The General and the Journalist Podcast: Unpacking Global Conflicts

In an era marked by geopolitical upheaval and shifting power dynamics, understanding the intricacies of global conflicts has never been more crucial. Recognizing this need, The Times and The Sunday Times have unveiled a groundbreaking podcast series titled “The General and the Journalist.” This series promises to dissect the complexities of warfare, diplomacy, and international relations, offering listeners unparalleled insights into the world’s most pressing issues.

Podcast cover of General Sir Patrick Sanders and journalist Tom Newton Dunn in their new podcast series

Table of Contents

Meet the Hosts

General Sir Patrick Sanders

General Sir Patrick Sanders, the former Chief of the General Staff of the British Army, brings a wealth of military experience to the podcast. With a distinguished career spanning decades, Sir Patrick has been at the forefront of numerous military operations and strategic decisions. His firsthand knowledge of warfare and defense strategies provides listeners with a unique perspective on global conflicts.

Tom Newton Dunn

Accompanying Sir Patrick is Tom Newton Dunn, an award-winning journalist renowned for his incisive political reporting. With a career that includes roles as a defense correspondent and political editor, Tom has covered major events such as the Afghanistan and Iraq wars, multiple general elections, and the Brexit referendum. His journalistic acumen ensures that the podcast delves deep into the political undercurrents shaping today’s world.

Podcast Overview

“The General and the Journalist” aims to explore the causes and consequences of modern conflicts. Each episode focuses on a specific theme, country, or conflict, providing a comprehensive analysis of the factors at play. Topics range from the ongoing situations in Ukraine, Iran, Gaza, and Sudan to the broader implications of global power shifts.

Key Themes

Origins of Conflict: Examining the root causes that lead nations to war.
Diplomacy and Politics: Analyzing the role of international relations and political maneuvering in conflict resolution.
Human Stories: Highlighting the personal narratives and humanitarian aspects often overshadowed by political discourse.
Preventing Future Wars: Discussing strategies and policies aimed at averting future conflicts.

The Importance of Understanding Modern Warfare

Sir Patrick Sanders emphasizes the urgency of comprehending today’s volatile geopolitical landscape:

“We’re at the end of an old epoch. The world order that gave us relative security for 80 years is collapsing, and we have no idea yet what will come next. What we do know already, sadly, is it will mean more conflict. We think there’s a growing hunger to understand our ever more polarized and dangerous world, and Tom and I are passionate about helping people do this.”

This sentiment underscores the podcast’s mission to educate and inform listeners about the evolving nature of global conflicts.

Launch Details

The inaugural episode of “The General and the Journalist” is set to premiere on Thursday, May 22, 2025. Listeners can access the podcast through various platforms, including The Times’ official website, major podcast streaming services, and The Times’ YouTube channel.

Why This Podcast Matters

In a world inundated with information, discerning the nuances of international conflicts can be challenging. “The General and the Journalist” stands out by combining military expertise with journalistic integrity, offering a balanced and in-depth exploration of global issues. Whether you’re a policy enthusiast, a student of international relations, or simply a curious listener, this podcast provides valuable insights into the forces shaping our world.