The Paradigm Shift on 4ZZZ

S5E6 - The repression of Uyghurs

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 02:33:01 -0000

Today we speak to Salih Hudayar about the repression of Uyghurs and other Turkic minorities in the Western Chinese province of Xinjiang - otherwise known as East Turkistan.

Originally broadcast 20/03/26

S5E5 - The World Bank, IMF and the conflict in Ukraine

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 00:21:15 -0000

Today we speak to Elliot Dolan-Evans about his book "Making the World Safe for Capitalism" - a critical look at the economic policies dictated during conflict in Ukraine by the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank.

Originally broadcast 27/02/26

S5E4 - "The Human Condition, Darkly" with Paul James

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 01:48:17 -0000

Today on the show we speak with author and social theorist Paul James. We speak about the multitude of crises humanity is facing, and whether they are all underpinned by a crisis in the human condition - one led by the processes of abstraction and reconstitution and exacerbated by advancing technoscience.

Originally broadcast 20/02/26

S5E3 - Conflict in Sudan

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 05:35:00 -0000

Today we talk about the current conflict in Sudan - its effects, causes, Australia's role in it, and what local people are doing about it. We hear from community organiser Huda Fadlelmawla and Greens defence spokesperson David Shoebridge.

Originally broadcast 13/02/26

S5E2 - Protest and repression in Iran

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 02:00:00 -0000

Today we speak about the recent protests and brutal government response in Iran. I speak to local Iranian people about what has happened over there and what it might mean for the future of Iran.

Originally broadcast 23/01/26

S5E1 - Venezuela

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 05:36:19 -0000

Today we speak with Federico Fuentes about Venezuela - what has happened in the last crazy week, what the future might hold, and what happened to the Bolivarian revolution that promised so much for that country in the first part of this century?

Originally broadcast 09/01/26

S4E32 - "Defiance" with Bob Brown

Wed, 31 Dec 2025 05:36:19 -0000

Today we speak with long term activist and former leader of the Greens Bob Brown. He has just written a book called "Defiance" and we talk about the need for people-powered non-violent direct action to protect our planet.

Originally broadcast 28/11/25

S4E31 - Hanukkah and Christmas in a time of violence

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 05:05:00 -0000

Today we reflect on the different religious celebrations of this season - we speak to Ed Carroll about what Hanukkah means to Jewish people, especially in a time of grief. And we speak to Usama Nicola in Bethlehem about what Christmas story means to those currently in the story's setting.

Originally broadcast 19/12/25

S4E30 - Housing for a post-growth world

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 02:17:05 -0000

Today we speak to housing specialist Anna Pagani about a new document she has co-authored - "Housing for a Post-Growth World: A Manifesto". It tries to radically rethink our housing crisis using creative examples from around the world.

Originally broadcast 12/12/25

S4E29 - 50 years of Radical Radio at 4ZZZ

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 02:19:12 -0000

Today on the show we look back at 4ZZZ's history of making radical radio. I speak to some radical radio makers from previous eras - Asger Strodl, Wave Beach and Linda Rose.

Originally broadcast 05/12/25

S4E28 - Talking West Papuan independence with Benny Wenda

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 06:16:42 -0000

Today we go back to 2016 when West Papuan independence activist Benny Wenda came into the studio to sing some songs, talk about his life and his country's long struggle for self-determination.

Originally broadcast 27/05/2016

S4E27 - The Conscription Referendum of 1916

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 05:36:00 -0000

Today we again revisit a classic episode - from October 2016 we we marked the 100 year anniversary of Australia voting against conscription to the first world war. We hear from historian Humphrey McQueen about the story of the referendum, the campaign against conscription, and it's relevance to us today.

Originally broadcast 28/10/16

S4E26 - The cultural dimensions of peacebuilding

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 05:26:00 -0000

Today we talk with academic Marty Branagan about his latest book "The Cultural Dimensions of Peacebuilding" - investigating how our culture currently contributes to the violence in our world, and asking how we can build more peaceful alternatives.

Originally broadcast 24/10/25

S4E25 - Ceasefire in Gaza and the Sumud Flotilla

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 05:22:00 -0000

Today we are once again turning our eyes to Palestine. I speak to Remah Naji about the ceasefire in Gaza, and to Juliet Lamont about her recent experience on the Sumud flotilla to Gaza and subsequent arrest and deportation.

Originally broadcast 17/10/25

S4E24 - Sculptures of Brisbane

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 03:02:07 -0000

On today's classic episode we go back to 2017 and a trip through the sculptures of Brisbane! We speak to sculptors Cezary Stulgis and Luke Roberts; historian Jeff Rickertt, and the tale of Aboriginal cricket pioneer Eddie Gilbert.

Originally broadcast 22/06/17

S4E23 - SLAPP suits

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 04:54:00 -0000

Today we delve into the Paradigm Shift archive. Back to 2019, and a show about Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation - when companies take activists to court to stifle protest and repress public debate. We hear what are SLAPP suits and why are they a problem from "bush lawyer" Greg Ogle, and then the different experiences from Adam Burling who was sued by woodchipping company Gunns, Shae Anderson who was sued by McDonalds, and Sadie Jones who was being sued by coal freight company Aurizon.

Originally broadcast 24/05/2019

S4E22 - Climate transition in the regions

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 05:01:00 -0000

Today we are talking about the hard work of transitioning rural areas into a more sustainable economy. I speak to Amanda Cahill from Next Economy and Lu Allan from the Renewable Energy Alliance.

Originally broadcast 29/08/25

S4E21 - Analysing the spotify "mood machine" with Liz Pelly

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 03:07:00 -0000

Today we speak to music writer Liz Pelly about her recent book "Mood Machine" - a critique of algorithmic streaming monolith Spotify and what it is doing to the way we play and listen to music.

Originally broadcast 15/08/25

S4E20 - The future of work

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 02:51:20 -0000

Today we are talking about the possible future of work and wealth distribution - reduced working hours, universal basic income, job guarantees. Hear from economists John Quiggin and Steven Hail about their ideas for fairer, more sustainable and more flourishing economy.

Originally broadcast 08/08/25

S4E19 - Fifty years of Womens House in Brisbane

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 05:22:32 -0000

Today we are celebrating the 50th birthday of Women's House - Queensland's first domestic violence shelter, which is still assisting women and advocating for social change half a century on. They are celebrating with an exhibition this week, and I spoke to Barb and Chantal from Women's House to learn about the past and present of their organisation and the broader culture.

Originally broadcast 01/08/25

S4E18 - Convergence on Canberra for Palestine

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 02:22:32 -0000

Today we get a report back from the Palestine convergence in Canberra. I speak to Remah Naji about the convergence; and to a couple of people who did direct actions there - Juliet Lamont locked herself on to the roof of weapons company EOS, and Cate Adams painted red the monument to US-Aus allyship.

Originally broadcast 25/07/25

S4E17 - The SEQEB dispute 40 years on

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 06:04:02 -0000

Today we go back 40 years - to when Brisbane was in the grips of the SEQEB dispute after Joh Bjelke-Peterson's government sacked over 1000 electrical workers. I speak to lifelong unionist Bob Carnegie about the dispute and it's effect, and also to Peter Ong from the Electrical Trades Union about the lessons learned for that union and what they are up to today.

Originally broadcast 18/07/25

S4E16 - Save the Moorooka Social Space

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 06:57:49 -0000

Today's show is a tribute to the Moorooka Social Space aka Fleurs St Social Exchange - an amazing by-donation cafe and op shop that council has recently told to shut down. The volunteers there want to keep it going but it will require a bit of people power!

To sign the petition to keep it alive, go to https://www.change.org/p/prevent-the-closure-of-fleur-street-social-exchange-at-the-moorooka-social-space

Originally broadcast 11/07/25

S4E15 - Paperbark Zine Fair

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 06:05:50 -0000

Today we are talking zines! To get ready for the Paperbark Zine Fair, I speak to Bernie from the Australian Anarchist Zine Archive, plus 4ZZZ favourites Anna (Radio Reversal) and CJ (Locked In) about their alter egos as zine makers.

Originally broadcast 04/07/25

S4E14 - People Against Poverty

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 06:45:02 -0000

Today we get a taste of the People Against Poverty Summit in Brisbane. I speak to Maiy Azize about "the hidden harm of foodbanks" and the "NGO industrial complex", Mel Powersmith about social housing, and to Caspian from Anti Poverty Network about organising the summit.

Originally broadcast 20/06/25

S4E13 - Microplastics and PFAS

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 02:53:39 -0000

Today we talk about microplastics and PFAS (aka "forever chemicals"). I speak to environmental scientists Karen Raubenheimer and Ian Wright about these tiny particles, what they do to our health and environment, and whether this is really the physical legacy we want our society to leave for the generations to come.

Originally broadcast 06/06/25

S4E12 - Kurdish peace processes in Turkey and Syria

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 02:53:39 -0000

Today we speak to Kurdish journalist and analyst Kamal Chomani. There have been some significant developments in the situation of Kurdish liberation politics in both Turkey and Syria - including the PKK guerilla army voluntarily dissolving and the autonomous Rojava administration joining the new Syrian government. We hear from Kamal what these developments might mean for Kurdish people and the journey to peace and democracy.

Originally broadcast 30/05/25

S4E11 - Political power and election losses with Max Chandler-Mather

Wed, 28 May 2025 04:44:21 -0000

Today on the Paradigm Shift I speak with outgoing greens MP Max Chandler-Mather. We try to look past the hot takes to try to properly reflect on what the recent election means for the greens and whether there are learnings to be taken from it.

S4E10 - Climate movement strategy post election

Wed, 14 May 2025 06:33:49 -0000

Today we are talking about what the election means for the climate movement in this country. I speak to academic Wesley Morgan about Labor's climate policy, and with climate movement practitioners Shaun Murray (from Rising Tide), Monique Tovo (Tomorrow Movement) and Ellen Roberts (Lock The Gate).

S4E9 - Kurilpa Anarchist Bookfair

Thu, 08 May 2025 01:18:31 -0000

Today's show is all about the Kurilpa Anarchist Bookfair (which by the time you hear this podcast has unfortunately already happened). We speak to one of the organisers Tom Morrison; to Oliver Graham from the Anarchist Communist Federation about unionism and anarchism; and to Elina Sleiman about a women's anarchist history of Brisbane.

Originally broadcast 02/05/25

S4E8 - Local people making change in Brisbane

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 05:08:00 -0000

On today's show we hear four different interviews with local Brisbane people who have been working for change in our city - community eviction resistance; providing spaces for girls in Afghanistan to learn and share their stories; getting together with neighbours to talk about climate resilience; and interrupting the campaign speeches of politicians to put climate change on the election radar.

Originally broadcast 25/04/25

S4E7 - Ethical futures for people and planet

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 01:20:39 -0000

Today we chat to a few people from the Ethical Futures for People and Planet conference that is coming up in a few weeks in Brisbane. We hear from Michelle Maloney, Larelle Bossi and Hugh Breakey to learn about Earth Laws, applied ethics, AI, space exploration and more!

Originally broadcast 11/04/25

S4E6 - "Ceasefire" in the West Bank of Palestine

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 03:03:11 -0000

This week we speak to Salwa Abughali. Salwa lives in Jenin in the West Bank of occupied Palestine. We speak to her about her family in Gaza, her experiences of the recent "ceasefire" and her hopes for what real peace might look like in Palestine.

Originally broadcast 04/04/25

S4E5 - Community resistance in the parks of Brisbane - Victoria Park, Musgrave Park and the Kurilpa Commons

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 01:36:20 -0000

Today we hear from Save Victoria Park about taking on the Olympics to protect public green space; Growing Foward about their efforts to protect the Kurilpa Commons; and the Anti-Poverty Network about showing solidarity with rough sleepers who the council has tried to evict.

Originally broadcast 28/03/25

S4E4 - Nuestro America - Building a new society from the margins in Argentina

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 04:16:08 -0000

Today we speak to Gabriela Barraza about the Argentinian social movement Nuestro America. They do collective housing, popular education, health brigades and children's programs in the poorest regions of Argentina - working with addicts, peasants and indigenous people.

Originally broadcast 21/03/25

S4E3 - Transforming Democracy with Tim Hollo

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 05:28:32 -0000

Today we speak to Tim Hollo about his book "Living Democracy". We talk about some of the deficiencies in democracy as we currently envision it, and some of the other possibilities of how we could live in a society where everyone gets a say in the things that affect us.

Originally broadcast 14/03/25

S4E2 - Peoples History of Australia

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 23:55:20 -0000

Today we speak to Christian and Tim from the Peoples History of Australia podcast. They have been covering all kinds of stories from the past of ordinary people working together to make this country a better place.

Originally broadcast 31/01/25

S4E1 - Dundalli - Aboriginal resistance fighter and lawman

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 17:33:03 -0000

Today we are remembering Dundalli - Aboriginal resistance fighter, executed in the middle of Brisbane 170 years ago. I speak to historian Libby Connors about who Dundalli was, and to author Melissa Lucashenko about the importance of remembering.

Originally broadcast 03/01/25

S3E32 - Christmas in Bethlehem 2024

Sun, 22 Dec 2024 01:15:08 -0000

Today's show is a Christmas special - I speak to Usama Nicola in Bethlehem. Two millennia on from the original christmas story, we hear how in Jesus' birthplace there is still restricted movement, the mass killing of children, the fleeing of refugees, but still hope to be found in unlikely places.

Originally broadcast 20/12/24

S3E31 - Deforestation

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 03:56:33 -0000

Today we are talking deforestation. I speak to ecologist David Lindenmayer about his book "The Forest Wars", and to Hannah Thomas who has been studying why Qld has some of the highest rates of deforestation in the world.

Originally broadcast 01/11/24

S3E30 - The People's Blockade of the World's Biggest Coal Port 2024

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 03:56:33 -0000

Today's show is a report back from the People's Blockade of the World's Biggest Coal Port - which happened over the last few weeks in Newcastle and Canberra. Hear from organisers and people who took direct action against the fossil fuel industry!

Originally broadcast 06/12/24

S3E29 - Bringing down a dictatorship with Otpor

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 04:58:20 -0000

Today we chat to Vesna Cerroni about her time in Otpor - the group of Serbian students who at the turn of this century were able to build a movement that could non-violently overthrow dictator Slobodan Milosevic.

Originally broadcast 22/11/24

S3E28 - Activist Strategy

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 05:32:09 -0000

Today we chat with Holly Hammond from the Commons Library about activist strategy - how to think strategically and plan to change the world for the better!

Originally broadcast 08/11/24

S3E27 - King's visit anti-royalty special

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 02:26:49 -0000

Today on the Paradigm Shift it's an anti-royalty special! I speak to Aboriginal activist Wayne Wharton about his thwarted attempts this week to serve the king with legal papers, and to Esther Anatolitis from the Australian Republican Movement.

Originally broadcast 25/10/24

S3E26 - A year of war in the West Bank of Palestine

Thu, 24 Oct 2024 01:09:08 -0000

Today we are looking back at a year of war in Palestine with activist and psychologist Ahmad Abu Monshar. Ahmad is based in Jenin in the West Bank, and has plenty to say about the effects of the last year on Palestinian people, but also about how they continue to find hope.

S3E25 - A year of Palestine solidarity in Brisbane

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 02:38:22 -0000

Today we are reflecting on the last year of local Brisbane solidarity with Palestine. It has been an incredible array of diverse acts of solidarity, and I discuss them with Remah Naji from Justice For Palestine Magan-djin.

Originally broadcast 11/10/24

S3E24 - Alternatives for Australian defence policy

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 03:42:15 -0000

Today we are talking about an alternative defence strategy for Australia. I speak with two people who have plenty of experience of Australia's current defence strategy and ideas about how a radically different course could serve our people much better - former Director of War Studies in the Australian army Al Palazzo, and ex-army Major Cameron Leckie.

Originally broadcast 04/10/24

S3E23 - West Papua

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 05:08:17 -0000

Today we are checking in on the West Papua independence struggle. We speak to Papuan activist Ronny Kareni to get an update, and Crystal Coleman to talk about the local Strike for West Papua and about solidarity across the whole island of Papua.

Originally broadcast 30/08/24

S3E22 - Peter Dutton's nuclear plan

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 05:26:00 -0000

Today we respond to Peter Dutton's proposal to build nuclear reactors across the continent. We hear from environmental organisers Jim Green and Ben Pennings about how we can oppose this plan and build real alternatives to the climate crisis.

Originally broadcast 21/06/24

S3E21 - Disaster Communism

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 05:26:00 -0000

Today we are talking about "disaster communism". Can we glimpse a radically different society in the moments of communal care following a disaster? I speak to Nick Southall who has written a book on the subject, and to Andrew George from Lismore about the community responses that have popped up there since the 2022 floods.

Originally broadcast 09/08/24

S3E20 - Aboriginal delegation to Kanaky

Wed, 04 Sep 2024 05:26:00 -0000

Today we talk to longtime Aboriginal activist Wayne "Koko" Wharton to get a report back from the recent First Nations delegation to the militarised colonial zone of Kanaky (New Caledonia).

Originally broadcast 23/08/24

S3E19 - Three years of Waddananggu

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 05:29:00 -0000

Today we talk to Coedie McAvoy aka Gurridyula. The third anniversary of the Waddananggu culutural ceremony on Adani's mine lease is coming up soon - an incredible effort. We get an update from there, also hear about what happened last week down in Canberra where he has been trying to meet with the Environment Minister for a yarn. And we chat about exciting events coming up in Brisbane to celebrate the three year anniversary.

Originally broadcast 16/08/24

S3E18 - Zines

Wed, 21 Aug 2024 05:02:00 -0000

This week's show is a zine special! We speak to Asger, Bianca and Emily about their personal experiences of zine making and the importance of this simple medium for the anarchist, queer and travelling streetkid cultures.

Originally broadcast 12/07/24

S3E17 - Lawfare against political activists

Wed, 14 Aug 2024 05:02:00 -0000

Today we are talking about "lawfare" by the state against activists - tying people up in endless court cases to restrict their political activities. I speak to Margie Pestorius, Hannah Doole and Dave Sprigg about their own experiences with police and courts.

S3E16 - Public transport

Wed, 07 Aug 2024 05:02:00 -0000

On today's show we are talking public transport! To celebrate 50c fares beginning in Brisbane this week, I talk to Roman Gaffa from Translink, Peter Allen from the RBTU Union, Michael Berkman from the Greens, and academic Kelly Bertolaccini about the meaning of this dramatic change, and the value of public transport.

Originally broadcast 02/08/24

S3E15 - Blockade Australia 2024

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 05:34:51 -0000

Today we hear about the recent Blockade Australia mobilisation - two weeks of disrupting the operations of the world's biggest coal port. I talk to a group of participants about their experiences and the strategy behind it all.

Originally broadcast 19/07/24

S3E14 - Magan-djin - finding the right Aboriginal name for our city

Thu, 25 Jul 2024 07:25:10 -0000

Today we discuss a question many people have been asking recently - what is the correct Aboriginal name for the Brisbane CBD area? We talk to local elders Gaja Kerry Charlton and Aunty Deb Sandy about why they say it is Magan-djin.

Originally broadcast 05/07/24

S3E13 - Doing time for the planet part 2 - Ali Alishah

Fri, 12 Jul 2024 04:01:00 -0000

Today on the Paradigm Shift we are talking about going to prison to protect the planet - part two! This week we speak to Ali Alishah who has just got out after three months in a Tasmanian prison for locking on to protect old growth forest there. We hear some reflections on prison, strategy, and how to confront anti protest legislation.

Originally broadcast 14/06/24

S3E12 - Doing time for the planet part 1 - Violet Coco and Brad Homewood

Tue, 09 Jul 2024 15:56:55 -0000

Today's show is about going to prison to protect the planet! In part one I speak to Brad Homewood and Violet Coco who just got out after three months in prison for climate action.

Originally broadcast 07/06/24

S3E11 - Tech criticism with Cory Doctorow

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 04:55:42 -0000

Today we chat with novelist and tech critic Cory Doctorow. Cory has done a lot of work analysing and describing tech capitalism, and we talk about some of his concepts like "enshittification" and "chokepoint capitalism" as well as AI, the hopes for a better internet, and plenty more!

Originally broadcast 31/05/24

S3E10 - The extraordinary life of Kawanji Don Brady

Wed, 05 Jun 2024 06:58:53 -0000

Today we are talking about the extraordinary life of Kawanji Don Brady - trailblazing Aboriginal activist, religious leader, culture man. I talk to historian Thom Blake who has just written a biography of him, and Don's son Graham Brady.

Originally broadcast 15/03/24

S3E9 - Violence against women with Jess Hill

Sun, 02 Jun 2024 00:00:00 -0000

Today we speak to author and journalist Jess Hill about the epidemic of domestic violence in Australia - what causes it, and what can we do about it?

Originally broadcast 10/05/24

S3E8 - David McBride - the imprisonment of truth

Thu, 30 May 2024 05:36:03 -0000

Today we talk about the extraordinary sentencing of David McBride to over 5 years in prison for the act of telling the truth about what our military gets up to. I speak to legal academic Binoy Kampmark about the trial. We also get an update from the other trial of an Australian for telling the truth - we hear from John Shipton about his son Julian Assange's win in court this week allowing him to appeal his extradition to the United States.

Originally broadcast 24/05/24

S3E7 - Good Friday and the Easter story

Thu, 16 May 2024 05:56:53 -0000

A Good Friday special! I speak with a couple of theologians - Bidjara woman and "red ochre theologian" Anne Pattel-Gray and "christi-anarchist" Dave Andrews about what the marking of Easter means to them.

Originally broadcast 29/03/24

S3E6 - Diverse economies with Katherine Gibson

Wed, 08 May 2024 13:38:11 -0000

Today we are speaking to Katherine Gibson - one half of the anti-capitalist author J.K. Gibson-Graham. We speak about their theory of "diverse economies" - how we can imagine alternatives to capitalism by giving more attention to all the activity towards our survival and flourishing that happens outside of the market economy.

Originally broadcast 08/03/24

S3E5 - Low consumption living

Wed, 27 Mar 2024 00:06:51 -0000

Today we talk to Jonathan Cornford about low consumption or low income living - choosing to live with less money and less stuff. It's probably better for the planet, could it be better for us too? And would it be possible for us as a society to do it?

Originally broadcast 16/02/24

S3E4 - Anarchism

Tue, 19 Mar 2024 23:10:28 -0000

Today we are talking about anarchism! We explore this political philosophy and how it can affect our lives and society with Barbara Hart from Black Current Anarchist Distro, CJ from the Locked In prison show on 4ZZZ, and Elise Imrey Papineau from Meanjin Solidarity Fund.

Originally broadcast 19/01/24

S3E3 - Radical art with Taring Padi

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 11:19:49 -0000

Today we talk to Indonesian protest art collective Taring Padi about their current exhibition in Brisbane - where they collaborate with Aboriginal art collective Proppa Now. I also chat with Richard Bell from Proppa Now about the collaboration.

Originally broadcast 23/02/24

S3E2 - Stopping the weapons flow from Australia to Israel

Tue, 05 Mar 2024 04:59:09 -0000

Today we talk to some of the people around Brisbane and Australia who have been disrupting the manufacturing and transport of weapons that are carrying out the destruction of Gaza.

Originally broadcast 02/02/24

S2E30 - Technocriticism with Richard King

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 04:00:27 -0000

Today we chat to author Richard King. His new book "Here Be Monsters" is a critical look at the way ideas about technological progress are shaping both our future and our selves in ways that are not necessarily beneficial and certainly not inevitable.

Originally broadcast 16/06/23

S3E1 - Julian Assange

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 03:24:44 -0000

Today we are in solidarity with Julian Assange, who has his final appeal against extradition to the USA on Feb 20. I speak to his father and staunch advocate John Shipton, and also to Kym Staton - director of the new documentary film "The Trust Fall".

Originally broadcast 12/01/24

S2E29 - Working for human rights in Palestine and Kurdistan

Mon, 19 Feb 2024 02:36:02 -0000

Today we hear what it's like working for human rights in Palestine and Iraqi Kurdistan. I have a chat with Rebekah Dowling and Jasmine Pilbrow about their experiences working with Community Peacemaker Teams.

Originally broadcast 17/03/23

S2E28 - Prisons

Thu, 15 Feb 2024 03:52:44 -0000

On today's show we are talking about prison. I speak to Damien Linnane, editor of the Paper Chained magazine of prisoner writings, and to Indigenous mental health nurse Jenny-Lee Carr about rates of Aboriginal youth and adult incarceration.

Originally broadcast 09/06/23

S2E27 - Artificial Intelligence and Killer Robots - Radio Against The Machine!

Mon, 12 Feb 2024 01:08:29 -0000

Today's show is Radio Against The Machine! I speak with Oscar Delaney about the potential existential threats from Artificial Intelligence, and to Matilda Byrne about the campaign to stop lethal autonomous weapons.

Originally broadcast 11/08/23

S2E26 - Iraqi Kurdistan part 2 - Choman Hardi and Nayef Sabri

Thu, 01 Feb 2024 06:32:26 -0000

Today I speak to two courageous people working for a better future in Kurdistan and Iraq - feminist poet, author and academic Choman Hardi; and Yazidi man Nayef Sabri who as head of the Sunrise NGO is trying to rebuild Yazidi community in Iraq after Islamic State tried to wipe the ancient religious group off the map.

Originally broadcast 26/05/23

S2E25 - Iraqi Kurdistan part 1 - Kamaran Osman

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 05:29:17 -0000

Today we talk with Kamaran Osman about politics in Iraqi Kurdistan, peacemaking work here, and what it was like to be a part of the Arab/Kurdish Spring wave of protest movements sweeping across the Middle East back in 2011.

Originally broadcast 19/05/23

S2E24 - Maikio community - peasant farming in Aotearoa

Mon, 22 Jan 2024 04:39:55 -0000

On today's show, we hear about the low tech, peasant farming, intentional community in the north of New Zealand where Andy spent a couple of months in late 2022/early 2023. I talk to a few different members of the community about what they do and why.

Originally broadcast 05/05/23

S2E23 - Poverty and Inequality

Mon, 15 Jan 2024 09:25:59 -0000

Today we are talking about poverty and inequality. I speak to researcher Carla Treloar who was part of compiling a recent report on wealth inequality in Australia, and to Brooke McKail from Anglicare who have just published a report on "the poverty premium" - why it is actually more expensive to be poor.

Originally broadcast 20/10/23

S2E22 - Sport and Politics

Sun, 14 Jan 2024 03:46:47 -0000

On today's show we are talking sport! We cover a few of the many facets of people running around a field after a ball including: Reclink CEO Dave Wells on how that organisation uses sport to connect marginalized people and build life skills, comedian Craig Quartermaine on the links between footy and Aboriginal culture, academic Abbey Boyer on what the women's soccer world cup means for women and girls in this country, and activist Andy George about the practice of disrupting sport matches to communicate political messages!

Originally broadcast 28/07/23

S2E21 - Psychogeography

Thu, 11 Jan 2024 04:54:48 -0000

Today's show is on a favourite topic of mine - "psychogeography". Its a word with many vague definitions, but basically it's about exploring how we interact with the places we live in. I speak to a couple of practitioners - Vanessa Berry (author of Mirror Sydney) and Nick Gadd (Melbourne Circle).

Originally broadcast 10/02/23

S2E20 - A tribute to Kevin Buzzacott

Tue, 26 Dec 2023 01:11:04 -0000

Today we commemorate the extraordinary life of Arrabunna man Kevin Buzzacott. We will hear tributes to Uncle Kev and his influence on activism in this country from Lidia Thorpe, Robbie Thorpe, Bilbo Taylor, Izzy Brown, and his lawyer Len Lindon.

Originally broadcast 08/12/23

S2E19 - Christmas in Bethlehem in 2023

Sat, 23 Dec 2023 02:52:32 -0000

Today's show is a Christmas special - we try to get some new insights into the meaning of Christmas by speaking to Usama Nicola who lives in Bethlehem in the occupied Palestinian territories. We also delve into some of the radical messages in the biblical Christmas story with theologian Dave Andrews.

Originally broadcast 22/12/23

S2E18 - A People's History of Alcohol in Australia

Thu, 21 Dec 2023 11:07:11 -0000

Today we are talking about a People's History of Alcohol in Australia. That's the theme of a new book, and I talk to the editors Alex Ettling and Iain Mcintyre. The book talks about alcohol in this country from many different perspectives, and we try our best to do the same on the show! Originally broadcast 10/11/23

S2E17 - Degrowth

Tue, 19 Dec 2023 21:16:26 -0000

Today we are talking degrowth - the idea that for environmental sustainability and economic equity we need a smaller, more localised economy. I speak to long-term degrowth advocates Terry Leahy and Anitra Nelson.

Originally broadcast 07/07/23

S2E16 - Violet Coco and Colette Harmsen - Prison for protecting the planet

Sun, 17 Dec 2023 03:20:35 -0000

Today we have a long conversation with environmental activists Violet Coco and Colette Harmsen. Both of them have been in the news this year after being sentenced to prison stints. We speak about the virtues of non-violent direct action, about how to survive prison and house arrest, about government repression and more!

S2E15 - Voices from Palestine part 2

Tue, 05 Dec 2023 23:12:19 -0000

Today we are traveling virtually to Palestine again. We talk with Mona, a Palestinian woman working with Community Peacemaker Teams in occupied Hebron; and Shoshana, an Israeli Jew living in Australia who has been taking action to resist her nation's bombardment of Gaza. We also speak briefly with Phil Monsour about Palestine solidarity in Brisbane.

Originally broadcast 24/11/23

S2E14 - Voices from Palestine part 1

Tue, 05 Dec 2023 01:06:05 -0000

On today's show we hear from on the ground in Palestine. Usama Nicola lives in Bethlehem in the West Bank, and I spoke to him about living under occupation, what the last six weeks of war has been like, and what his hopes for the future are.

Originally broadcast 17/11/23

S2E13 - People's Blockade of the world's biggest coal port

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 00:29:45 -0000

Today we hear from on the ground at the People's Blockade of the world's biggest coal port in Newcastle. I speak to organiser Naomi Hodgson about how it all went, to Sunshine Coast vet Anna Sri about getting arrested for the first time, and to Hannah Doole who is part of organising the next climate activism convergence - the Climate Cop-Out mobilisation in Sydney.

Originally broadcast 01/12/23

S2E12 - Blockade Australia

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 23:23:56 -0000

Today we talk to Taylah and Jemika from Blockade Australia - the group who this week have been disrupting operation at three different ports around the country. They've been refused bail, abused, assaulted, demonised in the media and had the NSW Premier threaten to ban from facebook. So I thought I would talk to them directly to hear what they are doing and why.

Originally broadcast 23/06/23

S2E11 - Stopping native forest logging

Sat, 18 Nov 2023 03:20:13 -0000

Today we talk about the campaign to stop all native forest logging in New South Wales - potentially one of the most important environmental campaigns in the country. I speak to Tom from Bellingen Activist Network about their direct action protecting forests that are already theoretically part of a new national park, and to activist, lawyer and now politician Sue Higginson about how we can protect all the state's remaining native forests.

Originally broadcast 30/06/23

S2E10 - "The Echidna Strategy" with Sam Roggeveen

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 05:59:52 -0000

Today we talk to Sam Roggeveen - strategist at the Lowy Institute and author of new book "The Echidna Strategy" which is about radically reframing Australian military strategy and our relationship to the USA.

Originally broadcast 27/10/23

S2E9 - David McBride blowing the whistle on Australian war crimes

Thu, 02 Nov 2023 08:20:17 -0000

On today's show we speak to David McBride, Australian army whistleblower. David leaked what were called "The Afghan files" to the ABC about misconduct by the Australian military. He has since been vindicated by the army's own Brereton Inquiry, but still will face trial on November 13 and potentially go to prison.

Originally broadcast 18/08/23

S2E8 - Updates from Waddananggu and Deebing Creek

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 01:26:15 -0000

Today we check back in with two of Queensland's long-running Aboriginal occupation protests - Deebing Creek and Waddananggu. It's a happy story at Waddananggu as they celebrate two years of continuous occupation on Adani's mine lease. Not so happy at Deebing Creek where they were evicted and had their camp bulldozed back in June, but they are keeping on going anyway.

Originally broadcast 25/09/23

S2E7 - Under the seas - Seismic blasting and the scam of carbon capture

Wed, 25 Oct 2023 01:56:10 -0000

Today we take a deep dive into the ocean to see what fossil fuel companies are doing to our marine surroundings. I speak to Louise Morris from the Marine Conservation Society about the effects of seismic blasting tests, and to Rod Campbell from the Australia Institute about whether giving fossil fuel companies tracts of ocean to try to pump their carbon outputs into the ocean floor is really the kind of climate policies we should be pursuing.

Originally broadcast 01/09/23

S2E6 - Climate Activism Across Australia

Sun, 22 Oct 2023 03:27:36 -0000

This week's show is a catch up with climate activism around the country. I speak to Emil Davey from Disrupt Burrup Hub about the amazing campaign they have been running in WA and whether the pushback they have received is going to put them off. I also chat to Naomi Hodgson from Rising Tide about their upcoming Peoples Blockade of the world's biggest coal port in Newcastle, and to Aahana and Layla about Brisbane's School Strike For Climate.

Originally broadcast 15/09/23

S2E5 - Australia's first atom bomb, and 70 years of Aboriginal people resisting the nuclear industry in South Australia

Sat, 14 Oct 2023 06:15:14 -0000

Today we are marking a not very happy anniversary - 70 years this weekend since the first nuclear weapon was detonated on the Australian mainland at Emu Fields. I speak to Karina Lester, whose father Yami was permanently blinded by the blast. We also hear about the long and continuing struggle of South Australian Aboriginal people against the nuclear industry on their country - from Arabunna elder Kevin Buzzacott about resisting the world's biggest uranium mine on his land, and Barngarla elder Aunty Dawn Taylor about the most recent win - her people stopping a nuclear waste dump being built at Kimba.

S2E4 - Human rights in Palestine

Sat, 14 Oct 2023 05:31:53 -0000

On today's show we are talking about the ongoing dispossession, oppression, resilience and resistance of Palestinian people. We get an update from Lee Rhiannon who has just returned from Palestine, hear about the importance of Palestinian dakbe dancing from Sameer Ellagta, and replay an interview with Olfat Mahmoud - a legend of Palestinian humanitarian work who has sadly just passed away.

Originally broadcast 29/09/23

Note: This episode went to air on the radio a week before a military operation by Palestinian group Hamas began the latest high profile development in the seemingly never-ending war between Israel and Palestin. I am uploading it as a podcast now not in support of Hamas and their tactics, but to hopefully show some of the reasons why Palestinians continue to fight a war they seemingly can not possibly win. My solidarity is with the Palestinian people who every day suffer the low level war of continuing occupation and invasion of their land and lives. By making this show both as a radio program and a podcast I was hoping to bring attention and support to their continuing struggle for basic human rights.

S2E3 - Aboriginal perspectives on the Voice to Parliament part 2

Sat, 07 Oct 2023 12:02:06 -0000

Today is one last show on the Voice to Parliament referendum. I speak to three different Aboriginal perspectives - Bridget Cama from Uluru Dialogues, Boe Spearim from Treaty Before Voice, and Meriki Onus from Warriors for the Aboriginal Resistance.

Originally broadcast 06/10/23

S2E2 - Aboriginal perspectives on the Voice to Parliament part 1

Fri, 06 Oct 2023 03:56:25 -0000

Today we are talking about the upcoming referendum for the Voice to Parliament. I speak to Aboriginal leaders on either side of the fence - Kirstie Parker from the Uluru Dialogues who is supporting a yes vote, and Wayne Wharton from Treaty Before Voice who is saying vote no. Listen in to decide for yourself!

Originally broadcast 21/07/23

S2E1 - Subimperial power - Australia and the US alliance

Wed, 04 Oct 2023 05:00:34 -0000

Today we talk about America's influence on Australia's military policy and strategy. I speak to former Australian army major and current strategist Clinton Fernandes about his new book "Subimperial Power", and to Vince Scappatura from the Independent and Peaceful Australia Network about their recent "People's Inquiry" into the US alliance.

Originally broadcast 13/01/23

S1E30 - Blockade IMARC and police harrassment of activists

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 03:58:28 -0000

On today's show we hear about resistance to the International Mining And Resources Conference happening presently in Sydney. I speak to Jonah Shabtay from live at the protests, to Marisol Salinas about organising an international counter-conference, and to lawyer Anastasia Radievska about some of the most ridiculous over the top policing of protest we have seen in a long time.

Originally broadcast 04/11/22

S1E29 - Legal repression of protest

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 01:32:41 -0000

On today's show we look at how government is trying to restrict protest around the country - we hear about new laws targetted at forest activists in Victoria and Tasmania; and get an account of the extreme police repression of Blockade Australia activists in Sydney recently. And we ask the question: what do we do about it all?

Originally broadcast 21/10/22

S1E28 - Housing Crisis

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 01:28:35 -0000

On today's show we talk about Queensland's housing crisis - I chat with Fiona Caniglia from QShelter and Sian from South East Queensland Union of Renters about what caused the crisis and how we might be able to tackle it.

Originally broadcast 14/10/22

S1E27 - Fracking and the Beetaloo Basin

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 01:13:33 -0000

On today's show we look into Origin Energy's announcement this week that it would be selling its stake in various gas projects. What does it mean for the gas industry and our attempts to protect climate, water and country? I speak to Mudburra Traditional Owner Ray Dimakarri Dixon, Hannah Ekin from Arid Lands Environment Centre, and Ellen Roberts from Lock The Gate.

Originally broadcast 23/09/22

S1E26 - Festival of Dangerous Ideas

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 01:01:43 -0000

On today's show we check in with the Festival of Dangerous Ideas which is taking place this weekend in Sydney. What makes an idea dangerous? Is it important listening to ideas that challenge us and society? I speak to festival organiser Simon Longstaff, plus a couple of the speakers - Sisonke Msimang on the racial dimension of covid policies, and Carl Rhodes on "woke capitalism".

Originally broadcast 16/09/22

S1E25 - The War on West Papua

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 00:53:33 -0000

Today's show is about the war on West Papua. I speak to Papuan activist Ronny Kareni about the latest updates in Papuan oppression and resistance, and to Zelda Grimshaw who has been building a website to track the weapons used by Indonesians in West Papua and where they come from. Some of them are from worryingly close to home for us Australians.

Originally broadcast 09/09/22

S1E24 - Disrupting AIDEX 91 and military in schools

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 00:44:26 -0000

On today’s show I talk to radical historian Iain Mcintyre about the successful blockade of the Aidex arms fair in 1991, and to Elise West about the campaign to stop the weapons industry infiltrating our primary and secondary schools.

Originally broadcast 02/09/22

S1E23 - One year of resistance at Waddananggu

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 00:35:34 -0000

Today's show is from on the ground at Waddananggu - the Indigenous reoccupation of Adani's mine lease celebrating its one year anniversary. I speak to a few of the Wangan and Jagalingou mob who have been here every day for a year, plus other Aboriginal people who have come to join in the celebrations.

Originally broadcast 26/08/22

S1E22 - Radical music and community media

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 22:56:50 -0000

Today's show is all about radical music and media. I interview Khepa Markhno, Mat Ward and Russell Henderson - three people who are out there regularly making independent media that promotes radical music.

Originally published 12/08/22

S1E21 - (Dis)solution Journal

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 22:41:34 -0000

This week's show is about the brand new radical journal (Dis)solution. I chat to editor and author Morgan Heenan, plus we hear about some of the contributions from Srishti Chatterjee, Yin Paradies and Ruby Thorburn.

Originally published 05/08/22

S1E20 - Save the Burrup

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 22:34:53 -0000

Today we hear about the campaign to protect sacred Indigenous rock art at Murujuga in the Pilbara from being destroyed by expansion of the gas industry. We hear from a few different Ngarluma traditional owners about why this site is sacred, and what the gas industry is doing to it.

Originally published 29/07/22

S1E19 - Platform capitalism and social movements

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 07:57:52 -0000

Today we have a wide-ranging chat with Ray Grenfell – community radio host, activist and who is writing a phd on social media and its effects on social movements. We talk about the history of activists using the internet, about the wide-ranging effects of social media, and about the radical of creating autonomous social centres.

Originally published 15/07/22

S1E18 - WA environmental activism

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 06:27:15 -0000

Today's show is a Western Australian environment activism special! I speak to Anthony Collins about the proposed Scarborough offshore gas project and why people are trying to stop it, to Jess Beckerling about the big win to protect the state’s beautiful native forests, and to Carl Wilson from the Hamilton Hill Guerillionaires who are not waiting for permission to start regenerating native bushland in their suburban surrounds.

Originally published 01/07/22

S1E17 - Posthumanism and the Cyborg Manifesto

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 06:13:12 -0000

On today's show we explore the overlap between human and machine – are we recognising the ways this is happening? Is it a good or bad thing? What should we do about it? I chat to media studies academic Emily McAvan, and we get a bit of assistance from Donna Haraway’s influential essay “The Cyborg Manifesto”.

Originally broadcast 24/06/22

S1E16 - Queen's Jubilee Republic Special

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 05:47:05 -0000

Today's show is a queen's jubilee special - we talk about why Australia should ditch the royals once and for all, and what alternatives might look like. I speak to Peter Fitzsimons from the Australian Republic Movement, and Ruby Wharton from Warriors of the Aboriginal Resistance.

Originally broadcast 10/06/22

S1E15 - Conversations with coal miners

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 05:39:07 -0000

Today's show is all about conversations with coal miners - in the light of an election result where the cities voted resoundingly for climate action but mining regions did not; I speak to folks who are trying to engage miners in climate conversations. Grant Howard worked for four decades in coal mines and is now working for climate action in central qld. Steph and Josie are Latrobe Valley locals who have started the Coal Face podcast to talk about possibilities beyond coal for their home region, and Kim Nguyen is a filmmaker who made Conversations With Coal Miners - a film where he talks climate change with miners from Collinsville and Clermont.

Originally broadcast 03/06/22

S1E14 - Greensland election wins

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 00:57:11 -0000

Today we look at the remarkable electoral success of the Greens in Brisbane. I speak to their two successful campaign managers Liam Flenady (Griffith seat) and Esther Vale (Ryan) about how the campaigns built, what it means for Australian politics right now, and their hopes for parliament.

Originally broadcast 27/05/22

S1E13 - Doing Civil Disobedience

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 00:50:45 -0000

Today's show is about non-violent civil disobedience - getting arrested putting your body in front of machinery that's wrecking the planet. Hear a variety of ordinary people talking about their experience taking direct action.

Originally broadcast 20/05/22

S1E12 - Deebing Creek and Waddananggu

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 00:29:35 -0000

Today's episode is about sitting down on country to protect it. I speak to Yuggera man Daniel Thompson about the long-running camp at Deebing Creek near Ipswich; and to Wangan and Jagalingou man Coedie McAvoy for an update from Waddananggu - the cultural ceremony and occupation on Adani's mine lease.

Originally broadcast 13/05/22

S1E11 - May Day and Unions

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 00:20:36 -0000

This week's show is a May Day workers special. I ask Queensland Council of Unions general secretary Michael Clifford some existential questions about the role of unions in 2022, plus offer some musings of my own on what makes a working class analysis actually useful.

Originally broadcast 29/04/22

S1E10 - Marriage

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 00:03:24 -0000

This week's show is all about marriage! To mark my own upcoming nuptials we talk about marriage from a few perspectives, including chatting with feminist skeptic Larysa, domestic violence survivor Annika, and Alicia who is in a same sex marriage. Plus super special in studio guest - my fiancee Bek!

Originally broadcast 22/04/22

S1E9 - Political Prisoners

Tue, 19 Sep 2023 23:51:35 -0000

This week's show is about political prisoners, something which unfortunately seems to be on the rise in this country. We talk to climate activist Max Curmi who was just released on bail with an appeal pending after he was sentenced to four months in prison. Plus we hear about the importance of prisoner solidarity from Ciaron O'Reilly, who has done numerous stints inside due to his anti-war activism. We'll also do a bit of an update on another climate activist detainee Andy George.

Originally broadcast 15/04/23

S1E8 - Reflecting on the campaign to stop Adani

Tue, 19 Sep 2023 23:39:42 -0000

On this week's show we reflect on the almost decade-long, multi-faceted campaign to stop Adani’s Carmichael coal mine. Ultimately the mine has been built, but what lessons can we learn from the campaign? And where next for those of us trying to stop Australia’s out of control coal industry? We speak to Moira from Tipping Point, Christian from Market Forces and Alice from Frontline Action on Coal about these questions.

Originally broadcast 08/04/22

S1E7 - Saul Griffith "Rewiring Australia"

Tue, 19 Sep 2023 23:30:34 -0000

Today we chat with Saul Griffith - engineer, inventor and author of new book "The Big Switch". We talk about his plan for how Australia could get to net zero carbon emissions and beyond, and what political and personal changes would be required to get us there.

Originally broadcast 11/03/22

S1E6 - State Capture

Tue, 19 Sep 2023 23:21:25 -0000

Today we chat to journalist Michelle Fahy about the recent paper she helped write on "state capture". We find out how private actors are undermining our democracy and what we can do about it.

Originally broadcast 04/03/22

S1E5 - A history of Turnstyle Community Hub part 2

Tue, 19 Sep 2023 11:41:09 -0000

On today's show we again explore the legacy of Turnstyle - Brisbane's legendary sharehouse/community space in HIghgate Hill which is sadly coming to a landlord-enforced end. I interview a bunch of different residents and users of Turnstlye to try to chart the influence this place has had.

Originally broadcast 11/02/22

S1E4 - A history of Turnstyle Community Hub part 1

Tue, 19 Sep 2023 09:17:41 -0000

Today's show is part one of a two part series on the amazing history and the sad eviction of Turnstyle Community Hub. This inauspicious Queenslander in Highgate Hill was a key part of creating community and change in Brisbane for the last 15 years. We talk about the space, its inspiring legacy, and the difficulties of trying to create alternative spaces in a property market that sees value only in money.

Originally broadcast 04/02/22

S1E3 - The birth of the Aboriginal Tent Embassy

Mon, 18 Sep 2023 15:51:31 -0000

Today we hear how a small group of young aboriginal men started the tent embassy 50 years ago this week. We listen to a speech given at the embassy on the anniversary by Michael Anderson - who was there at the very beginning.

Originally broadcast 28/01/22

S1E2 - Lech Blaine on "The Larrikin Myth, Class and Power"

Mon, 18 Sep 2023 15:31:32 -0000

This week we have a chat with journalist and author Lech Blaine. We talk primarily about his excellent recent Quarterly Essay titled "Top Blokes: The Larrikin Myth, Class and Power".

Originally broadcast 14/01/22

S1E1 - The significance of the Bunya nut

Mon, 18 Sep 2023 14:55:08 -0000

Today's show is all about Bunya nuts – Queensland’s delicious native bush tucker! I chat with Jinibara and Kabi traditional owners about the ongoing cultural significance of the Bunya nut, and to historian Ray Kerkhove about the huge Bunya gatherings that used to be held at harvest time.

Originally broadcast 21/01/22