7am

Examining the decline in popularity and increased opposition of the Labour government, the effectiveness of the Albanese government's incremental approach, potential danger faced by the government, the drop in polls for the Labor Party, and the repercussions of the gap between government's perception and public perception.

Climate leadership expert, Linh Do, discusses how COP28 has become a corporate wasteland filled with lobbyists. Topics include the transformation of COP into a celebrity event, the debate on phasing down vs phasing out fossil fuels, controversies surrounding the oil CEO leading COP 28, skepticism towards fossil fuel lobbyists, and the hosting of the conference in the UAE.

Global media mogul, Rupert Murdoch, is in decline but still wields great power. Topics include his relationship with Donald Trump, impact on democracies, downfall of Turnbull, influence on politics and media, promotion of conspiracy theories by Fox News, passion for journalism, political connections, and the future of his empire under Lachlan's control.

Toxic political debate in Australia sparked by a High Court ruling on immigration detainees. Release of criminals led to calls for resignation. Australian government's handling of detainees' release and passing of new legislation. Concerns about intensifying toxic debate on immigration. Tribute to Peter Murphy and discussion on judgment women face in public life. Press conference with the Attorney General and return to normal politics.

The podcast discusses the escalation of the Israel-Hamas war into southern Gaza, tensions between the US and Israel, the proposal to increase the buffer zone, and the challenges faced by the people of Gaza post-conflict.

Colette Harmsen, an environmental activist, has been arrested 22 times for protesting and is undeterred by jail time. The podcast explores her motivations, dedication to non-violent direct actions, and the recent crackdown on environmental protesting in Australia. It also discusses the impact of disruptive protests on policy change and the potential effects of stricter laws for protesters.

An exploration of the educational backgrounds of Australian politicians and the impact on public education reforms. The funding gap and wealth inequality between public and private schools in Australia. The unfairness in funding for private schools and lack of government action. The importance of real diversity in parliament to counter the control of private school alumni.

The defamation trial between Bruce Lehrmann and Network Ten reveals multiple lies, though Lehrmann maintains his innocence in the sexual assault allegation. The podcast explores contradictions in Lehrmann's testimony, the aftermath of the alleged incident, Brittany Higgins' evidence and cross-examination, and media handling of high-profile stories.

Bunty Avieson, a teacher, worked on a project to improve media literacy among Bhutanese nuns and preserve their under-documented culture by editing Wikipedia. The podcast discusses the misconceptions about Wikipedia, the dedication of the nuns to learn and contribute, and their journey in transforming a retreat into a Buddhist college. The nuns improved 28 articles about their country in just one week.

The podcast explores the relationship between Rupert Murdoch and his sons, Lachlan and James. It delves into the phone hacking scandal, the downfall of Roger Ailes, and how Lachlan ultimately emerged as the successor to Rupert's media empire. The toxic workplace culture at Fox News and the involvement of the Murdoch family in the downfall of Ailes are also discussed. The podcast concludes with insights on the transition of power from Rupert to Lachlan and Rupert's retirement.