7am

In this conversation, Chris Flynn, an Irish-born Australian writer known for his thought-provoking novels, reveals that the inspiration for his latest book, Orpheus Nine, came from a vivid dream. He discusses the impact of trauma on communities and unpacks the connections between unexpected subjects like The Exorcist and Winnie the Pooh. Flynn also reflects on his unique writing process, exploring how local experiences shape his narrative voice, and emphasizes the transformative power of literature in dealing with life's complexities.

Paul Bongiorno is one of the 1.2 billion Roman Catholics who mourned the loss of Pope Francis this week. As he read tribute after tribute of the impact of the Pope’s life, he noticed what wasn’t on the front page – Peter Dutton’s last-minute policy announcements. “The Pope is a world figure… and of course, it swamped the world’s media, including here in Australia. So it’s not surprising that the death of this pope would overshadow anything that our leaders were doing in the election campaign. In fact, it would blow the campaign out of the water for a few days.” Today, columnist for The Saturday Paper Paul Bongiorno, on how the Pope’s death changed the election.   If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support.   Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Columnist for The Saturday Paper, Paul Bongiorno. Photo: AAP / Domenico StinellisSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cheyne Anderson, senior producer at 7am, discusses the chilling effect of Donald Trump's executive order banning trans healthcare for minors. He highlights a brave doctor risking everything to provide care across state lines. Anderson also explores the recent healthcare bans in Queensland, Australia, and their devastating impact on trans youth, paralleling the U.S. situation. The conversation emphasizes the urgent need for support and resilience among those fighting for trans rights in a challenging political landscape.

Bri Lee, a contributor to The Saturday Paper, dives into the Liberal Party's ongoing issues with female representation and voter engagement. She discusses how women played a pivotal role in the party's electoral defeat and examines a report that highlights their struggles since then. Despite efforts to address these issues, there’s been little progress. Lee critiques the party’s approach, emphasizing the need for a significant shift in understanding and connecting with women voters.

Mike Seccombe, the national correspondent for The Saturday Paper, dives into the challenging world of housing affordability in Australia. He critiques the housing policies of both the Coalition and Labor, revealing how their plans may only worsen the crisis. The discussion compares political promises with the harsh reality faced by young aspiring homeowners. Seccombe also highlights a controversial proposal allowing access to superannuation for home purchases and warns about the implications of tax deductions on mortgage interest, raising concerns about rising inequality.

In a coastal corner of Australia, scientist Saul Griffith has been quietly working away on a plan to turn 500 households completely off fossil fuels. He hopes that what he achieves there can act as a blueprint for the rest of the country.  But for that to become a reality, the federal government would need to drastically increase their commitment to renewable energy.  Today, chief scientist at Rewiring Australia, Saul Griffith, on the electrification already underway – and what both sides of politics are promising for our energy future.    If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support.   Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Chief scientist at Rewiring Australia Saul Griffith  Photo:See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Harini Rathnakumar, a former child refugee who fled Sri Lanka and arrived in Australia at 10, shares her heart-wrenching journey. She reveals how, after dreaming of studying medicine, her hopes were dashed when her visa status required her to pay exorbitant international fees. Harini discusses the emotional toll of being disenrolled just months before completing her degree and highlights the struggles of many asylum seekers facing similar barriers in accessing education. Her story sheds light on the systemic challenges within Australia's immigration and education systems.

Niall Williams, a celebrated Irish novelist, discusses his latest work, Time of the Child, set in the enchanting village of Faha. He shares how becoming a grandfather inspired the themes of familial love and community. The conversation explores the metaphor of rain as it relates to life and loss, reflecting on how literature shapes our emotions. Williams also highlights the importance of authentic storytelling and the bond between writers, revealing how personal connections enhance creativity and the writing process.

At one point during this term of government, Indigenous affairs dominated national debate. Politicians, pundits and the public couldn't stop talking about it.  But since the Voice referendum failed, it’s become something of a taboo. Labor is eager to move on, while the Coalition is more focused on scoring points than offering a plan.  Now, with the election weeks away, there are glimpses of what might come next. Labor says it’s about delivering jobs. The Coalition says it’s about cutting waste. Today, contributor for The Saturday Paper, Ben Abbatangelo, on what the major parties are really offering – and what it all means for First Nations people around the country.   If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support.   Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Contributor for The Saturday Paper Ben Abbatangelo Photo: AAP Image / Lukas CochSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last year, reporter Mike Seccombe looked into the divide between Australia’s richest and poorest schools to find out why this gap keeps widening. What he found was a broken system. Rich parents are able to get huge tax breaks by donating to opulent building projects at their kids’ private schools.  It’s a practice that goes way back, despite many arguing the tactic has become outdated. Today, national correspondent for The Saturday Paper and a proud state school boy, Mike Seccombe, on why we need an overhaul of the charitable giving system that delivers some kids castles. This episode was originally published in July last year.    If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support.   Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: National correspondent for The Saturday Paper, Mike Seccombe. Photo: Taylor ConstructionSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.