Welcoming Misha Glenny - In Our Time Recap

Podcast: In Our Time

Published: 2026-02-05

Duration: 6 min

Summary

Misha Glenny shares his excitement about taking over as the presenter of 'In Our Time,' discussing his diverse background and the format of the show, which emphasizes engaging conversations with experts on a variety of topics.

What Happened

In the episode, Misha Glenny introduces himself as the new host of 'In Our Time,' expressing his gratitude for Melvin Bragg's support. Glenny describes this role as the best job in radio, where he will dive into diverse subjects each week, from plate tectonics to historical figures like Adolf Hitler. His extensive background as a foreign correspondent and author prepares him well for the role, as he aims to facilitate enlightening discussions with expert guests.

Glenny emphasizes the importance of having three knowledgeable guests on the show, noting that their lifetime of experience far exceeds what he can learn in just one week. This dynamic allows for a richer conversation, especially when guests disagree, fostering a constructive debate. He highlights that the first topic he will tackle is John Stuart Mill's 'On Liberty,' aiming to explore different opinions in a civilized manner. Upcoming topics include the Mariana Trench and the Roman Arena, promising a blend of historical insight and engaging storytelling.

Key Insights

Key Questions Answered

What makes Misha Glenny suitable for hosting 'In Our Time'?

Misha Glenny attributes his suitability for the role to his diverse background, which includes a humanities degree in drama and extensive experience as a BBC foreign correspondent. He has covered significant historical events like the collapse of communism in Eastern Europe and the fall of Yugoslavia, which enriches his perspective. Additionally, Glenny has authored several books on various subjects, showcasing his ability to engage with complex topics.

Why is it important to have multiple guests on 'In Our Time'?

Glenny notes that having three expert guests on the show allows for a richer and more informed dialogue than he could provide alone. He believes that the combined knowledge of the guests—who have often dedicated their lives to their subjects—enables a more nuanced exploration of topics. It's particularly interesting to him when guests disagree, as this can lead to engaging and constructive conversations that benefit both the listeners and himself.

What is the first topic Misha Glenny will discuss on 'In Our Time'?

The first topic Misha Glenny plans to discuss is John Stuart Mill's 'On Liberty.' He intends to explore the different viewpoints surrounding this philosophical work, emphasizing the importance of civilized discourse. Glenny finds value in understanding varying opinions and hopes to guide listeners through this exploration, aiming to leave them more informed by the end of the episode.

What future topics can listeners expect from 'In Our Time'?

Following the discussion on 'On Liberty,' Glenny teases several exciting topics. One is the Mariana Trench, which he describes as the deepest point in the ocean. Additionally, he looks forward to discussing the Roman Arena, where he plans to delve into the historical context of gladiatorial games and how Hollywood has portrayed them. These topics reflect his commitment to covering a broad range of subjects that engage and educate the audience.

How does Misha Glenny feel about his new role?

Misha Glenny expresses a sense of privilege and excitement about his new role as the presenter of 'In Our Time.' He mentions that he sometimes has to pinch himself to believe he has this job, which he considers unparalleled in the world of radio. His enthusiasm for exploring diverse topics and engaging with knowledgeable guests underlines his commitment to providing listeners with enriching content.