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
16 snips
Aug 27, 2025 • 24min
The Art of the Peace Deal
The podcast dives into Donald Trump's ambition for a Nobel Peace Prize, focusing on his plans for ceasefire talks in Russia-Ukraine and Israel-Palestine. With Steve Witkoff, a golf enthusiast but lackluster negotiator, tasked with brokering peace, hilarity ensues. They also explore the historic peace deal between Armenia and Azerbaijan, alongside a personal narrative linking grief to peace aspirations. The complexities of negotiating with figures like Hamas and the tumultuous history of the South Caucasus are examined, raising questions about genuine solutions.
6 snips
Aug 25, 2025 • 15min
Does the Chinese Embassy look tacky?
The conversation kicks off with a lively architectural analysis of embassies in Canberra, especially the uniquely designed Chinese embassy. A humorous critique showcases its 90s aesthetics and construction quirks, sparking ideas for a whimsical mini golf course in the embassy district. The hosts then take listeners on a journey through various embassies, merging tradition with modernity, while exploring how geopolitical issues shape their designs. Personal favorites emerge, particularly the striking buildings of Bosnia-Herzegovina and East Timor.
21 snips
Aug 20, 2025 • 27min
The blueprint for Palestine
Australia, the UK, France, and Canada are preparing to recognize Palestine at the UN, raising questions about what this means for statehood. The discussion draws parallels between Palestine's journey and Timor-Leste's fight for independence. Insights into East Timor's colonial struggles shed light on the broader geopolitical dynamics influencing Palestine today. The podcast also tackles the complexities of ceasefire negotiations influenced by international politics, illustrating the ongoing quest for recognition and stability in both regions.
8 snips
Aug 18, 2025 • 26min
Kara drags Matt back down the rabbit hole
Dive into the unexpected connections between the Oslo Accords and Jeffrey Epstein's legacy. Explore the fascinating story of Norwegian negotiators and their adventures, including a mysterious trip to Mongolia. Discover the cultural fabric of Mongolia and the complexities of its governance. The hosts dissect the Tony-winning play 'Oslo,' revealing its diplomatic themes and the drama surrounding elite ties to Epstein. Intriguingly, they unveil significant financial dealings that raise questions about morality in art and politics.
Aug 13, 2025 • 24min
How Middle East peace plans were hatched in the Norwegian woods
Dive into the fascinating world of Middle East peace negotiations, where two Norwegians believed they could make a difference. Discover the complexities of the Oslo Accords and the personal connections that shaped them. Explore the historical context of Palestine's recognition and the impact of Rabin's tragic assassination on peace efforts. Unravel how maps reflect varying international perspectives on the conflict. This captivating narrative reveals the ongoing challenges and evolving dynamics of peace in this tumultuous region.
Aug 11, 2025 • 24min
The nurse on death row in Yemen
Ellie Grounds, ABC South Asia correspondent, dives into the gripping saga of Nimisha Priya, an Indian nurse wrongfully convicted of murder in Yemen's chaotic justice system. Grounds unpacks the dire situation as Priya faces the looming threat of execution while navigating isolation and abuse. The complexities of her legal nightmare reveal the cultural gaps in justice and the desperate negotiations for her potential pardon through blood money. With a blend of serious themes and some lighter moments, Grounds brings a nuanced perspective to this harrowing tale.
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.
