Football fever heats up with discussions on the New Zealand Clasico, highlighting intense rivalries and how sports broadcasting affects fan engagement. The podcast dives into the potential split of a major media company, weighing the implications for digital versus print. On a political note, a humorous yet tense exchange between Boris Johnson and a journalist is explored, alongside a tribute to the late Nicholas Boyack, reflecting on his impact in journalism and the evolving media landscape.

Ted Jason Patrick-Ortiz, Senior Social Media Producer at GMA, shares his experience transforming the network's approach to TikTok. He discusses Australia's social media ban for under-16s and its impact on media reliance on big tech. Ted highlights innovative strategies for engaging younger audiences, emphasizing the importance of adapting content to maintain credibility. The conversation also delves into the risks and rewards of influencer partnerships in news media, showcasing how GMA has successfully boosted its newscast ratings through social platforms.

The PM's debut on Q+A sparks a lively analysis of political interviews and their complexities. The discussion dives into the Atlas Network's role in politics and a notable Media Council complaint that stirs debate. Wellington's Vision group faces scrutiny over political ties, raising questions about media integrity. Criticism of RNZ's literary coverage reveals gaps in promoting local authors despite funding boosts. Finally, the rescue of News Hub's archive showcases the importance of preserving journalistic history for future generations.

Lee Scanlon, Editor of the Westport News, discusses the dire impact of local council advertising policies on newspapers. Jesse Archer, morning host at Lake FM, underscores the risks of potential newspaper closures for local news coverage. Graham Austin, a law professor, dives into copyright challenges facing satire and parody, especially with the rise of AI. The conversation highlights the critical role of local journalism in community engagement and democracy while navigating the complexities of digital media rights and ownership.

A lively discussion kicks off with a humorous quiz before turning serious, analyzing media's role in shaping perceptions around the Treaty Principles Bill. Race, rights, and representation ignite a heated debate, reflecting complex cultural issues. The dynamics between political gestures and media strategy take center stage, particularly involving the ACT Party. Insights into upcoming productions and funding for factual content reveal the challenges faced by media organizations while hinting at exciting new dramas celebrating Māori culture.

Jonathan Milne, an investigative journalist and head of Newsroom Pro, shares captivating insights from his podcast 'Powderkeg'. He discusses the media's mixed coverage of significant events in New Zealand, including a contentious haka and large-scale protests. The decline of local journalism is a major focus, especially the financial struggles and the rise of digital platforms. Milne emphasizes the importance of persistent journalism in uncovering hidden truths, such as the controversies surrounding the AG1 supplement and the call for greater transparency in media practices.

Accusations of media bias surround the coverage of a recent peaceful Hīkoi. Discussions reveal contrasting portrayals of protests and the challenges of journalistic impartiality. Controversy arises over the New Zealand Herald's handling of David Bain's privacy, raising questions about the protection of minors. The podcast also reflects on the struggles facing print media, highlighted by the closure of a notable magazine and efforts to combat rising digital scams, showcasing the evolving landscape of news reporting.

Aaron Smale, an award-winning investigative journalist recognized for his work on state care abuse, discusses his puzzling exclusion from a crucial Crown apology event. He dives into the implications of New Zealand Media and Entertainment's plan to shutter 14 local papers, sparking concerns about community coverage. The conversation highlights the struggle for media accountability, the emotional weight of historical injustices, and the overarching challenges facing local journalism in an era of financial strain.

Discover the intricate dance between journalism and politics as Hikoi hits the roads, exploring state care abuse and government accountability. Delve into media dynamics, where press freedom clashes with political power. Witness the fallout from a foreign football flashpoint that escalated into international tensions amid misreporting. The challenges facing TVNZ's news division raise questions about media independence and public trust. It's a rollercoaster of political narratives and media representation!

John Allsopp, Editor of The Media Today, provides sharp insights into how Trump's victory has reshaped media coverage. Ibrahim Sufyan, from the Merdeka Centre, discusses Malaysia's impending social media regulations aimed at curbing misinformation while balancing freedom of expression. Meanwhile, Wee Kok Hin sheds light on the challenges faced by independent news sources under these new laws. Together, they explore the wider implications of political events on media integrity and accountability, both in the US and across Southeast Asia.