7am

Rick Morton, Senior reporter for The Saturday Paper and Walkley Award-winning journalist, dives deep into the Robodebt scandal in this engaging discussion. He shares insights from his book, Mean Streak, detailing the human cost of bureaucratic failures. The conversation explores societal stigmas against welfare recipients and critiques the misguided policies that exacerbated their struggles. Morton also emphasizes the importance of empathy in journalism and reflects on the ongoing quest for accountability within the government.

Maggie Perry, an election reporter for 6 News, discusses Australia’s proposed ban on social media for youths under 16. She highlights the ban's potential to isolate young people, especially queer youth, who rely on social media for support. Maggie critiques the government's vague proposals, stressing the need for clearer guidelines. She argues that educating teens about safe social media use would be more effective than outright bans, raising important questions about youth engagement and the role of digital platforms in their lives.

Denham Sadler, a contributor to The Saturday Paper, sheds light on the harrowing lives of asylum seekers on Nauru, where nearly 100 individuals live in dire conditions. He discusses their lack of work opportunities, surviving on just $230 fortnightly, which barely covers basic meals. The podcast highlights the reopening of a detention center and the increasing boat arrivals, while probing the severe mental health crises among detainees due to uncertainty and hopelessness. Sadler questions whether Australia's offshore detention policies will ever change.

Emily Barrett, managing editor of The Saturday Paper, delves into how Donald Trump's election has ignited a crypto surge. She discusses Trump's transition from critic to supporter of Bitcoin and what a pro-crypto administration could mean for global economics. The conversation highlights potential mainstream adoption of cryptocurrency, regulatory challenges, and the risks of scams. Barrett also explores varying regulatory perspectives following major financial events, revealing insights on the future of crypto under Trump's influence.

National correspondent Mike Seccombe dives into Gina Rinehart's powerful connections in both Australian and American politics. Rinehart, Australia's wealthiest person, celebrates her friendship with Donald Trump and her influence on conservative politicians like Peter Dutton. The conversation highlights her strategic funding of think tanks and initiatives like Project 2025 that aim to shift power dynamics. It also raises questions about how her wealth shapes policy-making and the future political landscape in Australia.

In this engaging discussion, Daniel James, a Yorta-Yorta journalist and broadcaster, sheds light on the historic call for Treaty in Australia, highlighting its significance and challenges amidst recent political shifts. He emphasizes the crucial role of truth-telling as a foundation for meaningful treaty negotiations and the vital representation of Aboriginal communities through the First Peoples Assembly. As support wanes, James reflects on the emotional weight of these negotiations and the ongoing pursuit of self-determination and reconciliation for Indigenous peoples in Victoria.

Rachel Kushner, an award-winning novelist acclaimed for her works like "The Flamethrowers," discusses her latest novel, "Creation Lake," a cerebral spy thriller. She shares insights into her character Sadie, whose amoral nature sparks a conversation about authenticity in storytelling. The podcast also explores the tension between idealism and pragmatism in character development, alongside the rich interplay between American and European literary traditions, illustrating how cultural contexts shape her narrative.

Cheyne Anderson, a producer, dives deep into the world of climate activism and the legal battles surrounding protests in Australia. He discusses Rising Tide's daring blockade at Newcastle Port, where activists clash with heightened police powers. Anderson highlights recent Supreme Court rulings that impact the right to protest and sheds light on the evolution of anti-protest laws. With a focus on the resilience of activists amid increasing government pushback, the conversation reveals the pressing issues facing the climate movement today.

Maddison Connaughton, a reporter for ABC’s Background Briefing, dives into the overlooked struggles of individuals affected by Covid-19 vaccine injuries. She discusses harrowing personal stories, like a woman diagnosed with vaccine-induced pericarditis, and the tragic loss of another linked to vaccine complications. The conversation highlights the flaws in Australia's vaccine compensation scheme, which many found inadequate. This situation raises critical questions about public trust in government and how we address vaccine side effects moving forward.

Geraldine Brooks, a Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist, delivers insightful commentary on America's political and environmental landscape. She reflects on a frightening bushfire in Brooklyn following the election, linking it to the dire implications of Trump's policies. Brooks critiques the dismissal of climate science and highlights the struggles of campaign rhetoric. She discusses the urgent need for local action and the challenges faced by vulnerable communities in a world increasingly impacted by climate change.