If You're Listening
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The world is on fire. There's a coup. Inflation is through the roof, and AI is taking our jobs. What does it all mean? Each week, Matt Bevan explains the biggest story in world news while hiding in his basement from assassins and authoritarian regimes.
Recent episodes include an exploration of the relationship between India and China, a closer look at the Saudi Arabian city of NEOM, the conflict in the Middle East, the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Iran, and Ukraine's incursions into Vladimir Putin's Russia. Matt Bevan draws connections between stories from the past and the events of the present to help listeners understand world news and international affairs.
The podcast also features series about big moments in world news; previous series have focused on the United States presidential election, the United Kingdom's 14 years of Conservative Party leadership, Donald Trump's relationship with Russia, Donald Trump's presidency and promise to Make America Great Again, the Mueller Report, Vladimir Putin's scheme to destroy western democracies, how the relationship between Australia and China came to the verge of collapse, and Australia's turbulent history with climate change.
There's a new episode of If You're Listening every Thursday.
Recent episodes include an exploration of the relationship between India and China, a closer look at the Saudi Arabian city of NEOM, the conflict in the Middle East, the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Iran, and Ukraine's incursions into Vladimir Putin's Russia. Matt Bevan draws connections between stories from the past and the events of the present to help listeners understand world news and international affairs.
The podcast also features series about big moments in world news; previous series have focused on the United States presidential election, the United Kingdom's 14 years of Conservative Party leadership, Donald Trump's relationship with Russia, Donald Trump's presidency and promise to Make America Great Again, the Mueller Report, Vladimir Putin's scheme to destroy western democracies, how the relationship between Australia and China came to the verge of collapse, and Australia's turbulent history with climate change.
There's a new episode of If You're Listening every Thursday.
Episodes
Mentioned books
8 snips
Aug 6, 2025 • 22min
Are the MAGA podcasters right about Epstein?
The podcast dives deep into the mystery surrounding Jeffrey Epstein’s death, questioning whether it was negligence or foul play. It tackles intriguing conspiracy theories about surveillance discrepancies. Additionally, it unravels the tangled web of Epstein's connections with powerful figures, including Bill Gates, shedding light on manipulation and exploitation. The shift in stance of MAGA podcasters like Dan Bongino and Kash Patel is also examined, raising eyebrows about who really holds the truth in the Epstein saga.
10 snips
Aug 4, 2025 • 23min
Australia's most dangerous home-grown conspiracy theory
Cam Wilson, author of Conspiracy Nation, dives into Australia's PA96 conspiracy surrounding the Port Arthur massacre. He discusses how tragic events can fuel wild conspiracy theories and the emotional toll on families. The conversation explores the media's portrayal of the shooter and delves into the political fallout concerning gun control. Wilson unpacks the psychological allure of conspiracies, revealing how misinformation perpetuates mistrust and division, especially during chaotic times.
Jul 30, 2025 • 21min
Was Jeffrey Epstein a Mossad agent?
Dive into the tangled web of Jeffrey Epstein's mysterious life and his rumored connections to Israeli intelligence. Explore the shadowy legacy of Robert Maxwell and how it ties to Epstein and Ghislaine. Unravel the media's role in shaping narratives, including the story of Mordecai Venunu and his pursuit to unveil Israel's nuclear secrets. Delve into the legal controversies surrounding Epstein and consider the conspiracy theories that blur the lines between fact and fiction in this gripping discourse.
Jul 28, 2025 • 21min
How to avoid abduction by a Mossad honeypot
Dive into the intriguing tale of Mordecai Vanunu, who was almost a whistleblower but fell into a trap set by a stunning Mossad agent named Cindy. Discover the complexities of espionage, media representations, and how Cindy's charm led to Vanunu's abduction. Explore the dual lives of intelligence operatives like Cheryl, who transitioned from a world of secrets to everyday life. The discussion even touches on the hilarity of honeypot strategies and absurd tire advertisements, blending humor with a captivating historical narrative.
6 snips
Jul 23, 2025 • 23min
Israel’s not-so-secret nuclear weapons
Unravel the enigma of Israel's nuclear arsenal shrouded in secrecy. Discover the historical roots of its nuclear ambitions and the startling event observed by a U.S. spy satellite in 1979. Delve into the deceptive operations at Dimona, where a textile plant concealed nuclear enrichment. Explore the gripping story of whistleblower Mordecai Vanunu, who faced moral dilemmas while exposing the truth. Examine the global community's response to Israel's strategic ambiguity and its implications for regional stability.
Jul 16, 2025 • 22min
How Ayatollah Khomeini changed Iran
Explore the profound impact of Ayatollah Khomeini as he transformed Iran from a monarchy to an Islamic Republic. Delve into the chaos surrounding Khomeini's funeral and the national grief that followed. Discover how his leadership shaped the revolutionary fervor, leading to brutal repression and the theocratic regime. The discussion also highlights the resilience of Iran during the Iran-Iraq War and Khomeini's vision for a global Islamic caliphate. A mysterious disappearance in the Australian outback adds a thought-provoking twist.
Jul 9, 2025 • 19min
How a cancer diagnosis ended the US-Iran relationship
Delve into Iran's transformation from a monarchy to an Islamic theocracy, spurred by the Shah's battle with cancer. Discover how his health crises intertwined with the U.S.-Iran relationship, ultimately leading to the Iranian Revolution. Explore the clash of modernization and authoritarianism in the Shah's reign, as well as the fallout from the hostage crisis that forever changed diplomatic ties. This captivating narrative reveals how personal struggles can echo through history, shaping nations and their conflicts.
Jul 2, 2025 • 25min
Has the US busted Iran’s nuclear bomb plans?
The podcast dives deep into the chaotic aftermath of the Israel-Iran conflict and the U.S. military's impact on Iran's nuclear ambitions. It questions the myth of Iran's imminent bomb capability that's persisted for years. The surprising connection between an American bowling alley company and Tehran's nuclear plans adds an unexpected twist. Historical context surrounding Iran's nuclear program, from the 'Atoms for Peace' initiative to secret facilities, highlights the intricate web of international relations and strategy.
Jun 30, 2025 • 34min
Dr Kylie Moore-Gilbert on the bombing of Iran’s Evin prison
Dr. Kylie Moore-Gilbert, a political scientist and author who endured 804 days in Iran's Evin prison, shares her gripping experiences and insights. She reflects on the oppressive conditions she faced, including solitary confinement and the challenging dynamics with her cellmates, including a spy. Kylie analyzes the recent bombing of Evin prison by Israel, discussing its profound implications on the Iranian regime and dissident movements. She also emphasizes the resilience of the Iranian people amidst ongoing repression and the international community's response to their struggles.
Jun 25, 2025 • 23min
Why Israel's drones have changed the future of war
Drones are revolutionizing modern warfare, turning traditional combat strategies on their head. Covert operations involving concealed explosive drones present new challenges for intelligence and defense. The ramifications of drone warfare impact everything from global supply chains to international tensions, such as the ceasefire between Iran and Israel. Moreover, the cheap and easily deployable nature of drones make them a formidable threat that can't easily be countered. The rise of this technology signals a dramatic shift in how wars will be fought in the future.
