The Briefing

Dave Leventhal, a seasoned journalist reporting from Washington, D.C., dives into the intense drama of Election Day. He covers the massive voter turnout against a backdrop of bomb threats and misinformation spreading through social media. The discussion reveals the intricacies of battleground states and the potential for a tied Electoral College. Leventhal also highlights the psychological effects of premature victory declarations and the looming anxiety among voters, drawing eerie parallels to past political unrest.

Journalist Joe Aston, author of The Chairman’s Lounge, reveals jaw-dropping details about the Qantas Chairman's Lounge scandal, exploring the blurred lines between political privilege and corruption. Independent Senator David Pocock shares his reasons for initially accepting and ultimately giving up his exclusive membership. The conversation dives into the ethical dilemmas of politicians enjoying luxurious perks, with a particular focus on their responsibility to the public and potential corporate influences on governance.

Join Chris Mead, a resident of Arizona, Scott Dishon from Michigan, and Di Bowman from Phoenix as they share their unique perspectives on the chaotic US election. They discuss the intense political atmosphere in swing states and the frustrations of living amid profound political division. From concerns about political violence to the challenges of meaningful discourse, their insights highlight the stark differences in the electoral climate compared to Australia. Tune in for a firsthand account of living through this pivotal moment in history.

Katherine Coleman is an assistant trainer at Moody Racing, one of Australia's top racing stables, while Georgie Purcell is an Australian politician championing animal rights. They delve into the contentious Melbourne Cup, examining the ethical implications of horse racing. Katherine defends the industry's practices and welfare measures, while Georgie raises concerns about the treatment of racing horses and the need for reform. Their heated discussion balances tradition with animal advocacy, providing insights into the vibrant yet controversial world of horse racing in Australia.

Matt Bevan, host of the award-winning podcast American If You’re Listening and an expert on US politics, breaks down the intricacies of the Electoral College. He explains how electors are chosen and the significance of swing states. The discussion contrasts US and Australian voting systems, shedding light on representation and voter impact. Bevan also delves into the potential challenges on Election Day and the effects of political divides on personal relationships, highlighting the hope for reconciliation amid differing views.

Dr. Mohamed Amr, co-founder of the Palestinian Australian New Zealand Medical Association, sheds light on the incredible efforts of Australian doctors providing free medical care to Palestinians fleeing Gaza. He discusses the severe healthcare barriers these refugees face due to restrictive visas that deny access to basic services. Amr shares poignant stories of surgeries performed on those with devastating injuries and emphasizes the urgent need for government support and a fairer healthcare response, highlighting the stark contrast with assistance given to Ukrainian refugees.

Craig Foster, a former Socceroos captain and human rights advocate, discusses his passionate journey from soccer to championing social causes. He shares why he turned down a royal meeting, reflects on educational inequality, and emphasizes the intersection of sports and activism, particularly for Indigenous rights. The conversation takes on free speech challenges and the representation of marginalized communities. Plus, Foster's light-hearted take on weekend recommendations, like Coldplay's new song and Australian adaptations, adds a fun twist!

Jess Rowe, an accomplished journalist and host of The Jess Rowe Big Talk Show, joins Chanel Contos, founder of Teach Us Consent, to explore the critical topic of consent. They emphasize the importance of open conversations about boundaries, especially in parenting. The duo tackles myths surrounding consent, revealing how mainstream media can distort young people's understanding. They advocate for proactive education, encouraging both parents and children to foster an environment of enthusiastic communication about consent.

Jeremy Buckingham, a member of the NSW Legislative Council and advocate for legalizing cannabis, raises provocative claims about a potential serial killer along the North Coast. He highlights the disturbing pattern of 67 missing or murdered women from 1977 to 2009. Buckingham discusses the emotional impact of these unresolved cases on families and why he feels it's vital to address them now. His call for investigations sheds light on systemic law enforcement issues, igniting a crucial conversation about justice and community safety.

Mark Pelley, a seasoned snake handler with decades of experience, shares his gripping story of surviving a tiger snake bite. He discusses the rising encounters with snakes in Australian suburbs and the adaptations of snake species to urban life. Mark emphasizes the critical first aid steps after a bite and highlights the threats posed to pets. Listeners will find his personal recovery journey inspiring, along with valuable tips on navigating snake season safely.