Late Night Live - Separate stories podcast
News & Politics
About
Incisive analysis, fearless debates and nightly surprises. Explore the serious, the strange and the profound with David Marr. This LNL podcast contains the stories in separate episodes. Subscribe to the full podcast wherever you get your podcasts.
Episodes
- Laila’s story: how to save a mother and her five daughters from the Taliban
Mij Tanith, a refugee activist, recounts her experience helping Laila and her five daughters flee the Taliban in Afghanistan. The podcast details the effort to raise funds and secure visas to bring them to Australia.
- Fintan O'Toole on Trump's madman strategy
Fintan O'Toole discusses Donald Trump's political approach, considering it as a 'madman strategy' within a historical and political framework. He also examines how power affects leaders, referencing historical examples like Caesar. O'Toole…
- What happened to the survivors of Belsen concentration camp?
This episode examines the experiences of the survivors of the Belsen concentration camp after its liberation. It details the challenges faced by the prisoners, many suffering from typhus, and the British forces in managing the displaced pe…
- Netanyahu rivals join forces ahead of Israeli election
Ahead of the Israeli election, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's rivals, Naftali Bennett and Yair Lapid, have formed a new political party called Beyachad. This move creates a right-wing centrist coalition with questions raised about its…
- An old register forges new relations on Norfolk Island
The Pitcairn Island Register, documenting the descendants of the Bounty mutineers, has been loaned to Norfolk Island. This return allows new research into the stories of the original Pitcairn inhabitants.
- Keeping the signal alive: 2SER’s uncertain future
2SER, a community radio station in Sydney, faces potential closure due to funding issues. This situation reflects wider financial challenges within the media industry. Chris Nash and Jon Bisset are guests.
- Bruce Shapiro's USA: Supreme Court weakens voter rights
Bruce Shapiro, contributing editor with The Nation magazine, discusses the US Supreme Court's ruling on the 1965 Voting Rights Act and its potential effects on Black and minority voters. He also touches on Kash Patel's defamation suit agai…
- Colouring the classical past: Mark Bradley and the rediscovery of painted sculpture
Mark Bradley, Professor of Classics at the University of Nottingham, challenges the conventional view of monochrome ancient Greek and Roman sculpture. He argues that statues were originally richly painted in vivid colors.
- The unlikely resurgence of Kim Jong Un
This episode examines the resurgence of Kim Jong Un, North Korea's Supreme Leader. It covers his efforts to foster closer ties with Beijing and Moscow and overcome internal rivals, leading to his current willingness to take more risks in t…
- Anna Henderson's Canberra: Japan PM's visit, plus Alice Springs mourns
Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi visits Australia for official agreements. Meanwhile, Alice Springs mourns Kumanjayi Little Baby, with ceremonies held across the Northern Territory.
- Australian writers celebrate David Malouf - friend, mentor, inspiration
This episode features Australian writers, friends, and peers celebrating the life and influence of David Malouf, who recently passed away at 92. They discuss his impact as a novelist, poet, teacher, and mentor to many.
- Richard Meagher was at the centre of early Australian politics. But he had a scandalous past
This episode of Late Night Live discusses Richard Meagher, a Sydney solicitor involved in a 1895 scandal. He defended George Dean, who was accused of poisoning his wife, despite knowing Dean's guilt. Meagher later pursued a political caree…
- Ian Dunt's UK: The King's speech to Congress. Will Trump get the message?
Ian Dunt discusses King Charles's speech to the US Congress and the ongoing Peter Mandelson scandal. Morgan McSweeney is questioned by the House of Commons Foreign Affairs Committee regarding Mandelson's appointment.
- Port Arthur reminds us how the media should cover mass shootings
This episode explores media coverage of mass shootings, prompted by the Port Arthur massacre anniversary. Dr. Glynn Greensmith discusses how victim-centered journalism can influence public discourse and policymaking, contrasting it with se…
- What does Pakistan gain from its role in the US-Iran peace talks?
This episode of Late Night Live examines Pakistan's role as a mediator in US-Iran peace talks. Dr. Farzana Shaikh explores the influence of cryptocurrency, critical minerals, and counterterrorism on Pakistan's relationships with both count…
- The fear of Japanese espionage in wartime Australia
This episode discusses the concerns of Japanese espionage in Australia before Pearl Harbor. It examines the extent of spying activities by Japanese and their Australian associates, with insights from author Nick Hordern.
- How WWI radicalised Indigenous soldiers
This episode explores how indigenous Australian soldiers were radicalised by their experiences in World War I. Their wartime and post-war injustices led to the formation of the first all-Aboriginal political organisation. The episode featu…
- Silence, stigma and survival: polio in postwar Australia
This episode discusses the experiences of polio survivors in postwar Australia, focusing on the social stigma and long-term impacts of the disease. Professor Catharine Coleborne shares insights from her research into historical records and…
- The false stories the British elite tell about themselves
This episode of Late Night Live examines the narratives the British elite use to describe themselves. Sociologists present data that challenges the perception of a new, open meritocracy. The discussion includes Professor Sam Friedman, co-a…
- The German Jazz band that got stuck in wartime Australia
This episode of Late Night Live discusses The Weintraubs Syncopators, a German jazz band that fled Nazi Germany and found popularity in Australia before their career was ended by the Australian Musician's Union. The band recorded music for…
- Why did New Zealand's PM call a leadership vote on himself?
New Zealand PM Christopher Luxon called a leadership confidence vote amidst party discontent and tough economic conditions. The episode discusses whether he will survive until the next election.
- The great escape from WA, on the Catalpa ship
This episode commemorates the 150th anniversary of the Catalpa escape. It covers the 1876 event where a whaling ship, the Catalpa, transported six Irish political prisoners from Fremantle, WA, to America. Historian Tony Moore shares insigh…
- 40 years on, wildlife is thriving in Chernobyl
This episode discusses how wildlife has thrived in the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone 40 years after the nuclear disaster. It examines the adaptation of various species to the irradiated environment.
- Bruce Shapiro's USA: Another Trump cabinet member departs, and FBI's Kash Patel sues The Atlantic
This episode discusses another Trump cabinet member's departure and FBI Director Kash Patel suing The Atlantic. It also touches on the looming Iran ceasefire deadline.
- Does Australia's culture of remembrance need updating?
Military historian Peter Stanley discusses Australia's culture of remembrance, questioning if it reflects modern society. He asks who and what is remembered, and what is forgotten.
- Anna Henderson's Canberra: Pocock piles on gas tax pressure
In this episode, Anna Henderson discusses David Pocock's gas tax pressure and the NDIS. Recent polling data showing a close race between the PM and Opposition leader, and One Nation dipping, are also covered.
- Kati-Thanda Lake Eyre is filling up - but will tourists have fuel to get there?
Kati-Thanda Lake Eyre in Australia is filling up, presenting a rare opportunity for tourism. This episode explores the challenges of providing fuel for tourists and joy flight operators traveling to the remote location, with insights from…
- What if corporate scandals are actually good for the world?
Political scientists argue that exposed corporate scandals can spark democratic fury, potentially leading to civic renewal. The discussion explores the concept of 'billionaire backlash' and the influence of anti-elite anger on future polit…
- A family reckoning on law and violence in the Middle East
Legal anthropologist Dr Marika Sosnowski discusses her research into state violence and her discovery of her own family's involvement in war crimes during the establishment of Israel in the 1950s. She explores these topics in relation to h…
- Dennis Altman's bizarre encounters with AI scam book promoters
Writer and activist Dennis Altman discusses his experience receiving suspicious emails about book promotion that appear to be generated by AI. He reflects on these interactions in the context of his work for the Australian Book Review.
- The forgotten achievements of the Colombo Plan
This episode explores the history and impact of the 1951 Colombo Plan, examining its role in mutual development and aid beyond its well-known scholarship programs. Professor David Lowe discusses the plan's significance in the context of Co…
- Ian Dunt's UK: Orban's loss a blow for Europe's far right
Ian Dunt discusses Keir Starmer's proposed legislation for adopting EU rules and its implications for trade. The episode also covers Starmer's relationship with Donald Trump and the impact of Viktor Orban's recent election loss on the Euro…
- Hormuz as a chokepoint of power: the narrow seas that shaped global wars
Dr. Damian Valdez joins Late Night Live to discuss the historical and geopolitical significance of maritime chokepoints like the Strait of Hormuz. The episode examines how controlling these routes impacts modern energy security and global…
- US 'may stop by Cuba' after Iran, says Trump
Jon Lee Anderson, staff writer for The New Yorker, discusses the potential for U.S. military intervention in Cuba following comments made by President Donald Trump. The episode examines the likelihood of such an action in light of the curr…
- Magnificent heritage sites damaged in Iran
Archaeologist Dr. John Tidmarsh discusses the destruction of cultural heritage sites in Iran, including Golestan Palace and Chehel Sotoon Palace, following recent bombings. He reflects on the broader impact of conflict on Middle Eastern he…
- The gay conservatives out, loud and proud to vote Trump
This episode examines the Log Cabin Republicans, a group of LGBTQ+ conservatives advocating for inclusion within the Republican Party. Guest Ed Williams, the group's executive director, discusses the tension between conservative politics a…
- Australia's fuel import dependency exposed
Journalist and Professor Mark Kenny discusses Australia's fuel import dependency in the wake of government efforts to manage fuel security and supply concerns. The conversation examines the current supply situation and the government's res…
- The making of poet A.D. Hope, Australian literary giant
This episode of Late Night Live explores the life and career of acclaimed Australian poet A.D. Hope. Literary scholar Susan Lever discusses her new biography, which chronicles Hope's journey from Tasmania and Oxford to his status as a lead…
- Daniel Defoe, writer and spy
This episode explores the life of writer Daniel Defoe, known for 'Robinson Crusoe' and 'Moll Flanders', and his role as a spy in Scotland during the early 1700s. Guest Marc Mierowsky discusses Defoe's use of espionage and propaganda to inf…
- Arts under attack in Trump's America
This episode of Late Night Live examines the impact of Donald Trump’s second term on cultural institutions in the United States. Pulitzer Prize-winning art critic Sebastian Smee joins the program to discuss the political pressure facing ar…
- The art of Peter Marralwanga - Old Master and ritual leader
Anthropologist Luke Taylor discusses the life and artistic legacy of Peter Marralwanga, a Western Arnhem Land artist and ritual leader known for his traditional bark paintings. The episode explores how Marralwanga used his art to preserve…
- The antibiotic explosion in India
Professor Assa Doron discusses the impact of antibiotic overuse and misuse in India and its implications for global antimicrobial resistance. The episode explores potential systemic consequences for health care, food production, and public…
- Bruce Shapiro's USA: Will Trump follow through on his latest Iran threat?
Bruce Shapiro discusses the implications of Donald Trump's threat to destroy Iranian infrastructure if the Strait of Hormuz is not reopened. The conversation explores whether this action would constitute a war crime and the likelihood of t…
- Henry Reynolds turns Australian history upside down
Historian Henry Reynolds discusses how focusing on Northern Australia shifts the understanding of the country's colonial history, politics, and ambitions. He explores these themes in his book, Looking from the North: Australian History fro…
- A decade after the leak: The lasting impact of the Panama Papers
A decade after the Panama Papers leak, this episode discusses the investigation's global impact on tax avoidance and financial transparency. Guest Gerard Ryle of the ICIJ joins to examine the lasting legacy of these revelations.
- Robert Reich on how the Democrats lost the working class
Former US Labor Secretary Robert Reich joins the program to discuss how the Democratic Party lost the support of the working class. He reflects on a 1994 warning he gave Bill Clinton and his new memoir, Coming Up Short.
- The Shahs and the Ayatollahs - Iran's extreme leaders
Robert Templar joins Late Night Live to discuss the history of leadership in Iran, comparing the regimes of the Shahs and the Ayatollahs and exploring the country's deep political divisions.
- Ian Dunt's UK: Starmer's plan to address the fuel crisis
Ian Dunt joins Late Night Live to discuss UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer's strategy for addressing the fuel crisis and how it compares to the Australian government's response to oil supply issues.
- Mapping the wilderness
Professor James Watson discusses a 2024 project mapping Australia's remaining wilderness areas. The findings indicate a 20% decline in these areas over 40 years and address challenges in defining wilderness.
- Israel to use death penalty for West Bank Palestinians
This episode of Late Night Live discusses a new law in Israel allowing the death penalty for Palestinians in the West Bank convicted of killing Israelis. The program includes reactions from the UN Human Rights Office and Dr. Mustafa Bargho…