New Zealand's 14-day fuel problem and the Iran crisis
In this episode, Oliver talks to retired Major General John Howard about escalating US–Iran tensions, what 'phase zero' military build-up signals, and the pathways from diplomacy to potential strikes....
24 Feb 28min
Hope is not a strategy: What a more dangerous world means for New Zealand
In this episode, Oliver Hartwich speaks with retired Major General John Howard, whose 40-year military career included a senior executive role at the US Defense Intelligence Agency. Howard explains ...
19 Feb 31min
Understanding the highly sensitive learner
In this episode, Michael Johnston speaks with Kaaryn Cater of MindWise Connection about sensitivity – a temperamental trait that makes some people more affected by their environment. They explore why...
17 Feb 28min
New Zealand's falling fertility and the limits of immigration
In this episode, Michael talks to demographer Marion Burkimsher about New Zealand's falling fertility rate and looming population decline. They explore whether immigration can fill the gap as birth ra...
9 Feb 40min
New Zealand faces rare earth ultimatum
In this episode, Eric and Oliver talk about New Zealand's negotiations with the United States over rare earth minerals, following a 180-day ultimatum from America requiring allied nations to sign mine...
4 Feb 22min
Why vague codes of conduct threaten free speech on campus
In this episode, Michael and Stephanie are joined by former Chief Justice of Australia Robert French to examine academic freedom and freedom of expression in universities. French reflects on the model...
29 Jan 38min
Housing Affordability: NZ at the Global Policy Frontier (Part 3) - Finishing the Revolution
This concluding episode examines what it takes for housing reform to endure. Minister Chris Bishop reflects on his journey to Competitive Urban Land Markets (CLM) and why housing affordability is best...
22 Jan 54min
Wrapping up 2025: policy wins and what's ahead for New Zealand
In this episode, Oliver and Michael reflect on a packed 2025 that brought major policy wins in education, housing, and regulation, while looking ahead to the bigger picture challenges shaping 2026. T...
18 Dec 202533min
