Best Guardian Down Cast Podcasts (2025)

1
Ep 301: Bungie We May Have a Problem ft. AmazingTacoKing 2:28:38

5d ago2:28:38

2:28:38

By Guardian Down Cast

1
‘Reform all the way’: on the road in Doncaster – Politics Weekly UK 39:00

3d ago39:00

39:00

Before this week’s local elections, John Harris is on the road in Doncaster – which could prove to be a canary in the coalmine for the government. Labour has been in power here for decades but this time Nigel Farage’s Reform UK fancies its chances. So why are people turning away from Labour? Why are they so disillusioned with politics in general? A…

1
Could Reform be the big winners at local elections? – Politics Weekly Westminster 25:10

5d ago25:10

25:10

Pippa Crerar and Kiran Stacey discuss whether Nigel Farage can translate Reform UK’s rise in the polls into success at the ballot box as local elections take place this week. And, how will the two major parties fare in the first big electoral test for both Keir Starmer and Kemi Badenoch since the general election?. Help support our independent jour…

1
Will rising child poverty be Labour’s legacy? – Politics Weekly UK 25:46

9d ago25:46

25:46

The government began to roll out its free breakfast club scheme this week as part of plans to help struggling families. But with predictions that child poverty could increase by the end of this parliament, how serious is Labour about tackling the problem? John Harris hears from a headteacher, and speaks to our political editor, Pippa Crerar. Help s…

1
300 Episodes Celebration! So...Marathon? 3:16:50

12d ago3:16:50

3:16:50

This week we celebrate our 300 episode which is a real milestone for me personally with all of the ups and downs of the podcast over the years. We first share our week, go over the This Week in Destiny and talk about our thoughts coming from the live reveal last week. Then we turn the show over to our community and celebrate! Before we go ToddtheGa…

1
How the Beatles helped my autistic son find his voice – Today in Focus 30:04

12d ago30:04

30:04

John Harris speaks to the Today in Focus podcast about how music helped him connect with his autistic son, James. He tells Helen Pidd what he’s learned about the way some autistic people experience music, and how songs opened up the world for James. Plus, they discuss the challenges and stereotypes autistic people still face.. Help support our inde…

1
What’s next for British Steel? – Politics Weekly UK 29:52

16d ago29:52

29:52

The future of the steelworks in Scunthorpe has been hanging in the balance after the government stepped in to try and save it from collapse. So what happens next for the UK steel industry and the people of Scunthorpe? And why does it matter for our national security? Kiran Stacey speaks to Charlotte Brumpton-Childs, a national officer for the GMB u…

1
Ep 299: Destiny 2 Heresy Story is Done...Now What? Marathon? 2:40:49

19d ago2:40:49

2:40:49

This week, Kingsleymac and ToddtheGatr discuss their week and the final chapter of the Heresy storyline. We go over the latest This Week at Bungie (yes I said it correctly) and then for the topic of the week, we discuss what's next for Bungie between now and mid July when Frontiers is rumored to arrive? Gatr and Kingsley have a new wager as well an…

1
Trump triggers global meltdown while Starmer scrambles – Politics Weekly UK 33:17

24d ago33:17

33:17

As fears of a global recession continue in the wake of Donald Trump’s tariffs, Keir Starmer insists the UK should keep a cool head. But with markets in turmoil and a looming economic crisis, does the prime minister need to be bolder? John Harris asks the Guardian columnist Gaby Hinsliff. Plus, he speaks to Daisy Cooper, deputy leader of the Liberal…

1
Ep 298: Destiny 2 Heresy Act 3 Week ONE // Kingsleymac Takes the SpeedRun 2:41:08

26d ago2:41:08

2:41:08

This week, Kingsleymac and ToddtheGatr share their Week 1 Impressions of Destiny 2 Heresy Act 3. Todd also brought another hot topic of the week and we answer questions from the community and Kingsleymac takes the SpeedRun! Welcome to Guardian Down Cast: A Destiny Podcast...if you love to play the game Destiny 2, you've come to the right place. We'…

1
Trump explodes the world economy: what should the UK do? – Politics Weekly UK 32:59

30d ago32:59

32:59

After weeks of cosying up to Donald Trump, the UK has still been hit with 10% tariffs on exports to the US, which is bad news for the economy and the public finances. So, how tough could things get for Britain? And how should Keir Starmer’s government respond? John Harris asks the former UK ambassador to the US Kim Darroch and the Guardian columnis…

1
Will Starmer’s approach to Trump tariffs pay off? – Politics Weekly Westminster 21:37

1M ago21:37

21:37

It’s shaping up to be another tricky week for the government, with Donald Trump’s tariffs threatening to blow up everything the chancellor announced in her spring statement. Pippa Crerar and Kiran Stacey look at what the fallout might be, and whether Keir Starmer’s friendly approach will pay off. Plus, with major bill increases hitting millions of …

1
Ep 297: Destiny 2- Three "Magic" Builds ft Magic Mike 2:14:52

1M ago2:14:52

2:14:52

This week, we have a new guest on the show...he's the Destiny Guardian from West Virginia...Magic Mike. Kingsleymac and ToddtheGatr learn more about him and run him through the SpeedRun as well. We also catch up on our week, report on the important information from This Week in Destiny. ToddtheGatr has three basic builds to get you started in Act 3…

1
Wes Streeting’s plan to fix the NHS – Politics Weekly Westminster 36:11

1M ago36:11

36:11

The government has put improving the NHS at the heart of its plans, but will it be able to deliver on its promises? And how long could it take to turn the health service around? Pippa Crerar asked health secretary Wes Streeting at a special Guardian Live event. In a wide-ranging discussion, he also took questions on others issues including assisted…

1
Spring statement: Should a Labour government be making these cuts? – Politics Weekly UK 35:02

1M ago35:02

35:02

Amid poor economic growth forecasts and global instability, Rachel Reeves is trying to balance the books by cutting spending on benefits. So why is a Labour government choosing this path? John Harris is joined by the Guardian’s political editor, Pippa Crerar, and political correspondent Kiran Stacey to unpick what was in the spring statement, and w…

1
Spring statement: What to expect – Politics Weekly Westminster 25:57

1M ago25:57

25:57

Pippa Crerar and Kiran Stacey walk us through what we can expect to hear when Rachel Reeves makes her spring statement on Wednesday. With the government facing downgraded growth forecasts, rising borrowing costs and the threat of Donald Trump’s tariffs, how can it boost the economy and save public services? And how will major spending cuts go down …

1
Ep 296: March Roundtable Episode "...and now for something COMPLETELY different" ft Cyn Media 1:57:00

1M ago1:57:00

1:57:00

This week it's our monthly Roundtable Episode and we have some brand new topics of discussion this week...probably the most diverse topics we've ever talked about. Welcome to Guardian Down Cast: A Destiny Podcast...if you love to play the game Destiny 2, you've come to the right place. We're a podcast community full of like minded Guardians who lov…

1
A day on the frontline of England’s social care crisis – Politics Weekly UK 35:52

1M ago35:52

35:52

An ageing population, a funding squeeze and a recruitment crisis have taken England’s adult social care system to breaking point. This week, John Harris is in Greater Manchester to find out what a day in the life of a care worker looks like, and whether it is too late to save this vital service. Help support our independent journalism at theguardia…

1
Politics Weekly Westminster: cabinet fears over benefit cuts 22:59

2M ago22:59

22:59

Pippa Crerar and Kiran Stacey discuss whether the backlash to the government’s planned benefit cuts will result in a U-turn. And which other departments could face eye-watering cuts?. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspodBy The Guardian

1
Ep 295: Destiny 2 Heresy Act 2 is REALLY Good! 2:51:17

2M ago2:51:17

2:51:17

This week, Kingsleymac and ToddtheGatr share our week one impressions of Destiny 2 Heresy Act 2 and SURPRISE...it's really good!! Bungie's storytelling is cooking! We go over the latest TWAB and answer questions from our community. Don't forget the outtakes at the end of the show... Welcome to Guardian Down Cast: A Destiny Podcast...if you love to …

1
Labour loses its way on benefits reform – Politics Weekly UK 33:45

2M ago33:45

33:45

After months of speculation, the government will soon lay out plans to change the benefits system. Keir Starmer argues that the current system is ‘the worst of all worlds’. But with deep cuts to disability payments on the table, could the changes come at the expense of the most vulnerable? And will Labour MPs really be able to support this? John Ha…

1
Ed Miliband on net zero in the age of Trump – Politics Weekly Westminster 27:27

2M ago27:27

27:27

Pippa Crerar and Kiran Stacey are joined by Ed Miliband, the energy security and net zero secretary, to discuss Labour’s plans to tackle the climate crisis, the third runway at Heathrow and how secure the path to a greener future looks in the age of Trump. Plus, are cuts to welfare and foreign aid the best way to balance the budget?. Help support o…

1
Ep 294: Everything You Need to Know for Destiny 2 Heresy: Act 2 2:09:04

2M ago2:09:04

2:09:04

This week, Kingsleymac and ToddtheGatr share the enormous amount of information about Destiny 2 Heresy Act 2...some peeks at Act 3 and beyond. Also, how is the new Trials of Osiris revamped going? Finally, we answer some community questions. Welcome to Guardian Down Cast: A Destiny Podcast...if you love to play the game Destiny 2, you've come to th…

1
Is Trump’s America still an ally to the UK? – Politics Weekly UK 30:53

2M ago30:53

30:53

The news that the US had suspended military aid to Ukraine stunned world leaders and led to a rapid reassessment of how much we can really rely on our American ally. Is this the end of the western alliance? John Harris asks our diplomatic editor, Patrick Wintour. Plus, as the UK pledges to boost defence spending by slashing our foreign aid budget, …

1
Will Starmer’s peace plan work after the Trump-Zelenskyy clash? – Politics Weekly Westminster 25:59

2M ago25:59

25:59

Pippa Crerar and Kiran Stacey reflect on the momentous events of the last few days, after the jaw-dropping exchange between Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelenskyy. As Keir Starmer takes on a pivotal role in lowering the temperature between the US and Ukraine, will his plan for a ‘coalition of the willing’ work? And, what does it all mean for the futu…

1
Ep 293: February Roundtable Episode 2:11:09

2M ago2:11:09

2:11:09

This week, Kingsleymac, ToddtheGatr and special guest DEADPOOL-1-MERC have 4 fresh topics related to gaming to discuss. We highlight any important news in This Week In Destiny blog as well. Plus, a bonus story relating to Bungie was mentioned as well. Don't forget the outtakes at the end of the show! Welcome to Guardian Down Cast: A Destiny Podcast…

1
Special episode: Inside the room when Starmer met Trump – Politics Weekly Westminster 31:03

2M ago31:03

31:03

Pippa Crerar and Kiran Stacey have a behind-the-scenes look at Keir Starmer’s trip to meet Donald Trump at the White House, after Pippa travelled with the prime minister to Washington DC. So, how was Starmer’s charm offensive received by the president? And has the trip moved the dial on Ukraine and tariffs? Send your questions and feedback to polit…

1
On the road in south Wales: why is Reform UK on the rise? 38:13

2M ago38:13

38:13

This week, Politics Weekly UK is on the road in south-east Wales, hearing from those in traditional Labour heartlands. But with people increasingly frustrated that public services are crumbling and that nothing seems to change, Nigel Farage’s party fancies its chances at next year’s Senedd elections. John Harris asks why Reform UK is on the rise in…

1
Can Starmer stop Trump’s Ukraine sell-out? – Politics Weekly Westminster 26:34

2M ago26:34

26:34

Pippa Crerar and Kiran Stacey look ahead to a pivotal week of diplomacy for Keir Starmer as he prepares to visit the White House. With Donald Trump’s hostility towards Kyiv looming large over the three-year anniversary of Russia’s all-out invasion of Ukraine, can the prime minister persuade the US president to change tack? Send your questions and f…

1
Ep 292: Week 3 Destiny 2 Heresy// MORE NEW BUILDS// New Trials of Osiris 2:01:15

2M ago2:01:15

2:01:15

This week, Kingsleymac and ToddtheGatr are back to talk about Week 3 of Destiny 2 Heresy and Kingsley actually played Iron Banner! Todd also shares his experience playing the new revamped Trials of Osiris and it's not what he thought. Mike and Todd catch up on their week and also answer questions from the Discord community. Finally Mike and Todd sh…

1
What role could the UK play in ending the Ukraine war? – Politics Weekly 31:24

2M ago31:24

31:24

Donald Trump’s plans to end the war in Ukraine have taken centre stage this week. But, with Ukraine excluded from US-Russia talks, could they really accept what might be on offer? And what role will the UK and Europe play?John Harris hears from diplomatic editor Patrick Wintour and columnist Gaby Hinsliff about what a resolution could look like Sen…

1
Ep 291: Heresy Week 2, New Builds and Sundered Doctrine Dungeon/Bonus: Dimwie 3:40:02

3M ago3:40:02

3:40:02

This week, we have a info packed episode with the new Exotic misson, week 2 Heresy, New Armor/Weapon Builds and we talk about the new Sundered Doctrine dungeon and speak to our guest from Germany: Dimwie. We answer questions from our community and more. Welcome to Guardian Down Cast: A Destiny Podcast...if you love to play the game Destiny 2, you'v…

1
Is the assisted dying bill doomed? – Politics Weekly UK 31:50

3M ago31:50

31:50

The spotlight was back on the assisted dying bill this week after it was revealed that the requirement for a high court judge to decide on cases was to be scrapped. Those in favour of assisted dying say the change will make it safer, but does it undermine trust in the bill? Gaby Hinsliff, in for John Harris, talks to our deputy political editor, Je…

1
Can Kemi and Keir combat the rise of Reform UK? – Politics Weekly Westminster 26:01

3M ago26:01

26:01

As Reform UK creeps up the polls, Pippa Crerar and Kiran Stacey look at how the Conservatives and Labour are responding to the threat from Nigel Farage’s party. Plus, will the government’s efforts to show voters it is serious about tackling illegal migration cut through? Send your questions and feedback to [email protected]. Help sup…

1
Ep 290: Destiny 2 Heresy has Arrived! Tips to Survive the Nether 2:22:35

3M ago2:22:35

2:22:35

This week Kingsleymac and ToddtheGatr share their initial impressions of the new episodic content from Bungie. We also share tips and tricks to help you survive and enjoy the new Nether activity on the Dreadnaught. The first Destiny Help Desk segment is here this week as well. Welcome to Guardian Down Cast: A Destiny Podcast...if you love to play t…

1
Special episode: Behind the scenes of David Lammy’s Ukraine trip 25:28

3M ago25:28

25:28

Almost three years after Russia invaded Ukraine, what is the situation like on the ground in Kyiv? And is there a path to peace? Pippa Crerar travelled to the war-ravaged country with the foreign secretary to find out. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspodBy The Guardian

1
Starmer’s diplomatic dance with Trump and the EU – Politics Weekly UK 30:49

3M ago30:49

30:49

Keir Starmer is treading a fine line as he avoids picking sides between the EU and US. But with Donald Trump saying he wants to ‘take over’ Gaza and threatening to impose tariffs on the EU, can the prime minister really keep both on side? John Harris asks Prof Anand Menon, director of UK in a Changing Europe, and Guardian columnist Gaby Hinsliff Se…

1
Jeremy Hunt on Trump and the Tories’ future – Politics Weekly Special 19:08

3M ago19:08

19:08

Pippa Crerar and Kiran Stacey chat to the veteran Conservative MP Jeremy Hunt about how to handle Donald Trump’s trade wars, his new life in opposition, and what’s next for the Tories. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspodBy The Guardian

1
Back to Brexit – Politics Weekly Westminster 23:03

3M ago23:03

23:03

Pippa Crerar and Kiran Stacey discuss Keir Starmer’s trip to Brussels this week, as he attempts a post-Brexit reset. But how risky is seeking closer ties with the EU when Donald Trump is threatening a trade war?. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspodBy The Guardian

1
Ep 289: "Seven Gaming Events That Will Shape 2025" 2:49:52

3M ago2:49:52

2:49:52

This week, it's our January Roundtable Episode where we will all bring a topic in gaming to the "table" and discuss. This week's topics include AI, Bungie New Player Experience (revisited) and 7 Major Events in the Gaming Industry that will make or break 2025". We also go over the last THIS WEEK IN DESTINY before the new Episode 3: Heresy drops thi…

1
MARVEL STUDIOS X-MEN Produced by Russos? | Rumor Rundown 55:25

3M ago55:25

55:25

Are the Russo Brothers producing Marvel Studios’ X-Men film? Or is this a LIE? Welcome back to another episode of New Rockstars’ Rumor Rundown, where we review all the rumors, gossips, and unconfirmed scoops that plague the world of nerdy fandom! In this episode, Brandon Barrick and Jessica Clemons look at the future of Marvel Studios’ Mutant Saga …

1
SPIDER-MAN 4 (2026) Cast Confirmed + Black Panther Recast? | Rumor Rundown 56:58

3M ago56:58

56:58

Spider-Man 4! A New T’Challa! Cynthia Erivo as STORM? We need a RUMOR RUNDOWN! Welcome to the first-ever episode of a new series from New Rockstars called RUMOR RUNDOWN. On this show, the hosts of New Rockstars review the various scoops and rumors being circulated on the internet about the biggest upcoming titles. How do these rumors begin? Is ther…

1
Fury over Reeves’ climate climbdown – Politics Weekly UK 30:46

3M ago30:46

30:46

In her big plan to get the economy growing again the chancellor, Rachel Reeves, has prioritised growth over almost everything else. But at what cost? John Harris speaks to the Labour MP Clive Lewis about concerns that climate action is taking a back seat. Plus, the columnist Gaby Hinsliff talks us through whether the party’s quest for growth will w…

1
Trump speaks with Starmer, and Reeves tries to reset – Politics Weekly Westminster 23:36

3M ago23:36

23:36

Pippa Crerar and Kiran Stacey talk through what Keir Starmer’s first phone call with Donald Trump since the inauguration means for the ‘special relationship’. Also, as the chancellor, Rachel Reeves, prepares for a big speech on growth, does she have any new plans to boost the economy? And will they work?. Help support our independent journalism at …

1
Ep 288: We Don't Need a Destiny 3! Heresy/Crucible Info Dump 3:04:32

3M ago3:04:32

3:04:32

This week, Kingsleymac and ToddtheGatr catchup with their week. They also go over the firehose of information in how Bungie is changing the Crucible and a Trials of Osiris major rework you won't want to miss out on. Kingsleymac goes over the Mega TWAB concerning changes to the sandbox and more info on Heresy. Finally, Todd presents the argument tha…

1
Could the Southport attack have been prevented? – Politics Weekly UK 34:29

3M ago34:29

34:29

The government has announced a public inquiry into why authorities failed to stop Axel Rudakubana before he killed three girls in Southport. But is it enough to stop another such attack? John Harris asks the counter-terrorism practitioner Rashad Ali. Plus, the Guardian political correspondent Kiran Stacey explores how Keir Starmer will deal with Do…

1
The return of President Trump – Politics Weekly Westminster 25:10

3M ago25:10

25:10

Pippa Crerar and Kiran Stacey look at what Donald Trump’s second term in the White House might mean for the US, the UK and the world. And with the Gaza ceasefire in place, how close are we to lasting peace in the Middle East?. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspodBy The Guardian

1
Ep 287: A Preview of Destiny 2: Heresy ft Wormwood 2:51:57

3M ago2:51:57

2:51:57

This week, we have a brand new guest of the show...he's been a member of our discord community for over a year now and he's been playing Destiny since he was only 12 years old when he found a used copy of the game in a bargain bin at GameStop...the rest is history. We go over the Bungie blog covering some of the changes coming to the game in Destin…

1
Can Labour fix the broken NHS? – Politics Weekly UK 33:03

4M ago33:03

33:03

With A&E departments at breaking point and the NHS on its knees, what is the government doing to repair the health service? Will it be enough? John Harris hears from an emergency medicine doctor about the dire situation on the ground, and speaks to our political correspondent Kiran Stacey about Labour’s plans to put things right. Help support our i…

1
Could AI save the UK economy? – Politics Weekly Westminster podcast 26:32

4M ago26:32

26:32

Pippa Crerar and Kiran Stacey look at just how serious warnings about the UK’s financial position really are, and what this means for the chancellor, Rachel Reeves. Plus, why the government is hoping AI could be the magic bullet that revives our economy. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Guardian Down Cast Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Quick Reference Guide