7am

Marieke Hardy is a writer, broadcaster and former panelist on the ABC’s First Tuesday Book Club. Marieke’s passion and enthusiasm for the books she loves is contagious. But she’s also direct and unapologetic when a book isn’t for her, so you always know that when she recommends something, it’s going to be worth your time. Her list of favourite books starts with a sprawling novel about friendship and love – and winds its way through so many other huge themes: grief, violence, war, and how the internet has ruined us. Today, Marieke Hardy with her five favourite books of 2025.   If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support.   Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Writer and literary critic Marieke HardySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sarah Krasnostein, a celebrated author and television critic known for her works like The Mushroom Tapes and The Trauma Cleaner, shares her insights on the best TV of 2025. She dives into gripping narratives, from the chilling influence of the manosphere on a lonely teen in Adolescence to the complex hive-mind world of Pluribus. Krasnostein discusses the neo-noir charm of The Lowdown on Disney and the ambitious storytelling in The Rehearsal. She highlights how even the bleakest tales inspire hope for rebuilding in a fractured world.

Veteran journalist Paul Bongiorno provides insight into the fallout from the Bondi terror attack, emphasizing the shock and grief felt by the Jewish community. He critiques the quick politicization of the tragedy, contrasting Albanese's call for unity with past leadership decisions, notably John Howard's handling of crises. Paul discusses Albanese's five-point plan to combat anti-Semitism, highlighting the delicate balance between free speech and hate laws. He calls for a more compassionate political discourse to support healing in the community.

Gregg Carlstrom, Middle East correspondent for The Economist, delivers insightful analysis on the stalled peace plans for Gaza. He highlights the tragic human cost of ongoing attacks and discusses the complexities of the ceasefire phases. Carlstrom explains the impasse between Hamas and Israel over disarmament, critiques small-scale reconstruction proposals, and warns of Palestinians' limited influence in Gaza's future. With regional dynamics shifting, he questions who will truly enforce any peace agreement.

In this engaging discussion, Professor Greg Barton, Chair in Global Islamic Politics at Deakin University and an expert on political Islam, provides critical insights into the alarming Bondi shooting. He explains the implications of the attackers being known to ASIO, examines the systemic gaps in Australia’s counter-terrorism measures, and discusses the challenges of detecting lone actors amidst encrypted communications. Barton also emphasizes the need for enhanced security measures in public spaces and explores the training roots of the gunmen in the Philippines.

Nicole Foy, an immigration reporter at ProPublica, dives into the alarming impact of Trump's immigration crackdown. She reveals how ICE is ramping up arrests, often detaining innocent U.S. citizens. Foy highlights the fear gripping immigrant communities and discusses grassroots resistance, from neighborhood patrols to legal rights initiatives. She also critiques the government's framing of activists as threats and warns of the long-term societal consequences, including family separations and increased federal presence in local areas.

Allegra Spender, the Federal member for Wentworth and former business executive, discusses the tragic Bondi shootings and the community's heartfelt response. She shares stories of grief and anger from the Jewish community, highlighting acts of heroism during the attack. Allegra advocates for tougher gun laws, calling for uniformity in licensing and checks. She raises concerns about rising anti-Semitism, demanding answers on ASIO's oversight, while emphasizing the need for unity and understanding without politicizing the tragedy.

Catherine Liddle, CEO of SNAICC and advocate for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, dives deep into the troubling realities documented in the Family Matters report. She reveals that these children face higher rates of removal from their families due to systemic failures, with a shocking 84 cents of every dollar going to removing kids instead of supporting families. Catherine highlights the detrimental impact of early removals, cultural misunderstandings in assessments, and calls for self-determination to break this cycle. A powerful discussion on urgent reform needed.

Ben Abbatangelo, a Gunaikurnai and Wotjobaluk writer and contributor to The Saturday Paper, delves deep into the dark legacy of Kinchela Boys Home. He reveals harrowing survivor testimonies, detailing the abuse and dehumanization these boys faced. The conversation highlights the alarming rates of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children in care today, echoing past traumas. Abbatangelo also discusses ongoing efforts to reclaim the site for healing, shedding light on the struggles many survivors continue to face.

Sean Kelly, a former political adviser to two Australian prime ministers, offers sharp insights into the recent social media ban for under-16s. He highlights how a meticulously planned policy launch can derail due to unexpected controversies, like Anika Wells' expense issues. The discussion dives into the media's double standards, especially regarding scrutiny of women politicians. Sean also explores the ban's potential impact on global tech regulation and questions whether the government will address broader corporate issues next.