Podcast Summary: The Interview – Introducing The Interview Podcast

Podcast: The Interview (BBC World Service)
Date: March 29, 2025
Host: Laura Kuenssberg

Episode Overview

This special introductory episode presents "The Interview," the new podcast from the BBC World Service, set to replace the well-known "Hard Talk" series. Host Laura Kuenssberg outlines the mission and format of this revamped show, offering listeners an insider's look at what to expect: in-depth conversations with global figures impacting business, politics, culture, and beyond. The focus is on delivering the most insightful and relevant interviews, showcasing voices that shape today's world.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Purpose and Focus of the New Podcast

• "The Interview" serves as a platform for compelling discussions with those shaping global current affairs.

• It draws from a vast pool of BBC journalists’ daily interactions, curating the best for listeners.

• The range of guests will be diverse: from business leaders and politicians to cultural giants and activists.

  [01:19] Laura Kuenssberg:
  “We’ll bring you conversations with people shaping our world from all over the world... You’ll get to hear the best interviews from across the BBC.”

2. What Listeners Can Expect

• Frequency: Two regular episodes each week, with the potential for bonus content.

• Topics: Spanning business, politics, finance, sports, and culture.

• Guest Types: Global leaders (including presidents and prime ministers), high-level decision makers, CEOs, politicians, cultural icons, activists, and superstars.

  [01:34] Laura Kuenssberg:
  “Expect to hear from global leaders, presidents and prime ministers, decision makers and the odd cultural icon and superstar.”

• The show promises packed, insightful 20-minute interviews filled with analysis and first-hand perspectives.

3. Transition from ‘Hard Talk’

• The new podcast replaces "Hard Talk" but preserves the BBC ethos of hard-hitting conversations and in-depth analysis.

• Laura assures listeners it's a continuation and expansion, not a departure from quality.

  [01:10] Laura Kuenssberg:
  “The Hard Talk podcast is becoming The Interview… Well, it will do pretty much what it says on the tin.”

4. Call to Action

• Listeners are encouraged to follow or subscribe to ensure they catch every episode.

• The first interview episode premieres the following Monday.

• Engagement welcomed via email and social media hashtag (#TheInterviewBBC).

  [01:50] Laura Kuenssberg:
  “If you haven’t already, please follow or subscribe so you won’t miss a single episode... We can’t wait to bring you these incredible conversations starting on Monday. I hope you can join us then.”

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• "We’ll bring you conversations with people shaping our world from all over the world."
  — Laura Kuenssberg [01:19]

• "Expect to hear from global leaders, presidents and prime ministers, decision makers and the odd cultural icon and superstar."
  — Laura Kuenssberg [01:34]

• "We can’t wait to bring you these incredible conversations starting on Monday."
  — Laura Kuenssberg [01:56]

Episode Timeline & Timestamps

• [01:08] – Laura Kuenssberg introduces the transition from "Hard Talk" to "The Interview."
• [01:19] – Explanation of the podcast's focus: conversations with influential people worldwide.
• [01:34] – Description of expected guests and topics.
• [01:44] – Details on the episode schedule and call to action for subscriptions.
• [01:56] – Laura’s closing remarks with invitation to join for the first episode.

Tone & Style

Laura Kuenssberg maintains a warm, engaging, and inviting tone, enthusiastic about expanding the reach and relevance of BBC’s hallmark in-depth interviews. The approach is accessible, straightforward, and confidently informative—the signature style BBC audiences expect.

For more information, or to connect with the show, email TheInterview@bbc.co.uk or use #TheInterviewBBC on social media.