New presenter takes the helm of Radio 4’s In Our Time
Historian and writer Misha Glenny recently expressed the challenge of succeeding Melvyn Bragg as the host of Radio 4’s In Our Time, a programme he led for an impressive 27 years, reports BritPanorama.
The series has garnered a substantial audience, reportedly drawing two million listeners weekly with its in-depth discussions on diverse topics, ranging from echolocation to 18th-century vases. The programme distinguishes itself by prioritising serious scholarly engagement over current trends towards celebrity-focused content. Bragg emphasised this focus, stating: “They are plugging knowledge.”
In its approach, In Our Time has defied many audio trends, notably attracting a younger demographic within the podcasting landscape. Despite concerns about cultural dilution and reduced attention spans, the programme has remained popular among listeners under 35, with some finding its in-depth discussions comforting and intellectually stimulating.
Glenny intends to keep the show’s established format, characterised by serious conversations on significant themes. In his inaugural episode, which eschewed small talk, he introduced a discussion centred on “On Liberty,” the influential 1859 essay co-authored by John Stuart Mill and his wife, Harriet Taylor Mill. Glenny posited the essay as crucial to the history of liberal thought, highlighting its themes of personal liberty and the impacts of public opinion.
As always, the show maintains a respectful atmosphere, avoiding a “for” and “against” dynamic while assuming a level of intellectual curiosity from its audience. It is common for listeners to pause the programme to seek further information, a sign that the broadcast encourages deeper engagement.
The programme’s production values appear to remain high under Glenny’s leadership, reassuring fans that it continues to be in capable hands. Bragg’s assertion that In Our Time “was never knowingly relevant” reflects its unique capacity to remain consistently engaging. With Glenny at the helm, early indications suggest that the show’s legacy is in safe hands.
In Our Time airs on Radio 4 on Thursdays at 9.45am and is available on BBC Sounds.
