The Public Affairs in Practice Podcast
Public Affairs in Practice is a practical podcast about how public affairs, lobbying and political engagement actually work.
Hosted by Dr Stuart Thomson — public affairs practitioner, author and trainer — the podcast explores how organisations influence policy, engage decision-makers and build effective public affairs strategies. Episodes draw on real-world experience across government relations, campaigning, reputation management and political communication.
Through interviews with leading practitioners, policymakers and recruiters, alongside solo episodes and case studies, Public Affairs in Practice focuses on the skills, judgement and strategic thinking needed to succeed in modern public affairs.
The podcast is designed for people working in, or aspiring to work in, public affairs, government relations, policy, communications and related fields — offering practical insight rather than theory alone.
New episodes explore career development, campaign strategy, insider and outsider lobbying, ethics, and how policy change really happens.
As featured in The Times.
If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or other plaforms then please follow the show to get new episodes as they’re released.
Learn more about Stuart and his public affairs consultancy, CWE Communications.
Listen on:
Episodes
Jul 5, 2023
Jul 5, 2023
4 min
Engaging with political audiences can often feel like an uphill challenge for those seeking to make an impact. Even when an event seems directly relevant, politicians may not always want to take part. Why can it seem like they have left the room?
Thanks to my editor Callums World.
Jun 26, 2023
Jun 26, 2023
4 min
There can be a lot to consider when writing a public affairs strategy. It needs to think about the policy context, stakeholders, their timetables and much else. But sometimes thinking at a more granular, micro level can help focus and drive action. Always ask what needs to change to get the outcome you want.
Thanks to my editor Callums World.
Jun 18, 2023
Jun 18, 2023
3 min
There is a common belief that public affairs requires large, well-resourced teams. However, many organisations operate with smaller budgets and teams, which presents a challenge for achieving success. How can we make them effective?
Thanks to my editor Callums World.
May 31, 2023
May 31, 2023
3 min
Small changes in any working day can have a hugely beneficial impact. But what are the small practices that you could incorporate into a working day to improve the delivery of your public affairs?
Thanks to my editor Callums World.
Mar 19, 2023
Mar 19, 2023
3 min
Standing out from the crowd is important at any stage of a career but it is best to get into good habits early on. Thinking about your personal branding should be one such early consideration.
Thanks to my editor Callums World.
Mar 11, 2023
Mar 11, 2023
14 min
I talk to Rebecca Deegan, founder of I Have A Voice, about the campaign, and her experience of working in public affairs.
If you want to contact Rebecca then email her at rebecca@ihaveavoice.org.uk
Thanks to my editor Callums World.
Feb 26, 2023
Feb 26, 2023
16 min
In our first interview, I talk to Louise Abraham, Senior Government Relations at Cafod about her experience of working in public affairs. We talk about how she entered the profession and hear about some of the most effective campaigns she has worked on.
Thanks to my editor Callums World.
Jan 29, 2023
Jan 29, 2023
4 min
Keir Starmer continues to face challenges as leader of the Labour Party. There is no doubting the improvement he has already made to their electability, but further change is promised. Is Labour likely to form the next Government? How should those in public affairs be preparing?
Thanks to my editor Callums World.
Jan 2, 2023
Jan 2, 2023
59 min
In a change to the usual format, I discuss Reputation Management & Public Affairs with Milos Labovic. We also discuss my latest book, 'Reputation in Business: Lessons for Leaders.
Thanks to my editor Callums World.
Dec 22, 2022
Dec 22, 2022
3 min
A creative working environment should recognise the abilities and contribution of everyone. Sadly, despite what they may say, not all organisations live up to the high standards they claim to live by. But don’t give up on them. Instead, think about how to encourage change.
Thanks to my editor Callums World.