If You're Listening
ABC Australia
The world is on fire. There's a coup. Inflation is through the roof, and AI is taking our jobs. What does it all mean? Each week, Matt Bevan explains the biggest story in world news while hiding in his basement from assassins and authoritarian regimes.
Recent episodes include an exploration of the relationship between India and China, a closer look at the Saudi Arabian city of NEOM, the conflict in the Middle East, the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Iran, and Ukraine's incursions into Vladimir Putin's Russia. Matt Bevan draws connections between stories from the past and the events of the present to help listeners understand world news and international affairs.
The podcast also features series about big moments in world news; previous series have focused on the United States presidential election, the United Kingdom's 14 years of Conservative Party leadership, Donald Trump's relationship with Russia, Donald Trump's presidency and promise to Make America Great Again, the Mueller Report, Vladimir Putin's scheme to destroy western democracies, how the relationship between Australia and China came to the verge of collapse, and Australia's turbulent history with climate change.
There's a new episode of If You're Listening every Thursday.
Recent episodes include an exploration of the relationship between India and China, a closer look at the Saudi Arabian city of NEOM, the conflict in the Middle East, the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Iran, and Ukraine's incursions into Vladimir Putin's Russia. Matt Bevan draws connections between stories from the past and the events of the present to help listeners understand world news and international affairs.
The podcast also features series about big moments in world news; previous series have focused on the United States presidential election, the United Kingdom's 14 years of Conservative Party leadership, Donald Trump's relationship with Russia, Donald Trump's presidency and promise to Make America Great Again, the Mueller Report, Vladimir Putin's scheme to destroy western democracies, how the relationship between Australia and China came to the verge of collapse, and Australia's turbulent history with climate change.
There's a new episode of If You're Listening every Thursday.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Oct 4, 2023 • 19min
Should Elon Musk have stopped Ukraine attacking Russia?
The podcast explores Elon Musk's refusal to let the Ukrainian military use his Starlink satellites to attack Russia. It discusses the implications of Musk having the power to decide military operations and questions if he was justified. The podcast also delves into the advancements in satellite internet technology, the history of the Iridium satellite phone, and the impact of the Russian invasion on Ukraine's internet infrastructure. It concludes by touching on Elon Musk's various ventures and mentioning a related podcast on Joe Biden's involvement in Ukraine.
Sep 27, 2023 • 14min
The assassination that broke the bond between Canada and India
Hardeep Singh Nijjar, the person murdered in Vancouver, has caused controversy between Canada and India. The podcast explores his assassination, the accusations from both countries, and the resulting diplomatic tensions. It also delves into the aftermath of the Golden Temple attack, the Air India bombing, and the alleged involvement of Vancouver Sikhs in pro-Khalistan terror attacks. The international relations impact of the assassination is also discussed.
Sep 20, 2023 • 18min
Why Modi picked a fight over India's true name
The podcast explores the naming of India as 'Bharat' during the G20 summit and the historical context. It discusses Dr B.R. Embedkar's fight against caste discrimination and the challenges faced during the partition. The chapter also delves into the struggle to find a unifying term for India and the present political climate under Modi's leadership. Additionally, it highlights the opposition parties calling for the eradication of Hinduism and the formation of the Indian National Development Inclusive Alliance.
Sep 13, 2023 • 16min
The race to build a petrol station on the moon
Countries like the US, Russia, China, and India are competing to establish a petrol station on the moon's South Pole. The podcast explores the historical doubts surrounding the moon landing and the race to build a petrol station. It also discusses the visionary journey of Robert Goddard and the potential of missions to Mars. Additionally, it delves into India and Russia's moon landing attempts, the militarization of space, and the plans of the US and China for space exploration and mining.
Sep 6, 2023 • 16min
Is the century-long search for a weight loss drug over?
Novo Nordisk's accidental discovery of semaglutide as a weight loss drug may be the first effective solution. The historical context of weight loss experiments and drug failures is explored. The challenges of losing weight and the demand for an effective product are discussed. The reality of a popular weight loss drug explores its side effects, high cost, and potential benefits.
Aug 30, 2023 • 15min
China cooked its population data. Now its economy is in crisis
China's economy is struggling due to the One Child Policy and dodgy population data. The declining population is causing trouble in the property sector and China is in a world of trouble. The podcast explores the impact of the declining population on the economy, the consequences of the One Child Policy, and the issue of inaccurate population data in China.
Aug 23, 2023 • 16min
Why is Russia meddling in West Africa?
In West Africa, there is a growing wave of coups and political unrest. France and Russia are involved, potentially leading to a proxy war. The recent coup in Niger has locals chanting against France and in favor of Putin. The podcast explores the historical significance of Timbuktu and the challenges it faces. French intervention in Mali and Russia's collaboration with Mali in anti-terror operations are discussed.
Aug 16, 2023 • 14min
How microchip-maker TSMC became the world's most important company
Introduction to microchip lab safety measures; The origins of TSMC and its founder's success; The intricate process of microchip manufacturing and rise of TSMC; The vulnerability of Taiwan and global economy's dependence on TSMC; Consequences and concerns of China taking over TSMC
Aug 9, 2023 • 16min
The decision that saved Australia from Argentina's 100 per cent inflation nightmare
Inflation in Argentina hits 100% with locals resorting to US dollars. Argentina and Australia's similar economic struggles explored. Argentina's roller coaster economy and rise of Javier Millet discussed. Impact of COVID-19 on Argentina's economy and controversial solution proposed.
Aug 2, 2023 • 16min
How a bunch of boxes might land Trump in prison
Donald Trump faces charges for attempting to delete CCTV evidence of alleged criminal behavior. The podcast explores Trump's decision to take classified documents when leaving the White House and the potential legal consequences. It delves into Trump leaking secret information, the illegal destruction of documents, missing documents, subpoenas, and a raid, as well as the charges, defense, and declassification issues at hand.
