7am

Gregg Carlstrom, the Middle East correspondent for The Economist, shares insights on the seismic changes in Syria following the decline of Bashar al-Assad's regime. He discusses the emotional aftermath as citizens celebrate amidst a backdrop of chaos and uncertainty. The conversation also covers the evolution of the rebel group HTS and the complex challenges of establishing governance in post-Assad Syria. Additionally, Carlstrom analyzes the shifting geopolitical landscape, including the potential roles of Turkey and Iran in this new era.

In this episode, Sarah Hanson-Young, the Greens' communications spokesperson and chair of the Senate inquiry into greenwashing, dives into the influence of major gas companies on Australian media. She reveals how News Corp tabloids published pro-gas stories funded by these companies, blurring the line between journalism and advertising. The discussion spans the media's role in masking corruption, the pressure on environmental legislation from the fossil fuel lobby, and the necessity for transparency and accountability in political reporting.

Jason Koutsoukis, a special correspondent for The Saturday Paper, dives into the disruptive tactics of political campaign strategies in Australia. He reveals how low-quality memes and innovative digital marketing helped Scott Morrison's government win in 2019. The conversation examines the rise of Topham Guerin, who are now advising Peter Dutton, and the ethical dilemmas posed by deepfakes in politics. Koutsoukis also highlights the challenges faced by the Labor party in their digital battle and the implications for public trust in political discourse.

Kim Williams, Chair of the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, addresses critical challenges facing the ABC amid a wave of structural changes. He emphasizes the need for greater investment to counteract significant funding cuts and discusses the ABC's vital role in a landscape rife with misinformation. The conversation also delves into recent audience feedback on programming decisions and the impact of management changes on the broadcaster's integrity. Williams defends controversial decisions, navigating a path forward for public media in Australia.

Clare Wright, an award-winning author known for her impactful histories like "The Forgotten Rebels of Eureka," discusses her latest work, "Näku Dhäruk: The Bark Petitions." She emphasizes the importance of Indigenous histories in civil rights and the relevance of the Yerkela people's 1963 Bark Petitions. Clare shares her formative experiences with Australian history and how her immigrant background shaped her perspective. Her transformative journey in Arnhem Land highlights the critical role of listening to diverse voices in enriching our understanding of history.

George Megalogenis, author of *Minority Report: The New Shape of Australian Politics*, delves into the shifting dynamics of Australian politics. He discusses how the electorate is splintering, challenging the viability of major parties. The conversation highlights the implications of The Voice referendum and the risk of a minority government shaping future elections. Megalogenis also reflects on the decline of traditional party support and the potential chaos of a hung parliament, emphasizing the need for new political alliances.

Joseph Earp, a contributor to The Saturday Paper, dives into the surprising link between Donald Trump and professional wrestling. He explores how Trump's 2007 match with Vince McMahon showcased his political style and manipulation of the crowd. Earp highlights the cultural impact of WWE on Trump's rhetoric, revealing how wrestling tactics shaped his public persona. The conversation also touches on Linda McMahon’s transition from WWE to a Trump cabinet role, illustrating the blurred lines between entertainment and politics.

Margaret Simons, a Walkley Award-winning journalist with deep expertise in Philippine politics, discusses the alarming tactics of political retribution seen in regimes like that of Rodrigo Duterte. She highlights the wrongful imprisonment of human rights activist Leila de Lima, who opposed Duterte’s brutal drug war, and the systemic corruption that allowed such abuses. As de Lima is finally released from prison, the conversation sheds light on the resilience needed to confront autocracy and the implications for democracy, echoing global political tensions.

In this discussion, Mike Seccombe, a national correspondent for The Saturday Paper who specializes in Australian politics, delves into Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's recent decision to halt a vital environmental bill. He sheds light on the political strategies behind prioritizing mining interests in Western Australia over environmental reforms. The conversation reveals the strained relations within the Labor Party and how this decision might empower the Greens. Seccombe’s insights highlight the intricate balance of political survival and eco-friendly legislation.

Jason Koutsoukis, special correspondent for The Saturday Paper, delves into the intricate relationship between Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Peter V'landys, chair of the Australian Rugby League Commission. They explore how this bond influences key decisions on gambling advertising reforms. Koutsoukis reveals the political maneuvers delaying these reforms, highlighting the tension between public demand and the government's ties to sports figures. The discussion also uncovers why the government's response has been a mix of proposals and internal disappointment.