If You're Listening

Dive into the chaotic aftermath of the 2020 presidential election, where claims of fraud ignited unrest and strategic maneuvers were set in motion. Discover the tangled story of Dennis Montgomery, whose notorious fabrications contributed to conspiracy theories that have lingered dangerously. Explore the unsettling belief among many Americans in a rigged election and how this mindset poses threats to democracy as the nation gears up for another election cycle. The narrative unfolds with shocking revelations and critical insights into political tactics.

Within months of becoming US president in 2017, Donald Trump threatened North Korea with “fire and fury”. Soon afterwards, he would tear up a nuclear deal with Iran and bring the US to the brink of war. And yet that war never came. This is the story of how Donald Trump resisted temptation and kept the peace.This is a repeat episode, it was first broadcast on September 21, 2020. You can hear the rest of that series on our website or in our podcast feed: America, If You’re Listening.News audio used in this episode comes from: Arirang News, Inside Edition, CNN, ABC America, Democracy Now, Fox News, CBS, ABC News, and France 24. Follow If You're Listening on the ABC Listen app.Check out our series on YouTube: https://youtu.be/J2021J90VM8?si=Tzw4B2i3Zp_qzPaK

Explore the fascinating world of OpenAI and its ambitious quest to create superintelligent AI while safeguarding humanity. Delve into the internal struggles between safety and profit, spotlighting the dramatic power dynamics involving CEO Sam Altman. Is an AI apocalypse on the horizon, or can we trust our technological creations? The discussion poses thought-provoking questions on risks, benefits, and the urgent need for regulation in AI development.

In a pivotal discussion, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping explore the evolving relationship between India and China after years of tension. They dive into historical flashpoints like the Pangong Tso conflict and Galwan Valley skirmishes. The leaders discuss strategic alliances like the Quad in response to China's regional influence and the shifting geopolitical dynamics that could reshape their diplomatic ties. What does this thaw mean for their countries and the world? Tune in for insights!

This month, the US Justice Department unsealed an indictment of two Russian state media employees. It alleges that they were funnelling millions of dollars into the pockets of American YouTubers, known for their contrarian viewpoints and controversial takes on the war in Ukraine. The YouTubers say they are victims of a criminal scheme and did not know they were being paid by Russia. But it’s not the first time that something like this has happened. There’s a long history of foreign adversaries covertly paying Americans to spread fake news to other Americans—it’s a move right out of Nazi Germany’s propaganda playbook.Subscribe to If You're Listening on the ABC Listen app.Check out our series on YouTube: https://youtu.be/6XNK55tc3x8?si=LfMKtmTckpSzSGHO

The massive infrastructure project NEOM sits in the Saudi Arabian desert, and the jewel in its crown is The Line, a futuristic city which looks insane. The AI-generated ads depict a car-free city, for 9 million people, housed between two mirrors. Despite promises of millions of residents by 2030, the project has been scaled back by 98 per cent. The Line will be more like a dot. So what the hell happened? And was it all just a scam?Subscribe to If You're Listening on the ABC Listen app.Check out our series on YouTube: https://youtu.be/SQdCl-cX-cU?si=AEQhcHtoBQXz2tSn

In this discussion, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine analyzes the bold moves his country is making against Russia, challenging Vladimir Putin's nuclear threats. Zelenskyy emphasizes how Ukraine's incursion into Russian territory has shifted perceptions of 'red lines' in warfare. They delve into how these military maneuvers affect international support and the potential redefinition of nuclear deterrence. The conversation also considers China’s cautious stance amidst the escalating tensions and its impact on global relations.

It’s a dangerous moment for the Middle East. Israel and Hezbollah exchanged heavy fire over the weekend, including attacks on a pretty unique pocket of farmland — an Israeli-annexed area called the Golan Heights. In 2019 then-President Donald Trump broke with the rest of the international community and recognised it as part of Israel. There’s even an Israeli settlement named after him. Now, the world is watching the Golan Heights closely, fearful that fighting there could escalate and become a massive regional conflict.Subscribe to If You're Listening on the ABC Listen app.Check out our series on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ChypAR3VoTs?si=xqd83_k1xcRgCRFd

A shift is on display at the Democratic National Convention—from fear of Donald Trump to mocking him. After years of arguing Trump is dangerous, the Democratic pick for Vice President Tim Walz is changing the party’s attack strategy, calling their opponents 'weird'. This potential path to victory is not seen as very presidential. But could it work?Subscribe to If You're Listening on the ABC Listen app.Check out our series on YouTube: https://youtu.be/GnsBdPelMus?si=5x6EbHdto2MTIbo-

Ismail Haniyeh, a prominent Hamas leader, discusses the shocking assassination attributed to Israel that took place in Tehran. He explores the bold tactics employed by Mossad, reflecting on the evolution of Israel's assassination strategies from historical missions to current operations against Hamas. The conversation delves into the geopolitical implications of such actions, the intricacies of international espionage, and the unique technologies used in covert operations. Haniyeh's insights highlight the delicate balance of power in the region as tensions escalate.