The Peter McCormack Show

MP Mike Tapp is an ex-military intelligence officer and now Labour for Dover. In this show we discuss British values, national security, and the political failures shaping modern Britain. We also cover immigration, terrorism, economic decline, and the collapse of public services under consecutive governments. Does Labour truly represent working-class Britain? Why is crime spiralling out of control? And is free speech under threat? As a former intelligence officer who has fought against terrorism and crime, Mike Tapp offers a unique insider's perspective on what's really happening behind the scenes.

Rupert Lowe is a businessman, the former Southampton FC chairman, and a Reform Party MP, known for his outspoken views on politics, free markets, and the need for radical change in the UK government. In this episode, we discuss the corruption and incompetence plaguing Westminster, the consequences of mass migration, crippling taxation, and the failures of weak leadership. Rupert also discusses the reality of Britain's uniparty system and the broken machinery of government that is failing its citizens. With the Reform Party surging in the polls, he explains why this could be the country's final chance to reclaim its future.

Daniel Priestley is a serial entrepreneur, author, and business strategist, known for helping startups and scale-ups navigate the digital economy and adapt to the rapidly changing world of AI and technology. In this episode we discuss AI, the death of the industrial age, the rise of digital business, and the future of entrepreneurship. We also discuss how AI will reshape industries, whether governments can keep up, and if we're heading into a new era of digital feudalism where a few will own everything. Priestley argues that those who fail to adapt to AI will be left behind. Will technology liberate us or enslave us?

Jake Hanrahan is an independent journalist, war reporter, and founder of Popular Front, known for his raw, unfiltered coverage of conflicts, crime, and underground movements around the world. In this episode we discuss conflict, corruption, media manipulation, and the creeping authoritarianism gripping the West. With years of frontline reporting from Ukraine, Syria, Iraq, and beyond, Jake shares his perspective on global conflicts, why the mainstream media is failing us, and how governments use fear and control to shape public perception. We also discuss the reality of modern warfare, the rise of state control, the failure of politicians, and the real consequences of unchecked power.

Will Storr is an acclaimed author, journalist, and storyteller, specializing in exploring human psychology, status dynamics, and the power of narratives to shape our lives and societies. In this interview we discuss the dynamics of status, storytelling, and human psychology. Learn why we chase status, how stories shape societies, and the dangers of ego in modern life. In this thought-provoking episode, Will explores the biological, cultural, and psychological factors that drive human behaviour. Discover the hidden truths behind social media, cancel culture, and why status games dominate our lives.

Steve Parish is a British businessman and the Chairman of Crystal Palace Football Club, known for his role in revitalising the club and his outspoken views on football and business. In this interview, we discuss challenges of leading a Premier League club. From the impact of big data and AI in football to navigating financial pressures and planning for the club's future. We also cover the hidden strategies behind the scenes of the Premier League and the balancing act required to maintain success in one of the world's most competitive leagues.

James Fishback is the founder of Incubate Debate, a free speech advocate, and a debate champion, committed to fostering critical thinking and open dialogue among students across the U.S. In this interview we discuss how political bias and censorship are infiltrating high school debate competitions. They explore the decline of free speech, the impact on young minds, and what it means for the future of education and democracy. This eye-opening conversation delves into the controversial practices shaping today's debates and why restoring free speech is more critical than ever.

Alex Phillips is a former Brexit Party MEP, journalist, and political commentator known for her outspoken views on cultural decline, women's safety, and the future of British politics. In this interview, we discuss the unraveling of British society. From the crushing taxes and housing crisis to cultural decay and economic mismanagement, Phillips explains why many young Brits are leaving the UK. Discover her controversial take on mass migration, political failure, and the erosion of traditional British values—and what must happen to turn things around.

William Clouston is the leader of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), advocating for a patriotic, pragmatic, and socially conservative vision for Britain's future. In this interview we discuss the UK's pressing challenges. From immigration and housing to free trade and privatisation. Clouston unpacks the policies that have left Britain in crisis. Discover the SDP's vision for economic reform, border control, and a renewed focus on working-class issues to rebuild trust in UK politics.

Liz Truss is a British politician who served as the UK's Prime Minister and Leader of the Conservative Party, known for her advocacy of free markets, economic reform, and her candid critique of the political establishment. In this interview we discuss the UK's broken political system, the rise of unaccountable bureaucracy, and the fight for free speech. Truss also reveals the challenges she faced in government, the hidden forces behind Britain's failures, and the critical reforms needed to turn the country around. From immigration and economic policies to media bias and free speech, we dive into the deep issues shaping the UK's future.

Paul M. Sutter is an astrophysicist, author, and science communicator known for making complex cosmic concepts accessible and engaging through his books, podcasts, and media appearances. In this interview we discuss the mind-bending world of black holes, space-time, and quantum physics. From Einstein's theory of relativity to the mysteries of black holes and the paradox of quantum entanglement, Sutter explains how our understanding of the universe is evolving. We also discuss the nature of time, the fabric of reality, and whether we're living in a simulation.

Former Head of the UK Border Force, Tony Smith, pulls back the curtain on the hidden complexities of immigration and border control. In this interview, Tony explains how policy, security, and global trends shape the UK's borders. From asylum seekers and illegal immigration to the economic and social impact of migration, we dive into the challenges of managing a modern border. Tony also shares insights into controversial policies like the Rwanda Plan and the UK's approach to human rights and deportations.

David Halpern is President and Founding Director of The Behavioural Insights Team and a leading pioneer in applying behavioural science to improve public policy and everyday decision-making worldwide. In this interview he reveals the fascinating ways behavioural science influences government policy and everyday decisions. From pensions to education and even tax collection, we explore how "nudges" are changing the way we interact with public services. We also discuss the ethics of government intervention, the efficiency of markets, and the future of policymaking in a data-driven world.

George Galloway is a British politician, broadcaster, and author renowned for his decades-long career as a champion of working-class politics and his fierce critiques of Western foreign policy and neoliberalism. In this interview, George delivers a powerful critique of the Labour Party's transformation from a working-class movement to a middle-class elite institution. Drawing on his unique experiences in politics and broadcasting, Galloway discusses the erosion of Labour's connection to the British working class, the Californication of its policies, and the broader state of the left in the UK. This wide-ranging conversation dives into Labour's ideological identity crisis, the rise of populism, and the systemic failures of Britain's political class, offering insights that challenge both the left and the right.

Matt Goodwin is a British political scientist, author, and commentator known for his work on populism, political realignment, and the cultural and economic challenges facing modern Britain. In this interview, Matt delivers a scathing critique of Britain's failing political class. Known for his sharp insights into populism and British politics via his SubStack, Goodwin exposes the hidden truths about mass immigration, elite mismanagement, and the collapse of trust in UK institutions. This conversation explores how populism is reshaping Western democracies, the failures of Labour and the Conservatives, and whether Reform UK can save Britain from its downward spiral.

Konstantin Kisin is a comedian, podcaster, and political commentator known for his sharp insights on free speech, culture wars, and societal issues, and as the co-host of the popular show Triggernometry. In this interview we discuss Britain's struggle with identity, the erosion of free speech, and the consequences of class contempt. From Brexit divisions to cultural battles over British values, we explore why the UK feels stuck in decline. Is there hope for a turnaround, or are we heading toward irreversible cultural and economic challenges?

Dr. Aseem Malhotra is a cardiologist and public health advocate. He has been at the forefront of exposing the influence of Big Pharma on global healthcare systems and calling for a revolution in evidence-based medicine. From critiquing flawed dietary guidelines to challenging the widespread use of mRNA vaccines, Dr. Malhotra has consistently pushed back against corporate interests that prioritise profits over public health. In this interview, we discuss corporate capture of healthcare, the ethical failures of Big Pharma, and the dangerous consequences of systemic corruption. Dr. Malhotra shares his insights on the pandemic response, vaccine controversies, and how profit-driven medicine has eroded trust in public health. We also discuss solutions for reclaiming healthcare, the power of grassroots advocacy, and the urgent need for transparency and accountability in a system built on exploitation.

Mauricio Di Bartolomeo, co-founder and CEO of Ledn, a Bitcoin and digital asset financial services platform, fled Venezuela to escape persecution by the regime and the devastating effects of economic collapse and hyperinflation. Can Bitcoin be the answer to managed decline and inflation? In this interview we discuss the lessons from Venezuela's economic collapse and how Bitcoin offers a pathway to financial freedom. We also cover the challenges of big government, the hidden costs of free services, and why decentralisation through Bitcoin could revolutionise economies like the UK.

Mark Littlewood, a prominent libertarian commentator and Director General of the Institute of Economic Affairs, is renowned for his advocacy of free-market policies and individual freedoms. As the Conservative Party grapples with a crisis of identity and waning public trust, with voters increasingly turning to Reform UK for solutions, we dive into the deep challenges facing Britain today. From the country's fractured political landscape to the rise of populist conservatism, we examine how bloated government and relentless bureaucracy are stifling progress. Mark presents a vision for the future, offering bold proposals such as institutional reform, addressing the nation's spiralling public debt, and reigniting the core principles of conservatism.

Richard Tice is a British businessman and politician. He has been serving as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Boston and Skegness since July 2024 and is the Deputy Leader of Reform UK. In this interview we discuss why Britain feels broken and how Reform UK aims to fix it. Richard explains the flaws in net zero policies and addresses immigration, NHS inefficiencies, and economic stagnation, laying out bold plans for a better future. We also discuss why the establishment fears Reform UK, what's driving cultural and financial decline, and how real change can be achieved.

Dan Wootton is a British journalist and broadcaster known for his outspoken commentary and coverage of celebrity and political issues. In this interview we discuss the growing influence of cancel culture, government censorship, and the woke takeover of mainstream media in the UK. Dan reveals insider insights from his time in mainstream media, how independent platforms are reshaping public discourse, and why the fight for free speech is more critical than ever. We also get into why independent media is gaining traction, how cancel culture silences dissent, and the chilling impact of advertising boycotts on journalism.

Alan Miller is a passionate advocate for civil liberties, co-founder of the Together Declaration, and a cultural entrepreneur who transitioned from shaping London's nightlife to leading a national movement defending rights and freedoms. In this interview we discuss the growing influence of technocrats, the consequences of lockdowns, and the flaws in Net Zero policies. We also get into free speech, censorship, and the economic impact of overreach by governments. Alan also gives actionable insights on protecting freedom, empowering citizens, and creating a dynamic, prosperous society.

Tony Sewell is a British educational consultant, author, and former chair of the Commission on Race and Ethnic Disparities, known for his work on education reform and his controversial report on racial inequality in the UK. In this interview we discuss why Britain's racial and social inequality debates are more about class than race. He unpacks the misconceptions surrounding racism, the flaws in the education system, and how family structure impacts outcomes. In this eye-opening conversation, Tony explains how nuanced, data-driven policies can better address inequality and improve opportunities for all.

Freddie New is general counsel at The Little Car Company, Head of Policy at Bitcoin Policy UK and a CoFounder of ICDEF. In this interview we discuss the hidden mechanics of our failing economy, exposing how private equity, government policies, and currency debasement are undermining the middle class. Discover how modern financial systems are structured to favour the elite at the expense of everyday citizens. Freddie also shares insights on inflation, debt, and the steps individuals can take to protect themselves.

Gareth Wyn Jones is a Welsh hill farmer, television presenter, and social media personality known for advocating sustainable agriculture and raising awareness about farming challenges. In this interview, we discuss the harsh realities facing British farmers. From inheritance tax burdens to supermarket domination, he explains why the farming industry is at breaking point. We also discuss the impact of government policies on food security, rural communities, and mental health and I learn about the challenges of sustainable farming and the global food supply chain. Gareth also shines a light on the fight to save British agriculture and protect local, seasonal food for future generations.

Ben Habib is a businessman, former MEP for the Brexit Party, and outspoken advocate for Brexit, national sovereignty, and immigration reform. In this episode we unpack the political and economic challenges facing the UK. From Brexit's broken promises to the Reform Party's potential to disrupt the status quo. Habib shares his insights on sovereignty, democracy, and the looming sovereign debt crisis. We also discuss government inefficiencies, the burden on small businesses, and how the UK can reclaim its future.

Thomas Hogg is an entrepreneur, author, and business leader with a wealth of experience in building companies from the ground up. Thomas Hogg reveals how complex tax codes and government inefficiencies harm small businesses and taxpayers. From urban design and healthcare reform to creating walkable cities, Thomas shares solutions for improving public policy and building a stronger economy. Discover the unexpected links between urban planning, public health, and economic growth. Learn how policy decisions shape our daily lives and explore practical ways to foster innovation and fairness.

Michael Dunworth is an Australian entrepreneur was one of the co-founders of Wyre, a Bitcoin payments and infrastructure provider established in 2013. In this episode we discuss the societal challenges of our times: mental health, the economic burden of modern life, and the revolutionary role of Bitcoin. From Australia's housing crisis to the psychology of dopamine-driven tech addiction, this conversation explores the realities of capitalism, critical thinking, and purpose. Learn how millennials and Gen Z are navigating a broken system and why Bitcoin is the antidote to financial lies.

Steve Baker is a former Conservative Member of Parliament (MP) for Wycombe, serving from 2010 until 2024. In this episode, we discuss pressing economic and political issues such as the challenges of government debt, inflation, and the often overlooked consequences of central bank policies. With a focus on the impact of taxation and government spending on individual freedoms and economic productivity. We also discuss the structural inefficiencies in politics and examine the growing disconnect between politicians and economic realities. Reflecting on his experience in Parliament, Steve emphasises the need for public education on economic fundamentals, a paradigm shift in policy-making, and personal financial resilience, exploring how Bitcoin and free-market principles could offer solutions to a system he believes is deeply flawed.

Dr. Tarik Sammour is a colorectal surgeon specialising in advanced bowel cancer and has worked across various healthcare systems, including in Australia, New Zealand, and the US. In this episode, we explore the complexities of modern healthcare systems and the impact of healthcare inflation on patient outcomes and accessibility. We get into the differences between public and private healthcare models, discussing the benefits and drawbacks of hybrid systems and the unique challenges of funding healthcare sustainably. Tarik shares his experiences with administrative burdens, rising costs, and the ethical dilemmas posed by pharmaceutical influence. We also discuss the broader societal issues, from obesity trends to the role of sound money, and the potential for a more balanced approach to healthcare.

Joseph Robertson is a political commentator and advocate focused on free-market economics and personal sovereignty. In this episode, we discuss the shifting political landscape in the UK, examining the impact of recent budgets on various social classes and the ideological shift from conservatism to socialism. Joseph and I explore the role of debt, inflation, and economic illiteracy among voters in shaping current policies, as well as the influence of career politicians who lack real-world experience. We also discuss the potential for Bitcoin as a hedge against financial overreach and the implications of regulation on self-sovereignty.

Peter St Onge is an Economist at the Heritage Foundation and a Fellow at the Mises Institute. In this episode, we discuss the challenges posed by government overreach, and the intricacies of the bureaucracy-politician dynamic. We get into how historical developments have influenced current political structures and the role of debt and its impact on economic growth. Peter also shares his thoughts on the possibility of reforming the current system, from central banking to taxation, and the path to a more efficient government.

Mike Brock is a political commentator, writer, and former executive. In this episode, we explore the dynamics of power politics versus distributive politics, the transformation of the Republican Party under Trump, and the struggle to uphold liberal values in a rapidly changing political climate. We dive into the role of economic incentives in shaping political actions, examine government corruption, and analyze the escalating U.S.-China economic rivalry. Additionally, we discuss how media influences public perception and why Mike sees the centre-left as perhaps the last hope for sustaining capitalism.

Jarrett Adams is a defense attorney, author, and founder of Life After Justice, a nonprofit focused on fighting wrongful convictions and supporting reintegration for exonerated individuals. In this episode, we get into his story of being wrongfully convicted at 17, the realities of navigating the criminal justice system, and the harsh conditions inside a supermax prison. We discuss the systemic issues that lead to wrongful convictions, including overburdened public defenders, incentivized witnesses, and racial bias in jury selection. We also explore the prison industrial complex, its economic incentives, and how it profits from incarcerated individuals.

Alex Gladstein is the Chief Strategy Officer at the Human Rights Foundation and a leading advocate for Bitcoin's role in promoting freedom. In this episode, we discuss his work empowering activists under authoritarian regimes, the structural issues facing human rights funding, and how technology like Bitcoin are transforming the fight for liberty. We also get into the impact of peer-to-peer networks like Nostr, the evolution of Ecash, and the digital arms race between oppressive governments and freedom technologies. We cover forgotten global conflicts, the role of Western democracies, and how Bitcoin helps people survive hyperinflation and financial oppression.

Winston Marshall is a musician, cultural commentator, and former member of the band Mumford & Sons. In this episode, we discuss his journey from rock star to cultural commentator, the challenges of holding conservative opinions in the entertainment industry, and his exit from Mumford & Sons. We also get into the failures of corporate media, the rise of alternative media through podcasts, and the impact of political realignment in the U.S. and the UK. We also cover the ongoing struggle for free speech, the role of populism, and the future of liberty in a world increasingly dominated by censorship and ideological conformity.

David Zell is the Executive Director of the Bitcoin Policy Institute, a think tank focused on the public policy implications of Bitcoin. In this episode, we discuss the political landscape surrounding Bitcoin, its role as an insurance policy for both individuals and nation-states, how Bitcoin competes against traditional currencies, the global demand for stable money, and its implications for U.S. geopolitical strategy, especially in contrast to authoritarian regimes like China. We also discuss the politicisation of Bitcoin, potential regulatory threats, and how Bitcoin's existence challenges traditional financial systems.

Izabella is the Senior Finance Editor at Politico and the founder editor of The Blind Spot. In this episode, we discuss the rapid advancement of AI, including how tools like ChatGPT are transforming journalism, the ethics of AI, its role in uncovering hidden information, and whether full transparency will lead to societal improvements or chaos. We also discuss economic stagnation, the collapse of the middle class, and the impact of inflation on daily life. We also get into the over-regulation in Europe, how it's falling behind in technological innovation, and the parallels between modern challenges and historical examples of power structures and corruption.

Ben Arc is an open-source developer and an advocate in the Bitcoin and Nostr ecosystems. In this episode, we discuss the shift from centralised platforms like Twitter to decentralized systems, discussing how Nostr allows users to control their data and build communities without corporate interference. We get into Bitcoin's evolution, synthesizing libertarian and socialist ideologies, the future of soft currencies, and the role of CBDCs in global economies. We also talk about the cultural significance of local currencies like the Welsh pound, the importance of free speech in a digital age, and how AI is transforming both daily life.

Ian Birrell is a renowned British journalist, columnist, and foreign correspondent, known for his work on global conflicts, social justice, and political reform. In this episode, we discuss the failures of the prison system, whether it's true purpose is punishment or rehabilitation, and how countries like Norway and Texas are tackling recidivism with innovative approaches. We also get into Bitcoin's role in empowering activists, the impact of social media on political tribalism, and Elon Musk's controversial approach to free speech as well as the rise of political extremism, the decline of critical thinking, and the challenges of addressing the war on drugs and reforming criminal justice systems.

Fernando Nikolić, Director of Marketing and Communications at Blockstream and a passionate Bitcoin advocate, offers a unique perspective on Argentina's economic turmoil and the libertarian revolution unfolding today. In this episode, we discuss the history of Argentina, exploring the impact of hyperinflation, political corruption, and the rise of populism. Fernando shares his thoughts on the impact of Juan Perón's legacy, the devastation caused by decades of mismanagement, and the cultural factors that shaped the country's economic collapse. We also discuss the rise of Javier Milei, the new libertarian leader, his drastic reforms, and the potential for Argentina to become a global libertarian test case.

Maajid Nawaz is a prominent counter-extremism activist, author, and former Islamist who has dedicated his life to combating radicalization. In this episode, we discuss the complexities of modern Britain, the rise of extremism, the impact of divisive rhetoric, and the urgent need to rebuild societal trust. Maajid shares his insights on the weaponization of free speech, the failures of political leadership, and the challenges of integration and identity in a rapidly changing UK. We also get into his personal journey from radicalism to reform, the importance of shared values, and his vision for a new Britain.

Dominic Frisby is a financial writer, comedian, and commentator known for his takes on economics, tax reform, and freedom. Dominic is a vocal advocate for liberty, self-governance, and the importance of sound money. In this episode, we dive into the state of personal freedom in the modern world and the battle for free speech. We explore the realities of high taxes, the lessons from Argentina's economic chaos, and how libertarianism offers a path forward. We also look at the erosion of freedoms, the dangers of big government, and why taking control of your own life has never been more critical.

Silkie Carlo is the Director of Big Brother Watch, where she leads efforts to defend civil liberties and protect privacy rights against state surveillance. She is at the forefront of challenging the UK's invasive surveillance laws and advocating for the protection of free speech and personal freedoms. In this episode, we dive into the growing government panopticon, the implications of mass surveillance on privacy and democracy, and the battles being fought to protect individual rights in a digital age. We explore the expansion of state power, the impact of technologies like facial recognition, and the threats posed by new laws, as Silkie provides an eye-opening account of the fight against a surveillance state determined to monitor and control.

Allen Farrington is a writer and investor. He co-wrote Bitcoin Is Venice and he's a co-founder of Axiom, a Bitcoin-focused venture firm. In this episode, we discuss the distortions caused by fiat money, the consequences of misallocated capital, and the philosophical underpinnings of a Bitcoin standard. We get into how these issues impact both individuals and economies, dissect the flaws of modern capitalism, and discuss how Bitcoin offers a path toward financial sovereignty and a more equitable economic future, as Allen provides a compelling case for why the current system is unsustainable and what can be done to change it.

Anna Chekhovich serves as the Financial Director at Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation, where she plays a key role in exposing corruption within Putin's regime and promoting transparency and justice in Russia. She also works as the Nonprofit Bitcoin Adoption Lead at The Human Rights Foundation. In this episode, we discuss the challenges of fighting corruption inside Russia, the personal risks faced by opposition activists, and the state of civil liberties under Putin's rule. We explore Navalny's impact, the internal dynamics of Russian politics, and the ongoing struggle for freedom, as Anna offers a first-hand account of life inside a system designed to suppress dissent and maintain control.

Gavin Sathianathan is the CEO of Research Smart and an advocate for medical cannabis and alternative therapies. In this episode, we dive into the role of cannabis as a treatment for various health conditions, exploring the therapeutic potential of drugs in modern medicine. We discuss the challenges facing patients and practitioners in the current healthcare system and examine how alternative therapies are pushing the boundaries of conventional treatment.

Matthew Pines is the Director of Intelligence at SentinelOne and a National Security Fellow at the Bitcoin Policy Institute. In this episode, we explore UAPs, simulation theory, remote viewing, and human consciousness. We discuss the potential implications of knowing that aliens are real and what this could mean for humanity - exploring the nature of reality and challenging our understanding of existence, as we discuss the intersection of advanced phenomena and human perception.

That's a wrap! What Bitcoin Did is over, and what better way to close out the podcast than an episode with three of our favourite Bitcoiners, Jack Mallers, Matt Odell and Harry Sudock. In this one we did a little bit of reminiscing, discussed Bitcoin as hope, how the space is evolving and why we decided to end the podcast. – Show notes: https://www.whatbitcoindid.com/podcast/what-bitcoin-did This episode's sponsors: IREN - Bitcoin Mining. Done Sustainably. Swan Bitcoin - Invest in Bitcoin with Swan Ledger - State of the art Bitcoin hardware wallet Bitcasino - The Future of Gaming is here Casa - Take control of your digital wealth CheatCode - Sydney, Australia Oct 25–26 XAPO Bank - The only way to bank your Bitcoin Ledn - Save. Borrow. Trade.

Troy Cross is a Professor of Philosophy and Humanities at Reed College & Chief Editor at The Nakamoto Project. In this interview, we discuss Democratic corruption & conspiracy, how Bitcoin transcends politics, Bitcoin's morality & perception, and how we reach the next level of adoption. – Show notes: https://www.whatbitcoindid.com/podcast/who-owns-bitcoin This episode's sponsors: IREN - Bitcoin Mining. Done Sustainably. Swan Bitcoin - Invest in Bitcoin with Swan Ledger - State of the art Bitcoin hardware wallet Bitcasino - The Future of Gaming is here Casa - Take control of your digital wealth CheatCode - Sydney, Australia Oct 25–26 XAPO Bank - The only way to bank your Bitcoin Ledn - Save. Borrow. Trade.