7am

Peter Dutton, the Australian politician known for his recent foray into TikTok, discusses his motives and challenges in engaging a younger audience. He reflects on his uninspiring first post and the broader trend of politicians on social media. Special correspondent Jason Koutsoukis analyzes TikTok's dual role as a platform for political connection and concern, especially regarding its Chinese ownership. The conversation highlights the ethical implications and potential political embarrassments as Australian politicians navigate this digital landscape.

Mary Beard, a celebrated classicist and author known for her impactful works like 'SPQR,' shares her insights on Ancient Rome. She reflects on how a pivotal Latin phrase ignited her passion for classics. Beard also discusses the societal challenges of classical scholarship and the misconceptions surrounding Roman emperors. Delving into storytelling, she highlights how popular narratives can distort historical realities. Lastly, she explores the enduring wisdom of Marcus Aurelius and its relevance to modern self-help.

Explore the intriguing saga of the Ladies Lounge at MONA, designed as a playful commentary on women's rights but now facing legal challenges for discrimination. The discussion highlights the art installation’s gendered exclusivity and the court's ruling. Legal complexities unfold as parties debate what constitutes discrimination versus artistic expression. The authenticity of artworks within the lounge raises questions about representation in the art world, shedding light on broader societal inequalities.

Harini Rathnakumar, a Tamil child refugee, dreams of studying medicine in Australia. She shares her journey from India, facing perilous challenges and family separation. Despite her aspirations, Harini confronts harsh realities, including international tuition fees of nearly $100,000 and being disenrolled just months before graduation. The discussion highlights the systemic barriers asylum seekers face, their emotional struggles, and the broader immigration issues impacting their futures in a new country.

Bill Shorten, the new vice-chancellor of the University of Canberra and former politician, shares insights on the lucrative world of university leadership. He discusses his shift from hopes of prime minister to a salary that could surpass the PM's by threefold. The conversation dives into the high remuneration of vice-chancellors and their increasing reliance on international student fees due to government funding cuts. Shorten addresses the challenges in Australian higher education, the impact of policy changes, and the growing corporate influence on universities.

Jim Chalmers, the concerned treasurer tackling the impact of interest rate hikes, and Angus Taylor, a key political figure, dive into the contentious relationship between the Treasury and the Reserve Bank. They highlight the tensions arising from Chalmers' sharp critiques of rising interest rates "smashing the economy." The discussion also uncovers the fallout from a failed bipartisan plan to fix the Reserve Bank and the implications of leadership changes, including appointing Michelle Bullock as its first female governor.

Investigative reporter Joshua Kaplan, known for his in-depth coverage of the militia movement, dives into the complexities of American Patriots Three Percent. He discusses their rapid growth post-January 6, examining how they've intertwined with law enforcement and community activities. Kaplan explores the group’s ideological foundations and their alarming tactics during elections, highlighting internal conflicts and their willingness to resort to violence if they feel elections threaten their beliefs. This eye-opening conversation sheds light on a secretive sector of American society.

Louise Milligan, an acclaimed investigative journalist in Australia, dives into her transition from real-life crime reporting to fiction writing with her debut novel, 'Pheasant’s Nest.' She shares how her Irish Catholic upbringing influenced her storytelling and the importance of empathy in journalism. Milligan discusses the therapeutic aspects of writing and creating complex characters, including a police officer grappling with PTSD. The conversation also addresses balancing serious themes with humor while teasing her upcoming second book set in Ireland.

Daniel Vansetten, a former inmate and contributor to the new national newspaper 'About Time,' discusses the urgent need for information in Australian prisons. He highlights how the publication aims to connect incarcerated individuals and combat the isolation they face, especially during the pandemic. Together with managing director Rosie Heselev, they explore the challenges of launching a newspaper for prisoners, emphasizing the importance of empathy, dignity, and sharing personal stories to inspire hope and change within the correctional system.

In a gripping discussion, Donald Trump, the controversial former president, and Kamala Harris, the current Vice President, lay out their divergent visions for America amidst a tense political atmosphere. They tackle critical issues like abortion, immigration, and the economy, revealing stark contrasts in their policies. Dr. Emma Shortis provides insights on the debate dynamics, emphasizing how candidates' body language and strategic engagement can shape voter perceptions. The episode unveils the deep-rooted historical and racial divisions influencing their campaign narratives.