In this episode, Lisa Witter is joined by Jo Swinson, former UK Member of Parliament and leader of the Liberal Democrats.

They explore Jo's journey into politics, beginning with her early interest in activism inspired by the Body Shop's commitment to social issues. Jo reflects on her experiences as the youngest MP and the challenges she faced in a male-dominated environment, particularly during her leadership amidst the Brexit turmoil.

The discussion delves into the complexities of power dynamics in politics, the importance of human connections, and the need for long-term thinking in governance. Jo emphasizes the significance of community engagement and the role of individuals in shaping a better political landscape, advocating for a more inclusive and empathetic approach to leadership.

External resources:

1. Article: Hard Hope Is a Practice — Start with 1%
2. Book: Equal Power: And How You Can Make It Happen, by Jo Swinson

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In the first episode of the Better Politics Podcast of 2026, host Lisa Witter is joined by Damian Boeselager, a German Member of the European Parliament and the co-founder of Volt Europa, the first pan-European political party.

With a background in philosophy and economics, Damian began his career in strategy consulting and social impact work before an unexpected turn during his graduate studies in public policy drew him into politics. Confronted with a changing political climate in 2016 and growing concerns about the future of European democracy, he chose action over disengagement and helped build a new political movement grounded in the belief that Europe’s challenges require European-level solutions.

Together, Lisa and Damian unpack why political parties remain essential to healthy democracies, what it actually takes to build a political party from scratch, and how citizen agency can drive meaningful change. They also explore innovation in party structures, the skills and traits needed for effective political leadership today, and why “hard hope” is rooted in active participation, not passive optimism.

Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and visit our website to stay up to date with our latest news. Subscribe to the Better (Political) Leadership Substack and sign up to our bi-weekly briefing for insights and inspiration on how to build better politics.

In this year-end edition of the Better Politics Podcast, Lisa Witter is joined by colleagues Kimberly McArthur and Suki Capobianco for a candid reflection on a pivotal year for politics globally, and for the Better Politics Foundation.

Together they unpack the challenges and opportunities shaping the field of political leadership innovation, from representation and trust to systems change. The conversation dives into the launch of the Better Politics Index, why empowering underrepresented voices is essential for healthier democracies, and the importance of meaningful, long-term support for political leaders.

At its core, this episode is about people: the power of human connection to drive change, and the urgency of mobilizing resources to fuel political innovation. A thoughtful close to the year, and a hopeful look at what’s ahead for better politics.

Links to resources mentioned in this episode:

1. Report: Mere Mortals - The State of Politicians' Mental Wellbeing
2. Political Leadership Impact Path
3. Better Politics Index
4. Political Leadership Entrepreneur Network (PLEN)
5. Safety in Office: 21st Century Skills for Political Leaders

Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and visit our website to stay up to date with our latest news. Subscribe to the Better (Political) Leadership Substack and sign up to our bi-weekly briefing for insights and inspiration on how to build better politics.