7am

Jonathan Holmes, Chair of ABC Alumni and former host of Media Watch, dives into the precarious funding landscape for the ABC amidst potential cuts from a Dutton-led government. He reflects on the historical pattern of budget slashes and the implications for public broadcasting’s integrity. The discussion also highlights the challenges of appealing to younger audiences in a digital age while navigating political pressures. Holmes emphasizes the urgent need for support to bolster quality programming and safeguard the national broadcaster from external influences.

Tim Flannery, Chief Councillor of the Climate Council and a seasoned climate change observer, discusses the urgent need for Australia to embrace renewable energy. He critiques the Coalition's nuclear energy plan as impractical and emphasizes the feasibility and benefits of expanding renewables. Flannery highlights the importance of the upcoming election in shaping climate policy and expresses optimism that it might be the last election focused on climate action, urging Australians to prioritize sustainable solutions over past mistakes.

Ayşegül Savaş's novel reveals the beauty of young love and the joy of everyday moments without typical conflicts. It dives into intimate rituals couples create as they navigate a new city. The conversation also touches on the theme of foreignness, exploring how it can foster a sense of belonging and the task of portraying universal experiences. Savaş discusses the complexities of identity in relationships and the creative reinventions that come with moving to a new culture, crafting fresh traditions and practices.

Abul Rizvi, former deputy secretary of the Department of Immigration, shares his insights on Australia's population growth and immigration policies. He discusses Peter Dutton's proposal to cut migrant numbers by 100,000 annually and its potential consequences on the housing crisis and workforce. Rizvi argues for a long-term population plan, highlighting the government's inconsistent approach to immigration amidst rapid population increases. He emphasizes the need for a strategic migration strategy that balances economic benefits with infrastructure challenges.

In this episode, Wall Street Journal reporter Emily Glazer explores Elon Musk's audacious challenge to NASA's moon missions. With Musk pushing for Mars instead, tensions rise as insiders criticize his disruptive influence. Glazer examines the ripple effects on major contractors like SpaceX and Blue Origin while highlighting Congress's struggle to regulate the evolving space industry. The conversation also touches on Musk's vision for colonizing Mars and the implications for social equity and environmental challenges on Earth.

In this enlightening discussion, Wall Street Journal reporter Emily Glazer, who focuses on power dynamics, sheds light on Elon Musk's ambitious plan to reshape NASA. They delve into Musk's vision for colonizing Mars and the implications of his close ties with Donald Trump. Glazer highlights the strategic shifts Musk is pushing within NASA, including the influence of key SpaceX officials. The conversation also tackles the challenges of establishing a Martian colony, emphasizing why Musk believes this mission is crucial for humanity's future.

Jason Koutsoukis, a special correspondent for The Saturday Paper, analyzes the intense first leaders' debate between Anthony Albanese and Peter Dutton. He highlights the contrasting views on the economy, with Albanese emphasizing resilience amid global challenges while Dutton paints a grim picture of economic distress. The discussion covers pivotal exchanges on healthcare, immigration, and energy policies, revealing voter confusion and the critical stakes for both leaders as they navigate the electoral landscape.

Jason Koutsoukis, special correspondent for The Saturday Paper, dives into Peter Dutton's surprise reversal on public sector job cuts, revealing the mounting panic within the coalition. They discuss the implications of Dutton's decision to abandon forced layoffs and the impact on voter trust. Koutsoukis highlights how this backtrack raises questions about funding for future election promises. The conversation also touches on Dutton's leadership stability and strategic shifts in response to voter concerns about economic issues and political instability.

Noah Lanard, a journalist from Mother Jones, shines a light on the harrowing realities faced by Venezuelan migrants deported under Trump’s administration. He uncovers how ordinary men, marked by tattoos, were unfairly deemed gang members and targeted. The discussion reveals the inhumane conditions of Salvadoran prisons, the emotional turmoil of families searching for loved ones, and the chilling propaganda that fueled mass deportations. Lanard's insights expose the detrimental impact of immigration policies on vulnerable communities and their fight for dignity.

Colm Tóibín, one of Ireland’s finest authors known for 'Brooklyn' and 'The Master,' dives into his latest work, 'Long Island.' He discusses the challenges and intricacies of writing a sequel, the importance of James Baldwin's influence on literature, and the humorous side of finding his book in Costco. Tóibín also delves into themes of identity and family dynamics while exploring the immigrant experience that shapes his narratives. His reflections on feminism and storytelling add depth to the conversation.