7am

Brittany Higgins, a prominent figure in high-profile legal battles over sexual assault allegations, joins Senator Linda Reynolds, currently engaged in a defamation dispute with her former employee. They discuss the emotional and legal complexities of dragging a rape survivor into court and the impact of social media on such cases. The conversation also touches on courtroom dynamics, political fallout, and the legacy of defamation in Australian politics, questioning the motivations behind political figures suing those who allege victimization.

Muzafar Ali, a Hazara human rights activist and photographer, shares his harrowing experiences after returning to Afghanistan. He highlights the stark reality of underground schools where girls risk their lives for education under Taliban rule. Muzafar contrasts the external perceptions of Afghanistan with the resilience of its women and educators. He recounts his dangerous journey back, navigating threats while documenting the indomitable spirit of those fighting for knowledge. Personal stories illuminate the courage and determination that thrive amidst oppression.

Neale Radley, a high-needs quadriplegic who became disabled after a diving accident, shares his experiences in aged care. He reveals the profound isolation faced by younger residents and critiques the recent changes to the Aged Care Act that may worsen their situation. Alongside Rick Morton, they discuss urgent housing needs and the emotional toll on young disabled individuals trapped in nursing homes. The conversation highlights the need for better government policies to ensure dignity and support for all ages in aged care.

Imane Khelif is a trailblazing Algerian boxer who began her journey for self-defense but faced backlash after her Olympic gold medal win. In this discussion, she speaks candidly about the intense scrutiny female athletes endure regarding their bodies, especially concerning gender identity and fairness in sports. The podcast highlights a troubling history of inspecting women's bodies and the biases that particularly affect women of color. Khelif advocates for a cultural shift to celebrate athletes for their skills rather than their appearance.

Eric Beecher, a seasoned journalist and media proprietor, shares insights from his book 'The Men Who Killed the News.' He delves into the crisis facing journalism, discussing the tension between profit and integrity. Beecher highlights the role of media ownership in democracy and the ethical responsibilities it entails. He also explores the impact of AI on journalism and the balance of creativity and risk in media. With a candid take on the industry's evolution, he emphasizes the need for informed consumers to support quality journalism.

Martin McKenzie-Murray, associate editor of The Saturday Paper, delves into Australia's literacy crisis, highlighting that a third of children struggle with reading. He discusses the outdated methods still prevalent in classrooms and the recent shift towards explicit phonics instruction. The conversation also uncovers the emotional challenges educators face amid political pressures and reflects on how socioeconomic factors impact children's access to effective reading education. McKenzie-Murray argues for a critical reevaluation of teaching methods to ensure every child can read well.

Tim Walz, the Governor of Minnesota, contrasts sharply with J.D. Vance, Donald Trump's running mate, who has attracted attention for his eccentric past. They discuss how Walz's relatable 'dad appeal' may resonate with voters, while Vance captivates the MAGA base with his charismatic speaking style. The podcast explores humor in political campaigns, critiques the Democrat strategy of base mobilization, and analyzes the implications of having childless candidates on social issues like abortion. It's a deep dive into the shifting dynamics of American politics.

Zanny Minton Beddoes, editor-in-chief of The Economist, shares her firsthand experiences from her trip to war-torn Gaza and Jerusalem. She discusses the uncertainty surrounding Gaza's future amidst escalating tensions and examines who might govern the region post-conflict. The podcast delves into the challenges faced by the Palestinian Authority and highlights the emotional responses in Israel following recent events. Beddoes emphasizes the contrasting perspectives on security and humanitarian crises, presenting a complex picture of the ongoing conflict.

David Pocock, a former rugby star turned Independent Senator, dives deep into the troubling world of gambling ads in Australia. He discusses the alarming impact these ads have on young people and the community. Pocock criticizes the government's reluctance to implement strict bans despite overwhelming evidence. He also sheds light on how gambling sponsorships compromise the integrity of sports and highlights the urgent need for political accountability in the face of industry influence. Change is overdue, and Pocock makes a compelling case for reform.

A routine welfare check turns deadly as police encounter the Train brothers in a shocking ambush that results in six fatalities. The chilling story reveals Australia's first fundamentalist Christian terrorist attack, marking a significant moment in the nation's history. Delving into the family's isolation and the extremist beliefs that fueled the violence, the discussion highlights the influence of conspiracy theories on their radicalization. The psychological dynamics at play and the urgent need for community support are examined, emphasizing the dangers of societal neglect.