7am

Jason Koutsoukis, special correspondent for The Saturday Paper, digs into the strategies of the hard-right group Advance and their campaign against the Australian Greens. He reveals how Advance is amassing funds to target progressive voters, especially women, by framing the Greens as a threat to freedom and security. The discussion highlights the group's origins, financial backing, and the challenges journalists face in exposing their operations. Koutsoukis also examines how these political maneuvers could impact the upcoming federal election.

In this conversation, Bruce Pascoe, a prolific writer known for his impactful book 'Dark Emu,' discusses his new novel, 'Imperial Harvest.' He reflects on the importance of messy democracy and the complexities of historical narratives. The dialogue touches on themes like war and identity through a tale set in 13th century Mongolia, as well as highlighting the unseen heroes of colonialism. Listeners engage with stories from coastal communities and the resilience of towns like Malacuda as they navigate change and loss.

The rise of therapy apps like BetterHelp promises easier access to mental health support but raises significant concerns. A clinical psychologist discusses the limitations of these digital platforms and the ethical implications of turning mental health professionals into gig workers. Issues of data privacy and sustainability for psychologists are also highlighted. The episode emphasizes the need for caution when using these apps and encourages users to carefully assess both their mental health needs and the credentials of providers.

Brittany Higgins, a prominent figure in high-profile legal battles over sexual assault allegations, joins Senator Linda Reynolds, currently engaged in a defamation dispute with her former employee. They discuss the emotional and legal complexities of dragging a rape survivor into court and the impact of social media on such cases. The conversation also touches on courtroom dynamics, political fallout, and the legacy of defamation in Australian politics, questioning the motivations behind political figures suing those who allege victimization.

Muzafar Ali, a Hazara human rights activist and photographer, shares his harrowing experiences after returning to Afghanistan. He highlights the stark reality of underground schools where girls risk their lives for education under Taliban rule. Muzafar contrasts the external perceptions of Afghanistan with the resilience of its women and educators. He recounts his dangerous journey back, navigating threats while documenting the indomitable spirit of those fighting for knowledge. Personal stories illuminate the courage and determination that thrive amidst oppression.

Neale Radley, a high-needs quadriplegic who became disabled after a diving accident, shares his experiences in aged care. He reveals the profound isolation faced by younger residents and critiques the recent changes to the Aged Care Act that may worsen their situation. Alongside Rick Morton, they discuss urgent housing needs and the emotional toll on young disabled individuals trapped in nursing homes. The conversation highlights the need for better government policies to ensure dignity and support for all ages in aged care.

Imane Khelif is a trailblazing Algerian boxer who began her journey for self-defense but faced backlash after her Olympic gold medal win. In this discussion, she speaks candidly about the intense scrutiny female athletes endure regarding their bodies, especially concerning gender identity and fairness in sports. The podcast highlights a troubling history of inspecting women's bodies and the biases that particularly affect women of color. Khelif advocates for a cultural shift to celebrate athletes for their skills rather than their appearance.

Eric Beecher, a seasoned journalist and media proprietor, shares insights from his book 'The Men Who Killed the News.' He delves into the crisis facing journalism, discussing the tension between profit and integrity. Beecher highlights the role of media ownership in democracy and the ethical responsibilities it entails. He also explores the impact of AI on journalism and the balance of creativity and risk in media. With a candid take on the industry's evolution, he emphasizes the need for informed consumers to support quality journalism.

Martin McKenzie-Murray, associate editor of The Saturday Paper, delves into Australia's literacy crisis, highlighting that a third of children struggle with reading. He discusses the outdated methods still prevalent in classrooms and the recent shift towards explicit phonics instruction. The conversation also uncovers the emotional challenges educators face amid political pressures and reflects on how socioeconomic factors impact children's access to effective reading education. McKenzie-Murray argues for a critical reevaluation of teaching methods to ensure every child can read well.

Tim Walz, the Governor of Minnesota, contrasts sharply with J.D. Vance, Donald Trump's running mate, who has attracted attention for his eccentric past. They discuss how Walz's relatable 'dad appeal' may resonate with voters, while Vance captivates the MAGA base with his charismatic speaking style. The podcast explores humor in political campaigns, critiques the Democrat strategy of base mobilization, and analyzes the implications of having childless candidates on social issues like abortion. It's a deep dive into the shifting dynamics of American politics.