7am

Malcolm Turnbull, former Prime Minister of Australia, shares his intriguing experience with Donald Trump during a tense phone call that left Trump furious. He emphasizes the necessity of honesty in diplomacy and standing firm against Trump's bullying tactics. Turnbull discusses how Anthony Albanese could navigate a potential second Trump term, impacting Australia's national security and economic interests. He critiques the importance of sovereignty in international deals and reflects on the evolving dynamics of leadership between Australia and the U.S.

Hamish Macdonald, host of ABC's Take Me To Your Leader and a former Middle East correspondent, dives deep into the aftermath of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar's death. He discusses how this pivotal moment may shift military strategies for Israel, and the potential leadership changes within Hamas amid ongoing conflict. Macdonald highlights the varied reactions from world leaders and the implications for Gaza's future, while questioning the prospects for peace in the face of escalating tensions and hostages still held by Hamas.

Ben Shewry, renowned New Zealand-born chef and owner of Melbourne's Attica, joins the conversation to share insights from his memoir, Uses for Obsession. He dives into the cultural significance of Australian cuisine, innovative cooking techniques, and the storytelling behind his culinary journey. The discussion tackles the complexities of personal narratives in the culinary world and the delicate balance of creativity, professionalism, and inclusivity. With anecdotes reflecting the joy and struggles of artistry, Shewry reveals the emotional depths of cooking and leadership.

Jason Koutsoukis, a special correspondent for The Saturday Paper, dives into the rifts within the Australian Labor Party as elder statesmen like Paul Keating voice their frustration over the Albanese government's caution. He discusses the tensions surrounding defense strategies, particularly the AUKUS deal, and the party's drift from its grassroots roots, leading to concerns about youth and diversity. Koutsoukis highlights the generational gap in political passion, noting how younger supporters are drawn to the Greens, leaving Labor in a challenging position.

Hannah Marshall, a defamation lawyer at Good Company Law, provides expert insights into the complicated legal landscape surrounding Bruce Lehrmann's appeal. She discusses his significant financial challenges and the potential repercussions of ongoing court proceedings. The conversation delves into the implications of Lehrmann's case in relation to the Me Too movement, the impact on sexual assault survivors, and the complexities of defamation laws in high-profile cases. Marshall also emphasizes issues within the Australian judicial system regarding consent.

Alice Springs is grappling with challenges as residents face strict government curfews and rising crime concerns. The new political landscape raises urgent questions about the treatment of youth in the justice system. Amidst this turmoil, local families are working hard to break cycles of disadvantage through community programs that connect children with their cultural heritage. Stunning MacDonnell Ranges serve as a backdrop for transformative initiatives aimed at empowering Indigenous youth, helping them forge a brighter future despite the odds.

Leanne Little, an Arrernte woman and Executive Director at the Northern Territory Police Force, joins John Lawrence, former president of the NT Bar Association, to discuss the fraught relationship between police and Aboriginal communities in Alice Springs. They delve into the impact of systemic racism in law enforcement and the urgent need for reform, particularly for Indigenous youth facing unjust treatment. Leanne shares insights on her pivotal role in transforming police culture and fostering trust, highlighting hopeful steps toward reconciliation.

Uncle Brian, an Arenda man from Alice Springs, shares his unique insights into the town's struggles, while Aunty Pat Ansel Dodds, an esteemed Arrernte elder and artist, reflects on her life experiences. They delve into the recent youth violence that shocked the community and critique the government's historical interventions that have disrupted Indigenous autonomy. The conversation highlights the resilience of locals advocating for children's rights and the pressing need for comprehensive solutions to heal generational trauma.

In this conversation, Malcolm Knox, an Australian writer and journalist known for his novels on the male experience, discusses his latest work, 'The First Friend.' He reveals how humor weaves through dark themes, particularly in the context of toxic friendships. Knox delves into the dynamics of enabling relationships, reflecting on how external pressures can reshape bonds. He also shares insights about storytelling evolution during the pandemic, blending historical accuracy with personal experiences, and the complexities of redemption in morally ambiguous characters.

Joining the discussion is Paul Bongiorno, a columnist for The Saturday Paper and a keen observer of Australian politics. They dive into Peter Dutton's attacks on Prime Minister Albanese regarding Israel, revealing how these criticisms may be misaligned with domestic priorities. The conversation touches on the impact of the Middle East conflict on Australian voter sentiment, particularly in metropolitan areas, and explores the broader economic implications of geopolitical tensions and energy policies for the upcoming elections.