7am

Rick Morton, a senior reporter for The Saturday Paper, offers sharp insights into the tumultuous state of Australian politics. He discusses Peter Dutton's abrupt pivot towards reclaiming inner-city teal seats after the Coalition's historic defeat. Morton highlights the Coalition's ambitious plans to win back 18 seats in Victoria, and the aggressive strategies being deployed against teal independents. The conversation also touches on internal party divisions and Dutton's challenges in reshaping his image to connect with discontented voters.

Molly White, a cryptocurrency and tech researcher, joins to discuss Donald Trump's recent foray into the crypto world with the launch of the '$TRUMP' coin. They dive into the ethical dilemmas of a former president profiting from cryptocurrency close to his presidency. Molly breaks down the risks associated with meme coins, highlighting market volatility and potential scams. She also unpacks the financial realities of Trump Coin, questioning the inflated valuations and examining the legal implications of Trump's involvement in the crypto market.

Molly McElwee, a sports journalist and author of the Substack "But Do You Actually Like Sport?", dives into the serious doping allegations surrounding Jannik Sinner and Iga Świątek. They discuss the alarming implications these controversies have for the integrity of tennis, particularly at the Australian Open. The conversation highlights the stark disparity in resources between elite players and their lesser-known peers, raising questions about fairness in doping management. Trust in the sport hangs in the balance as scrutiny intensifies.

Craig Holman, a Capitol Hill lobbyist for Public Citizen, discusses the astounding $200 million raised for Donald Trump's inauguration, breaking fundraising records. He reveals how billionaires and companies are funding this event not just for the celebration but to gain access to the president. Holman delves into the ethical implications of private donations and how they can influence policy decisions. The conversation also highlights the motivations behind these enormous contributions, particularly from sectors like cryptocurrency and tech.

Noni Hazlehurst, an Australian actress, director, and author, shares insights from her memoir, 'Dropping the Mask.' She delves into her multifaceted career, from 'Play School' to 'Better Homes & Gardens.' Noni reflects on the weight of familial expectations and her journey to authenticity in a judgmental industry. She pays tribute to the influence of playwright Dorothy Hewitt and discusses the intersection of literature and cinema, emphasizing the significance of women's narratives. It's a celebration of identity and resilience.

Dana Stroul, a Research Director at The Washington Institute and former Pentagon official, discusses a pivotal 42-day ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas. She outlines how the agreement aims to facilitate the release of hostages and enhance humanitarian aid in Gaza, where conditions are dire. Stroul delves into the complexities of the negotiations and the role of U.S. foreign policy, highlighting the unusual alliances that emerged. With winter looming, she emphasizes the urgent need for assistance as residents face a devastating humanitarian crisis.

Rick Morton, a senior reporter for The Saturday Paper, exposes the troubling trends affecting children's access to the National Disability Insurance Scheme. He highlights how cost-saving measures are pushing vulnerable children off the program while disguising it as a crackdown on fraud. Morton discusses the alarming discrepancies between the scheme's intended purpose and its current execution, shedding light on the devastating impact of these cuts on families in need of essential support. His insights reveal a critical look into the NDIS's future and its implications for Australia's most vulnerable.

Cathy McGowan, a former federal MP who made waves by winning Indi as an independent in 2013, shares her insights on the rise of independent campaigning in Australia. She discusses the significance of community engagement and local representation, which have propelled independents to prominence. McGowan highlights the challenges major parties face as voters seek alternatives, and emphasizes the potential for independents to drive critical reforms, advocating for accountability and grassroots support in today’s political landscape.

Elle Hardy, a contributor to The Saturday Paper, dives into Elon Musk's recent social media activities and their dramatic effects on British politics. She discusses how Musk's endorsement of controversial figures like Tommy Robinson has disrupted political discourse. Hardy also highlights the competition between Musk and Zuckerberg in shaping tech policies and the broader implications for democracy. The conversation critiques the commercialization of politics and emphasizes the urgent need for social media regulation in the face of such powerful influences.

Martin Mackenzie-Murray, Associate Editor of The Saturday Paper, dives into the unfolding drama of the 2025 Australian federal election. He highlights the fierce competition between PM Albanese and Opposition Leader Dutton, as both parties strategize to win back disillusioned voters. Mackenzie-Murray discusses the rise of independent candidates, the challenges for Labor post-Voice referendum defeat, and the precarious political landscape that could dictate the next election's outcome. Insightful analysis offered amidst a brewing political storm!