Former Prime Minister Tony Abbott joins John to discuss the recent Australian election, which exposed deep divisions and missed opportunities for meaningful change. This episode explores the Coalition’s inability to champion solutions for the cost-of-living crisis, national security vulnerabilities, and eroding cultural cohesion, leaving the nation vulnerable to further decline. With a focus on principled leadership, this discussion calls for bold policies to address economic stagnation, social ...
May 07, 2025•57 min
Louise Perry joins John to dissect the UK Supreme Court’s recent ruling that anchors “woman” to biological sex in the Equality Act. The verdict, Perry argues, unveils the fraying tapestry of progressivism, which clings to the flawed thesis of human interchangeability. In focusing on women's safety and biological integrity, the Court's decision mirrors a broader recognition of transgender activism’s overreach, which demanded a denial of truth and reality. Beneath this legal milestone lies a deepe...
Apr 24, 2025•1 hr 22 min
John speaks with economist Philip Pilkington to explore the unraveling of global liberalism, tracing its roots from British imperialism to America’s post-World War II dominance. Pilkington argues that economic liberalisation failed to universalise liberal values, as nations like China and India embrace markets while rejecting cultural liberalism. A multipolar world emerges, where non-liberal powers redefine global influence. Family breakdown and demographic decline threaten Western prosperity, w...
Apr 17, 2025•1 hr 1 min
Join John Anderson as he speaks with Walter Russell Mead, distinguished historian and foreign policy expert, recorded on April 8, 2025. As President Trump escalates his tariff war—threatening a 50% hike on China—Mead unravels the strategy behind this divisive move. Their dialogue spans the potential consolidation of American authority, the transformation of global trade, and the erosion of the post-World War II framework. Mead delivers a detailed geopolitical analysis, illuminating Trump’s objec...
Apr 08, 2025•1 hr 10 min
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 o...
Mar 28, 2025•1 hr 51 min
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 desp...
Mar 21, 2025•1 hr 4 min
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 un...
Mar 13, 2025•1 hr 19 min
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 wa...
Feb 28, 2025•1 hr 43 min
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 ...
Feb 21, 2025•1 hr
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. F...
Feb 15, 2025•1 hr 17 min
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 se...
Feb 07, 2025•1 hr 3 min
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 dis...
Jan 31, 2025•1 hr 18 min
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 Austral...
Jan 24, 2025•1 hr 35 min
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 conv...
Jan 07, 2025•1 hr 2 min
John speaks with author and wealth expert David Bahnsen on the moral and economic forces shaping modern society. They explore the meaning of work, the soul of capitalism, and the erosion of cultural values, offering insights rooted in faith and timeless principles. Bahnsen's vision of flourishing challenges the errors of status quo thought, blending hope with sound economics.John and David also tackle the challenges facing Western civilisation, including globalisation's impact on labor, the holl...
Dec 19, 2024•1 hr 1 min
Amy and Tom of The Decision 2024 share their thoughts on Trump’s resounding win in the recent U.S. election. From polling inaccuracies to middle America’s frustrations with Democrats, they outline why the result resonated with voters. Their analysis sheds light on Biden’s early exit, the failure of Harris’s campaign to gain traction, and how issues like immigration and the economy overshadowed progressive talking points.The duo also discusses the broader cultural implications, including young me...
Dec 08, 2024•1 hr 8 min
In a world where children are too often cast as props in adult narratives, this episode unveils the urgent need to place their rights and well-being at the heart of every cultural, economic, and political decision. From the erosion of masculinity and femininity to the silent crisis of family breakdown, Katy Faust joins John to explore how modern ideologies have stolen stability and identity from the youngest among us.Challenging the myths of individualism, materialism, and convenience, Faust exp...
Nov 22, 2024•1 hr 14 min
Victor Davis Hanson joins John after President-elect Trump's victory to explore why his direct style resonated with middle America. Hanson examines the economic and social factors driving Trump’s appeal, from rising inflation and border insecurity, to the sense of exclusion felt by many Americans. This interview highlights the stark divide between global elites and everyday citizens, examining how media and institutions underestimated public frustration.Hanson argues that Trump’s policies addres...
Nov 07, 2024•1 hr 11 min
Historian Niall Ferguson joins John to discuss the challenges facing Western societies, the geopolitical landscape, and cultural issues. He reflects on the shifting nature of Western academic institutions, which he believes have moved away from intellectual diversity and become dominated by progressive orthodoxies, prompting him to support the creation of a new university in Austin dedicated to open debate and the fearless pursuit of truth.Ferguson also addresses U.S. political dynamics, examini...
Nov 01, 2024•1 hr 5 min
Shawn Ryan, former Navy SEAL and CIA contractor, joins John to discuss politics, war, and the psychological toll of military service. Shawn reflects on his experiences in conflict zones like Iraq and Afghanistan, the rise of his podcast "The Shawn Ryan Show," and how it resonated with listeners craving authenticity amidst a media landscape they no longer trust. He shares his personal struggles, including battling alcoholism, and how transparency and vulnerability became central themes on his pla...
Oct 28, 2024•1 hr 13 min
Patrick Bet-David joins John to reflect on his inspiring journey from immigrant to thriving entrepreneur. He shares personal stories about the challenges and successes that shaped him, from his early life to his rise in the business world. Bet-David highlights how discipline, self-reliance and resilience have been crucial for him in overcoming life’s obstacles.Bet-David wants people to know that they can take charge of their lives despite the unpredictability of today's world. He encourages a fo...
Oct 18, 2024•1 hr 32 min
Dale Ahlquist, President of the G.K. Chesterton Society, joins John to discuss the lasting relevance of Chesterton’s works in today's world. Ahlquist highlights how Chesterton’s observations on issues like government power, the virtues of faith, hope, and charity, and the decline of reason in modern society, remain remarkably pertinent. With his trademark wit, Chesterton was able to tackle profound topics while remaining accessible, blending humour with intellectual depth to appeal to both casua...
Oct 11, 2024•43 min
Victor Davis Hanson joins John to explore the 2024 presidential election and the escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Hanson criticises President Joe Biden, suggesting his cognitive decline has left a power vacuum in the American government. He also sees Vice President Harris’ policy shifts as strategic rather than genuine, causing confusion among voters about where she truly stands.Hanson addresses the evolving situation in the Middle East, arguing that Israel must act dispropor...
Oct 04, 2024•1 hr 28 min
Major-General Tim Cross joins John to discuss his experiences in the military amidst global security challenges. Reflecting on his involvement in the 2003 Iraq invasion, he acknowledges the failures of the post-war period, criticising the poor decisions that undermined lasting nation-building efforts. He also examines the growing threats from authoritarian regimes like Russia and China.Cross argues that the West is facing a leadership crisis and must embrace morally courageous decision-making to...
Sep 27, 2024•1 hr 17 min
Join John as he speaks with Oxford Professor John Lennox about the intriguing connections between science, religion, and modern cultural shifts. Lennox reflects on how figures like Jordan Peterson have opened the door for renewed dialogue between Christianity and science. He argues that historical scientific pioneers were driven by their faith in a divine lawgiver, a perspective that has regained traction in modern intellectual discussions.The conversation also touches on the ethical challenges ...
Sep 13, 2024•1 hr 3 min
John sits down with Professor Steve Tsang, a political scientist and historian of China, to discuss Xi Jinping and the Chinese Communist Party. Professor Steve Tsang describes Xi Jinping’s leadership style as "Sinocentric Consultative Leninism": absolute control by the Communist Party. This control is maintained through surveillance, ostensible 'anti-corruption' campaigns, nationalism, and the educational 'shaping' of the people. Xi aims to expand China's global influence, using economic leverag...
Aug 30, 2024•1 hr 20 min
In this episode, John sits down with Justin Brierley, an English academic, writer, podcaster, and Christian apologist. They explore cultural shifts in the West, particularly the rise and decline of New Atheism, and how recent years have seen a surprising resurgence of interest in Christianity, even among secular intellectuals.Brierley discusses his experiences hosting debates between Christians and atheists during the peak of New Atheism, noting how the movement eventually splintered and lost mo...
Aug 16, 2024•1 hr 21 min
John Anderson speaks with Lord Mervyn King about the shortcomings of modern economics, including its detachment from practical issues and over-reliance on modelling. They discuss the failures of economic forecasting during the COVID-19 pandemic and on climate change, stressing the importance of humility and honesty from policymakers. The discussion extends to socio-economic challenges like rising national debt and intergenerational inequality in Western democracies.The conversation also touches ...
Aug 02, 2024•1 hr 16 min
Konstantin Kisin returns to discuss his recent tour in America and analysis of the UK election: the decline of the Conservative Party, the rise of the Reform Party, and the structural challenges in Britain that now face the Labour Party.Reflecting on broader geopolitical issues, Kisin also shares his views on the Ukraine conflict and the need for decisive leadership. Drawing on his experiences touring with Jordan Peterson, Kisin highlights the public's hunger for messages of personal responsibil...
Jul 19, 2024•1 hr 13 min
Join John Anderson as he interviews Peter Hitchens after the recent defeat of the Tories and the ascension of Keir Starmer. Hitchens offers a critical perspective on the Conservative Party and their gradual embrace of Tony Blair’s New Labour policies. He and John also explore the impact of public disengagement, the influence of public relations & advertising on politics, and the decline of traditional institutions like education, the family and local government.Hitchens also discusses the co...
Jul 17, 2024•1 hr 11 min
