Former political adviser Laura is joined by Rory Stewart OBE, best selling author, former Cabinet Minister and Senior Fellow at the Jackson Institute, Yale. They discuss the experiences, places and people that have inspired his thinking. Rory talks about his journey into politics, and in turn his high profile departure from politics; his 6,000 mile walk across Iran, Pakistan, Afghanistan, India and Nepal; his experiences as Africa for Minister and Secretary of State for International Development; and the UK failing prison system.  

You can follow Rory and Laura on Twitter: @RoryStewartUK and @LauraRound

Edited and Produced by Alex Graham

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In What Were You Thinking former political advisor Laura Round speaks to politicians, opinion formers and business people to find out about the experiences, people and places that have inspired them. What motivates them? Why did they decide to do what they do? What are the most memorable and surprising situations they have found themselves in? The answer is often unexpected.

This podcast is in partnership with the Big Tent Ideas Festival, the non-partisan festival of politics, culture technology and fresh thinking. Give them a follow: @BigTentIdeas And if you are looking for more content, become a friend of the Big Tent for only £6 per month.