Veteran political journalist Barry Soper reflects on nearly five decades in the parliamentary press gallery and his time observing 12 New Zealand prime ministers up close, discussing with Paula Bennett the often overlooked loneliness of political leadership and life inside the Beehive.

He recalls a very different parliamentary era of all-night sittings, and a rougher political culture, alongside candid reflections on figures like Robert Muldoon and the personal toll of power after office.

The conversation also touches on modern politics, media scrutiny, and why leaders such as Jacinda Ardern and Helen Clark continue to shape how New Zealand sees its leaders.

Veteran political journalist Barry Soper reflects on nearly five decades in the parliamentary press gallery and his time observing 12 New Zealand prime ministers up close, discussing with Paula Bennett the often overlooked loneliness of political leadership and life inside the Beehive.
He recalls a very different parliamentary era of all-night sittings, and a rougher political culture, alongside candid reflections on figures like Robert Muldoon and the personal toll of power after office.
The conversation also touches on modern politics, media scrutiny, and why leaders such as Jacinda Ardern and Helen Clark continue to shape how New Zealand sees its leaders.

Paula Bennett's life journey has had plenty of ups and down - going from a teenage solo mum in Taupo all the way to deputy Prime Minister - but it's taught her a lot along the way. One thing she has learned is it’s never too late to learn something new.

In Ask Me Anything, Paula will be talking to Kiwis from all walks of life, to learn how they got to where they are, and to share stories, advice and guidance the rest of us can learn from.  New episodes out fortnightly on Sundays.

Paula Bennett's life journey has had plenty of ups and down - going from a teenage solo mum in Taupo all the way to deputy Prime Minister - but it's taught her a lot along the way. One thing she has learned is it&rsquo;s never too late to learn something new.
In Ask Me Anything, Paula will be talking to Kiwis from all walks of life, to learn how they got to where they are, and to share stories, advice and guidance the rest of us can learn from.&nbsp; New episodes out fortnightly on Sundays.