PLAY PODCASTS
Feedback

Feedback

490 episodes — Page 2 of 10

Interview of the Year

Andrea Catherwood announces the results of Feedback's Interview of The Year."It’s been a long process, beginning right back in January," says Andrea. "We've been asking you all year to tell us about exceptional interviews anywhere on BBC Radio or podcasts that have really stopped you in your tracks, made you think again about something or showed off the exceptional skill of an interviewer."From listener suggestions and comments, the Feedback team compiled a short list of ten interviews, which was then handed to a jury made up of Feedback listeners to decide on the winners. They were asked to base their scores on insight, impact and interviewer skill.In this programme, we'll hear extracts from all ten shortlisted interviews, speak to the top three finalists, and at the end of the programme, Andrea will reveal the listeners choice of the overall winner of The Feedback Interview of the Year.Producers: Rebecca Guthrie and David Prest Judging panel co-ordinator: Mike Hally A Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Dec 26, 202428 min

BBC Radio Comedy, and the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols broadcast

Comedy on BBC Radio 4 generates a lot of discussion in the Feedback inbox, and this year's been no different, especially after the introduction of a new raft of comedy commissions over the last twelve months. Andrea Catherwood talks to to Julia McKenzie, Commissioning Editor for Comedy and Entertainment, and Jon Holmes, comedian and creator of one of those new commissions, The Naked Week - and they respond to listener comments and critiques. And as Christmas approaches, we go behind the scenes in King's College Chapel as preparations take place for Radio 4's annual Christmas Eve broadcast of the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols. Presenter: Andrea Catherwood Producer: Pauline Moore Assistant Producer: Rebecca Guthrie Executive Producer: David PrestA Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Dec 19, 202428 min

The Reith Lectures, and more on the Archers and Short Cuts

Andrea Catherwood presents the programme that hears your views on BBC audio. A new series of The Reith Lectures is underway, presented by forensic psychologist Dr Gwen Adshead. She poses four questions about violence and the prison system - and so two listeners who work in prison services and have lived experience of being in prison visited our VoxBox to give their thoughts on the broadcasts. Paula Harriott, Chief Executive of the charity Unlock, and Marc Conway, CEO of Fair Justice, give their assessment on how Gwen answered her own questions.And following last week's episode of Feedback many listeners jumped to the defence of a recent Archers storyline featuring a holiday lets scam. But why did some say that it was getting them in the Christmas spirit?We also heard from more listeners on the end of Short Cuts, the programme that highlights short and experimental audio documentaries by makers from around the world. Presenter: Andrea Catherwood Producer: Pauline Moore Executive Producer: David PrestA Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Dec 12, 202428 min

The Archers scam week. The End of Short Cuts. The Naked Week

A raft of scam-themed programming went out across BBC channels last week, with the aim of raising awareness about the hoaxes often found hidden in plain sight. Long running drama The Archers fulfilled the brief wholeheartedly as visitors to Ambridge found themselves hoodwinked into buying fake holiday lets online, with unpleasant consequences. But did listeners think it was believable?Short Cuts, Radio 4's experimental programme showcasing short documentaries is being taken off the airwaves after the end of the current series. There's been an outcry from the audio production community as it is how many programme makers get their Radio 4 debut. Andrea talks to Talia Augustidis, one of the audio makers behind a petition pushing back on the changes, and Charlotte Petts, a listener and freelance audio producer.The Naked Week, the new Friday evening comedy, has been launched, and presenter Andrew Hunter Murray joked about Feedback listeners getting in touch about the programme's debut. That's exactly what they did, and here's what they said.Finally, veteran broadcaster Mishal Husain announced that she will be leaving the Today Programme this month. Listeners contacted us to wish Mishal well, after almost 25 years at the BBC.Presenter: Andrea Catherwood Producer: Pauline Moore Executive Producer: David PrestA Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Dec 5, 202428 min

Dead Ringers, and listeners respond to BBC news cuts

This year there's been no shortage of material for the latest series of Dead Ringers. Andrea Catherwood is joined by cast member Jan Ravens and Richard Morris, Creative Director of Comedy and Entertainment for BBC Studios, and asks if it's still possible to make light of serious matters.In a previous episode of Feedback we heard from John McAndrew, Director of Programmes for BBC News, who defended the recent cuts to BBC News including the axing of HARDtalk and Radio 4's 5.30am News Briefing, among others. Following that interview, listeners have had more to say about the decision. We hear their responses on what will be missed, and whether or not the changes are justified. And as submissions for Feedback's Interview of the Year close, we hear one more pick - from listener Calum, who had high praise for an episode of Desert Island Discs in which Lauren Laverne interviewed Shirine Khoury-Haq, the first woman CEO of the Co-Op.Presenter: Andrea Catherwood Producer: Pauline Moore Executive Producer: David PrestA Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Nov 29, 202428 min

BBC Radio 3 Unwind, and farmers' inheritance tax.

BBC Radio 3 has unveiled a new online-only stream - Unwind. It's dedicated to calming classical music and broadcasts 24/7 on BBC Sounds. For some listeners it's unlocked the mystery of a good night's sleep, but for others the playlists are more mindless than mindful. Andrea Catherwood puts your comments to Radio 3 Controller Sam Jackson.In a week where farmers shot to the top of the news agenda following changes to their inheritance tax exemptions in the 2024 Budget, Andrea talks to Dimitri Houtart - who was until recently the Executive Editor of Rural Affairs, and Rural Affairs Champion at the BBC. Has Radio 4's reporting managed to cut through the sound of tractors roaring down Whitehall? And how do you push for fair coverage of rural communities inside the BBC?And with only a few weeks to go before Feedback unveils the Interview of the Year 2024, one listener nominates John Wilson's conversation with writer Hanif Kureishi, for This Cultural Life. Presenter: Andrea Catherwood Producer: Pauline Moore Executive Producer: David PrestA Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Nov 21, 202428 min

BBC news service cuts. Johnny Marr's Great British Groups. In Our Time

Andrea Catherwood sits down with Director of BBC News Programmes John McAndrew to get answers on listeners' comments following the announcement of cuts - including the axing of long running World Service programme Hard Talk, with Stephen Sackur, the closure of the Asian Network's news team, a reshuffle for overnight bulletins on Radio 2 and 5Live and cutting R4's News Briefing at 0530. Two music obsessives drop into our VoxBox to give their views on Johnny Marr's Great British Groups, a recent series on Radio 2. But did the legendary guitarist manage to settle the debate on the UK's best band once and for all?And following a week of US election news, listeners got in touch about something that might seem unlikely - the discussion of the life and works of 17th century poet George Herbert on In Our Time. A reading of "the most beautiful poem in the world" in which Love welcomes us like a pub landlord, some singing, and the expertise of three Herbert-ologists made for, in some listeners' views, an uplifting audio experience. Presenter: Andrea Catherwood Producer: Pauline Moore Executive Producer: David PrestA Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Nov 14, 202428 min

The US election, and the end of Open Book

As the dust settles on the American election, we hear from Ric Bailey, Chief Adviser for Politics in BBC Editorial Policy, about how the corporation has tackled its coverage of an eventful campaigning period, and a momentous result. After we heard from listeners on what seemed like an abrupt end to long-running literature programme Open Book, Andrea talks to former presenter Mariella Frostrup, and Arts Commissioner for Radio 4 Matthew Dodd about its legacy and what the station's future literary offerings look like. And one listener nominates George Clarke's interview about the Grenfell Inquiry on the Today Programme for Interview of the Year. Presenter: Andrea Catherwood Producer: Pauline Moore Executive Producer: David PrestA Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Nov 7, 202428 min

Surviving Politics with Michael Gove. A Point of View. The Food Programme.

In this week's episode of Feedback, former Labour Cabinet Minister Alan Johnson adds his voice to the listener comments on Radio 4's short podcast series Surviving Politics with Michael Gove. Radio 2 listeners share their tributes and memories of Johnnie Walker who signed off Sounds of the Seventies last weekend ,after 58 years of broadcasting. A Point of View's American election opinions has listeners offering their views. And Andrea talks to a Feedback listener who drove around in his car to hear the end of the The Food Programme's Eating on the Spectrum episode - which he says was broadcasting at it's best. Presenter: Andrea Catherwood Producer: Pauline Moore Executive Producer: David PrestA Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Oct 31, 202428 min

Last Word selection criteria, how BBC presenters handle Middle East interviews, and Archers Podcast launch

In the first episode of the new series, former producer Neil George explains the selection criteria behind Radio 4's obit show Last Word. Suzanne Franks, professor of journalism at City St George's, University of London, helps navigate issues of impartiality when interviewing representatives of opposing sides in the Middle East conflict. And as a new Archers podcast is launched, listeners react to an on-air slip from presenter Emma Freud.Presenter: Andrea Catherwood Producer: Pauline Moore Executive Producer: David PrestA Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Oct 24, 202427 min

What is the BBC's plan for younger listeners?

The future of the BBC depends on renewing its listener base - but younger people are switching off linear radio and focusing on personally tailored forms of media. So how does the BBC compete, and what are its strategies for winning over younger listeners?Andrea Catherwood speaks to Matt Walsh from the University of Cardiff, hears a panel of students discuss their listening habits, and quizzes BBC Sounds commissioning editor Dylan Haskins and Head of Radio 1 Aled Haydn Jones on what they're doing to try and attract new generations of listeners. She also asks whether the BBC's focus on newer listeners could risk alienating existing, loyal audiences. And reporter John Rogers goes behind the scenes at youth oriented news podcast Reliable Sauce.Producer: Leeanne CoyleA Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Aug 15, 202428 min

Archers Special

Andrea Catherwood brings listener questions and comments to the most controversial place in the Feedback inbox - Ambridge. The Archers has been running since 1951, and its distinctive theme tune is one of the sounds the nation most associates with Radio 4. Andrea goes behind the scenes to hear more about how it is recorded, how actors develop characters over their real time lifetimes, and puts your questions to the Editor on the balance between high drama and the maintaining the values of the Archers as an "everyday story of country folk". Presented by Andrea Catherwood Produced by Leeanne Coyle A Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Aug 8, 202428 min

God Next Door. Justin Webb on American Election Coverage. Petroc Trelawny R3 Breakfast Road Trip

Andrea Catherwood brings listeners questions to the broadcaster and journalist Darryl Morris and Executive Producer Jo Meek - makers of Radio 4’s documentary God Next Door. Darryl has spent a considerable amount of time talking to James from Manchester, a landscape Gardner who believes himself to be God and has a number of followers in the local community who share his belief. There’s been a sensational cycle of breaking stories in the U.S. presidential campaign during the month of July. Many Feedback listeners have been concerned that this has dominated much of our news. Andrea puts these points to Justin Webb - Today presenter, co-host of Americast and Former North America Editor. Imagine taking a week long Summer break, discovering new places, experiencing a wide range of culture and music with moving from your radio. The Feedback inbox has been overflowing with praise for Petroc Trelawny’s Breakfast Road Trip to the North East of England which was broadcast live every morning last week. Taking a break from preparations for the The Prom at the Royal Albert Hall, Petroc came on Feedback to give some insight into how a week out and about works. Presented by Andrea Catherwood Produced by Pauline Moore A Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Aug 1, 202428 min

Behind the Crime, World Service and Any Answers

Andrea Catherwood gets under the skin of Radio 4's Behind the Crime, putting listeners' views to Dr Sally Tilt and Dr Kerensa Hocken, the forensic psychologists who devote each programme to interviewing one former criminal in depth, to unpick how their life experiences contributed to their decisions to offend. The Director of the World Service recently resigned from her post. Liliane Landor talks about the challenges of budget cuts and her concerns for the station's future, while World Service listeners say what the World Service means to them. Feedback is always keen to hear listeners' nominations for the programme's Interview of the Year - anything that made you stop in your tracks, cry, laugh-out-loud, or completely change your thinking on a subject. The latest nomination comes for a chat between Alex Hartley, Kate Cross and Olivia Thomas - all members of the Lancashire Thunder Cricket team - on the No Balls Podcast on BBC Sounds. And listeners have been in touch about the unflappable Any Answers presenter Anita Anand and the technical issues she dealt with on last weekend's programme. It was every live broadcasters' nightmare - a phone in with no phones! Presented by Andrea Catherwood Produced by Pauline Moore A Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Jul 25, 202428 min

BBC News Podcasts, Alex Forsyth, Geoff Norcott's Working Mens Club

Andrea Catherwood brings Feedback listeners' thoughts and views on news and politics podcasts to the BBC's Senior News Editor Sam Bonham and Political Correspondent Alex Forsyth - and asks if this was the first real podcast election.Two listeners enter the Feedback Vox Box to talk about the new Radio 4 comedy series, Geoff Norcott's Working Mens Club. And the comedian himself joins Andrea to respond to the review and talk about the role of the right leaning comic on Radio 4. Presented by Andrea Catherwood Produced by Pauline Moore A Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Jul 18, 202428 min

Election Coverage on Audio, Dotun Adebayo - Up All Night, Simon Boas interview on Today

Andrea Catherwood puts listeners' views on the cut and thrust of the six week election coverage to Jonathan Munro, the BBC's Director of Journalism. The ability to fill time is a key skill for any live broadcaster. Things don't always run smoothly - so what does it take to fill successfully. Dotun Adebayo, presenter of Radio 5 Live's Up All Night is an acknowledged master of the art and shares some of his secrets. Feedback's Interview of the Year has been attracting nominations. This week, many listeners picked Emma Barnett's interview with Simon Boas on the Today programme on Thursday 4th July. Simon and Emma talked about his terminal illness and how he is facing the final days of his life. Listeners found his optimism and sense of happiness a real inspiration. And Feedback still wants to hear your suggestions for the Interview that stopped you in your tracks. It could be a thought-provoking or emotive personal story, the moment an evasive politician gets nailed to the wall, or just something that made you laugh out loud. Next week Feedback is digging into the increasingly central role podcasts seem to be playing, not just during the UK Election but in its news and politics coverage in general. Are you a fan? Do get in touch with your views on BBC news podcasts. Presented by Andrea Catherwood Produced by Pauline Moore A Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Jul 11, 202427 min

Book of the Week. Racing Tips. This Cultural Life

Andrea Catherwood discusses the schedule change and original commissions for Radio 4's Book of the Week with Commissioning Editor, Hugh Levinson. The daily racing tips on Radio 4's Today programme have ended after 47 years. The news produced a mixed reaction from Feedback listeners. Tom Kerr, editor of The Racing Post explains why the move has ruffled a few feathers in the horse racing world. Feedback's Interview of the Year is back. We want to hear listeners' nominations for the interview that stopped you in your tracks. It could be a thought-provoking or emotive personal story, the moment an evasive politician gets nailed to the wall, or just something that made you laugh out loud. As part of this process we'll be talking to some of the leading practitioners of the art of interviewing. This week, John Wilson, presenter of Radio 4's This Cultural Life, tells Andrea how he approaches conversations with some of the world's leading artists and creatives. Next week, we’re going to be looking back at the BBC’s coverage of the election We would love to hear from you - please do get in touch. Presented by Andrea Catherwood Produced by Pauline Moore A Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Jul 4, 202428 min

27/06/2024

Andrea Catherwood discusses Feedback listeners' views on Radio 4's new satirical comedy, Munya Chawawa's Election Doom Scroll, with Radio 4's Comedy and Entertainment Commissioner Julia McKenzie. The three-part series takes us on an imaginary flick through the mobile phones of political leaders, uncovering spoof voice notes, video clips and messages. Last weekend's Restore Nature Now march in London generated a lot of heat in the the Feedback inbox. Tens of thousands of protesters descended on Parliament Square calling for urgent action on climate change. It was covered in detail by most of the major broadcasters but, if you'd been listening to Radio 4, you'd have missed it. The lack of coverage angered many listeners. Radio 4's Uncanny is in its fourth series. The programme investigates paranormal events, talking to witnesses and experts to try and uncover rational explanation for spooky goings on. The podcast was created by writer Danny Robins during lockdown and has been a huge hit. Two Uncanny super fans pop into the Feedback VoxBox to talk about the latest series, which is based in the USA. Danny also talks to Andrea about how the show has created such a loyal community of followers. Presented by Andrea Catherwood Produced by Pauline Moore A Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Jun 27, 202428 min

20/06/2024

Four weeks into the UK election campaign, Andrea discusses interruptions and impartiality in political interviews with Today presenter Nick Robinson and the BBC's Director of Journalism, Jonathan Munro. Also, we take a dystopian deep dive into Radio 4's Orwell v Kafka weekend. In all, 10 hours of the network's weekend schedule were given over to the two authors - including readings of George Orwell's 1984, a dramatisation of Franz Kafka's The Trial and six half hour discussions hosted by Ian Hislop and Helen Lewis. It was loved by many of you, but was a Kafkaesque/Orwellian nightmare for others. Andrea and Matthew Dodd, Radio 4's Commissioning Editor for Arts, discuss the thinking behind the idea at the foot of Orwell's statue outside Broadcasting House. And after the tragic death of Dr Michael Mosley, we hear Feedback listeners' tributes to a broadcaster who changed the lives of millions.Presented by Andrea Catherwood Produced by Pauline Moore A Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Jun 21, 202428 min

Local Radio Fallout, Record Review and Michael Spicer

It's been 18 months since the BBC first announced sweeping changes to Local Radio in England. Now, most of the 39 stations share regional output on weekdays from 2pm and then national programming after 6pm. The decision immediately led to howls of protest from staff, politicians and Feedback listeners. This week, Andrea has been speaking to the person behind these changes, the Head of Audio and Digital for BBC England, Chris Burns. Last week Radio 3 Controller, Sam Jackson, explained the rationale behind his recent changes to the station’s schedule. But not all of you were convinced by his reasoning so, this week, Andrea is addressing some more of your comments.And the comedian Michael Spicer joins Andrea to talk about his new series No Room on Radio 4 and BBC Sounds. The pair delve into the art of satire and why low hanging fruit can still be funny... Presented by Andrea Catherwood Produced by Leeanne Coyle A Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

May 2, 202428 min

Radio 3 Shake Up and The Now Show No More

Sam Jackson is Radio 3’s relatively new controller - he’s been in the job for just a year and, at 40, he’s much younger than most of the station’s listeners. Earlier this month he took the plunge and introduced a raft of changes to the schedule. This week on Feedback, he explains the thinking behind the changes and responds to listeners' comments. And The Now Show is no more. After 25 years, Radio 4’s topical comedy staple ended last week. Steve Punt and Hugh Dennis join Andrea in the studio to look back over the past quarter of a century, unpick the nuances of political satire and talk through the BBC’s decision to end the show. Presented by Andrea Catherwood Produced by Leeanne Coyle A Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Apr 25, 202428 min

Helen Lewis, File on 4 and Shrinking News

Helen Lewis has Left the Chat is a six-part series on Radio 4 which examines how instant messaging has “taken over our lives". It delves into the murky, and often hilarious world of WhatsApp and other apps to explore how they have shaped our world. Many of you loved the programme - but some of you also found the strong language an instant turn off, especially at 9.30am. Helen Lewis tells Andrea why the team believed keeping the expletives in was crucial to telling the story.A recent episode of File On 4, Radio 4’s flagship weekly investigative programme, explored whether diet groups like Slimming World can fuel eating disorders. After it was broadcast, lots of listeners got in touch in to complain that the programme lacked proper balance.Listeners to Radio 1’s Breakfast show with Greg James have been left wondering where their news has gone. Newsbeat bulletins have shrunk from three minutes to just one. Professor Steven Barnett from the University Of Westminster sheds some light on the station's commitment to news.And weather man Simon King is here to reveal why he ended up Breathless in SalfordPresented by Andrea Catherwood Produced by Leeanne Coyle A Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Apr 18, 202428 min

Café Hope, Book Of The Week And Long Wave

Andrea Catherwood talks to Rachel Burden, the presenter of Cafe Hope, about the need to hear more positive stories, and gets your views on the new programme.She also hears the thoughts of Book of the Week fans, which has moved to a new, later timeslot, in part to make room for Cafe Hope, as part of the recent schedule changes at Radio 4. Following last week’s discussion on the future of the BBC and the way it is funded, more of you have been adding your thoughts to the licence fee reform debate. And what's happening with Radio 4 Long Wave? The Daily Service and Yesterday in Parliament have been moved to Radio 4 Extra in anticipation of the Long Wave frequency being shut down, but it's now due to be running until June next year. So why has the Long Wave goodbye got longer? Andrea speaks to the BBC's Head of Distribution and Radio 4’s Station Executive - joining the dots between the Shipping Forecast and Smart Meters!Presented by Andrea Catherwood Produced by Leeanne Coyle A Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Apr 11, 202428 min

The Future of the BBC, Radio 4 Audience Research and Miners’ Strike Series

Are the days of the BBC licence fee numbered and, if so, what might replace it? In the week that the licence fee goes up by £10, we’re asking you to give us your views on the corporation’s future funding model. Matt Walsh, Head of Cardiff University’s Journalism School gives us his take.The Radio 4 Schedule changes have now kicked in, but what research were the decisions based on? Andrea puts your questions to Alison Winter, Head of Audiences, Radio and Education at the BBC.And Strike Boy is a 10-part series which follows the son of a striking Nottinghamshire miner as he uncovers the motivations and memories of some of those involved in the 1984 miners’ strike. For this week’s Vox Box, two listeners who have their own personal connections to the strikes, cast an ear over the Radio 4 series - and the producer responds to their comments.Presented by Andrea Catherwood Produced by Leeanne Coyle A Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Apr 4, 202428 min

Covering the Royal Family, Law in Action and In Touch

The BBC’s Royal Correspondent Jonny Dymond reflects on recent coverage of the Royal family and the Princess of Wales' revelation of her cancer diagnosis, responding to listener comments. And Robin Edwards who was editing Radio 4’s 6 o’clock news on the day of the Princess' announcement, talks about the dilemma he faced when reports of the Moscow shooting started to come through just ten minutes before they went on air. Also, we hear listeners express their views on the news that Radio 4's Law In Action has come to an end after nearly 40 years. Joshua Rozenberg who presented the very first episode in 1984, as well as the last one, looks back on the series and gives us his thoughts on why it was axed. And the BBC has reversed a decision to shorten the length of In Touch – Radio 4’s programme for blind and partially sighted people. Anna Tylor from the Royal National Institute Of Blind People gives us her reaction. Presented by Andrea Catherwood Produced by Leeanne Coyle A Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Mar 29, 202428 min

Porn On Woman’s Hour and Tweet Of The Day

This week you’ve been giving us your views on the Woman’s Hour series on the impact of pornography. We dig a little deeper into the issue with Ruth McDermott, a listener who has specialist knowledge of covering sensitive topics.The BBC is planning to run adverts on some of its audio content on third party platforms like, Apple and Spotify. We speak to Audio Industry Consultant Matt Deegan to get his take on it.And from April 1st, Tweet Of The Day is disappearing from the weekday schedule, to be replaced by Tweet of the Week. The news has ruffled a few feathers. We hear listeners' reaction and get the inside track on what goes in to making these much-loved snippets of birdsong from wildlife sound recordist Chris Watson.Presented by Andrea Catherwood Produced by Leeanne Coyle A Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Mar 22, 202428 min

Radio 4 Controller Answers Your Questions About Schedule Change

Radio 4 is revamping its schedule from the beginning of April. Andrea Catherwood talks to the station’s controller Mohit Bakaya about why he’s decided to press refresh. He also responds to listeners’ questions about shifting the Archers omnibus by an hour on Sundays and explains the thinking behind Feedback being moved to Thursdays. Also, we hear the polarised views of listeners on Amol Rajan’s feisty interview with the Chancellor Jeremy Hunt. Some say it was a breath of fresh air – others that it was bad-tempered and unprofessional. And the true crime series Lady Killers with Lucy Worsley has been getting the Vox Box treatment. Two history buffs give us their personal take on the programme and the Executive Producer, Kirsty Hunter, is on hand to respond to their thoughts.Presented by Andrea CatherwoodProduced by Leeanne CoyleA Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Mar 15, 202428 min

Schedule Shake-up, Moral Maze and Singers Saved

Schedule changes, Moral Maze and Singers Saved.As Radio 3 and 4 prepare to shake-up their schedules, you’ve been getting in touch with your views. Archers fans and Record Review regulars have been quick to air their concerns. Also, Andrea Catherwood looks back at some more memorable schedule change moments with former Radio 4 controller, Mark Damazer.Moral Maze listeners vent their feelings on the recent debate on veganism where all four of the panellists were meat eaters.The BBC Singers have been saved - again! Andrea asks Paul Hughes, former Director of the Singers, if they really are safe this time.And it’s never too early to start thinking about your Interview Of The Year nomination.Presented by Andrea CatherwoodProduced by Leeanne CoyleA Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Mar 8, 202428 min

The Feedback Interview of the Year

In the last episode of the series, Andrea Catherwood reveals the Feedback Interview of the Year and discusses the art of the interview with Mishal Husain, Justin Webb and Adrian Edmondson. And do we need a new national anthem? That was the question posed on a recent edition of Radio 4’s Antisocial which prompted a passionate response from Feedback listeners. Andrea talks to the programme's presenter Adam Fleming about how to shed light on hot topics.Presenter: Andrea Catherwood Producer: Will YatesA Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Dec 22, 202328 min

Historian Dr Mary Beard on her first series for BBC Radio 4, Being Roman

How often do you think about the Romans? Historian Dr Mary Beard speaks with Andrea Catherwood on her new series for BBC Radio 4 ‘Being Roman’BBC Radio 4 recently released the latest series of The Lovecraft Investigations – based on the occult writer HPLovecraft’s stories. Many Listeners told us how unsettling they were. Feedback’s Special Correspondent Rob Crossan investigates the enduring appeal of audio horror.And we're almost at the end of year of cuts and changes to BBC Local Radio in England, which has left some listeners worried that the spirit of Christmas won't sound the same this year, and there'll be a lack of local companionship. We hear some of your comments.Producer: Gerry Cassidy Presenter: Andrea Catherwood A Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Dec 15, 202328 min

Great thinkers, Gangsters, and Love and Money

Great thinkers, Gangsters, and Love and Money - it’s all on this week’s Feedback.Andrea Catherwood talks themes and locations of The Reith Lecturers 2023 with this year's Lecturer Professor Ben Ansell and BBC Radio 4 Commissioning editor Hugh Levinson.We delve into the murky depths of love and inheritance with the presenter of the podcast series Intrigue: Million Dollar Lover.And listener Jay Smith from Birmingham is in the Vox Box to unpick a Radio 5 Live series exploring gangland violence in the city - Gangster: Burger Bar Boys.And this is your last chance to nominate your Feedback Interview of the Year - your choice for the stand out interview from 2023 from anywhere on BBC Radio or Sounds.A Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Dec 8, 202328 min

BBC International Editor Jeremy Bowen responds to listener Feedback

Feedback this week has a distinctly Middle Eastern feel. The BBC’s International editor, Jeremy Bowen, talks to Andrea Catherwood about the challenges of accuracy and impartiality on the frontline of the Israel/Hamas War.Also, was The Food Programme right to devote an episode to “Food Under Siege in Gaza”? The programme presenter Sheila Dillon responds to listener comments.And Bloodlines is a new 7-part podcast from the BBC Asian Network. Reporter Poonam Taneja travels to the detention camps of northern Syria where thousands of woman and children who lived under Islamic State are still being held. She describes the reality of being in the region searching for Sulmann, the young grandson of a British man who is desperate for answers.Presenter: Andrea Catherwood Producer: Gerry Cassidy A Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Dec 1, 202328 min

Andrea Catherwood talks to Jon Kay about Fairy Meadow

Can True Crime podcasts ever do more than just tell a rollicking good story?Andrea Catherwood talks to the presenter of the BBC’s Fairy Meadow Podcast, Jon Kay about the challenges and responsibilities of delving into personal family traumas after uncovering a potential new lead in a 50 year old case of a missing child.Also, the BBC Audio’s Head of Drama, Art and Classical Music, Emma Harding discusses how to pick ‘A Good Read’.And find out why an interview with a charity boss on Woman’s Hour provoked a furious debate among listeners.Presenter: Andrea Catherwood Producer: Gerry Cassidy A Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Nov 24, 202328 min

17/11/2023

The programme that holds the BBC to account on behalf of the radio audience

Nov 17, 202328 min

The Today Podcast

The Today Programme has re-entered the crowded market of news podcasts - so how do they hope to make the new offer stand out? Andrea Catherwood discusses The Today Podcast with presenter, Nick Robinson.Long time breakfast TV presenter and journalist Sian Williams decided a few years ago to leave the newsroom and study psychology. Now Dr Sian Willians is both an NHS counselling psychologist and presenter of Radio 4’s series Life Changing which each week focuses on one person who's been through an extraordinary event that altered the course of their life. Find out more about the programme and how listeners are reacting to the series.Presenter: Andrea Catherwood Producer: Gerry Cassidy A Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Nov 10, 202328 min

BBC Sounds Five Years On

The BBC Sounds app launched five years ago. Andrea Catherwood discusses its original aims with a member of its founding team, and asks current Director of Sounds, Jonathan Wall, how far its meeting its targets and about ambitions for the future.Also have you been listening to The Lovecraft Investigations ? Writer and Director Julian Simpson answers listeners questions on the new BBC Radio 4 and BBC Sounds series. Presenter: Andrea Catherwood Producer: Gerry Cassidy A Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Nov 3, 202328 min

27/10/2023

The programme that holds the BBC to account on behalf of the radio audience

Oct 27, 202328 min

20/10/2023

The programme that holds the BBC to account on behalf of the radio audience

Oct 20, 202328 min

Israel and Gaza

The BBC has been criticised for avoiding use of the word "terrorist" in its coverage of events in Israel and Gaza. Andrea Catherwood discusses this, and the BBC's coverage of the conflict, with Richard Burgess, the BBC's Director of News Content.Also, we have more on the ongoing controversy surrounding the BBC's decision to cut Local Radio output. And two journalism students at Cardiff University run the rule over the Today podcast's new, chattier feel.Presenter: Andrea Catherwood Producer: Gerry Cassidy A Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Oct 13, 202328 min

25/08/2023

Call Jonathan Pie has been one of the most popular new BBC comedy podcasts, with over a million plays on BBC Sounds. It pulls no punches and next week makes its debut on Radio 4. Jonathan Pie creator, comedian Tom Walker, and Radio 4’s Comedy Commissioner Julia McKenzie join Andrea Catherwood to discuss the satirical phone-in show and respond to listeners’ comments. Did BBC Audio play a blinder with their coverage of the Women's World Cup? Sports Reporter Heather Dewar joins Andrea to hear what you have to say.And the Shiny Bob podcast from BBC Scotland/BBC Sounds explores a scandal that shook the Scottish legal establishment In the early 90s. Karin Goodwin, Investigative Journalist at The Ferret, and Andrew Tickell, Senior Law Lecturer at Glasgow Caledonian University, give their evidence on the podcast in the Vox Box.Presented by Andrea Catherwood Produced by Gerry Cassidy A Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Aug 25, 202328 min

18/08/2023

Today presenter, Justin Webb, and Senior News Editor for BBC News Podcasts, Jonathan Aspinwall, join Andrea Catherwood to discuss the trials and tribulations of American politics and answer your comments on BBC Sounds and Radio 4’s Americast.In response to last week’s programme, we hear what more listeners have to say about the BBC’s plans for the future of Long Wave. 6 Music listeners share their thoughts on the changes to the station’s evening schedule and in the Vox Box, Steven Jones and his son Elliott tell us why they’re tuned into 6 Music.Presented by Andrea Catherwood Produced by Gill Davies A Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Aug 18, 202328 min

11/08/2023

Musician and 6 Music presenter Tom Robinson has been a passionate advocate for BBC Introducing shows on Local Radio through his BBC Introducing Mixtape on 6 Music. Tom joins Andrea Catherwood to voice his concern about the reduction in shows and to respond to your comments.Glasgow graffiti artists Conzo and Ciaran, who gained notoriety with their ‘fake Banksy’, are in the Vox Box to review a series about the rise of the real deal - Radio 4’s The Banksy Story.And listeners lament the demise of broadcasts on Long Wave. Gareth Mitchell, former BBC Engineer and now lecturer at London’s Imperial College, hears what they have to say. Presented by Andrea Catherwood Produced by Gill Davies A Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Aug 11, 202328 min

04/08/2023

Is the BBC getting climate change right? Andrea Catherwood is joined by the BBC's Climate Editor Justin Rowlatt to answer your comments.Radio 3’s Katie Derham takes Andrea on a backstage tour of the Royal Albert Hall and hears what listeners have to say about this year’s Proms.The latest listening figures came out this week and it’s not good news for the BBC. Matt Deegan, Creative Director of Radio Consultancy firm Folder Media, unpicks the statistics. Presented by Andrea Catherwood Produced by Gill Davies A Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Aug 4, 202328 min

28/07/2023

Radio 4’s Fever: The Hunt for Covid’s Origin is under the Feedback microscope this week. John Sudworth was the BBC’s China Correspondent during the virus outbreak. He joins Andrea Catherwood to answer your comments on his series investigating where Covid came from. Two young listeners are in the Vox Box to review the World Service’s The Forum on The Evolution of Teenagers. The Forum’s Producer Jo Impey responds to what they have to say. And we hear your take on the Today programme’s coverage of the Nigel Farage versus Coutts Bank saga. Presented by Andrea Catherwood Produced by Gill Davies A Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Jul 28, 202328 min

21/07/2023

The BBC’s Annual Report is bigger than usual but are the results any better? Andrea Catherwood is joined by Professor Simon McKerrell, Head of the Department of Media and Music at Glasgow Caledonian University, to unpick the figures and answer your comments.6 Music DJ Stuart Maconie responds to listeners' feedback on the Northern Soul Prom that had the audience singing, dancing and raising the roof of the Royal Albert Hall. And in the week the Women’s Football World Cup begins, footballers Rose and Amaka pass judgement on comedian Maisie Adam’s Beautiful Game series on Radio 4 and BBC Sounds.Presenter: Andrea CatherwoodA Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Jul 21, 202328 min

14/07/2023

How effective is the BBC at reporting on itself? Steven Barnett, Professor of Communications at the University of Westminster, joins Andrea Catherwood to respond to your comments on how the BBC handled the Huw Edwards story.Glaswegian comedian Janey Godley reveals why she’s telling all the jokes in her Radio 4 series, Janey Godley: The C Bomb, and hears the views of the audience.Dr Kevin Fong answers listener comments on the BBC’s portrayal of the NHS, and discusses his new Radio 4 series The NHS: Who Cares? which explores the challenges it faces today from the perspective of the people who deliver the care.Presented by Andrea Catherwood Produced by Gill Davies A Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Jul 14, 202328 min

07/07/2023

Andrea Catherwood is back with a new series of Feedback. BBC Disinformation and Social Media Correspondent Marianna Spring joins Andrea to discuss her latest series Marianna in Conspiracyland, in which she investigates the legacy left by the rise in conspiracy movements in the UK and the media machine at its heart. Do Radio 3’s mood music programmes make listeners turn on, tune in or drop out? Radio 3's Head of Music, Edward Blakeman, responds to audience views.And in the latest on changes to Local Radio, we hear comments from listeners, Director General Tim Davie, MPs and presenters as they sign off on their final shows.A Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Jul 7, 202328 min

19/05/2023

THIS PROGRAMME HAS BEEN EDITED SINCE FIRST BROADCAST.Andrea Catherwood hears what former BBC Managing Editor, Dr Liam McCarthy has to say about the changes at Local Radio. Jason Horton, Director of Production BBC Local, responds.Listeners give their verdict on Vernon Kay's first week at Radio 2.And Feedback's Special Correspondent Rob Crossan reminisces about Radio 4 shows that have been put out to pasture.A Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

May 20, 202328 min

12/05/2023

Andrea Catherwood is joined by Jonathan Munro, BBC's Director of Journalism, to answer listeners’ comments on BBC Radio coverage of the coronation of King Charles III.Jamie Bartlett discusses how he went about telling the extraordinary story in the BBC Sounds podcast Believe in Magic.And listeners respond to the new evening schedule at 6 Music that brings changes to the Gideon Coe and Marc Riley shows.Presented by Andrea Catherwood Produced by Gill Davies A Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

May 12, 202327 min

05/05/2023

The programme that holds the BBC to account on behalf of the radio audience

May 5, 202328 min