John speaks with Islam scholars Dr. Mark Durie and Dr. Richard Shumack to explore the complex relationship between Islam and Western culture, drawing a contrast between Muhammad’s leadership, shaped by military endeavors, and Jesus’s Gospel of peace. They discuss how Islam’s foundational texts—the Quran and Hadiths—emphasise submission and sacred struggle, which stands in tension with Western values like freedom and the rule of law. A lack of theological literacy in the West obscures the roots of current challenges, including Hamas’ extremism and rising anti-Semitism. 

The dialogue examines broader differences, contrasting Islam’s historical pursuit of authority with the West’s vitality, rooted in principles of love and rational inquiry. Dr. Durie and Dr. Shumack observe that Islam's narratives of victimhood and a rejection of modernity hinders progress, while Christianity’s call to "love your enemies" fosters resilience and growth.

Dr Mark Durie is a pastor and academic. He writes and speaks on a wide range of topics which include the connection between faith and culture, freedom of religion, the persecution of religious minorities, and the origin and history of Islam. He is the author of Double Minded and The Third Choice.

Dr Richard Shumack is a philosopher of religion specialising in Muslim and Christian belief. He is the author of Jesus Through Muslim Eyes and Witnessing to Western Muslims.

John speaks with Mike Pezzullo, former Secretary of Australia’s Home Affairs Department (2017-2023), about the nation’s historical resilience and current security challenges. They explore how Australia’s early naval power deterred threats like German warships in WWI, yet today, the country faces a "real and present danger" from China’s naval deployments, such as the recent task group in the Tasman Sea. Pezzullo warns that Australia’s strategic sensibility has declined, leaving it vulnerable despite warnings from leaders like former Prime Minister Rudd in 2009.

The conversation shifts to actionable solutions, emphasising the need for leadership to prioritise defence over social spending. Pezzullo suggests doubling maritime surveillance, investing in autonomous underwater drones, and fostering regional alliances to counter coercion without forcing nations to choose between the U.S. and China. He stresses that with political will, Australia can secure its freedom, drawing on past successes like economic reforms and border protection under leaders like former Prime Ministers Howard and Abbott.

Michael Pezzullo is a former Australian public servant who served as Secretary of the Department of Home Affairs from 2017 until 2023. He was previously Secretary of the Department of Immigration and Border Protection, and Deputy Secretary of the Department of Defence. Michael has a BA (Hons) in History from Sydney University.

Konstantin Kisin joins John in the midst of Britain’s discontent, six months into the Labour government's reign. They paint a nation adrift—stagnant in economy and spirit—where illegal immigration surges, cultural pride wanes, and policies like VAT on school fees sting the middle class. Against this backdrop, they trace a deeper malaise spanning decades, unshackled from any single party, as Britain grapples with its identity and a youth reluctant to defend it.

They examine America's resurgence under Trump, which is poised to outpace a risk-averse Europe tethered to Net Zero optimism and bloated bureaucracies. Migration challenges, the hunger for steadfast leaders, and a gentle call for rekindled Western pride all feature as they reflect on whether a better cultural story will prevail.

Join John and British journalist Melanie Phillips as they explore the escalating misuse of "genocide" in the Israel-Gaza conflict, exposing how propaganda and liberal denial have inverted reality. She argues that it is Israel who faces a genocidal threat from Islamists like Hamas, while anti-Semitism surges across a West blind to its own history. From torn hostage posters to distorted narratives, Phillips reveals a cultural crisis where truth is sacrificed for ideology, making this a critical wake-up call for understanding today’s Middle East tensions.

Join John Anderson as he hosts Kevin D. Roberts, President of the Heritage Foundation, for a thoughtful discussion on the changes shaping America and the broader Western world. This episode covers a range of topics, from Donald Trump’s unexpected return to the presidency to unconventional proposals like transforming Gaza into a luxury resort. Alongside these, they explore the evolving landscape of trade policies, the growing influence of China, and efforts to reconnect with core American values like the pursuit of opportunity and stability—what many call the American Dream.

The conversation delves into Heritage’s perspective on strengthening self-governance, addressing China’s advances in technology, and reassessing how alliances function in today’s global environment. Kevin offers straightforward insights into issues like the conflict in Ukraine, the potential role of tariffs in economic strategy, and the cultural challenges that have sparked debate across the West. Together, they examine how conservative approaches might influence policy and leadership, not just in Washington but in capitals around the world, providing a window into the ideas driving this moment of transition.

In this episode, John and Peter dive into the cracks forming in Western society—failing institutions, rising crime, and a loss of trust in leadership. They examine the energy crisis, the decline of national security, and the unchecked consequences of mass immigration, each part of the ideological shifts driving politics away from reason, and into chaos.

Against the backdrop of history, they reflect on the great wars, the temptations of blind idealism, and the perilous trajectory of the present. From crime and drug policies to the shifting global order under a new U.S. presidency, they probe the forces pulling nations apart. Yet, amid the bleak outlook, they touch on the enduring search for meaning—where true hope lies not in fleeting political victories, but in something far deeper and unshakable.

Join John and former Australian Prime Minister John Howard as they discuss the issues that will determine the upcoming Australian election in 2025. Economic issues play a prominent role, with concerns over declining productivity and rising living costs. Energy policy especially features, where debates around nuclear power versus renewables highlight the need for reliable, affordable solutions. The former Prime Minister and former Deputy Prime Minister also discuss the need to bolster national security as traditional global powers weaken, leaving vulnerabilities in defence, supply chains and cyber security.

The conversation also examines the importance of maintaining social cohesion and a unified national identity in a rapidly diversifying society. It emphasises the need for Australia's leaders to have integrity and competence, urging Australians to prioritise these qualities when choosing to elect those who will steer the country through complex global and domestic challenges.

After Sir Robert Menzies, John Howard is Australia’s second longest-serving Prime Minister. He was Prime Minister from 1996 to 2007. During the Howard Government Australia experienced unprecedented economic prosperity as well as remaining in budget surplus.

Join John and leading energy researcher Aidan Morrison as they outline why nuclear power should be at the centre of Australia’s energy strategy. Aidan argues that modern nuclear technology is safe, and superior to renewables in terms of its reliability and cost. The discussion illuminates the misinformation which has characterised Australia's energy debate, calling for a shake-up in energy governance in order to ensure that policies are based on engineering and economic realities rather than distorted political narratives.

 

Aidan also debunks the popular belief that Australia’s vast land and abundant sunshine make it uniquely suited for a wind and solar-powered grid, pointing out that these energy sources require massive infrastructure investments to be reliable. He suggests that ideological opposition and entrenched interests have prevented a rational discussion on nuclear power, despite its potential to provide affordable, clean, and secure energy.

 

Aidan Morrison is a leading researcher into Energy Systems and currently the Director of Energy Research at the Centre for Independent Studies. In 2023 he exposed how the famous CSIRO report “GenCost” excluded vast costs required to integrate and firm renewables by treating them as “sunk” costs. In 2024 he was amongst the strongest voices calling for nuclear energy in Australia and was a leading critic of the ‘Integrated System Plan’ (or ISP): Australia’s blue-print for a transition to an energy system dominated by wind and solar. Following the conclusion of a recent Senate Inquiry into Australia’s energy planning and regulation, Aidan reached the conclusion that the ISP is “worse than useless” and declared that trust in Australia energy establishment is now so badly broken that a series of resignations will be required to restore the credibility and respect that regulatory organisations required to administer the energy system.

John speaks with Dr. Nigel Biggar and Dr. Stephen Chavura to explore the complexities of history, challenging one-sided narratives of colonisation and conflict. Their discussion sheds light on the nuanced relationships between settlers and Indigenous peoples, revealing both moments of mutual respect and undeniable tragedy. The discussion emphasises an understanding of history within its true context, free from oversimplifications.

They also examine contemporary issues affecting Indigenous Australians, including the widening gaps in remote communities despite progressive policies. Each of them advocate practical solutions that focus on integration, education, and equal justice, rather than divisive narratives perpetuating victimhood.

Dr. Nigel Biggar CBE is Emeritus Regius Professor of Moral and Pastoral Theology at the University of Oxford, author and theologian. His most recent books are Colonialism: A Moral Reckoning (William Collins, 2023) and What’s Wrong with Rights? (Oxford University Press, 2020).

Dr. Stephen Chavura teaches European and Australian history at Campion College, Sydney. His most recent (co-authored) books are The Forgotten Menzies: The Mind of Australia's Longest-Serving Prime Minister (Melbourne University Publications, 2021), and Reason, Religion and the Australian Polity: A Secular State? (Routledge, 2019).

Author Marilynne Robinson talks with John about the enduring power of literature, the spiritual depth of Genesis, and the role of faith in shaping civilisation. With grace and wisdom, she explores how ancient texts like the Bible continue to offer moral clarity and insight into human dignity, while lamenting the cultural shift toward superficial modernity. Her reflections remind us that true wisdom lies in understanding our shared history and revering the sacredness of every individual.

This conversation offers a rare glimpse into Robinson’s deeply held beliefs about democracy, beauty, and the human condition. Thought-provoking and rich in literary references, it challenges us to rethink the narratives of our era and to seek meaning in complexity, compassion, and the timeless pursuit of truth.

Marilynne Robinson is an American Pulitzer Prize winning author and novelist. She has written many award-winning books, including Gilead, Housekeeping, Home and Jack. Her latest book is the bestseller Reading Genesis.