fox warns that ideological conformity and fear of social punishment are reshaping public life, while identity politics and multiculturalism have weakened a shared sense of citizenship. The conversation then turns to the aftermath of October 7th and the rise of anti-Semitism in Britain. Fox reflects on how her own views on Israel changed over time and argues that hostility toward Israel increasingly reflects a deeper crisis within Western societies themselves. A provocative and timely discussion about Britain’s future, democratic change, and the growing battle over national identity and free speech. Don't forget to check out our merch store: https://www.thebrinkmerch.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    42 min
  5. “We’ve Got to Fight Back” | Katharine Birbalsingh Sounds the Alarms

    30 Apr

    “We’ve Got to Fight Back” | Katharine Birbalsingh Sounds the Alarms

    Watch the full uncut interview HERE: https://open.substack.com/pub/thebrinkpodcast/p/weve-got-to-fight-back-katharine?r=63dafp&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true In this episode of The Brink, Andrew and Jake are joined by Katharine Birbalsingh to discuss education, culture and the pressing crisis facing young people today. Their conversation begins with a fundamental question: what is education truly for? She warns that many in the West underestimate the profound impact schools and wider culture have on younger generations’ attitudes and behaviours. The discussion then shifts to the modern classroom. We explore how schools have become battlegrounds for broader cultural debates, influenced by political activism, ideological sway and evolving curricula. Birbalsingh contends that a shift away from discipline, tradition and moral clarity is having serious consequences for academic standards, behaviour, mental health and social cohesion. From the influence of smartphones and social media to the decline of parental authority and the rise of online radicalisation, it examines why many young people feel anxious, confused and increasingly detached. Birbalsingh stresses that without strong guidance from schools and families, children are vulnerable to harmful influences. Finally, the conversation expands to some of Britain’s most contentious issues, including identity, gender, anti-Semitism and integration. Drawing on her experience leading one of the country’s most talked-about schools, Birbalsingh offers a stark warning: unless parents and society take decisive action, these issues will continue to fester. Don't forget to check out our merch store: https://www.thebrinkmerch.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    49 min
  6. Can The West Survive Its Own Tolerance? (And can Keir Starmer survive at all?) With Daniel Hannan

    23 Apr

    Can The West Survive Its Own Tolerance? (And can Keir Starmer survive at all?) With Daniel Hannan

    In this episode of The Brink, Andrew and Jake are joined by Daniel Hannan for a wide-ranging conversation on freedom, identity, and the political challenges facing Britain today. The discussion begins with a debate around freedom of worship and the place of Islam in a liberal society. We explore how questions of integration, national security, and cultural confidence are increasingly colliding in modern Britain. The conversation then turns to the deeper causes behind social division. From economic stagnation to a loss of national identity, we examine why trust in institutions has eroded and how this creates fertile ground for both extremism and political fragmentation. We also discuss the state of British politics under Keir Starmer, with a sharp critique of what Hannan describes as managerial leadership and a lack of clear direction. Finally, the conversation widens to the global stage. We examine the impact of Donald Trump on Western alliances, the growing threat posed by Iran, and the risk of nuclear proliferation in an increasingly unstable world. Watch the full uncut interview HERE: https://open.substack.com/pub/thebrinkpodcast/p/can-the-west-survive-its-own-tolerance?r=63dafp&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true Don't forget to check out our merch store: https://www.thebrinkmerch.com/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction 03:52 Challenges of Integration and National Security 08:40 Historical Parallels and Integration Efforts 18:48 Economic and Social Factors Influencing Extremism 26:29 Keir Starmer's Leadership and Management Style 30:58 The Impact of Trump on Global Conservatism 43:12 The Role of the US in British Foreign Policy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    46 min
  7. ‘Hezbollah is the enemy of humanity’ | Lebanese expert Makram Rabah

    14 Apr

    ‘Hezbollah is the enemy of humanity’ | Lebanese expert Makram Rabah

    In this episode of The Brink, Andrew is joined by Lebanese historian and political analyst Makram Rabah for a deep dive into Hezbollah, Iran’s regional influence, and the fragile state of Lebanon. The conversation explores how Hezbollah has evolved from a militant group into a dominant political and military force within Lebanon, and what that means for the country’s sovereignty. Rabah explains how Hezbollah operates not just as a proxy of Iran, but as a parallel state, shaping institutions, security, and everyday life. We examine the wider regional picture, from Iran’s strategic ambitions to the role of proxy warfare across the Middle East. Rabah argues that Lebanon has effectively become a frontline in a much larger geopolitical struggle, with consequences that extend far beyond its borders. The discussion also turns to the internal collapse of Lebanon itself. From economic breakdown to political paralysis, Rabah outlines how corruption, sectarianism, and external influence have hollowed out the state, leaving ordinary citizens to bear the cost. Finally, we ask what comes next. Is there a path back to sovereignty for Lebanon, or has the balance of power shifted too far? And what does this mean for Israel, the wider region, and the future of Western policy in the Middle East? A sharp and sobering conversation on power, proxy conflict, and the realities shaping the modern Middle East. Watch the full uncut interview HERE: https://open.substack.com/pub/thebrinkpodcast/p/hezbollah-is-the-enemy-of-humanity?r=63dafp&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true Don't forget to check out our merch store: https://www.thebrinkmerch.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    45 min
  8. Who’s the real winner? Air Marshal Edward Stringer on Iran, NATO & Western Decline

    8 Apr

    Who’s the real winner? Air Marshal Edward Stringer on Iran, NATO & Western Decline

    Watch the full and ad-free interview HERE: https://open.substack.com/pub/thebrinkpodcast/p/whos-the-real-winner-air-marshal?r=63dafp&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true In this episode of The Brink, Andrew and Jake are joined by Air Marshall Edward Stringer, for a timely and wide-ranging conversation on Iran, NATO, and the future of Western power. We explore the question at the heart of today’s conflicts: who is actually winning? Against the backdrop of rising tensions with Iran and a shifting global order, Stringer challenges the idea that military strikes alone can deliver lasting outcomes, arguing that without a clear political end state, even successful operations risk achieving very little. The discussion looks at the limits of air power and modern warfare, and why technological superiority is no substitute for coherent strategy. Stringer explains how interventions can shape events in the short term, but cannot create stability on their own, raising serious questions about recent Western actions in the Middle East. We also examine the state of NATO and Western defence more broadly. Stringer warns that capabilities have declined significantly, with the UK and its allies falling behind in readiness and resilience, even as threats become more immediate and complex. Finally, the conversation turns to the bigger picture. From Iran and global energy security to the role of allies and so-called middle powers, this episode asks whether the West is entering a period of strategic drift and what it would take to reverse that trajectory. A clear-eyed and thought-provoking discussion on war, power, and the future of the West. Don't forget to check out our merch store: https://www.thebrinkmerch.com/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:36 Stringer’s Military Background & Experience 05:04 The Libya Campaign Explained 07:51 Libya: Did Air Power Really Work? 09:00 Why You Can’t “Bomb Your Way To Victory” 15:39 Iran Today: What Does “Success” Look Like? 19:26 Was War With Iran Inevitable? 20:16 Can Air Power Ever Deliver Regime Change? 25:51 Trump’s War Rhetoric & Its Consequences 28:07 Social Media, War & Political Messaging 31:21 The Problem With US Global Leadership 35:49 Has The US Always Controlled NATO? 38:07 Europe’s Military Weakness Explained 40:31 Will Things “Go Back To Normal” After Trump? 41:57 A Fundamental Shift In Global Power 43:26 Has The UK Fallen Behind On Defence? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    44 min
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About

Welcome to your much-needed antidote to centrist dad podcasts. Presented by Daily Telegraph columnist and foreign correspondent Jake Wallis Simons and former parachute regiment officer and geopolitical analyst Andrew Fox, The Brink brings their wealth of real-life experience to bear upon the most important topics of the day, from Israel to immigration, Ukraine to Islamism, asylum hotels to the rise of Reform UK. With a host of stellar guests and an emphasis on common sense, Jake and Andrew explore what it will take to bring the West back from the brink. A podcast from the edge of what’s coming. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Information

  • Creator
    The Brink
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    49
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © The Brink
  • Show Website
    The Brink

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