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.

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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.

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.