The Bridge: a Disagreeing Well podcast

How can we disagree well about the UK's future? In this episode of The Bridge: A Disagreeing Well Podcast from UCL and Students’ Union UCL, we examine the long-term impact of Brexit 10 years after the referendum.  While the past decade has brought significant shifts in trade, immigration, and sovereignty, the debate remains deeply polarised. Some view the current economic landscape as proof that t...

In recent months, the debate over asylum has moved beyond the corridors of Westminster to the heart of local communities. Across the country, the raising of St George’s flags in various towns and the significant unrest in Epping surrounding the use of ‘asylum hotels’ have highlighted a deeply polarised public. While these events are seen by some as a manifestation of community anxiety and a sense...

Is the global target of net zero carbon emissions enough to stave off the climate crisis, or has it become a convenient excuse for doing the bare minimum? While the term has galvanised international climate policy, a deeper look reveals a significant tension between the physics of our warming planet and the practical realities of global implementation.    Grounded in host and co-producer Marva Kha...

Is the rise of Generative AI a genuine threat to how we learn, or simply the next tool in the educational shed? While it is certainly changing the conversation in staffrooms and lecture halls, there is a lot of nuances to uncover between the headlines and the reality of the classroom.    This episode of The Bridge: A Disagreeing Well Podcast from University College London and Students' Union UCL l...

In this episode of The Bridge: A Disagreeing Well Podcast , we tackle a question at the heart of the UK's identity as a global education leader. While the debate often focuses on migration statistics, the human element is frequently lost: the fact that international students are a vital part of the UK’s academic and social fabric.     As the UK navigates new immigration frameworks, we ask: how can...

Is populism a vital expression of democracy in action, or a method used to undermine it from within? Writing in 1999, political theorist Margaret Canovan described populism as the "shadow of democracy" - an ever-present reflection of the system's own internal tensions. In this episode of The Bridge: A Disagreeing Well Podcast from University College London and Students' Union UCL, we explore how t...

How good are you at discussing, debating and disagreeing with people who hold different views to your own? Are you tired of hearing the same well-rehearsed arguments on an important issue without also hearing those involved seek any understanding of their opponent's perspective.  The fact is, if we want to get along better, coexist as communities and find solutions to the challenges we face, we ne...

Is a blanket social media ban for children the best way to mitigate its harmful impact?  Join host Lea Hofer in the inaugural episode of Disagreeing Well, the podcast from University College London and Students' Union UCL that equips you with tools and techniques to navigate challenging conversations. This episode dives into the hotly debated question of a blanket social media ban for children.  W...

Can the interests of ethnic minority voters truly be represented by right-wing parties? This episode dives into one of the most polarising questions in modern politics, demonstrating how to navigate deep ideological divides and find common ground for constructive change. Welcome to the latest episode of The Bridge; A Disagreeing Well Podcast from University College London and Students' Union UCL,...

Ever wondered if your photos ‘for the gram’ actually contribute to local problems? This episode tackles a massive question: Is tourism inherently exploitative and destructive to local communities? We enter the debate with the aim of showing you how to disagree better on the pros and cons of mass tourism and globalisation. Welcome to the latest episode from The Bridge; A Disagreeing Well Podcast fr...

The question of what it means to be a man has dominated recent conversations in the media and among policymakers. Many have described a "crisis of masculinity" fuelled by concerns over controversial figures like Andrew Tate and the rise of "incel" culture. But what if we've been asking the wrong questions? This episode of The Bridge tackles the tension between how masculinity is discussed and how...

Being a vegetarian or vegan has never been more popular, particularly among younger generations. A recent poll showed that 50% of Gen Z planned to be meat-free in 2025. With growing concerns about animal welfare, our changing climate, and personal health driving the move towards plant-based diets, this episode dives into a crucial and often controversial question: is it right to eat meat in a pros...

With global tensions rising and many countries increasing defence spending, the question of National Service feels more urgent than it has in decades. Supporters argue it provides young people with structure, useful skills, and national pride, but critics warn it limits personal freedom, delays education, and risks promoting a pro-war mindset. This episode enters the debate with the aim of showing...

This new show tackles some of the most hotly debated issues of our time and provides practical techniques to bridge the divide between conflicting views.