The Leighton Smith Podcast

George Friedman makes another return in this podcast. Who better, when there is so much affecting the world, than the Founder and Chairman of Geopoliticalfutures.com.
We spend a lot of time on the U.S. riots, and it appears we don’t all agree. We take a look at China, and New Zealand’s place in developments.
We update you on the General Mike Flynn case, and more...
And finally, to Mrs Producer and your correspondence.
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On the podcast this week, we talk with New Zealander Dr David Bell.
After 20 years in the US as Professor of Marketing at the Wharton Business School, Penn State University, David has ventured into the business world. Highly regarded, highly engaging, we talk marketing, post virus retail and political requirements for success.
Historian Michael Bassett casts his critical eye across the political spectrum. His tongue is as sharp as ever.
We comment on Todd Muller, and his unsteady start as leader of National.
And, as always, Mrs Producer with correspondence.
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On this week's podcast:
It’s election year and things are hotting up, both here and in the US.We include a highly critical analysis from a forensic accountant on the present state of play.We talk to Michael Doran, from the Hudson Institute, on the trials and tribulations of General Michael Flynn. He guested on Podcast 12 when he was in the country last year. It is a most fascinating case.And Mrs Producer enjoys a letter writer who has it in for your host.
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This week we thought it would be a good opportunity to talk at length with Barry Soper, Newstalk ZB Political Editor. We had a wide ranging discussion on the government, the opposition, the upcoming election, and of course, the virus.
We followed that up with Sir Roger Douglas, who in conjunction with Professor Robert MacCulloch, is producing study papers on the current crisis. “The March Towards Poverty”.
We respond to some listener comments. There is some restlessness afoot.
And, of course, your correspondence.
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Leighton Smith's podcast also available on iTunes:To subscribe via iTunes click here

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There is much to say this week on central banks, travel, Jacinda in Canberra, the Pulitzer Prize, and the New York Times.My interview is with ’Science Left Behind’ author Alex Berezow.
I have an update on the virus and some other interesting matters.And, as always, letters with Mrs P.
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This week’s interview is with Geoffrey Parker. It is lengthy but compelling. His book ‘Global Crisis ; War, Climate Change & Catastrophe in the Seventeenth Century' is the foundation for a wide ranging and challenging discussion.
We take a look at a non-mainstream opinion on Trump and why the MSM is getting more deranged.As a brief escape from Covid-19, Malcolm Turnbull’s autobiography is worthy of some commentary.Then Mrs Producer rounds out podcast 61 with letters from you.
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Leighton Smith's podcast also available on iTunes:To subscribe via iTunes click here

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In this week’s podcast - 
I have commentary on the global fiscal and economic state, along with more on the coronavirus. 
There is reaction to last week’s interview with Steven Joyce, and to my QE questioning.
Modelling garners some warranted criticism, and why ‘experts’ make so many wrong decisions.
This week’s interview is with author, columnist, and speaker Melanie Phillips. I enjoyed it immensely.
Melanie’s autobiography explains her political transition from left to right.
It also provides a vital explanation as to why the West is at a critical crossroads today.
Mrs Producer shares some correspondence, while still in her pyjamas.
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Ex Cabinet Minister Steven Joyce occupies the major part of this week’s podcast. We talk about the consequences of the virus on everything from GDP to employment, to retail, trade, real estate and tourism.
And I ask whether Joyce is interested in returning to politics.
I have further commentary on Cardinal George Pell’s acquittal, with some interesting and appalling information on Victoria’s justice system.
Some good correspondence with Mrs Producer, and a business person’s take on the virus.
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In January, I picked up a book in Australia by American author Bill Gertz. Called DECEIVING THE SKY: INSIDE COMMUNIST CHINA'S DRIVE FOR GLOBAL SUPREMACY, the book makes for a fascinating discussion.
I’ve been looking forward to talking to Gertz. Now you can hear it.
I have commentary on George Pell’s acquittal and the death of Dr Fred Singer. 
I briefly address Auckland governance and prime examples of media bias.
Carolyn, as expected, appears with correspondence and some cheap shots at your host.
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Leighton Smith's podcast also available on iTunes:To subscribe via iTunes click here

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On the podcast this week, I interview two very interesting and informative people.
First, Patrick Basham, Director of the Democracy Institute. Patrick assesses the burden of responsibility for the coronavirus pandemic. The World Health Organisation does not rate highly.
Then, Todd Huizinga, who was an American diplomat for 20 years. Todd’s 2016 book, "The New Totalitarian Temptation", plus a more recent article, “The Postmodern Pursuit of global Governance”, make for a very interesting discussion.
And I analyse the different approaches countries have taken in dealing with the pandemic.
To round it all up, I deal with some great correspondence with Carolyn, aka Mrs Producer.
File your comments and complaints at [email protected]
Haven't listened to a podcast before? Check out our simple how-to guide.
Listen here on iHeartRadio

Leighton Smith's podcast also available on iTunes:To subscribe via iTunes click here

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.