Overnights with Mike Jeffreys

Listen to the Full Show Podcast

Listen to the Full Show Podcast

Mike speaks with Lucy Zelić, award-winning broadcaster, Daily Telegraph columnist and 2GB host, about her latest article arguing that the Australian Labor Party is out of touch on family issues. The discussion follows criticism of Tim Wilson after comments about women having children. Zelic says the reaction highlights a wider political disconnect with voters and debates over childcare, work-from-home arrangements, and declining birth rates. She argues that policies around childcare and family support should prioritise parents raising their own children, rather than relying heavily on government-subsidised care.

Mike is joined by Dr Marny Lishman, Doctor of Psychology, Mindset Coach, about the six signs your partner’s close to burn out. In relationships we often tune into the not-so subtle changes of our partner’s well-being.  A raised voice demonstrates they’re angry, tears show they’re upset, or the one-too-many wines after work might tell us they’ve had a stressful day. But how can you tell when your partner’s close to burn out? 1. They seem distant and unreachable emotionally. 2. They no longer want to participate in things they once loved. It feels like their spark has dimmed. 3. They’re often sick. Burnout symptoms can manifest as headaches, frequent colds and fatigue. 4. They hate their job and have become increasingly cynical, unproductive or disorganised. 5. They’ve been neglecting self-care, such as exercise, healthy eating, or taking time out. 6. They’re avoiding jobs at home. When we’re exhausted, what little energy we have is reserved for basic survival. We lose focus on anything secondary.

Mike speaks with Terry Barnes, former adviser in the Howard government, about two key political developments. First, Angus Taylor has launched a sharp attack on the Albanese government, promising “one hell of a fight” in the upcoming by-election in the seat formerly held by Sussan Ley. Meanwhile, Treasurer Jim Chalmers is gathering leading economists in Canberra for a roundtable to discuss possible tax reforms and spending restraint ahead of the May federal budget, with the Middle East conflict shaping the economic outlook.

Mike speaks with Kelly Crossley, Global Supply Chain Expert and Director of Transitainer WA, about the growing shipping chaos that could soon affect Australian consumers. Ongoing military strikes involving the US, Israel and Iran have disrupted major freight routes across the Middle East. Airspace closures, airport shutdowns and thousands of cancelled flights have thrown global airfreight into disarray. At sea, major shipping companies have suspended movements through two key trade routes - the Suez Canal and the Strait of Hormuz. The Strait alone carries nearly a quarter of the world’s seaborne oil. The disruption is expected to push petrol prices higher and has already triggered emergency container surcharges. For Australia, it could mean delayed deliveries and higher prices for everyday goods.

Mike Jeffreys talks movies and entertainment with Alex First, editor of itellyouwhatithink.com This week Alex takes a look at How To Make A Killing & The Bride!

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

Mike speaks with movie buff Shane A. Bassett to get you up to speed with everything you should be watching at the movies and on streaming platforms. Mike spoke with Shane about this week’s recommendations:  MOVIES *THE BRIDE OF FRANKENSTEIN *HOW TO MAKE A KILLING *LIVE IT UP THE MENTAL AS ANYTHING STORY Make sure to follow Shane on Twitter / X so you never miss any movie news. 

Listen to the full show podcast  

If you doubted unions still had sway in some workplaces, a recent Australian Workers Union deal for workers on the Melbourne Suburban Rail Loop might give you pause. Tunnellers on the project are set to earn $360,000 a year, which is said to be the highest paid civil construction agreement in the country. Tunnelling is a highly skilled component of civil construction, with long hours, and some risk involved, so it’s probably not an unreasonable deal, given the country is still suffering from severe skill shortages in construction. Mike is joined by HR Expert, Jonathon Woolfrey, who says the construction skills crunch is only set to worsen, particularly in Queensland, in the lead up to the 2032 Olympic Games. The sunshine state’s desire for workers will drive a nationwide ‘arms race’ for talent, leading to wage escalation and construction delays elsewhere, putting housing targets at risk.

Last weekend, OpenAI reportedly embedded ChatGPT across the systems used by three million U.S. defence personnel, including targeting and surveillance. Months earlier, the company had quietly removed its ban on military use. Meanwhile, Anthropic refused to support autonomous weapons or mass surveillance and was labelled a national security concern - yet its AI, Claude, was reportedly used in U.S. strikes against Iran. With ChatGPT holding about 81% of the global market, concerns are growing that everyday business, creative work and private thinking are helping train technology now linked to military systems.  Here in Australia, the government spent 15 months and $188,000 assembling an AI advisory body - only to scrap it, raising questions about whether regulation is keeping pace. Sue Barrett, Human-AI Collaboration Advocate and founder of Democracy Watch AU, tells Mike she has spent two years warning that unregulated AI would serve power rather than people. She says she has now stopped using ChatGPT and believes Australians deserve to know where their data goes—and have the choice to decide

Anyone trying to secure a home will tell you what a battle it is.  Racing prices have been putting the squeeze on buyers, making what was once a joyful rite of passage, a depressing and sometimes hopeless exercise. The forces behind the skyrocketing market are complex, from investor activity to population growth, but one little known factor is money laundering. Mike speaks with Cybersecurity expert Ches Rafferty, who says real estate is a ‘gate keeper’ industry, where criminals launder large sums of money in a single transaction, misusing agents to create a buffer between them and their illicit funds. “These illicit transactions can manipulate the market, particularly when buying well above market value. But a government crackdown is coming July 1. This deadline could see a rush of activity as criminals try to get their dirty money into the system before the gate slams shut, pushing prices even higher.”

Mike Jeffreys chats with Dale Sinden for the story behind today’s National Days for 8th March.

Mike & Nicole Senior look at International Women's Day, which commemorates women's fight for equality and liberation along with the women's rights movement. 

Listen to the full show podcast

As Australia's house prices continue to grow what can be done to bring it down. An independent report says bringing immigration to pre-pandemic levels would make houses affordable. Mike is joined by Leith Van Onselen Chief Economist at the MB Fund and MB Super  and Co-founder of MacroBusiness to unpack this. 

Following recent controversy after a racial slur was broadcast by the BBC during the BAFTA awards this brought up the discussion of Tourette Syndrome.  The slur was shouted by John Davidson who as Tourette's Syndrome. However, not a lot of people do not understand it and how it effects people. Mike is joined by Dr Marjorie Collins a Clinical Psychologist and Neuropsychologist who walks us through understanding it. 

Listen to the full show podcast

Many Aussie men are feeling flat, foggy and not quite themselves and believe raising their testosterone level is the solution. The options are either prescription medicines or herbal boosters so which one is best and how do they work. Mike Jeffreys is joined by Mick Alexander a pharmacist and naturopath to find out the truth on these boosters. 

Mike Jeffreys chats with Dale Sinden for the story behind today’s National Days for 3rd March.

Listen to the Full Show Podcast

Listen to the Full Show Podcast.

Hardly a week goes by without some newfangled AI-powered home security device being foisted on overwhelmed and cash-strapped homeowners. The problems with the latest tech security devices are twofold. First, they usually come with a hefty price tag, and second, they are susceptible to hacking and can be compromised by tech savvy crims. That’s why old-school, tried and tested security measures are increasingly making a comeback, especially in a cost-of-living crunch. Mike is joined by Gina Field, Security Expert, Founder of Nepean Regional Security, who has worked in the industry for almost 40 years, and has seen security fads come and go. She reveals why the old-fashioned vehicle steering wheel lock is making a comeback, and why other no nonsense budget friendly home security measures like wrought iron window grills, driveway bollards, light timers, and extra-long lock screws, are all back in fashion again.

Mike is joined by Terry Barnes, columnist, policy consultant and former Howard government adviser, to discuss whether Australia really needs more politicians.  The Albanese government wants to add 40 new MPs before the next election, but the Coalition is split. Some Liberals quietly support the idea, hoping new seats could refresh the party and help candidates like Gisele Kapterian, and even open the door for the return of Josh Frydenberg and Keith Wolahan. Officially, the Liberal Party says more politicians aren’t needed. The Nationals are open to backing Labor, while the Greens are expected to support it in the Senate.  

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

Mike Jeffreys talks movies and entertainment with Alex First, editor of itellyouwhatithink.com This week Alex takes a look at EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert and Sirāt...

The potential return from Syria of a group of 34 women and children, dubbed the ISIS brides, has created a vigorous security debate in Australia. Coming so soon after the “ISIS-inspired” Bondi attack, it’s no surprise that there’s widespread unease in the community about the return of this group. Were these women and children to return to Australia significant surveillance resources would need to be devoted to monitoring the group, who may pose an immediate threat. Additionally, there's a risk that the children, some of whom were born overseas, may have indoctrinated during their time in Syrian detention camps. Mike speaks with Peter Moroney, Security & Risk Consultant, former NSW senior investigator with the Terrorism Investigations Squad, who outlines what possible preparations police and intelligence authorities might be taking before the group return to our shores, and explains how any potential integration extends well beyond the police to a broad range of government agencies, often at significant cost.

Listen to the Full Show Podcast.

Mike speaks with A.G. Gancarski, a veteran political reporter with bylines at the New York Post, Washington Post and Washington Times. They cover Donald Trump and tariffs, Trump’s stance on UFO files, Steven Spielberg leaving Los Angeles over taxes, and Trump’s plans for Iran.

Mike speaks with Barry Urquhart, Managing Director of Marketing Focus, about how China’s factory overcapacity is flooding global markets with cheap goods. Years of state-backed production have created more factories than China can use at home, pushing low-priced products - from EVs to TVs - into overseas markets. The result is growing pressure on industrial bases worldwide, with Europe now feeling the impact through a surge of imported electric vehicles.

Mike is joined by Dr Tanveer Ahmed to explore whether women are really more empathetic than men. Research shows women score slightly higher on empathy tests, but biology is only part of the story. Babies show no early difference, suggesting environment matters more. Empathy is flexible, and when men are encouraged or rewarded for emotional awareness, the gap disappears. Power and social roles also shape empathy - pointing to a healthier view of masculinity where empathy is seen not as a female trait, but a human strength.

Listen to the Full Show Podcast

Mike is joined by Terry Barnes, columnist, policy consultant and former Howard government adviser, to unpack the new Liberal Party lineup. They also discuss Anthony Albanese’s decision to sidestep questions about ISIS brides, instead shifting the focus to his Very Fast Train proposal - and why that political deflection may have been deliberate.

Mike Jeffreys talks movies and entertainment with Alex First, editor of itellyouwhatithink.com This week Alex looks at Crime 101 & Wuthering Heights.

Mike Jeffreys chats with Dale Sinden for the story behind today’s National Days for 23rd February.

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!