We Have Notes: The Observer’s New Culture Podcast with Miranda Sawyer & Liv Little
In an era dominated by political hot takes and historical deep dives, The Observer is shaking things up with a brand-new podcast series designed for curious culture lovers. The weekly show, titled “We Have Notes,” is hosted by two powerhouse voices — Miranda Sawyer and Liv Little — and promises to bring a fresh, witty perspective to the cultural moments shaping our world.
Meet the Hosts: Miranda Sawyer & Liv Little
Miranda Sawyer: From Critic to Creator
For more than two decades, Miranda Sawyer has been the go-to podcast critic for The Observer, writing sharp, insightful reviews that helped shape the UK podcast scene. Now, she’s stepping behind the microphone herself.
“It’s a poacher-turned-gamekeeper experience,” Sawyer admits. “Being a podcast reviewer and making one are completely different worlds. Balancing tone, timing, and delivery is far trickier than it looks once the mic is on.”
Her transition from critic to presenter is one of the most intriguing aspects of this new project — a seasoned reviewer now tasked with creating the very thing she once critiqued.
Liv Little: Storyteller, Journalist, Author
Joining Sawyer is Liv Little, founder of the groundbreaking magazine gal-dem and author of the acclaimed novel Rosewater. Little brings her signature mix of journalistic edge, cultural insight, and playful humour to the podcast.
“Fun is what we are having,” Sawyer says, praising Little’s sharp intelligence and mischievous wit.
Together, they make a duo that blends experience, creativity, and an ability to dig deep into what matters most in today’s culture.
Episode One: Jade Thirlwall & the True Crime Boom
The debut episode dives into two big topics making waves in entertainment right now:
The rise of Jade Thirlwall – exploring the former Little Mix singer’s evolution from pop star to cultural icon
The true crime phenomenon – discussing why the genre continues to dominate streaming platforms and what its popularity says about society today
Their conversation is sharp, informed, and refreshingly conversational — the kind of discussion that feels like being part of an intimate, intelligent group chat.
Highlight: Charlie Brinkhurst-Cuff’s “The Missing Sister”
Episode one also includes a discussion of Charlie Brinkhurst-Cuff’s new investigative true crime podcast, The Missing Sister — a series examining the tragic 2018 murder of midwifery student Joy Morgan. The inclusion of this segment signals that We Have Notes won’t shy away from difficult cultural conversations.
What to Expect in Future Episodes
Each week, Sawyer and Little will tackle the stories, trends, and ideas shaping culture right now. Expect:
Deep dives into music, film, and art
Cultural criticism with humour and humanity
Thoughtful conversations that go beyond headlines
Fresh recommendations for podcasts, books, and shows worth your time
This is not just another commentary podcast — it’s a cultural digest for listeners seeking something beyond politics, economics, and breaking news.
Why “We Have Notes” Stands Out
The podcast is designed for listeners who:
Love culture but don’t want to be overwhelmed by information
Enjoy hearing informed but approachable hosts break down topics
Appreciate podcasts that balance serious analysis with moments of levity
With Sawyer’s decades of experience and Little’s storytelling brilliance, this podcast is positioned to become a go-to listen for anyone interested in the intersection of pop culture, social issues, and art.
Where to Listen
The first episode of “We Have Notes” is available now on all major podcast platforms, including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and BBC Sounds. New episodes drop every week, making it the perfect addition to your weekly listening schedule.
