ABC News Daily

Peter Dean, the Director of Foreign Policy and Defence at the United States Studies Centre, dives into pressing global security issues. He discusses Donald Trump's call for increased defense spending among allies and the implications of a potential Chinese invasion of Taiwan. Dean highlights China's military ambitions and the need for international cooperation to maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific. He also examines Australia's readiness and the UK's recent defense investments, stressing the urgency for enhanced military preparedness in light of rising threats.

Alan Kohler, ABC's finance expert and presenter, dives into the complexities of housing investment. He discusses the alarming trend of rising house prices despite falling interest rates and highlights the issues of housing affordability. Kohler draws parallels to the early 2000s, suggesting conditions are ripe for another surge. He emphasizes the psychological effects of tax reforms and immigration on property preferences, advocating for housing to be viewed as a less desirable investment. The conversation is a critical look at Australia's looming housing crisis.

Stephen Stockwell, co-host of the Mushroom Case Daily podcast, delves into the gripping details of Erin Patterson's trial for allegedly poisoning her in-laws with deadly mushrooms. He dissects her courtroom testimony and the emotional dynamics at play, revealing the impact of her family grievances. Stockwell also highlights significant evidence presented over the trial's five weeks, including inconsistencies in Patterson's statements and the chilling implications of her culinary passion, all set against a backdrop of public fascination.

Ashley Parker, a staff writer at The Atlantic, dives into the tumultuous exit of Elon Musk from the Trump administration. She discusses Musk's ambitious yet unfulfilled claims about cutting government spending and the friction he faced with Treasury Secretary Scott Besson. The conversation also explores Musk's chaotic influence on government dynamics and the implications for his businesses like SpaceX and Tesla. Will this really be the last we see of Musk's political ventures? Tune in for intriguing insights!

Avani Dias, a Four Corners reporter investigating mental health care in New South Wales, unpacks the alarming exodus of psychiatrists. She reveals how pay disputes and a broken system are driving dedicated professionals away. The discussion highlights the current crisis, including alarming shortages and public safety concerns. Personal stories and statistics paint a grim picture of overwhelmed emergency departments, while the urgent need for reform is underscored. Avani emphasizes the dire impact of under-resourcing on patient care and the mental health community.

Rajan Menon, an expert in international relations and a senior research fellow at Columbia University, discusses Donald Trump's evolving views on Vladimir Putin amid the ongoing Ukraine war. He highlights Trump's initial admiration turning into criticism as peace talks falter. Menon explains why Putin is unlikely to heed Trump's calls for negotiations and examines the grim realities for Ukraine. The podcast also explores the impact of international military support and the broader implications for European defense strategies.

Join Taree farmer Josh Hack, who has endured devastating floods in the NSW Mid North Coast, as he shares his firsthand experiences battling extreme weather. He discusses moving cattle to safer ground and the exhausting cleanup process. The conversation highlights the emotional toll on farmers and questions the viability of agriculture in such a volatile climate. With insights into the increasing severity of floods and droughts, Josh emphasizes the resilience required from farmers to adapt to these ongoing challenges.

Nancy Jacobs, a history professor at Brown University, lends her expertise to dissect Donald Trump's provocative claims about white farmers in South Africa. The conversation unveils the interplay between Trump's confrontational style and the misinformation surrounding supposed persecution. They discuss the rising number of white South Africans seeking asylum in the U.S. and how varied immigration policies reflect racial discrimination. Jacobs challenges the narrative of genocide and emphasizes the need for accurate understanding of South African socio-economic issues.

World leaders are ramping up their criticisms of Israel amidst the escalating crisis in Gaza. A British surgeon sheds light on the dire conditions facing civilians, especially children, as they suffer from trauma and malnutrition. The international community is grappling with the ethical dilemmas of military actions amidst rising civilian casualties. Amidst limited opposition, the discussion highlights the complexities and implications of global pressure on Israel, exploring how international cooperation could influence the ongoing conflict.

Dan Mercer, an ABC energy reporter, dives into the intriguing world of virtual power plants and solar batteries. He discusses the compelling story of Sydney resident Peter Anderson, who aimed to sever ties with power companies through solar energy. Mercer highlights Anderson's struggles with battery management and fairness in compensation, as well as the implications of increasing home battery installations amid new subsidies. This conversation sheds light on the challenges and potential of household solar solutions in today's energy landscape.