Two former Westminster insiders reveal how politics and power really work. Ever wondered what goes on behind closed doors at No 10? Or who’s the first person on the phone when a Prime Minister lands themselves in hot water? Each week former Deputy Cabinet Secretary Helen MacNamara and Cleo Watson, former political advisor to Theresa May and Boris Johnson, dissect the week’s biggest news, revealing how decisions get made, why they go wrong, and what should happen next. In The Room is str...
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Episode List

1. Starmer: Symptoms of a PM in trouble

Feb 20th, 2026 12:21 PM

What does it feel like to be inside Number 10 when the PM’s power is fading? With pressure mounting for Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer to go, former Deputy Cabinet Secretary Helen MacNamara and Cleo Watson, ex-advisor to Theresa May and Boris Johnson, reveal the sights, sounds - and even smells - that emerge when the foundations at 10 Downing Street start to shake. They also offer up some sage advice to an imperilled PM and ask: How can he turn this sinking ship around? Is it time for him to dance like no one’s watching? And is there anyone who can help him?Cover image credit: PAFind the best clips from the podcast and more from Helen and Cleo on the show's Instagram page here.This podcast is part of The Independent Podcast Network and is produced in association with Next Chapter StudiosExecutive Producers: Olivia Foster and Carrie RoseProducer: Sam Durham Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In The Room - Trailer

Feb 6th, 2026 5:34 PM

Two former Westminster insiders reveal how politics and power really work. Ever wondered what goes on behind closed doors at No 10? Or who’s the first person on the phone when a Prime Minister lands themselves in hot water? Each week former Deputy Cabinet Secretary Helen MacNamara and Cleo Watson, former political advisor to Theresa May and Boris Johnson, dissect the week’s biggest news, revealing how decisions get made, why they go wrong, and what should happen next. In The Room is straight-talking, insider analysis with a dose of humour, every Friday.Find the best clips from the podcast and more from Helen and Cleo on the show's Instagram page here.This podcast is part of The Independent Podcast Network and is produced in association with Next Chapter StudiosExecutive Producers: Olivia Foster and Carrie RoseProducer: Sam Durham Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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