7am

Bob Brown, a lifelong activist and former leader of the Australian Greens, shares his journey as a voice for justice since the early days of the Iraq War. He reflects on the importance of speaking out against authoritarianism and the environmental crisis, emphasizing resilience in activism. Brown critiques the influence of corporate interests on democracy and urges support for diverse political representation. Most importantly, he champions the power of optimism in tackling global challenges and the need for non-violent confrontation against oppression.

Rachel Khong, acclaimed author of Goodbye, Vitamin and Real Americans, dives into her latest novel, exploring the intricate dynamics of identity and belonging across generations of Chinese Americans. She discusses the blend of magical realism with pressing societal themes, reflecting on the immigrant journey through luck and ambition. Khong also examines the relationship between narrative and reality, highlighting how storytelling challenges conventional perceptions of time and personal transformation, ultimately advocating for the value of 'wasted time' in the creative process.

Ben McKelvey, a journalist and contributor to The Saturday Paper, dives deep into the controversies surrounding Australian Special Forces in Afghanistan. He reveals how SAS troops misapplied foreign rules of engagement, leading to tragic incidents, including the deaths of civilians. The conversation highlights the systemic failures within military oversight and the need for accountability. McKelvey also touches on the significant implications for the reputations and morale of the troops, calling for a Royal Commission to address these serious issues.

Independent Senator Lidia Thorpe, a fierce advocate for Indigenous rights, challenges the effectiveness of the Closing the Gap strategy, calling it a distraction. She highlights alarming trends, like rising child removals and high suicide rates among Indigenous peoples, questioning the government's commitment to real change. Thorpe argues for stronger federal responsibilities in youth justice and the introduction of a Human Rights Act. She emphasizes the need for genuine community engagement and self-determination, pushing for legislation that respects Indigenous rights.

Bianca Nogrady, a prominent science journalist and contributor to The Saturday Paper, discusses the repercussions of Trump's administration on global scientific integrity. She highlights the alarming communication blackout of the CDC and its effects on public health data. Nogrady delves into how political ideologies distort medical research and the critical access issues Australian researchers face to US funding. The conversation underscores the need for independent research to safeguard scientific accuracy and representation in health policy.

Kara Swisher, a seasoned tech journalist known for her sharp insights on Silicon Valley, shares her long history with Elon Musk and his recent drastic shifts in governance. She discusses Musk’s controversial role as head of the new 'Department of Government Efficiency' and warns of a techno-dictatorship emerging under his influence. Their unlikely alliance with Trump is dissected, revealing a power dynamic that raises concerns about free speech, censorship, and the overarching impact of Silicon Valley on democracy.

Karen Barlow, Chief Political Correspondent for The Saturday Paper, gives keen insights into Australia's political landscape amidst global trade tensions. She discusses how Trump's tariffs on China pose a significant threat to the Australian economy, impacting exports and everyday goods. Barlow highlights Australia's efforts to navigate these turbulent waters while managing domestic political pressures. She also sheds light on the broader implications for international relationships, particularly with the U.S. and China, as Australia seeks to adapt and respond effectively.

Join two-time Miles Franklin Award-winning author Michelle de Kretser as she discusses her latest bold novel, which showcases her fearless experimentation with narrative form. She delves into the art of blending personal struggles with societal themes and the role of identity in storytelling. Michelle reflects on the creative journey, emphasizing the playful yet challenging nature of writing. Discover how the interplay of emotional chaos and structure leads to richer stories, and hear her take on the impact of social media on perceptions of artists.

In this discussion, Paul Bongiorno, a columnist for The Saturday Paper, delves into Peter Dutton's controversial alignment with Donald Trump, drawing parallels between their political strategies. The impact of Trump's return on global stability is examined, especially concerning trade wars and Australian politics. Bongiorno also highlights the ramifications of rising anti-Semitism in Australia and the government's response to humanitarian efforts, showcasing the intricate web of local and international political dynamics.

Guest Gregg Carlstrom, Middle East correspondent for The Economist, shares insights on Trump’s bold proposal to ‘own’ the Gaza Strip. He discusses the international backlash, particularly from Arab nations, rejecting Trump's controversial resettlement ideas. The conversation delves into the dubious nature of relocating Gaza's population and explores Trump's waterfront development interests, raising concerns about conflicts of interest amid ongoing tensions. Carlstrom critically examines the implications of such ownership claims within the complex Israeli-Palestinian conflict.