The Smokeless Word

Dive deep into transformation, collaboration, and decision-making that drives real change with BAT’s Chief Corporate Officer, Kingsley Wheaton, and his guests. In each episode, we engage in candid, no-holds-barred discussions with guests from diverse walks of life - from BAT insiders to thought-leaders beyond. Expect frank, informed, insightful, and at times, humorous discussions that encourage you to think differently, challenge your assumptions, and inspire fresh thinking on how to achieve meaningful and durable change. In 2024, BAT launched Omni™ to spark genuine conversation about building a Smokeless World. The Smokeless Word is part of that initiative, providing a platform for open dialogue and transformative ideas. Download Omni™: https://www.asmokelessworld.com/gb/en DISCLAIMER Intended for regulators, scientists, policymakers, investors, public health bodies and associated media outlets only. Not intended for US audiences or product promotion. Nicotine is addictive and not risk free. Any reduced risk or reduced harm references are based on the weight of the evidence, and are made in comparison to cigarettes assuming a complete switch from smoking.

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Episodes

Episode 11 - Mike Scudamore

Tuesday Jan 20, 2026

Tuesday Jan 20, 2026

In this episode of The Smokeless Word, Kingsley is joined by Mike Scudamore, Team Principal of Team BRIT - the world’s only competitive team of all-disabled racing drivers.  
 
From karting charity beginnings to leading a championship-winning team with ambitions to compete at Le Mans, this episode explores the innovative technologies that level the playing field for disabled drivers, the challenges of navigating regulation in motorsport, and the resilience and teamwork that drive Team Brit forward. 
 
Join Kingsley and Mike for an inspiring conversation that blends racing ambition with life-changing impact. 
 
DISCLAIMER   
Intended Audience: This podcast is intended for regulators, scientists, policymakers, investors, media and public health bodies only. This material is not intended for US audiences.   
Personal Views: The views expressed in this podcast are the personal opinions of the speaker only.   
No Product Promotion: Nothing in this podcast is intended to promote or endorse the consumption of the product referred to.   
Risk and Harm Statements: Nicotine products are addictive and not risk free. Any references to products having a reduced risk or reduced harm are based on the weight of the evidence and assume no continued smoking.   
Content Warning: This podcast contains some swearing that may not be suitable for all listeners.   
The podcast guest was not paid for their appearance.  
BAT Investments is the copyright holder of this podcast.   

Episode 12 - Gavin Esler

Thursday Feb 05, 2026

Thursday Feb 05, 2026

From Dolly Parton’s Nashville mansion to the hallowed halls of the White House…to The Smokeless Word studio. 
Kingsley sits down with veteran Newsnight journalist and bestselling author Gavin Esler to explore how narrative defines our leaders, our politics, and our reality. Drawing on forty years at the heart of journalism, Gavin shares behind-the-scenes insights into the power of story. 
Kingsley and Gavin combine to deliver a masterclass in storytelling. You’ll hear about the "boy from Hope" narrative that propelled Clinton to power, the terrifying brilliance of Thatcher’s public persona, and the modern phenomenon of "truth decay".  
Join Kingsley and Gavin for an eye-opening conversation on why Gavin believes "Britain is better than this", the importance of becoming your own editor, and why a dessert of stewed plums proved to be his undoing on MasterChef. 

Episode 13 - Mauricio Cantisani

Thursday Feb 19, 2026

Thursday Feb 19, 2026

BAT’s global transformation is a root and branch affair, starting with how we grow our Leaf. 
 
Kingsley sits down with Mauricio, BAT’s very own VP Agribusiness LATAM South & Global Head of Agronomy Development, to discuss how we are navigating the regulatory environment while future-proofing our most vital supply chain.  
 
From Brazil’s role as a major tobacco exporter to efforts to combat illicit trade and the ongoing challenge of advocating for Tobacco Harm Reduction, this episode is packed with invaluable insights into the digital future of the field and the strategic patience required to lead change. 
 
Join Kingsley and Mauricio for an essential conversation on why, despite the hurdles, Brazil’s future remains bright. 
 
DISCLAIMER   
Intended Audience: This podcast is intended for regulators, scientists, policymakers, investors, media and public health bodies only. This material is not intended for US audiences.   
Personal Views: The views expressed in this podcast are the personal opinions of the speaker only.   
No Product Promotion: Nothing in this podcast is intended to promote or endorse the consumption of the product referred to.   
Risk and Harm Statements: Nicotine products are addictive and not risk free. Any references to products having a reduced risk or reduced harm are based on the weight of the evidence and assume no continued smoking.   
Content Warning: This podcast contains some swearing that may not be suitable for all listeners.   
The podcast guest was not paid for their appearance.  
BAT Investments is the copyright holder of this podcast.   

4 days ago

Knockouts. Trophies. Paranoia. 
  
In this episode, Kingsley sits down with Rugby World Cup winner and former British & Irish Lion, Will Greenwood, for a raw look behind the medals. 
 
From a career that nearly unravelled at Leicester Tigers to the 17-minute knockout that left doctors fearing the worst, Will reflects on injury, doubt, and why he still remembers the losses more than the wins. 
 
Join Kingsley and Will as they unpack the culture behind England’s golden era under Clive Woodward and Martin Johnson. 
 
It’s a masterclass in resilience, leadership, and what it really takes to win. 
 
DISCLAIMER   
Intended Audience: This podcast is intended for regulators, scientists, policymakers, investors, media and public health bodies only. This material is not intended for US audiences.   
Personal Views: The views expressed in this podcast are the personal opinions of the speaker only.   
No Product Promotion: Nothing in this podcast is intended to promote or endorse the consumption of the product referred to.   
Risk and Harm Statements: Nicotine products are addictive and not risk free. Any references to products having a reduced risk or reduced harm are based on the weight of the evidence and assume no continued smoking.   
Content Warning: This podcast contains some swearing that may not be suitable for all listeners.   
The podcast guest was not paid for their appearance.  
BAT Investments is the copyright holder of this podcast.   

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