Overnights with Mike Jeffreys

Mike is joined by Terry Barnes, columnist, political and policy consultant and former Howard government adviser, to discuss Sussan Ley stepping down, what it means for the Liberal Party, and Anthony Albanese’s response. After more than 20 years in the seat of Farrer, Ley’s departure turns a once-safe Coalition seat into a fresh political contest.

Mike speaks with Sarah Wells, money and finance commentator, about how to spot a romance scam. Romance scams are rising in Australia, especially at this time of year, and they don’t just happen online - they can appear within everyday social circles. Scammers use fake or misleading identities and prey on kindness, trust and emotional vulnerability for financial gain. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) reports major financial losses in 2025, with emotional harm often even greater.  Friends and family play a key role in recognising warning signs that victims may miss or explain away. Have you been avoiding a conversation with someone you love about a relationship red flag?

Mike speaks with Piers Akerman, a columnist for The Daily Telegraph, about his call for Australia to adopt Singapore-style protest laws and limit demonstrations to designated “Speakers Corner” areas. Akerman argues recent unauthorised protests show a failure of politicians, police and courts to protect public order, and says stricter rules, permits and penalties are needed. He also supports tighter scrutiny of extremist preachers and tougher controls on foreign involvement in protests.

Dozer Maehashi, the beloved golden retriever of RecipeTin Eats’ founder and food blogger, Nagi Maehashi, has passed away from pneumonia. Dozer was something of a celebrity himself and there has been an outpouring of grief all over social media. Those of us who have ever loved a pet, will know the heartache and intense sadness Nagi will be feeling right now, as she announces she will be stepping away from her business to grieve. Pets are a big part of our family. The emotional connection we have with them means that when they die, we experience intense grief which may impact our ability to work, particularly if that work is in the public eye. Grief Expert & founder of Grief Connect, Michelle Moriarty, explains to Mike that ‘anticipatory grief’, also known as ‘the work of waiting’, involving end-of-life care, can be intensely distressing, and giving yourself time to honour and remember your pet, is key.

Mike Jeffreys chats with Dale Sinden for the story behind today’s National Days for 16th February.

Mike Jeffreys talks movies and entertainment with Alex First, editor of itellyouwhatithink.com This week Alex looks at War Machine & Blue Moon.

Mike speaks with broadcaster and 2GB contributor Jason Morrison about clashes between police and protesters during demonstrations against Israeli President Isaac Herzog’s visit to Australia. NSW Police say officers showed “remarkable restraint” after limiting protest movements and confronting demonstrators. Organisers failed in a court bid to overturn those restrictions. The government invited Herzog following an antisemitic attack at Bondi Beach, saying the visit would help the Jewish community heal, despite opposition from pro-Palestinian groups. Footage from the protest showed physical confrontations between police and protesters. Protest organisers say the violence could have been avoided if they had been allowed to march freely.

Mike speaks with psychiatrist and commentator Dr Tanveer Ahmed about the Bondi Junction inquest and its warning that prolonged homelessness is now a security risk. The inquest exposes deep failures in Australia’s mental health system: poor communication between states, a lack of stable housing for psychiatric patients, and a widening gap between public and private care. One key finding is that long-term homelessness should no longer be treated as a lifestyle choice. Current policies allow people with serious mental illness or addiction to avoid treatment and move freely through the community, with tragic consequences. Dr Ahmed discusses the broader lessons of the inquest, including underfunded community services since deinstitutionalisation, the need for more housing, and better coordination between jurisdictions. Immediate options include mandatory addiction treatment, public guardianship, and conditional accommodation.

Listen to the Full Show Podcast

Why don’t Australian men flirt anymore? It’s a question many women - and plenty of men - are quietly asking. Mike is joined by Dating and Connection Expert, Karina Chapman, who says Aussie men aren’t bad at flirting, they’re just stuck in their own heads. “In Australia, we value being laid-back and not standing out, and that’s translated into men holding back instead of showing interest,” Karina explains. “Fear of rejection, confusion around signals, and not wanting to appear creepy, means many men think about flirting, but don’t actually act.” Research shows people correctly read flirting signals less than 30% of the time, which is why relying on subtle glances and nods rarely works. Karina says good flirting isn’t about bravado or cheesy lines. “It’s about clarity. Say hello. Offer a genuine compliment. Start a light conversation and see how it’s received.” Her message is simple: opportunity and attraction grow through respectful initiative, not silent hope.

Listen to the Full Show Podcast

Mike 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 upChicken Enchiladas (recipe courtesy recipetineats) Ingredients 8 tortillas , flour or corn (about 20cm / 8") Enchilada Seasoning: 1 tsp EACH onion powder, garlic powder, salt 1 tbsp EACH dried cumin powder, paprika, dried oregano 1/4 tsp black pepper 3/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, adjust to taste) Enchilada Sauce 2 tbsp olive oil 3 tbsp flour , plain/all purpose 2 cups (500ml) chicken stock/broth , low sodium 1.5 cups (375ml) tomato passata or US puree (Note 4 sub) Chicken Filling: 600g / 1.2lb chicken breast , sliced in half horizontally (or boneless thigh) (Note 2) 2 tbsp olive oil , separated 1/2 onion , chopped 2 garlic cloves , finely minced 1 red capsicum/bell pepper , diced 400g / 14oz refried beans (Note 3) 400g/14oz canned corn , drained (sub frozen 1 3/4 cups) 1/4 cup (65ml) water 1 cup (100g) cheese shredded (Mexican cheese blend, Monterey Jack, cheddar) Topping 1.5 cups (150g) cheese , shredded 2 tbsp coriander/cilantro , roughly chopped Enchilada Seasoning: Mix Enchilada Seasoning Spices. To be used for Filling and Sauce. Enchilada Sauce Make roux – Heat oil in saucepan over medium heat. Add flour and stir 20 seconds. Add other ingredients – Add 2 tbsp Enchilada Seasoning, broth and tomato. Stir to combine. Simmer to thicken – Increase heat slightly to medium high. Cook for 4 minutes, whisking regularly, until the sauce thickens to the consistency of thick syrup. Remove from stove. Chicken Filling Coat chicken – Drizzle 1 tbsp oil over chicken, mix to coat. Sprinkle with Seasoning, toss to coat. Cook chicken – Heat remaining 1 tbsp oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add chicken, cook 2 minutes. Turn and cook 1.5 minutes. Remove, rest 2 minutes then chop. Saute onion – In the same skillet, add onion and garlic, cook 1 minute. Add capsicum, cook 2 minutes until onion is translucent. Add everything else – Add refried beans, diced chicken, corn and water. Stir and cook for 2 minutes until reduces slightly. Should be thick and juicy, not watery. Assemble and bake: Preheat oven to 180°C/350°F. Roll – Lay tortilla on work surface. Spread 2/3 cup Filling on lower third, sprinkle with cheese then roll up, finishing with the seam side down (to hold it closed). Repeat to make 8. Smear a scoop of Enchilada Sauce across base of 22 x 33cm /9 x 13" pan. Place Enchiladas in, pour over remaining Sauce, sprinkle with cheese. Bake 20 – 25 minutes or until cheese is melted and golden. Serve immediately, sprinkled with coriander!

Mike Jeffreys chats with Dale Sinden for the story behind today’s National Days for 11th February.

Professor David Flint chats to Mike Jeffreys on the week’s important issues & political news.

Listen to the Full Show Podcast

Mike is joined by Terry Barnes, columnist, political and policy consultant and former Howard government adviser, to discuss the Liberals and Nationals reuniting under a new deal. The Coalition split after three National senators left the shadow cabinet and voted against the government’s hate groups bill, leading to their dismissal from the front bench. Under the reunification deal, the three senators will be allowed to return to their previous shadow cabinet roles.  

Mike is joined by Gerard Henderson, author, columnist and Executive Director of the Sydney Institute, to discuss his argument that the Liberal Party’s future must be about policies, not personalities. Henderson says the party needs to clearly define what it stands for, rebuild the Coalition, and win back voters on cost-of-living issues with a policy agenda that is distinct from Labor. He argues breakaway movements and internal disputes weaken the party, while only strong, conservative policy platforms have ever returned the Liberals to government.

Mike is joined by Barry Urquhart, Consumer Behaviour Analyst and Managing Director of Marketing Focus, who says the RBA’s language about the economy is confusing and unhelpful. He argues the bank’s explanation for raising interest rates has left Australians unsure what it really means for their money, confidence and spending. Barry says unclear wording creates fear and frustration, and business leaders need clarity and courage to respond in an uncertain and chaotic economic environment.

Listen to the Full Show Podcast

We all know about porch pirates stealing parcels, now there’s a new threat: plant pirates. Across the country, thieves are stealing expensive potted plants from verandahs and even digging newly planted trees and shrubs straight out of gardens, sometimes in broad daylight. High-value plants and pricey ceramic pots are easy targets and are often resold on Facebook Marketplace and Gumtree. Gina Field, Operational Security Expert and Founder of Nepean Regional Security, tells Mike that with cost-of-living pressures, thieves are turning to plants because they’re valuable and easy to resell. Gina also shares her top tips on how to protect your plants from plant pirates.

Mike Jeffreys chats with Dale Sinden for the story behind today’s National Days for 9th February.

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

Listen to the Full Show Podcast    

Mike is joined by Leith Van Onselen, Chief Economist at MB Fund and MB Super and co-founder of MacroBusiness, who argues that Australia’s governments must take responsibility for controlling inflation through fiscal and energy policy - because blunt interest rate hikes alone won’t fix the problem. Electricity prices are a key example.

Listen to the Full Show Podcast  

Mike speaks with Amanda Lambros, relationship counsellor and bestselling author, about whether today’s young people are receiving enough guidance from their parents.

Mike speaks with columnist and former Howard government adviser Terry Barnes about the Albanese Government’s poor performance and how a weak opposition is allowing it to get away with it.

There’s a new dating trend called stack dating, and it’s tailor-made for busy people who barely have time to finish their coffee, let alone fall in love.  The idea is simple: instead of one date a week, you stack them into your existing routine. Coffee before work. A walk at lunch. A drink after dinner.  You only need to get ready once, which, let’s be honest, is reason enough for some of us. Dating and Connection Expert, Karina Chapman, tells Mike that for people who hate endless app messaging and who just want to meet someone in real life, stack dating can cut through the fluff fast. Low pressure, short encounters, real-world chemistry checks, less build-up, and more ‘let’s see if we actually click’.   But there’s a catch. When it becomes the same as back-to-back meetings in your calendar, connection can turn transactional.  Romance needs presence not just availability. If it starts to feel like speed dating with better lighting, connection disappears. So yes, stack your diary… just don’t stack yourself into emotional burnout.

Mike Jeffreys chats with Dale Sinden for the story behind today’s National Days for 2nd February.

Mike Jeffreys talks movies and entertainment with Alex First, editor of itellyouwhatithink.com This week Alex looks at Mercy, Addition & Primate.

Listen to the Full Show Podcast  

Despite having smartphones in our pockets and social media at our fingertips, one in three Australians report feeling lonely or disconnected, and more than 40% of young people say they feel lonely. Dating Coach, Karina Chapman, tells Mike persistent loneliness can last years, but an unexpected antidote is emerging. Low-cost community gatherings are on the rise. Sunrise walks, sunset meet-ups - where people come together without alcohol, pressure or performance. There’s something powerful about standing beside strangers, watching the same sky, and actually talking - not scrolling. Research shows that sunsets lower anxiety, help us reflect, and remind us that we’re part of something bigger. “Real connection doesn’t need a fancy venue or a cocktail menu,” says Karina. “Sometimes it just needs space, presence, and a shared moment.”

Listen to the Full Show Podcast  

Mike is joined by Nicole Senior, radio host & commentator, to discuss Australia Day.

Mike Jeffreys chats with Dale Sinden for the story behind today’s National Days for 26th January.

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

Listen to the Full Show Podcast  

As with every Week in Canberra so much has happened with new laws past, the split in the coalition and leaderships battles. To chat about it all Mike Jeffreys is joined by Nine Radio's political editor Michael Pachi. 

Listen to the Full Show Podcast  

With Recent arrests overseas and in Australia these are welcome news for authorities trying to stub out Australia’s highly lucrative illicit tobacco, but will they stop it? Mike Jeffreys is joined by Kelly Crossley International Supply Chain Expert, Director of Transitainer WA, to see if a change will happen in this war. 

Is the U16 social media ban working.  In news that will shock absolutely no-one with any common sense, kids are already moving to alternate platforms that aren’t covered in the government's ban. Mike Jeffreys speaks with Nicole Jameson, Social Media Expert & Director of Dark Horse Agency to understand why its not working 

As AI becomes more prevalent what will be its effects on the medical community and your local GP visit? Mike Jeffreys is joined by General Practitioner Dr joe Kosetrich to understand its effects 

Mike Jeffreys has a weekly chat with Sue Dodd from the Sydney Markets about what bargains are on offer at the markets this week.

As prices skyrocket across Australia is giving your inheritance away early a good idea? Marisa Senese, Senior Advisor at Perpetual Private joins Mike Jeffreys to chat on how it would work and the risks.

Listen to the Full Show Podcast

The demand for used cars is falling while new car sales rise. Is this leading to a fall in the price and what happens to the resale value of electric and Chinese made cars? To understand the situation Mike Jeffreys is joined by Trent Nikolic regular contributor and Editor of Wheels Magazine. 

If they listen to the left the Liberal party will loose. This was written in December and still rings well. To understand it Mike Jeffreys speaks with writer of this column Tim Blair, Columnist for the Daily Telegraph to see if the Liberal Party can win election again 

What is going on with the Beckhams? This comes after Brooklyn Beckham has blamed his famous parents and said he does not want to reconcile. To discuss the situation Mike Jeffreys speaks with Amanda Lambros, Relationship counsellor and best selling author.