7am

Joseph Earp, a contributor to The Saturday Paper, dives into the surprising link between Donald Trump and professional wrestling. He explores how Trump's 2007 match with Vince McMahon showcased his political style and manipulation of the crowd. Earp highlights the cultural impact of WWE on Trump's rhetoric, revealing how wrestling tactics shaped his public persona. The conversation also touches on Linda McMahon’s transition from WWE to a Trump cabinet role, illustrating the blurred lines between entertainment and politics.

Margaret Simons, a Walkley Award-winning journalist with deep expertise in Philippine politics, discusses the alarming tactics of political retribution seen in regimes like that of Rodrigo Duterte. She highlights the wrongful imprisonment of human rights activist Leila de Lima, who opposed Duterte’s brutal drug war, and the systemic corruption that allowed such abuses. As de Lima is finally released from prison, the conversation sheds light on the resilience needed to confront autocracy and the implications for democracy, echoing global political tensions.

In this discussion, Mike Seccombe, a national correspondent for The Saturday Paper who specializes in Australian politics, delves into Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's recent decision to halt a vital environmental bill. He sheds light on the political strategies behind prioritizing mining interests in Western Australia over environmental reforms. The conversation reveals the strained relations within the Labor Party and how this decision might empower the Greens. Seccombe’s insights highlight the intricate balance of political survival and eco-friendly legislation.

Jason Koutsoukis, special correspondent for The Saturday Paper, delves into the intricate relationship between Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Peter V'landys, chair of the Australian Rugby League Commission. They explore how this bond influences key decisions on gambling advertising reforms. Koutsoukis reveals the political maneuvers delaying these reforms, highlighting the tension between public demand and the government's ties to sports figures. The discussion also uncovers why the government's response has been a mix of proposals and internal disappointment.

Rick Morton, Senior reporter for The Saturday Paper and Walkley Award-winning journalist, dives deep into the Robodebt scandal in this engaging discussion. He shares insights from his book, Mean Streak, detailing the human cost of bureaucratic failures. The conversation explores societal stigmas against welfare recipients and critiques the misguided policies that exacerbated their struggles. Morton also emphasizes the importance of empathy in journalism and reflects on the ongoing quest for accountability within the government.

Maggie Perry, an election reporter for 6 News, discusses Australia’s proposed ban on social media for youths under 16. She highlights the ban's potential to isolate young people, especially queer youth, who rely on social media for support. Maggie critiques the government's vague proposals, stressing the need for clearer guidelines. She argues that educating teens about safe social media use would be more effective than outright bans, raising important questions about youth engagement and the role of digital platforms in their lives.

Denham Sadler, a contributor to The Saturday Paper, sheds light on the harrowing lives of asylum seekers on Nauru, where nearly 100 individuals live in dire conditions. He discusses their lack of work opportunities, surviving on just $230 fortnightly, which barely covers basic meals. The podcast highlights the reopening of a detention center and the increasing boat arrivals, while probing the severe mental health crises among detainees due to uncertainty and hopelessness. Sadler questions whether Australia's offshore detention policies will ever change.

Emily Barrett, managing editor of The Saturday Paper, delves into how Donald Trump's election has ignited a crypto surge. She discusses Trump's transition from critic to supporter of Bitcoin and what a pro-crypto administration could mean for global economics. The conversation highlights potential mainstream adoption of cryptocurrency, regulatory challenges, and the risks of scams. Barrett also explores varying regulatory perspectives following major financial events, revealing insights on the future of crypto under Trump's influence.

National correspondent Mike Seccombe dives into Gina Rinehart's powerful connections in both Australian and American politics. Rinehart, Australia's wealthiest person, celebrates her friendship with Donald Trump and her influence on conservative politicians like Peter Dutton. The conversation highlights her strategic funding of think tanks and initiatives like Project 2025 that aim to shift power dynamics. It also raises questions about how her wealth shapes policy-making and the future political landscape in Australia.

In this engaging discussion, Daniel James, a Yorta-Yorta journalist and broadcaster, sheds light on the historic call for Treaty in Australia, highlighting its significance and challenges amidst recent political shifts. He emphasizes the crucial role of truth-telling as a foundation for meaningful treaty negotiations and the vital representation of Aboriginal communities through the First Peoples Assembly. As support wanes, James reflects on the emotional weight of these negotiations and the ongoing pursuit of self-determination and reconciliation for Indigenous peoples in Victoria.