James Delingpole with Stephen Wilkinson

James Delingpole welcomes Stephen Wilkinson to the podcast, a guest he’s been eager to have for some time. They start by discussing Stephen’s background, with Stephen sharing stories about his family’s business history and his views on aristocratic versus business models of wealth. The conversation quickly deepens into reflections on society, economics, and the erosion of traditional values. Stephen critiques how wealth, once built through hard work, can be dissipated through generations, particularly as families try to gentrify their children instead of instilling strong business principles.

Economic Discussion and Societal Change

They discuss the rise of debt-driven economies, the decoupling of money from the gold standard in 1971, and the long-term consequences of governments printing money without backing. Stephen highlights the moral erosion caused by these changes, particularly how savings, once a bedrock of society, are now devalued due to near-zero interest rates and inflation. They further explore the impact of this economic environment on societal values, institutions, and future generations.

Personal Anecdotes and Reflections

The conversation shifts to personal anecdotes, including Stephen’s knighthood from Grenada, and a lighter discussion about fox hunting and its cultural significance. James reflects on how he sees himself as standing up for traditional values and being a voice against the tide of state overreach and societal change, while Stephen admires James’ courage to speak out in the current climate.

Wealth Protection and Future Uncertainty

In the latter half, they delve into how individuals can protect their wealth in uncertain economic times, focusing on gold, silver, and the importance of running a business to benefit from tax advantages. Stephen also touches on cryptocurrency, though he admits he’s still learning the intricacies of it.

Overall, the episode is a deep, multifaceted conversation about economics, personal responsibility, and the changing nature of society. It’s both reflective and forward-looking, offering listeners insights into how to navigate a world where financial and social stability seem increasingly fragile.