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Phil is joined by Dr. Neryl East, Speaker & Leadership Credibility Expert, to discuss how the upcoming federal election could hinge on engaging Gen Z voters. With half a million first-time voters and a significant knowledge gap - three in ten unregistered Gen Z voters in the last election didn’t know they had to sign up - candidates who connect with them will have an advantage.  Australian students recently recorded their worst-ever results in civics education, highlighting the need for clear political communication. Dr. East argues that policy debates alone won’t be enough; candidates must inspire and motivate young voters. She expects social media to be a key battleground in securing the youth vote.

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Phil is joined by Trevor Long, Today Show Technology Commentator, to explore the latest in technology news.

Phil is joined by Dr. Justin Coulson, parenting expert and co-host of Channel Nine’s Parental Guidance, to discuss Netflix’s controversial drama Adolescence. The series follows a 13-year-old boy who, after being radicalized by incel and misogynistic culture online, kills a female classmate. Dr. Coulson emphasizes that discussions about children's online experiences are often too abstract, focusing on broad concerns like exposure to explicit content rather than real-world consequences. As a frequent speaker in schools, he witnesses firsthand the challenges kids face. He notes that, historically, children were raised in mixed-age groups with adult supervision, whereas today, they rely primarily on each other—despite their developing brains and lack of maturity to make safe choices. He also acknowledges that teachers are doing their best with the resources available.

Phil O’Neil chats with Dale Sinden for the story behind today’s National Days for 2nd April.

Phil O’Neil is joined by Sarah Boorer, Communications professional & CWA award-winning cook, to look at the world of baked goods, delicious treats and & easy recipes. This week Sarah whips up Chocolate Chip Cookies (recipe courtesy recipetineats.com) Ingredients 225g unsalted butter, cut into 1cm / 1/2″ cubes DRY INGREDIENTS: 2 cups (300g) plain flour / all-purpose flour, spooned and levelled 3 tsp cornflour/cornstarch , tightly pack and level the spoon measure 0.25 tsp baking powder 0.5 tsp baking soda / bi-carb, sifted if lumpy 0.5 tsp cooking salt / kosher salt (halve for table salt, +50% for flakes) WET INGREDIENTS: 200 g brown sugar (light brown sugar) 100 g caster sugar / superfine super (sub regular/granulated) 1 large egg (55g / 2 oz in shell), at room temp 1 yolk from a large egg, at room temp 1 tsp vanilla extract CHOC CHIPS 1.5 cups (250g) dark chocolate chips / semi-sweet choc chips, plus extra for decorating 0.75 cup (150g) milk chocolate chips DIRECTIONS BROWNED BUTTER: 1. Simmer to brown – Put the butter in a silver saucepan or small pan over medium high heat. Once melted, let it simmer (as in, bubbling) for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring every now and then, until it gets real foamy, you see little golden specks (wade through foam to see) and it smells nutty & extra buttery. 2. Cool – Immediately pour into a heatproof bowl, including all those golden specks. Cool to room temperature (~45 minutes), cool enough so it won't melt the choc chips DOUGH: 1. Whisk Dry ingredients in a separate bowl. 2. Mix Wet – To the browned butter, add both sugars and mix with a wooden spoon. Add the egg, yolk and vanilla. Mix until smooth – it will look caramel. 3. Finish dough – Add the Dry ingredients and mix until the flour is mostly incorporated. Add the choc chips and stir until the flour is fully incorporated. 4. Make dough discs – Measure out 8 x 155g (5.3 oz/ 1/2 cup) portions of dough, roll into a ball then shape into a 3.75cm/1.5" thick round disc. Place in a very airtight container. (Note 5 for smaller cookies) CHILLING: Fridge 12 hours – Refrigerate for 12 hours, up to 48 hours (Note 6 for different chill times). BAKING: 1. Preheat oven to 180°C/350°F (170°C fan-forced). (Note 7) 2. Place 4 fridge-cold cookies 7.5 cm/3" apart on a tray lined with baking paper/parchment paper. (Note 8 baking tips) 3. Bake for 17 minutes or until the edges are golden and the surface is just set (ie not melty raw dough) but still pale. 4. Decorate and cool – Working quickly, press extra choc chips on the surface (Note 9), then cool on the tray for 20 minutes – finishes baking, edges crisp more and they get more golden all over. Tip: While hot, you can also reshape with a rubber spatula or similar into a tidy round shape. 5. Grab now – peak eating moment! Or, transfer to a rack to cool fully before storing in an airtight container.

Professor David Flint chats to Phil O’Neil on the week’s important issues & political news.

Phil speaks with Dr. Zareh Ghazarian, Head of Politics and International Relations at Monash, about PM Anthony Albanese calling the Federal Election for May 3. Dr. Ghazarian says the race will be tight, with Labor losing support in the polls. Given its slim 2022 majority, even a few seat losses could make Albanese a one-term PM. The opposition faces challenges too—Peter Dutton's Coalition must regain lost ground, especially in key metropolitan seats, to have any chance of forming government. Greens and Independents, who gained seats in 2022, now face the pressure of holding onto them as cost-of-living concerns dominate the campaign. With polls hinting at a possible minority government—the first since 2010–2013—Independent and minor party MPs may ultimately decide who governs. Meanwhile, Labor's Budget this week, focused on tax cuts, will shape the debate, while the Coalition pushes for lower fuel prices.

Phil speaks with futurist Skeeve Stevens about Signal’s strong security. While the app itself is nearly impenetrable—even its operators can’t read messages—hacks can still happen by compromising user devices. Signal is widely used by government officials, including White House staff under both Biden and Trump, with no known breaches. However, other messaging apps like Telegram, WhatsApp, and Facebook Messenger pose risks, often due to weak default security settings. As a cybersecurity expert and ex-hacker, Stevens stresses that Signal isn’t the problem—it’s how secure your device is.

Phil speaks with Everybody’s Home spokesperson Maiy Azize, who says the Coalition’s budget reply worsens the housing crisis. Azize criticises plans to let people dip into superannuation to buy homes, warning it will push up prices and hurt retirement savings. She also slams the proposed scrapping of the Housing Australia Future Fund, which would cut social housing at a time of rising rental stress and homelessness. With the election approaching, Azize calls for bold policies—more social housing, renter protections, and an end to investor tax breaks—to make housing affordable for all Australians.

Phil O’Neil chats with Dale Sinden for the story behind today’s National Days for 1st April

Phil speaks with Paul Koury, founder and publisher of the Australian Carers Guide, and Briana Blackett, an unpaid carer, about the challenges faced by Australia's millions of unpaid carers. They discuss the essential resources available to help carers navigate difficult times, the emotional and financial toll of caregiving, and how the Australian Carer Guide provides support, advice, and a sense of community for those looking after loved ones.

Phil O’Neil chats with Russell Setright, Australia’s best known Naturopath & author of ‘Get Well in the Golden Years, to get the latest in health and well-being news.

Mike speaks with freelance writer Cherie Gilmour about her recent SMH article on the decline of human intelligence. Studies show literacy and numeracy are slipping, with attention spans and cognitive focus eroding. Cherie shares her own experience—missing her LANTITE teacher training test by a day—highlighting how digital distractions may be dulling our minds.

Mike speaks with columnist and political consultant Terry Barnes, a former Howard government adviser, about Labor’s improving position as the federal election campaign begins. New YouGov polling suggests the government could even secure a majority, with Labor projected to win between 69 and 80 seats, with a median estimate of 75—just shy of the 76 needed for control. The research also shows Labor gaining ground in 10 key seats and leading the national two-party preferred vote at 50.2% to the Coalition’s 49.8%. With election day on May 3, the race remains tight.

Mike speaks with Sarah Blake, Conflict Strategist & Mediator, about the crucial role dads play in raising good men. With the Netflix series Adolescence sparking discussions on this topic, Sarah highlights the need for fathers to actively engage in conversations about respect, care, and positive role modeling. At a time when misogynistic influences like Andrew Tate and harmful online rhetoric are on the rise, dads have a vital role in shaping their sons' values. By talking openly, sharing positive content, calling out bad behavior, and teaching boys to handle disappointment with respect, fathers can help raise a generation of good men.

Mike Jeffreys chats with Dale Sinden for the story behind today’s National Days for 31st March

Mike Jeffreys talks movies and entertainment with Alex First, editor of itellyouwhatithink.com

Phil interviews financial adviser & Director at Knight Group Jovan Cvetkoski on spotting red flags in financial advice. After a Victorian adviser gambled away $4.2 million of a family’s savings, Jovan stresses the importance of due diligence. ✔ Verify credentials – Check their Australian Financial Adviser licence on ASIC’s Money Smart website. ✔ Look for transparency – Review qualifications, experience, and any past disciplinary action. ✔ Trust your gut – Beware of pressure tactics, quick decisions, or unclear fees. If something feels off, seek a second opinion.

Phil O’Neil is joined by Brendan O’Neill, journalist & Editor of Spiked / Host of the Spiked podcast & author of ‘After the Pogrom: 7 October, Israel and the Crisis of Civilisation’, to dissect the stories making headlines in the U.K. & the world over the past week.  You can keep up to date with Brendan’s most recent work by visiting the ‘Spiked’ website www.spiked-online.com

Phil O’Neil chats with Dale Sinden for the story behind today’s National Days for 28th March

Phil O’Neil has a weekly chat with Sue Dodd from the Sydney Markets about what bargains are on offer at the markets this week.

Historian, author, entertainer & singer-songwriter Jim Haynes joins Overnight each week with fascinating & informative stories of songs and songwriters. This week Jim shines the spotlight on the story behind the Charlie Chaplin song ‘Smile’.

Phil chats with researcher Yowie Dan, about the Aussie phenomenon of Yowie sightings.  Yowie Dan is a dedicated researcher who has spent nearly two decades investigating Yowies in the Australian bush, with a particular focus on the Blue Mountains. His fascination with the elusive creature began after a personal encounter in Appin in 2005, sparking a relentless quest for evidence. Over the years, he has compiled an impressive collection of findings, including sound recordings, video footage, and even a cast of a small, ape-like hand. His expertise has made him a sought-after guest on numerous podcasts, both in Australia and internationally, with many inviting him back for multiple appearances. Recently, he shared his insights at a UFOR (UFO Research NSW) meeting further solidifying his reputation in the field. Yowie Dan also features in two Australian-made Yowie documentaries, Track: Search for Australia's Bigfoot and Tracking the Lore, both available to stream for free on the TubiTV app. Check out his clips at https://www.youtube.com/@YowieDan

Phil O’Neil’s weekly talk with Leith Van Onselen, Chief Economist at the MB Fund &  Co-founder of Macrobusiness, to dissect the politics behind Australia’s economy.

Phil O’Neil chats with Dale Sinden for the story behind today’s National Days for 27th March

Phil speaks with strategic psychotherapist Bronwyn Penhaligon on the power of a genuine apology. Many struggle with apologizing—either avoiding it or making excuses. A true apology is simple, honest, and acknowledges the impact of your actions. When done right, it can mend relationships, rebuild trust, and bring closure. Bronwyn shares her four-step formula for an effective apology: Acknowledge – “I’m sorry for [specific action].” Show empathy – “I understand it made you feel [impact].” Take responsibility – “It was my mistake, and I own it.” Offer a solution – “Here’s what I’ll do differently.” Keep it genuine, avoid blame-shifting, and most importantly—mean it.

Phil O’Neil’s weekly chat with U.K. correspondent Enda Brady, host of Round Table On TRT World, about what's making news in the United Kingdom.

Phil O’Neil’s weekly political chat with Terry Barnes – Columnist, political and policy consultant & former Howard government adviser.

Phil speaks with James Roberts, General Manager of Group Fraud Management Services at the Commonwealth Bank of Australia, on older Australians' vulnerability to scams. New research shows only 23% of over-60s feel confident spotting scams, yet few discuss scams with family. Despite making up 17% of the population, over-65s account for 31% of Scamwatch-reported losses. Australians are urged to ‘Talk to a Loved One’—sharing scam awareness across generations. While scam losses have dropped 70% in two years, ongoing education is key. Always stop, check, and reject suspicious requests.  Learn more at commbank.com.au/scam-tips

Phil is joined by Franca Sala Tenna, Workplace Behaviour Legislation & Compliance Expert to find out more about covert workplace bullying. While bullying is often aggressive and obvious, subtle forms—like exclusion, gossip, withholding information, micromanagement, and unrealistic demands—can be just as harmful. Proving covert bullying is tough, but Franca advises keeping a detailed record of incidents. A diary can be crucial if the issue escalates

Phil O’Neil chats with Dale Sinden for the story behind today’s National Days for 26th March

Phil O’Neil is joined by Sarah Boorer, Communications professional & CWA award-winning cook, to look at the world of baked goods, delicious treats and & easy recipes. This week Sarah whips up Puff Pastry Cinnamon Rolls (recipe courtesy cookitrealgood.com) INGREDIENTS  1 Frozen Puff Pastry Sheet, partially thawed  ¼ cup Brown Sugar  1 tablespoon Cinnamon  1 tablespoon Butter or Unsalted Butter, melted OPTIONAL CINNAMON ROLL GLAZE  ½ cup Icing Sugar / Powdered Sugar  ½ teaspoon Vanilla  2 tablespoon Milk, more if needed INSTRUCTIONS AIR FRYER INSTRUCTIONS 1. Mix cinnamon and sugar together in a small bowl. 2. Lay out pastry sheet on a clean and flat surface. Brush the sheet with butter, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mix evenly on top. 3. Roll the pastry sheet up tightly.  Brush with butter, then use a sharp knife to cut the pastry into 8 even pieces. 4. Place the rolls in the air fryer basket and cook on 180C / 350F for 10 minutes or until golden and cooked through. 5. Place on a wire rack to cool. 6. To make the optional glaze - Add icing sugar and vanilla to a bowl, then add in the milk a tablespoon at a time, stirring until smooth. Drizzle over the cinnamon rolls. OVEN INSTRUCTIONS 1. Preheat your oven to 180C / 350F and line a baking tray with baking paper or a silicone mat. 2. Mix cinnamon and sugar together in a small bowl. 3. Lay out pastry sheet on a clean and flat surface. Brush the sheet with butter, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mix evenly on top. 4. Roll the pastry sheet up tightly.  Brush with butter, then use a sharp knife to cut the pastry into 8 even pieces. 5. Place the rolls on the prepared baking tray, then place in the oven for 10 minutes, or until golden and cooked through. 6. Place on a wire rack to cool. 7. To make the optional glaze - Add icing sugar and vanilla to a bowl, then add in the milk a tablespoon at a time, stirring until smooth. Drizzle over the cinnamon rolls. NOTES  Roll tightly: Roll the pastry as tight as possible before slicing. This helps the pastry dough hold its shape.  Prevent the food from sticking in the air fryer: Use a small piece of parchment paper or a spatula to lift the cinnamon rolls if they stick to the melted butter.  Use fresh spices: Fresh ground cinnamon makes a noticeable difference in flavour.  Double the recipe: These cinnamon rolls disappear fast, so make extra if serving a crowd.  Cool completely before glazing: The glaze will melt if applied while the rolls are warm, so leave them on a cooling rack for a few minutes.

Professor David Flint chats to Phil O’Neil on the week’s important issues & political news.

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Phil speaks with Jason Trethowan, CEO of headspace, about the urgent need to address gaps in Australia’s youth mental health system ahead of the federal Budget and election. headspace is calling for sustainable funding to strengthen its national network, reduce wait times, and expand access, particularly in rural and remote areas. Key initiatives include aligning 30 metropolitan and regional centres with Medicare Mental Health Centres and expanding outreach programs. To tackle workforce shortages, headspace aims to grow its Early Career Program, which places young clinicians in training roles to boost service capacity and attract talent to the youth mental health sector. Trethowan emphasises that headspace is both effective and cost-efficient, with its success driven by input from young people, families, and mental health professionals. He urges stable funding to ensure continued support, stating that building on existing, trusted models is the fastest and most effective way to improve access for young Australians. Young people aged 12 to 25, as well as their family and friends, can visit headspace for support. Help is also available via phone and online counselling service seven days a week between 9am–1am (AEST). The number is 1800 650 890. If you’re looking for someone to talk to immediately, Lifeline (13 11 14), Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800), and 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) are available to talk 24/7.

Phil speaks with Peter Strachan, National President of Sustainable Population Australia, about the latest ABS population report, which shows a decline in Australia’s growth rate from 2.54% to 1.8%—still well above the OECD average. Strachan highlights that net overseas migration fell to 379,800, down from 548,800 the previous year, but remains the main driver of population growth. He argues that rapid growth is worsening housing costs, increasing the cost of living, and straining essential services. To stabilize Australia’s population below 30 million, Strachan calls for reducing net immigration to its long-term average of 70,000 per year. Despite a low fertility rate of 1.5, natural increase still exceeds 100,000 annually, with immigration accounting for 78.5% of total growth. SPA is an independent, non-political advocacy group focused on protecting the environment and quality of life by promoting sustainable population policies.

Phil speaks with Barry Urquhart, Consumer Behaviour Analyst, about the marketing challenges of the upcoming Federal election. Urquhart highlights that marketing political leaders is harder than marketing their policies, as all major party leaders have net negative ratings. Cost-of-living concerns dominate voter priorities, with housing, health, and education policies showing little differentiation between major parties. Border security, immigration, and defense are key secondary issues, where the Albanese government is seen as vulnerable, while the Opposition is viewed as more stable. Rising costs for power, petrol, and utilities add to voter frustration. Urquhart suggests that voter attitudes may outweigh policy details in this election, with leadership perception and communication skills playing a crucial role. The Teal MPs and Bob Katter are seen as credible but not necessarily representative political voices.

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Phil O’Neil chats with Dale Sinden for the story behind today’s National Days for 25th March

Phil O’Neil chats with Russell Setright, Australia’s best known Naturopath & author of ‘Get Well in the Golden Years, to get the latest in health and well-being news.

Phil speaks with Luke Beck, Professor of Constitutional Law at Monash University, about Opposition Leader Peter Dutton’s proposal to hold a referendum allowing ministers to strip dual nationals of their citizenship if they break the law. Professor Beck explains that dual citizens can already lose Australian citizenship for terrorism offenses. Courts can impose this penalty for serious crimes if the government requests it, but only if the crime is severe enough to indicate a repudiation of allegiance to Australia. Beck highlights the constitutional principle of separation of powers, which ensures that only courts—not ministers—can impose such punishments. Dutton’s proposal would require a constitutional change through a referendum, but given Australia’s history of failed referendums, its success is unlikely.

Mike Jeffreys talks movies and entertainment with Alex First, editor of itellyouwhatithink.com

Mike speaks with Chris Merritt, Vice President of the Rule of Law Institute of Australia, about the growing restrictions on free speech. Merritt argues that freedom of communication is being eroded by vague laws that not only limit what can be said but also dictate what must be said. He warns that Australia is heading toward an Orwellian future, where loosely defined laws on "harm" and "hatred" give judges too much power to interpret restrictions left unclear by politicians. This creeping control over speech and thought, he says, is a major threat to individual liberty.

Mike is joined by Sarah MacDonald, Author, journalist and broadcaster, about her recent article looking at what has become of Sydney’s missing middle? Sydney’s middle class is shrinking as suburban shopping centres increasingly cater only to luxury or budget shoppers, pushing out mid-priced businesses. Once-affordable areas like Paddington and Newtown have become overpriced, while wealth disparities grow—luxury stores and mega-mansions exist alongside struggling families relying on food banks and shelters. This divide extends to essential services, with elite schools offering wellness centres while public schools lack air conditioning. Cosmetic treatments are common for some, while others forgo dental care. Rising inequality fuels resentment, particularly in regional areas. Maintaining Australia’s middle class is essential to preventing further social and economic division.

Mike Jeffreys chats with Dale Sinden for the story behind today’s National Days for 24th March

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Phil O’Neil is joined by Brendan O’Neill, journalist & Editor of Spiked / Host of the Spiked podcast & author of ‘After the Pogrom: 7 October, Israel and the Crisis of Civilisation’, to dissect the stories making headlines in the U.K. & the world over the past week. You can keep up to date with Brendan’s most recent work by visiting the ‘Spiked’ website www.spiked-online.com

Phil O’Neil chats with Dale Sinden for the story behind today’s National Days for 21st March