The Leighton Smith Podcast

New Zealand once ranked among the world’s most prosperous nations.

Not any longer.

Armed with experience in both Law and Economics, retired lawyer David Schnauer spent a year writing “UNCOMFORTABLE ECONOMICS”.

His purpose; to show that New Zealand’s underperformance is fixable.

He challenges both politicians and citizens to lift their sights and demand more from our economy.

In Podcast 344, David Schnauer is explicit in his assertions but expands on his ambitions for New Zealands future.

And, as usual, The Mailroom with Mrs Producer.

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After a casual visit to New Zealand, this small American family couldn’t forget it.

Mike and his wife went home, sold up everything and moved here.

It’s a journey of discovery, heartbreak, redemption and triumph.

They were told they were on a fool’s errand; that the standards they set were financially suicidal.

They did it anyway. They planted a vineyard that has beaten the top French wines at their own game.

The story has this week been published, written by the owner himself. “Forged In Fire” catalogues a journey, a discovery, and the pursuit of perfection. It’s a story of ultimate achievement in New Zealand

Michael F Spratt guests on Podcast 343.

P.S. you don’t have to be a wine drinker to appreciate their success. But you may be tempted…

And we visit the Mailroom with Mrs Producer.

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In these times it’s difficult to stay updated with the “good, the bad and the ugly.” In this environment it’s easy to be ill-informed.

Independent commentator Ashley Church has been analysing virtually every issue that affects society and our lives.

Steeped in a background of politics, economics, business and real estate, he is a talking encyclopaedia.

We had an interesting discussion on Net Zero, politics, (particularly TOPs appearance,)  journalism, and the coming election.

And we visit the Mailroom with Mrs Producer.

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As Leighton is on a short break, for this week's episode we dig into the archives for a repeat of his interview with NZ First Deputy Leader Shane Jones from earlier in the year. 

Back next week with episode #342.

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With the celebration of 100 years of broadcasting from 1ZB, we have devoted Podcast 341 to three interviews with the station's past and present management: Bill Francis, Dallas Gurney & Jason Winstanley.

Over the years there have been many moments of drama, humour… and sometimes chaos.

Find out how a successful radio station ticks behind the scenes.

There’s input into today’s political drama from our once National Party MP.

As usual, we visit The Mailroom with Mrs Producer.

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Let’s be honest, there’s a lot going on in the world - so much so that it’s difficult to keep pace.

Take America for example. A transformation is underway that has not yet been fully recognised for what it is or what it could become.

The same may be said of Australia, England, much of Europe and beyond.

If that sounds exaggerated, then this week's discussion with Patrick Basham will be of interest.

The days of “that will never happen here”, wherever ‘here’ may be - are drawing to a close.

As usual, we visit The Mailroom with Mrs Producer.

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Worries about the outcome emerge in almost every election.

This 2026 election has much of the constituency concerned about a result that could lead to the end of the country as we know it.

Don Brash, arguably the best Reserve Bank Governor we’ve known, voices his thoughts on the matters he believes are most important.

He talks about our appallingly slow productivity growth - and on the country’s GDP per capita.

He also reflects on house prices, the long term outlook for government debt, and foreign policy .

And he rates the present government on its effectiveness.

As usual, we visit The Mailroom with Mrs Producer.

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In our culture today there is a strange set of attitudes toward history.

On one hand there’s a highly politicised approach to the past, in which people care passionately about history’s symbols and what they represent.

And on the other hand, we know less than ever about history.

We have largely ceased to think of ourselves as historical beings; "the past has nothing to teach us”.

Associate Professor of History, Sarah Irving-Stonebraker rationalises the value of history and how it can improve our approach to life.

And we visit The Mailroom with Mrs Producer.

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Salvatore Babones is a quantitative comparative sociologist (explained in the interview), at the University of Sydney.

He is an American living in Australia, and in his most recent book displays his knowledge of India.

The book is "Dharma Democracy; How India Built the Third World’s First Democracy”

He has visited India a number of times and established a relationship with Prime Minister Modi .

We discuss the Free Trade Agreements with both Australia and New Zealand, and present some alternative views on them.

We also expand the conversation to cover a number of other international issues.

And we visit The Mailroom with Mrs Producer.

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JR Bruning analyses her article, “An Election Agreement that has locked in a Road User Charging Revolution” and asks why this was necessary in the first place.

Crucially, how it will affect every one of us?

Investigative writer JR Bruning (aka Jodie Bruning) covers a range of topics; sociological studies of ignorance, "non-knowledge” and the production of science and technology.

Her primary research focus is on the relationship between governance, policy, and the production of scientific and technical knowledge for public good.

We cover “New York’s Deal with the Devil”. And we visit The Mailroom with Mrs Producer.

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The New Zealand Centre for Political Research (NZCPR) was established twenty one years ago.

Founded by Muriel Newman, the NZCPR is more important now than ever as an independent public policy think tank.

In this election year, New Zealand is arguably facing its biggest challenge to date.

Certainly the biggest for a long time.

Nine years as a politician (and a former Chamber of Commerce President) provides Muriel with political insider knowledge.

And in Podcast 335 she displays it with full force.

And we visit The Mailroom with Mrs Producer.

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Proven favourite Nick Cater turns up for the first time this year.

Unsurprisingly, the Australian economy leads the discussion.

We focus on the trio of hopeless politicians at the absolute peak of state power.

Nick shares his reaction to Pauline Hanson, and Angus Taylor, the new leader of the Liberal Party.

We touch on housing, jobs, tax, cost of living and mass immigration.

We discuss AI and the difference it will make to the political landscape.

And finally he addresses a most important question; is Australia still the place for Kiwis when they leave New Zealand.

His response might surprise you.

And we visit The Mailroom with Mrs Producer.

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Depending on perspective, it’s not difficult to agree with George Friedman’s interpretations of “how the world turns”.

I first met George in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania in 1983 where he was a Professor at the United States War College.

It was instantly obvious that the professors knowledge in his field was second to none.

George’s most recent book “The Storm Before the Calm” (2020) set the stage for the era we are now navigating.

This interview with Dr Friedman on the current Middle East crisis is one of our best discussions of how, when, where and why such events happen and how they play out.

Whether or not you agree, the founder and chairman of Geopolitical Futures is at his best.

And we visit The Mailroom with Mrs Producer.

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Dr Ramesh Thakur is well known on the Leighton Smith Podcast.

He is an Emeritus Professor of Public Policy at the Australian National University.

He is also a former United Nations Assistant Secretary General, and a Senior Scholar at the Brownstone Institute.

Since the birth of Covid-19 he has been tenacious in investigating the truth… and, in our opinion, very successfully.

As a contributor to “Canary in a Climate World: Climate Realism vs the Net Zero Myth,” volume three, his chapter exceeds over 6000 words and exposes eleven shared agendas of Climate Change and Covid.

He is at his very best.

And we visit The Mailroom with Mrs Producer.

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“Based in the Parliamentary Press Gallery since 1980, Barry Soper has covered every New Zealand Prime Minister since, earning a reputation for his sharp questioning, wit, and deep institutional knowledge of Wellington politics.” 

Barry’s contribution to New Zealand journalism saw him recognised in this year’s King’s Birthday Honours, where he was named an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit. 

He’s had a long and fascinating career and continues it still as Newstalk ZB’s senior political correspondent. 

His book, ‘One Last Question, Prime Minister’, now in its fourth print, was our excuse to have a most enjoyable conversation in episode #331. 

And as always, we finish in The Mailroom with Mrs Producer.  

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"Socialism is based on bureaucratic planning. This means a restriction of personal freedom. The dream of equality, a goal even of democratically dressed up socialism, can only be achieved by coercion." 

Thorsten Polleit shows ways in which democratic socialism moves toward a globally planned state.  

His book ‘The Global Currency Plot’ looks at the way money is used as a political tool, unpacking the agendas of those who wield political power. 

Polleit guests on this episode of the podcast to unpack his stance, and of course, we visit The Mailroom with Mrs Producer.  

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Leonard S. Hong arrived in New Zealand at the age of three. 

His story is one of choosing the right parents, hard work, and applied effort to succeed. 

At age 29 he has a Master of Science and has completed a Prime Ministerial Scholarship to Asia. He’s worked in Perth and Singapore, and speaks both English and Korean fluently. 

He is a valuable citizen. 

But why are he and so many of his friends angry and leaving NZ? 

Leonard S. Hong in conversation, discusses New Zealand’s economic malaise, the brain drain to Australia, Singapore’s development model, meritocracy, and the future facing young New Zealanders.

And as always, we checked the Mailroom with Mrs Producer, and concluded with climate matters. 

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An inventive way to encourage the understanding of the stupidity in New Zealand's governance... 

Oliver Hartwich, Executive Director of the New Zealand Initiative, has authored a novella, ‘The Martian Audit: Or, How New Zealand Repelled an Invasion Through Procedural Complexity’.  

It’s a satirical work in which Martian invaders are held off and eventually sent packing by the country’s planning system, consultation requirements, and public service culture. 

The novella is meant to entertain but reeks of reality – especially for those who have been challenged by the system. 

We also bring to your attention the latest, very significant, information about climate change. 

And we end in the mailroom with Mrs Producer.  

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The International Health Reform Project (IHRP) is aiming to restore a rational framework to the polarised debate surrounding the World Health Organisation (WHO). 

Their intent is to rebuild international health governance on a basis of ethics, evidence, and sovereign responsibility – publishing a report on the subject called ‘The Right to Health Sovereignty'.

David Bell, a member of IHRP, discusses in depth what this report means for the WHO and for the future of global health. 

We also comment on the country whose energy policies are being slammed as nonsense in a scathing critique, and the similarities with the foolishness in New Zealand. 

And as always, we end in the mailroom with Mrs Producer. 

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I’ve known Rodney Hide for a long time; through his career in politics and beyond.

I’ve seen changes in his life, both personal and professional. He is still making adjustments, because he’s a man who pursues philosophy and knowledge, and isn’t afraid of making corrections.

It’s been over a year since we did a podcast.

Our pre interview chat led to a story that then opened a wide ranging discussion.

We included politics and politicians, A.I.,the economy, Anzac relevance, the Middle East and Trump.

And, of course, at the end of it all, The Mailroom with Mrs Producer.

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"The science behind the risk of myocarditis following mRNA vaccination’, "A wake up call - The adverse health effects of forever genetic compounds” and "Biotech cannot be allowed a right to secrecy”.

These are all commentaries by Guy Hatchard PhD, published in the month of April. 

And after the failure of the Royal Commission on Covid-19, where to from here?

As he observes; “You can’t help but conclude that there has been a massive failure of individual and collective intelligence”.

Answers and analysis in a fulsome discussion with Guy Hatchard.

And we finish up in The Mailroom with Mrs Producer.

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It is no exaggeration to say that New Zealand has a major energy crisis. 

Energy policy is at the base of everything. Energy is only about 6% to 8% of GDP but without energy, there is no GDP. 

Energy is the economy and "if you don’t have everything right we are running into big trouble in every single area.” 

If you think coal is bad and the Greens should be running the country, you need to be dispelled of that thought with Energy Economist Dr Lars Schernikau in this weeks interview.

And we visit The Mailroom with Mrs Producer.

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George Friedman, from Geopolitical Futures guested on Podcast 318, five weeks ago.

As the Iran war has developed into a longer and much more serious event, it was appropriate to muster his knowledge and expertise for an update.

Knowing that there were threats for ever greater expansion of the conflict, we endeavoured to cover different results for each possibility.

We take a look at energy shortage and policy failure, and critique AI.

And we visit The Mailroom with Mrs Producer.

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“The phrase ‘unintended consequences’ rarely passes the lips of our most senior lawyers, judges, or academics.

Like many in the professional classes, lawyers have become cheerleaders for most fashionable progressive causes, abandoning the caution and prudence that once defined the discipline.

Worse, they have become enforcers - shutting down dissenting voices inside and outside the profession”.

Damning words from retired barrister Louise Clegg.

We cover a multitude of issues in a revealing interview; one of which may surprise you.

We take a look at other matters, including climate change. No, the science is not settled.

And we check into The Mailroom with Mrs Producer.

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"The Right to Health Sovereignty concludes that the restoration of trust in international health governance depends on
rediscovering the moral foundations of medicine and public health, and the sovereign responsibility of the nation state.

An International Health Organisation built on sovereignty and ethics would preserve the benefits of cooperation while upholding the freedoms of individuals and nations.”

So says Ramesh Thakur as he presents the case for transition from WHO to IHO.

And we visit The Mailroom with Mrs Producer.

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In the 13 years since I first interviewed Patrick Basham, Director of the Democracy Institute in Washington DC, he has shown himself to be an outstanding analyst and commentator.

He is erudite on many fronts.

His opinions on the war with Iran may not please you.

But whether you’re a Trump supporter or a critic, his rationale is provocative. Don’t miss it.

And we finish up in The Mailroom with your correspondence and Mrs Producer.

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The recent announcement by the Reserve Bank focused on the availability of cash and ATM’s, and commercial bank branches.

The Reserve Bank is currently seeking feedback on these possible changes from the public.

Professor Robert MacCulloch, (who once worked at the Reserve Bank), is forthright in his commentary.

His thoughts on cash, CBDC’s, and privacy versus government control are invaluable.

As are your thoughts in The Mailroom with Mrs Producer.

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Media around the world has been engrossed with reporting, speculating, and arguing the case over the war with Iran.  

While it may have been ‘out of the blue’ for many, the conflict came as no surprise to those following the developments in the Middle East. 

George Friedman, Chairman and Founder of Geopolitical Futures, exploits knowledge he’s accumulated over decades, providing his opinion on why US President Donald Trump made the decision to attack Iran. 

He provides the answers others can’t. 

And as always, we visit the mailroom with Mrs Producer.  

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For some considerable time, in countries with judicial systems like New Zealand, Australia, Canada and the U.S., the senior courts have been expanding their power.

Professor Jim Allan was commissioned to write an appraisal of a new 600+ page book for a U.S. law journal.

In summary, he concluded what one Supreme Court has been doing is “bonkers; flat out judicial supremacy”.

This is a book for anyone interested in the law and politics.

We also share comment on a range of current troublesome issues.

And we go to The Mailroom with Mrs Producer.

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There are numerous approaches to management: Legacy, Ideological, Corporate, and Political Management.

These combine to produce a system that cannot sustain long-term strategies.

“Cultivation Management is the alternative.”

According to Dr Mike Schmidt, it is also the approach that Christopher Luxon needs to adopt to retain his Prime Ministership.

And then there’s the question; can Mr Luxon afford to bypass the advice Schmidt has to offer?

Advice that is equally applicable to most other forms of management. You can decide for yourself.

And we visit The Mailroom with Mrs Producer.

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Having spent two weeks in Australia, post New Year, Leighton & Carolyn are pleased to be home. Sydney was sweltering as is the political scenery.

Nevertheless a good time was had. Now it’s back to business for 2026, the eighth year of the podcast.

Interestingly there was much inquiry about two politicians by our Australian media friends; Shane Jones & Erica Stanford.

So we begin the year, as we did in ’25 with Shane Jones, Deputy Leader of New Zealand First. He’s not shy about being honest, at times brutally so.

As usual Mrs Producer joins the Mailroom followed by some intelligent comment by Gary Judd KC.

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Leighton is on summer break, so we are highlighting some of his favourite guests from 2025.

James Bovard is a Libertarian Journalist and Author. Thirteen books published. In his first ’The Farm Fiasco’ (1989) he referenced NZ as a world leader in farming.

In 1994 came ‘Lost Rights; The Destruction of American Liberty’ We interviewed in April 2021 re Covid.

Now thirty years after Lost Rights, comes ‘Last Rights; The Death of American Liberty”.

We arranged the interview moments before the 1st Presidential Debate.

Between the book and the political crisis in the U.S. there was never a dull moment.

And he’s quite amusing. Bovard is a “character”!

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Leighton is on summer break, so we are highlighting some of his favourite guests from 2025.

Emeritus Professor Robert Clancy is a leading Australian immunologist and pioneer in the field of mucosal immunology.

He is known for his research and development of therapies for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, commonly known as emphysema.

“Covid through our eyes”, edited by Robert Clancy, explains how Australian governments and health systems complied with instructions from the USA, to enrich multi-national drug companies.

“Immunologists,  pharmacists, doctors and other professionals expose harm and loss caused by a seriously misguided response”.

Clancy doesn’t pull his punches — he’s articulate, honest and even entertaining. There is much to learn from his commentary, both past  and future.

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Leighton is on summer break, so we are highlighting some of his favourite guests from 2025.

John Alcock updates us on Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDC’s) after the groundwork he laid down eighteen months ago on this podcast.

Within the last couple of weeks, two of the biggest NZ Banks have implemented mandatory behavioural and device-level surveillance as a condition of online and mobile banking.

The customer cannot opt out.

They justify it as fraud prevention but go far beyond what is proportionate.

And this is only the beginning.

We discuss where to after this, and much more.

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Leighton is on summer break, so we are highlighting some of his favourite guests from 2025.

Ramesh Thakur has a world of history, literally, in international affairs.

He has taught at a number of Universities including Otago and the ANU, Canberra.

But his time spent at the United Nations, culminating as an Assistant Secretary General, provides a wealth of knowledge.

That makes his comments on Iran, Israel, and Donald Trump a must listen.

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Leighton is on summer break, so we are highlighting some of his favourite guests from 2025.

Prior to Covid-19, Dr Pierre Kory was an internationally renowned pioneer in the field of critical care ultra-sonography; equally so in other areas of medicine.

In 2023 he published “The War on Ivermectin: The medicine that saved millions and could have ended the pandemic." 

The challenges that were to confront him over the next few years changed his life.

He was confronted with deceit, corruption, threats and dismissal. Now, the tide has turned.

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Leighton is on summer break, so we are highlighting some of his favourite guests from 2025.

In 2007, Documentary maker Martin Durkin produced “The Great Global Warming Swindle”.

With 17 more years of predictions, Durkin has released “Climate: The Movie, The Cold Truth”.

By utilising facts, statistics and some of the world’s leading scientists, Durkin shows why the science is still not settled. (Judge for yourself by searching  the movie title free on line).

UN climate official warns only ’two years’ to save the world from environmental crisis... again.

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Leighton is on summer break, so we are highlighting some of his favourite guests from 2025.

Romanians are still navigating the difficult path of building democratic institutions and a culture of transparency.

At the same time, widespread perceptions of corruption and cronyism have caused many Romanians to see little change from communist leadership.

Antonia Colibasanu, a lecturer on International Relations at the Romanian National University, backgrounds Romania’s position and future influence in Europe and analyses the difficulties the country is faced with.

She also summarises the country’s relationship between Russia, Ukraine, Poland and the rest of Europe.

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Leighton is on summer break, so we are highlighting some of his favourite guests from 2025.

The term “lawfare” is getting plenty of attention; basically it represents the corruption that’s becoming more widespread in the courtrooms of the Western world.

Judicial activism and the politicisation of the law and legal system makes for a duo of issues that need addressing by the legislatures of countries which are the targets of the misuse of such activities.

In what we think is a very productive discussion on a number of current democracy headwinds, Professor James Allan is arguably better than ever.

We share a commentary on tariffs that cuts to the core intent of Trumps actions, and we visit The Mailroom with Mrs Producer.

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Mike Sabin has been a very busy man. He joined the NZ Police in 1996 and was stationed in Auckland and up north.

He specialised in drug enforcement, especially methamphetamine, (otherwise known as P).

He was one of the first specialised Clandestine Drug Laboratory task force members responsible for investigating and dismantling illicit P labs.

In 2006 he established MethCon Group, concentrating on meth education and policy.

In 2011 he entered Parliament as the National MP for Northland.

Since 2019 Mike has owned and operated a private investigations business with six investigators in total.

To say that this summary is just scratching the surface is an understatement.

The Mailroom with Mrs Producer contains some interesting opinions. And we finish the year with comment on the increasingly Orwellian developments taking shape.

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Dr William Happer is an American physicist, author of 200 plus peer-reviewed scientific papers and co-founder of the CO2 Coalition.

Dr Happer will assure you that there is no climate emergency. If you think otherwise, “you have been misled”.

Happer’s analyses of 'Net Zero’ is timely for a country where politicians perpetuate ill-informed attitudes, and reject the opportunity to meet with him.

Dr Happer delivers much more on podcast 313.

And we finish up with The Mailroom with Mrs Producer.

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John Alcock updates us on Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDC’s) after the groundwork he laid down eighteen months ago on this podcast.

Within the last couple of weeks, two of the biggest NZ Banks have implemented mandatory behavioural and device-level surveillance as a condition of online and mobile banking.

The customer cannot opt out.

They justify it as fraud prevention but go far beyond what is proportionate.

And this is only the beginning.

We discuss where to after this, and much more.

And we dive into The Mailroom with Mrs Producer.

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David Wolfson (Lord Wolfson of Tredegar, KC) is one of the most sought-after commercial Silks at the Bar. 

He served as Minister of Justice in the House of Lords between 2020 and 2022, and is now the shadow Attorney General in addition to his full time legal practice.  

Wolfson is a man of principle, towering over so many who come up short in that department – especially in the political world.  

He recounts the background of his resignation from the Boris Johnson Administration, which was a matter of personal conviction. 

Also up for discussion was Wolfson’s thoughts on Donald Trump, education, the Middle East, mass migration, and the challenges facing England.  

And as always we finish up in The Mailroom with Mrs Producer. 

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Interviewing Stephen Rowe exceeded expectations.

He shines as an example of achievement, success and self belief.

If you’re looking for someone to model your life on, he’s the ideal candidate.

After graduating in 2015, Stephen joined Charlie Kirk’s newly founded Turning Point USA. From there, like a rocket he advanced to one success after another.

He has trained more than 24,000 students and leaders in digital strategy and political technology.

Artificial intelligence is a specialty. There is so much more in this interview.

And we finish up in The Mailroom with Mrs Producer.

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In 1971, the US dollar was backed by gold. That is until President Richard Nixon disestablished that relationship. 

Since then, the US dollar has lost 87% of its value, meaning that one dollar buys only 12.5% of what it could back then. 

These figures were published on Sept 29, 2024. Today it is even worse. 
 
Multi billionaire Warren Buffet described gold as a ‘pet rock’ – good for nothing. Is that a realistic comment? 

Its fixed value in 1971 was US$35, it is now in the vicinity of US$4000. 
 
This week we tackle the whys and wherefores of gold with New Zealand Gold Merchants’ Tony Coleman. We look at its commercial value and use, the central banks, the geopolitics, and the trading of it. 

And finally, we dive into The Mailroom with Mrs Producer. 

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Emeritus Professor Robert Clancy is a leading Australian immunologist and pioneer in the field of mucosal immunology.

He is known for his research and development of therapies for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, commonly known as emphysema.

“Covid through our eyes”, edited by Robert Clancy, explains how Australian governments and health systems complied with instructions from the USA, to enrich multi-national drug companies.

“Immunologists,  pharmacists, doctors and other professionals expose harm and loss caused by a seriously misguided response”.

Clancy doesn’t pull his punches —  he’s articulate, honest and even entertaining. There is much to learn from his commentary, both past  and future.

And, as always, The Mailroom with Mrs Producer

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In 2013 Nick Cater published a book called  “The Lucky Culture”.

In the intervening years a whole lot has changed, so he is writing a follow-up.

And the essay, “Multiculturalism’s Berlin Wall Moment” (Quadrant magazine October edition) is associated with it.

The essay covers the assault on western culture, beginning with Pierre Trudeau’s inability to understand the mistake he was making. And so it spread.

If you’re wondering “Why State-Mandated Harmony Was Never Going to Work", there are plenty of answers in Podcast 307.

And, of course, The Mailroom with Mrs Producer

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The US-brokered peace deal saw Hamas release the Israeli hostages on Monday – an event watched by both Israel’s CE Ambassador Alan Roth down in Wellington, and Leighton up in Auckland. 

That evening, they joined up over Zoom to analyse the effects of what had taken place over the previous few days. 

On Tuesday morning, Geopolitical Futures’ George Friedman approached the milestone with an historic and militaristic perspective. 

The two complementary analyses are packed with knowledge and information and not to be missed. 

And as always, we end the programme in the Mailroom with Mrs Producer. 

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Patrick Basham, founder of Democracy Institute in Washington DC, returns in Podcast 305 to analyse the New York mayoralty election.

How could the biggest city in a country founded on freedom, be on the verge of electing a marxist muslim as its Mayor?

This is a position that is claimed by some to rank second only to the Presidency.

Zohran Mamdani looks set to take the mayoralty in the November 4 election.

Patrick also discusses other idiocies (of which there are many), in a most enjoyable interview.

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“With the advent of postmodernism, the literal definition of truth itself has changed.

THE truth has been replaced by MY truth and YOUR truth. Truth has become an opinion, no more important than how you like your steak cooked.

In the past, we relied on ethical medical science to lead the way to find THE truth, but is that even possible now?"

With the ‘Gene Technology Bill’ still in the hearing stage, Guy Hatchard provides some direction for the undecided.

And following the Mailroom with Mrs Producer communication that deserves its own segment.

A very good letter from KC Gary Judd in response to our interview with retired barrister Louise Clegg.

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There’s a difference between criticising politicians just because you don’t like them, and drawing attention to a politician’s inadequacies when they are failing to deliver.

The same applies to a political party.

Then there’s the objection to being too negative, and effectively helping the other team win. The team that you disapprove of even more.

The problem is, if you don’t express dissatisfaction you encourage mediocrity.

From the New Zealand Centre for Political Research Dr Muriel Newman pulls no punches in Podcast 303

And, as always, we appreciate your contribution in The Mailroom with Mrs Producer.

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To suggest that there is considerable turmoil across the globe is an understatement.

“Nature abhors a vacuum” is constantly given new reign.

Following the Soviet Union’s collapse in 1989, political scientist Francis Fukuyama announced history was dead.

His best selling “The End of History and the Last Man” is updated, still in print and nowhere near death.

Then in 2018 Fukuyama’s book “Identity” announces that “fragmentation based on alignment of interest into identity groups, has emerged as a new threat to democracy”.

On September 3, 2025 retired barrister Louise Clegg wrote an opinion article drawing on all the above, called “Sliding into technocracy”.

After thirty years in the legal profession, she guests in Podcast 302.

From Nietzsche to Charlie Kirk, it is a worthy discussion.

There’s more on the assassination of Charlie Kirk in the Mailroom with Mrs Producer.

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Canadian born Law Professor James Allan holds a New Zealand passport and taught at University of Otago for eleven years.

He is also an Australian passport holder and professor at the University of Queensland.

In this discussion we start with which Anglo based country is doing best in a difficult global climate.

We discuss the legacy media (and whether it is broken), judicial activism, the threat of immigration, politicisation of police, and we finish on his views on Israel and Gaza.

We visit The Mailroom with Mrs Producer, and comment finally on the ugliest crime in America not to get national coverage.

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After six weeks north of the Equator, it’s good to be back.

"Two years ago, New Zealanders voted for change. Not just a change of government but a change of direction. They were promised fiscal discipline, economic renewal and a productive economy.

The New Zealand government has shown it can reform when it wants to. Now it must also reform what matters most: the unsustainable growth in public spending.”

This quote came from The Australian (August 28), and it was written by Dr Oliver Hartwich, Executive Director of the NZ Initiative.

In Podcast 300, he provides us with a very good analysis of the challenge facing the NZ economy.

We spend the second half of this interview discussing one of the most extraordinary human beings of all time, Leonardo Da Vinci.

The reason is explained fulsomely and you’ll understand my enthusiasm as it unfolds.

I can only suggest that what you’ll hear provides a greater perspective of the present.

And finally, we are back with Mrs Producer and The Mailroom.

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Two years ago my son Christian and I recorded an interview in London.

Many people commented on it, and many messages requested a repeat. So, under some difficult circumstances we managed it.

We have another discussion on whether London is a better place to live…. or otherwise.

Next week Mrs Producer returns, along with The Mailroom and reports on our sojourn.

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New Zealand’s Big Climate Mistake. This interview with Prof Michael Kelly is full of logic and rationale.

A kiwi, Kelly is Professor Emeritus at Cambridge University (coincidentally a place we visited a couple of weeks ago).

The interview with Kelly was 200 or so podcasts ago, in number 93. The information he imparts is as relevant now as then.

We thought at the time it was a stunning listen; if you haven’t heard it, there is much to learn.

Your feedback will be welcomed.

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Having recently listened to a few extracts from the last interview we had with Tom Harrington, I was reminded by just how good he is.

Tom’s capacity to expose wrong think, and inspire and develop how we do think is hinted in this comment:

“That having more educational credentials is no guarantee against the danger of believing in stories that seriously distort our understanding of imperial facts.”

He is a very inspirational speaker.

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We are on holiday in Europe at the moment. Of course there will be a full account on return.

It was almost two years ago that writer and public speaker Lord Hannan was in NZ, and we recorded an interview which provided much food for thought.

Having visited the country on numerous occasions, Daniel's opinion on politics and the economy was valid.

A couple of years later is a good time to check on his ‘predictions’ as to where several controversial issues might be headed.

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Imagine a company that has been pursuing its goal for fifteen years, with mixed progress, if you could call it that.

The company, Trans Tasman Resources (TTR) has invested over $85 million toward a deep sea mining project off the South Taranaki Coast.

It’s Executive Chairman Alan Eggers is a qualified geologist who gained his degree at Victoria University, Wellington.

But it’s not all been plain sailing...

Eggers lays it out in a most interesting interview which covers matters political, racial, social and financial, and helps to understand why New Zealand is poorly served in its search for the success it deserves.

It just might share some of the reasons the country comes up short in other areas, like infrastructure and health.

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Maryanne Spurdle from the Maxim Institute has produced a Discussion Paper "INTERROGATING CHOICE: Euthanasia and the ILLUSION OF AUTONOMY."

The UK has announced their intention to lower the voting age to 16.

Canada plans to include minors in its Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) advances — even excluding parental knowledge and approval.

This follows the established pattern of absurdities in numerous fields: alcohol consumption, sex, driver licensing, education and crime.

Is it driven by an illusion of maturity or some manipulative purpose by lowering standards?

Maryann Spurdle discusses her Discussion Paper on Podcast 294.

And we wind up with the Mail Room and Mrs Producer.

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"July 19 is the last day that Member States of the World Health Organisation can withdraw from the IHR amendments (without entering a multi-year withdrawal process).

By failing to withdraw, they will be committing their taxpayers to fund the key surveillance aspects of a rapidly expanding industry that is the pandemic industrial complex.

The hapless inhabitants of WHO Member States seem to have no real leaders anymore.”

This quote by David Bell, former medical officer and scientist at the WHO, relates to the situation in New Zealand.

David is also a public health physician and biotech consultant in global health.

And we check in to The Mailroom with Mrs Producer.

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A Tribute to Professor Des Gorman

After interviewing Des Gorman for Podcast 105, this is what we wrote for the podcast email…

“This week we drill down on the knowledge, wisdom and opinion of of Des Gorman, Professor of Medicine in the Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences at the University of Auckland.

Of course, Covid-19 but we talk about many other matters that affect us all. We discuss science, philosophy, education, intelligence, the shortcomings of governance and what binds us together.

Share it with your friends... and the not so friendly.”

We can’t think of any good reason to change that for our tribute replay of that discussion in podcast 292. His opinions will remain valid… maybe even more so, with the passing of time.

At age 71, Des Gorman died a week ago, on July 2nd. He became a good friend and will be sorely missed.

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Over the last few years there has been much scientific dispute.

Climate dominated much of the last forty years, followed and outranked by Covid-19. Both remain very much in the headlines.

Science itself has suffered in the battle over truth. "Settled science” is more fallacy than fact.

Fortunately, there is an increase in push-back on false or unsubstantiated claims.

Guy Hatchard was a senior manager at Genetic ID; a food safety testing and certification laboratory. He has a degree in Logic and Theoretical Physics and a PhD in Psychology.

In light of the current debate over the NZ Gene Technology Bill, Hatchard provides another warning on “settled science”.

And, finally, we visit The Mailroom with Mrs Producer.

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Ramesh Thakur has a world of history, literally, in international affairs.

He has taught at a number of Universities including Otago and the ANU, Canberra.

But his time spent at the United Nations, culminating as an Assistant Secretary General, provides a wealth of knowledge.

That makes his comments on Iran, Israel, and Donald Trump a must listen in Podcast 290.

And after The Mailroom we offer some thoughts on multiculturalism.

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The similarities between Ukraine’s attack on Russian bombers and the Israeli attack on Iran’s nuclear sites have been noted. But the parallels don’t stop there.

The U.S. is involved in both conflicts and the script for each is flexible on a daily basis. The influence upon each is Donald J Trump.

Geopolitical authority George Friedman opines on both wars, employing the theory of geopolitical cycles as explained in his book “The Storm Before the Calm”.

And, finally, we see what you think in The Mailroom with Mrs Producer.

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Romanians are still navigating the difficult path of building democratic institutions and a culture of transparency.

At the same time, widespread perceptions of corruption and cronyism have caused many Romanians to see little change from communist leadership.

Antonia Colibasanu, a lecturer on International Relations at the Romanian National University, backgrounds Romania’s position and future influence in Europe and analyses the difficulties the country is faced with.

She also summarises the country’s relationship between Russia, Ukraine, Poland and the rest of Europe.

And finally, we visit The Mailroom with Mrs Producer.

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This week we talk with Patrick Basham on President Trump's approval ratings and the Democracy Institute’s latest poll, “Is Trump Fixing America or Breaking it?” 

Patrick gives a very good analysis on the most critical issues on the planet; Iran and nuclear developments, Ukraine and the drone strike on Russia and the South Korean and Polish elections.

And we visit The Mailroom with Mrs Producer.

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The rush of technology that is confronting us has gone unnoticed by most of the world’s inhabitants.

That is, until now. The moment we, as individuals start to recognise the magnitude of A.I. is likely to rearrange our view of the future: both short and long term.

The question is, how do we handle it going forward.

Nigel Horrocks and Justin Matthews recently established a Substack, CREATIVE MACHINAS.

Nigel has had an illustrious career in journalism, internet development and is a recent graduate from Oxford University in AI.

Justin Matthews is a senior lecturer in digital media at AUT.

They share with us what they know of the present and what’s ahead.

And we visit The Mailroom with Mrs Producer.

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Consulting power supply engineer Bryan Leyland updates us on the dire straits confronting the nation. And why we should be very concerned.

We address a second matter of public importance; New Zealand’s Gene Technology Bill fails the public interest transparency test, according to submissions from PSGR (Physicians & Scientists for Global Responsibility).

Sociologist J. R. Bruning explains the need for that concern, including the threat to democracy.

Should we shed tears over Biden’s prostate?

And we visit The Mailroom with Mrs Producer.

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Prior to Covid-19, Dr Pierre Kory was an internationally renowned pioneer in the field of critical care ultra-sonography;  equally so in other areas of medicine.

In 2023 he published “The War on Ivermectin: The medicine that saved millions and could have ended the pandemic." 

The challenges that were to confront him over the next few years changed his life.

He was confronted with deceit, corruption, threats and dismissal. Now, the tide has turned.

Finally, we pay a visit to The Mailroom with Mrs Producer.

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Whichever way you look at it, Australia is in political turmoil after the May 3 election.

There are plenty of theories as to why, and plenty of propaganda along with accompanying lies. The question is, what’s next?

Nick Cater returns to analyse how a government with such a poor record in its first term could eliminate its opposition so decisively.

What does it mean to important issues like free speech, taxation, defence, climate, energy supply and the cost of living?

And we visit The Mailroom with Mrs Producer.

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Educated in India and Canada, Ramesh Thakur has had an amazing career as an academic, lawyer and government adviser.

He has taught in universities in Canada, New Zealand, Australia, and Singapore.

He offers broad commentary on judicial “adventurism" and growing tyranny, India, Pakistan, China, the U.N. and W.H.O..

His advice on global affairs would unquestionably aid the NZ Government in some of their misguided ideas.

We share a medical professional’s submission to the second Covid Inquiry, and we visit The Mailroom with Mrs Producer.

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After a brilliant academic career, graduating with multiple degrees in various subjects, Kurt Schlichter joined the military and served in Operation Desert Storm, the Gulf War and in Kosovo.

He co-founded a law firm in Los Angeles in 1994 and has been a freelance writer since 1984. Andrew Breitbart seconded Kurt to help establish Breitbart News and now writes three columns a week for Townhall.com. And all that is only part of the story.

As always, the mailroom with Mrs Producer.

And some words on dignity & mass migration from Pope Francis sent shortly before he died, to the Bishops of America. Was he right?

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The Australian election on May 3 is just as important as the next New Zealand election in 2026.

With the flood of Kiwis who have fled this country as a result of the Ardern devastation, most have moved to Australia.

The outflow has been horrific and most of them will not return.

Nick Cater covers issues of relevance to any prospective NZ emigrants that could influence how their future is affected.

Following the Mailroom we address developments in science and climate that should influence present and future governments in NZ; that is if they really care for the country’s future.

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The term “lawfare” is getting plenty of attention; basically it represents the corruption that’s becoming more widespread in the courtrooms of the Western world.

Judicial activism and the politicisation of the law and legal system makes for a duo of issues that need addressing by the legislatures of countries which are the targets of the misuse of such activities.

In what we think is a very productive discussion on a number of current democracy headwinds, Professor James Allan is arguably better than ever.

We share a commentary on tariffs that cuts to the core intent of Trumps actions, and we visit The Mailroom with Mrs Producer.

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Matt Margolis is an independent author of books and editorial opinion.

His first successful book was “The Worst President in History”.

We talk at length about judicial activism and its proliferation, and other broader issues.

We share the opinions of Ramesh Thakur and Kurt Schlichter, along with some very good correspondence in the Mailroom with Mrs Producer.

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On March 16, the New York Times published “We Were Badly Mislead About The Event That Changed Our Lives”. It reports that 77 Nobel Laureates and 31 scientific societies were involved in the cover up that included deliberately planning to mislead journalists. (Actually, the NYT can be accused of failing to do its job).

Guy Hatchard analyses what really took place in New Zealand and elsewhere under the heading of "A strange mental illness is spreading via infected information networks". It’s a most revealing discussion.

Also we comment on “The climate scam is over”; a ground breaking study using AI to debunk the man-made climate crisis narrative. Who would’ve thought. (Michael Mann is getting destroyed every which way)!

And the Mailroom with Mrs Producer is excellent.

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Dr Michael De Percy is a Senior Lecturer in Political Science at the University of Canberra. He graduated from both the Australian National University and the Royal Military College, Duntroon.  

He was also appointed to the Australian Research Council’s College of Experts in 2022. 

Sound interesting? I can only say that if he’d been my lecturer at ANU, I might well have chosen a different career path.  

We have an excellent Mailroom with Mrs Producer and finish with a critique of Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, courtesy of Amy Brooke. 

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Ex-politician Rodney Hide is fighting a battle. It began a couple of years ago, and it continues today. 

It involves the 'Relationship and Sexuality Education Curriculum' being taught in his daughter’s school. It’s actually taught in all schools. 

Rodney is not the only parent unhappy about what’s being taught, but he stands almost alone in trying to address it. To him it is a matter of principle.

But we also discuss other matters- the RBNZ and Adrian Orr, Luxon and the National party, economic growth, and more.

And we wind up in The Mailroom with Mrs Producer.

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James Roguski is a fighter for what he regards as the truth.

He is a researcher, author, natural health proponent and activist.

Three years ago, Roguski uncovered documents regarding proposed amendments to the International Health Regulations and contributed to them being rejected. 

But the battle goes on.

The WHO, mRNA, and other controversial areas are his concern. Controversial, yes, but worth listening to.

We contribute information you’re unlikely to hear elsewhere on Trump, Zelenskyy, and the Oval Office debacle.

And we visit The Mailroom with Mrs Producer.

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The unforeseen arrangements between China and the Cook Islands have induced greater interest in South Pacific geopolitics than we can ever remember.

How we deal with this surprise confrontation will be fascinating to observe.

One thing is obvious; the Kiwi's “benign strategic environment” has had its feathers ruffled.

In 2019 George Friedman published “The Storm Before The Calm”, which suggested the sort of events we are now experiencing. George Friedman guests on Podcast 273.

And, as ever, we round up with The Mailroom with Mrs Producer.

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New Zealand and the Cook Islands agreements require regular consultation on defence and security issues.

But the Cooks have just signed a secret partnership with China, catching the NZ government unawares.

If that’s not bad enough, there is a second cause for major concern. It includes our Parliamentary Sovereignty, ownership of the entire NZ coastline and an activist Supreme Court indulging its collective ego.

Muriel Newman, an ex MP (nine years) and the founder of the New Zealand Centre for Political Research (NZCPR.com), discusses the threats and dangers to the Parliament’s position as the country's ultimate lawmaker.

And on the subject of courts, we catch up with Michael Connett, the lawyer who fought and won against the EPA (the Environment Protection Agency) over compulsory fluoridation.

Whatever your thoughts on the subject, it’s a David and Goliath tale.

And we visit The Mailroom with Mrs Producer.

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Peter Boghossian resigned from his position as Assistant Professor of Philosophy at Portland State University, where he had taught for ten years.

He left under pressure. His letter of resignation is on his website, and is compulsory reading. It is entitled, “My University Sacrificed Ideas for Ideology”.

We interviewed him first in 2015. He now travels a great deal, gives speeches frequently, and writes and is published on numerous outlets.

Let us know what you think of the interview, in The Mailroom with Mrs Producer.

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It’s no secret that New Zealand is confronted with numerous and problematic issues.

There is a common belief that leadership is a major cause of those problems. And not just political leadership; it is widespread.

There is a weakness that can only be confronted by strength of character and a determination that is in short supply.

Deputy Leader of NZ First, Shane Jones provides “character” that may not please some, but is worthy of consideration by those who come up short of requirements.

And, after the Mailroom with Mrs Producer, we consider a couple of those matters.

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Leighton is on summer break, so we are highlighting some of his favourite guests from 2024.

He began his tertiary education at the University of Auckland, continued it at London School of Economics and Princeton University,

He was Director of the PhD Program at Imperial College London. He has been awarded numerous prizes along the way, and returned to NZ twelve years ago.

He is Professor of Macroeconomics at Auckland University and publishes widely, including his own site, Down To Earth Kiwi.

And in spite of his career success he appears modest, but with the ability and intent to ruffle feathers.

This was a wide ranging and very enjoyable discussion.

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Leighton is on summer break, so we are highlighting some of his favourite guests from 2024.

Ramesh Thakur is well known to this audience; he has appeared on the Leighton Smith Podcast more than once.

There was much to catch up on.

His views on the world and its various parts are substantiated by life experience. He taught at a number of universities including Otago and ANU Canberra and Rector at the U.N. University. He was also an assistant Sec-Gen of the U.N.

As a result his commentary on world issues is superb.

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Leighton is on summer break, so we are highlighting some of his favourite guests from 2024.

Dr Paul Marik belongs to a group of physicians who have devoted their lives to their patients survival, and effectively been punished for it.

How can a man with a reputation as the “most published and influential clinician and researcher in critical care medicine in the United States" be forced from his career?

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Leighton is on summer break, so we are highlighting some of his favourite guests from 2024.

The legal fraternity in this part of the world is delighted at the Supreme Court’s decision on Smith v Fonterra. But not everyone feels that way.

In his inevitable style, Professor James Allan critiques the decision and the direction a collection of un-elected ex-lawyers are “usurping power to themselves at the expense of the elected branches of government”.

As a specialist in constitutional law, Jim is in his element.

We also spend words on SCOTUS and Trump. An important and essential commentary.

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Leighton is on summer break, so we are highlighting some of his favourite guests from 2024.

An insidious phenomenon has become widely evident around the western world, and it is alive and well in New Zealand. 

The attack has been against every institution that props up the pillars of our democratic freedom.

Retired Judge Anthony Willy justifies his accusations (from his essay “Blowing In the Wind”, NZCPR.com).

It’s an important document that should be studied in every school.

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Leighton is on summer break, so we are highlighting some of his favourite guests from 2024.

Since 2020, the W.H.O. has orchestrated and condoned one of the most devastating assaults on individual and societal health the world has seen.

At the behest of highly conflicted sponsors, this international bureaucracy promoted policies that overwhelmingly harmed the world’s disadvantaged.

Lacking any contrition, the W.H.O. is now seeking increased public funding through misrepresentation of risk and return on investment to entrench this response.

The past, present and future of the World Health Organisation, addressed with David Bell, former medical officer and scientist at the W.H.O.

And is Shane Jones right to be concerned about New Zealand’s participation?

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Leighton is on summer break, so we are highlighting some of his favourite guests from 2024.

One of the best and most interesting interviews we’ve done.

Tony O’Brien was born and raised in New Zealand. His life has followed a fascinating path, working in Australia, Britain, Canada, Hungary and beyond in a variety of capacities.

In his work he "did not have a plan, just took advantage of opportunities as they presented."

He is intelligent, articulate and successful but also modest. We discuss many different aspects of NZ’s current circumstances and issues, starting with education.

You will be encouraged!

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We can’t think of a better way to finish the year.

The legendary Antoine’s Restaurant in Parnell is now a memory.

The Chef was a virtuoso who would have succeeded anywhere in the world. Instead the world came to 333 Parnell Rd.

During its nigh on 50 years, Antoine’s suffered numerous crises, dictated by stock market crashes, business trends and government changes.

But then came Covid, accompanied by a juvenile govt. One night Antione's closed, without notice, and never reopened.

The story of Tony and Beth Astle, partners in business and in life, contains excitement, love, success, and sadness, but lots of laughs.

We finish up in The Mailroom with Mrs Producer.

Thank you so much for all your correspondence. Have a wonderful Christmas, and we will be back with you in the New Year.

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Australian journalist and author Nick Cater has been a guest on numerous occasions, beginning on radio in 2013.

Not having spoken for a year, we caught up on Thanksgiving Eve while he was in New York.

The plan was to discuss Australia’s pros and cons (of which there are many), for the benefit of intending migrants.

There is something of a diaspora from NZ at the moment.

As usual it was a relaxed but informative interview.

We make commentary on Auckland Transport and the medical profession and the frustrations therein.

And we visit The Mailroom with Mrs Producer.

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The Treaty Principles Bill isn’t responsible for the racial and political ructions confronting New Zealand.

It has more to do with a lack of courage and political leadership by previous administrations.

We start the discussion with David Seymour at the beginning and follow the events that threaten the country’s  future.

The ultimate questions might be what sort of a country do we want to live in, and are we mature enough to take a good look at it?

And we finish up with The Mailroom with Mrs Producer.

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Education in NZ has long been controversial.

It’s not incorrect to suggest that a Labour Education Minister has an easier task than a more ‘conservative’ party minister (i.e. National’s Merv Wellington in the 1980’s.)

Similar circumstances apply in other countries. Donald Trump returns to the Presidency with intent to eliminate the Department of Education and return the responsibility to the States.

There are some valid reasons for doing so. Are there lessons for other countries?

Dr Michael Johnston has been consulting NZ Education Minister Erica Stanford. After years of experience, most recently at Victoria University, Wellington, Michael is now with the NZ Initiative.

His podcast contribution is very informative.

Following the Mailroom there is further comment on other matters, including AI and democracy.

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Since 2020, the W.H.O. has orchestrated and condoned one of the most devastating assaults on individual and societal health the world has seen.

At the behest of highly conflicted sponsors, this international bureaucracy promoted policies that overwhelmingly harmed the world’s disadvantaged.

Lacking any contrition, the W.H.O. is now seeking increased public funding through misrepresentation of risk and return on investment to entrench this response.

The past, present and future of the World Health Organisation, addressed with David Bell, former medical officer and scientist at the W.H.O.

And is Shane Jones right to be concerned about New Zealand’s participation?

Finally, we visit The Mailroom with Mrs Producer.

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When we wound up our election day discussion, I suggested to Patrick Basham that we do a follow up "if warranted". It was warranted in multiples, so around midnight on election night we recorded the interview for 264. There is insight that you won’t hear elsewhere. Have a listen.

And following we have included comment from elsewhere that is worthy of a hearing.

Oh, and at the last second we received an email headed “Most accurate US presidential election pollster” !

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The Free Speech Union is proving its worth with a number of successful international speakers to New Zealand.

The latest is Professor Nigel Biggar, who amongst a number of contributions to the cause wrote “The Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Bill 2021".

He proved to be a most interesting, informative and entertaining guest.

Patrick Basham provided exit poll numbers from his Democracy Institute and the Daily Express.

And we visit The Mailroom with Mrs Producer

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Power supply issues are challenging much if not most of the world - why? Could it be the recklessness of net zero?

Power engineer Bryan Leyland expresses serious concern, as shortages translate into higher prices.

At the same time, Australia is talking increasingly about Nuclear power - shouldn’t we?

Meanwhile, a Telegraph article in London suggests that the young are fleeing Britain. Christian Smith updates his views on life in the old country.

We attend to aspects of the Presidential election, and visit The Mailroom with Mrs Producer.

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