The Sound of Politics is a podcast about political communication, political rhetoric, political leadership, democracy, public opinion and the language of politics. Hosted by Professor Stephen Coleman, each episode explores how politics is communicated and how citizens can better understand it.
Episode 1 – Do Political TV Debates Change Votes? The Truth About Election Debates
Do televised political debates actually change voters’ minds? Election debates attract millions of viewers and generate headlines, but their real impact on public opinion remains hotly contested.
In the first episode of Series 2, Professor Stephen Coleman explores one of the most recognisable features of modern election campaigns. What are political debates designed to achieve? Do they help voters make informed decisions? Or are they simply media spectacles?
Joining Stephen is former Liberal Democrat leader Tim Farron, who took part in a televised election debate during the 2017 General Election and reflects on the experience from the politicians’ side of the podium.
Together they examine political communication, election campaigns, political leadership, media influence and voter decision-making.
Episode 2 – Political Interviews: Why Journalists Struggle to Get Straight Answers
Why do politicians often avoid answering simple questions? Election campaigns are filled with interviews, press conferences and media appearances, yet voters are often left wondering whether their concerns have really been addressed.
In this episode, Professor Stephen Coleman explores how politicians communicate during election campaigns and asks whether journalists could do more to hold them to account. Looking at the 2024 General Election campaign, he examines the different voices competing for public attention and considers whether political interviews are helping citizens understand what’s really at stake.
Joining Stephen is Dorothy Byrne, former Head of News and Current Affairs at Channel 4, whose award-winning career has included some of the most influential political journalism in British broadcasting.
Together they discuss political interviewing, media accountability, election communication, public trust and democratic debate.
* Please note there is the use of one explicit word during this episode.
Episode 3 (Bonus) – Political Communication Spotlight: Rishi Sunak vs Keir Starmer – Comparing Two Political Communication Styles
Why do some politicians connect with audiences more effectively than others? During election campaigns, communication style can be just as important as policies and promises.
In this special mini-pod, Professor Stephen Coleman compares the communication styles of Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer. How do they present themselves to voters? What messages are they trying to convey? And which communication techniques are most likely to influence public opinion?
This episode explores political leadership, campaigning, public image and the language of modern politics.
Episode 4 (Bonus) – Political Communication Spotlight: Nigel Farage – Why Is He Such an Effective Political Communicator?
What explains Nigel Farage’s enduring political appeal to some people? Whether admired or criticised, Farage has consistently shown an ability to connect with audiences and dominate political debate.
In this mini-pod, Professor Stephen Coleman examines the communication style of the Reform UK leader. What makes his rhetoric effective? Why do many voters feel he speaks more directly than traditional politicians? And what lessons can other political leaders learn from his approach?
This episode explores political persuasion, populism, public opinion and political communication.
Episode 5 (Bonus) – Political Communication Spotlight: Becoming Prime Minister – Why the Speech Outside Number 10 Matters
What does a new Prime Minister’s first speech reveal about their leadership? The address delivered outside 10 Downing Street is one of the most symbolic moments in British politics, setting expectations for a new government and defining how a leader wants to be perceived.
In this episode, Professor Stephen Coleman examines the speeches made by incoming Prime Ministers on their first day in office. What themes do they emphasise? How do they balance humility with authority? And what do these speeches tell us about political leadership and public expectations?
This episode explores political rhetoric, leadership communication, public trust and the symbolism of political power.
Episode 6 – Political Violence and Democracy: Understanding the Trump Assassination Attempt
How does political disagreement become political violence? Following the assassination attempt on Donald Trump during the 2024 presidential campaign, many people were left asking how democratic politics can become so hostile and polarised.
In this episode, Professor Stephen Coleman explores the relationship between political rhetoric, polarisation and democratic culture. How has political discourse changed in recent years? Why does public debate sometimes become more extreme? And what are the dangers for democracy when opponents are viewed as enemies rather than rivals?
Joining Stephen is Professor Robert Asen of the University of Wisconsin-Madison, whose research focuses on rhetoric, politics and democratic engagement.
Together they discuss political violence, democratic resilience, public discourse and political culture.
Episode 7 – Trump vs Harris: Four Things to Listen for in the Presidential Debate
What should viewers be looking for during a presidential debate? Political debates are about much more than policies and soundbites. They offer a unique opportunity to observe how candidates communicate under pressure.
Ahead of the first debate between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris, Professor Stephen Coleman explores what makes political debates important and shares four key questions viewers should consider while watching.
Joining Stephen is debate expert Alan Schroeder, who explains how presidential debates can influence public opinion, media coverage and election campaigns.
This episode explores political debates, campaign communication, leadership, persuasion and electoral politics.
There’ll be reaction to the debate and additional material after it’s aired.
Episode 8 – Trump vs Harris Debate Reaction: Was It Good for Democracy?
Did the first debate between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris strengthen democratic discussion – or weaken it? Presidential debates are often described as essential moments in election campaigns, but do they genuinely help voters make informed decisions?
Recorded shortly after the event, Professor Stephen Coleman analyses the debate, reflects on the candidates’ performances and considers what viewers learned from the encounter.
He also asks a broader question: what role should political debates play in a healthy democracy, and are they still achieving that goal?
This episode explores political communication, public debate, democratic engagement and election campaigning.
Episode 9 – When Politicians Take Credit: How Political Claims Shape Public Opinion
How much credit should politicians take for events they don’t fully control? Political leaders frequently claim responsibility for economic growth, successful policies and positive outcomes—but how accurate are those claims?
In this episode, Professor Stephen Coleman explores why politicians often present themselves as the architects of success and asks whether taking credit is an effective communication strategy. When does political confidence become overclaiming? And how do voters decide which achievements genuinely deserve recognition?
Joining Stephen is distinguished legal scholar Professor Peter Shane, who examines accountability, leadership and the relationship between political power and public expectations.
Together they discuss political communication, political accountability, leadership, persuasion and public trust.
Episode 10 – Why Political Debate Has Become So Angry and Polarised
Why does political disagreement so often turn into hostility? Political conversations increasingly seem to involve shouting rather than listening, with opponents treated as enemies rather than people with different views.
In this episode, Professor Stephen Coleman explores why political discourse has become more confrontational and asks what has happened to civil disagreement. How do politicians, media platforms and social media encourage conflict? And what are the consequences when democratic discussion becomes driven by outrage?
Joining Stephen is Professor Robert C. Rowland from the University of Kansas, a leading expert on rhetoric and political communication.
Together they explore political polarisation, public discourse, rhetoric, democracy and the future of political debate.
Episode 11 – MAGA Explained: The Political Power of a Three-Word Slogan
How can three words become one of the most influential political slogans of modern times? “Make America Great Again” has shaped political identities, divided opinion and become a powerful symbol in American politics.
In this episode, Professor Stephen Coleman explores the language and rhetoric behind MAGA. Why do some political slogans resonate more than others? What emotions and ideas are embedded within them? And how do slogans influence political behaviour and public opinion?
Joining Stephen is Professor Casey Ryan Kelly, who examines the role of rhetoric and symbolism in contemporary US politics.
This episode explores political slogans, persuasion, political rhetoric, campaigning and political identity.
The Sound of Politics 