Can Islam Co-Exist? | Dr. Mark Durie and Dr. Richard Shumack
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.Â
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.
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1:51:19
Australia Isn’t Ready For War | Michael Pezzullo
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.
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1:04:05
Konstantin Kisin | The Western Reset: Immigration, Energy, and Cultural Confidence
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.
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1:19:22
Melanie Phillips, Journalist, Author and Broadcaster IV
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.
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1:43:16
Kevin Roberts – The West’s Last Stand
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.
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