Welcome to a very special edition of Lunch with Shelley. For our latest episode, we had the distinct pleasure of hosting not one, but two exceptional guests who are making waves on both sides of the Atlantic: Lord and Lady Elliott of Mickle Fell. This episode marks several firsts for the show—our first time hosting a couple, our first Lord and Lady, and our first guests joining us from the UK.
Sarah and Mathew Elliott are old friends and, by any measure, a true British power couple. Their combined influence spans the highest echelons of politics, public policy, and international relations. We gathered at the ever-delicious Café Milano in Washington, D.C., to pull up a chair and dive into a fascinating conversation covering everything from UK-US relations and the Royal Family to a very special love story.
Meet Our Guests: A Transatlantic Powerhouse
Bringing together two individuals with such distinguished and complementary careers offers a rare and insightful perspective on global affairs. While they share a life together, Sarah and Mathew have each forged their own formidable paths in public life.
Lady Sarah Elliott: Champion of the Special Relationship
As the Director of the UK-US Special Relationship Unit, Sarah Elliott is at the forefront of strengthening the historic bond between the two nations. Her expertise is built on nearly two decades of work within US politics, where she has been a steadfast advocate for policies that promote economic prosperity and safeguard individual freedoms.
Sarah’s career has given her a unique vantage point on the inner workings of Washington, D.C., and Westminster. She possesses a deep understanding of the political, economic, and cultural ties that bind the UK and the United States. Her work involves navigating complex policy landscapes and fostering collaboration to address shared challenges, making her one of the most respected voices on transatlantic affairs. Her insights into the nuances of this enduring alliance are both timely and essential.
Lord Mathew Elliott: A Leading Voice in UK Public Policy
Mathew Elliott is one of the United Kingdom’s most influential public policy thinkers and campaigners. His impressive career includes founding four high-profile pressure groups and convening two respected policy commissions that have significantly shaped political discourse in the UK.
More recently, Mathew has expanded his influence into the private sector through strategic consultancy and speaking engagements, all while maintaining a firm commitment to public service. As President of the Jobs Foundation and a member of the UK House of Lords, he continues to contribute to vital conversations about the economy and society. His ability to translate complex policy ideas into effective campaigns has made him a pivotal figure in British politics for years.
A Conversation of Firsts at Café Milano
Hosting a couple for the first time brought a wonderful new dynamic to the show. The easy rapport and shared history between Sarah and Mathew provided a unique energy, allowing for a conversation that was as personal as it was political. Set against the sophisticated backdrop of Café Milano, a favourite spot for diplomats and decision-makers, the discussion flowed from professional insights to personal anecdotes.
We explored the intricate world of UK politics, dissecting current events and future trends. Sarah and Mathew offered their expert analysis on the state of the nation and its place on the global stage. The conversation naturally turned to the Royal Family, a topic of endless fascination around the world. Our guests shared their unique perspectives on the monarchy’s role in modern Britain and its cultural significance.
On a lighter note, we also discussed some quintessentially British traditions, including what one should wear to the prestigious Royal Ascot. But perhaps the most heartwarming part of our lunch was hearing Sarah and Mathew share their own love story—a tale of two driven individuals building a life together while navigating the demanding worlds of international politics and public service.
Pull Up a Chair and Join the Conversation
This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in UK politics, the Special Relationship, or simply a great story about two remarkable people. It’s a compelling blend of high-level policy discussion and warm, personal reflection.
We invite you to join us for this unique and engaging lunch with Lord and Lady Elliott. Their combined wisdom, experience, and charm make for an unforgettable conversation that is both informative and inspiring.
Listen to the full episode now at www.lunchwithshelley.com or find Lunch with Shelley wherever you get your favourite podcasts.
In the meantime, Peace, Love and Lunch!
