Mornings with Mark Levy

Listen to the full show of Mornings with Mark Levy

From The Summary Podcast - One Nation has come under intense scrutiny over its viral Please Explain animated series, drawing widespread criticism for targeting public figures and even co-opting the country's favourite Blue Heeler. When political messaging wraps itself in animation, at what point does edgy humour cross the line into real-world harm? On this episode of The Summary, host Josh Bryant explores the boundaries of Australian political satire and the broader dangers of toxic rhetoric. Comedian and host of The Chaser Report Charles Firth weighs in on whether these animations qualify as genuine satire, how comics find the line between a bad punchline and harmful messaging, and if Australia is witnessing the slow decline of traditional political parody. Then, online extremism and disinformation expert Professor Julian Droogan explains why society cannot simply dismiss toxic online content as a harmless laugh, highlighting the dangerous precedent of normalizing aggressive and violent language in public debate. Tap the follow button in your podcast app to get the latest episode from The Summary. The Summary, a podcast that keeps you connected to what matters, and why.

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Senator Andrew Bragg has told Mark Levy that Parramatta MP Andrew Charlton would be a good replacement for embattled Treasurer Jim Chalmers. On superannuation - Mr Bragg says it should be accessible as part of a plan to get more people into their own homes.   The Senator tells Mark Levy not allowing access to the money could see more Aussies become 'retired renters'

2GB Mornings has revealed yet another drone drop attempt at the state's highest security prison.  Mark Levy says something needs to be done right now to stop goods getting into our corrections centres.

Listen to the full show of Mornings with Mark Levy

From the Summary Podcast - Every spring, bursts of purple take over Australian suburban streets and social media feeds as jacarandas burst into bloom, marking the approach of summer and university exam season. While they feel like an Aussie staple, these iconic trees are not native to Australia and come with their own mix of folklore, ecological quirks, and street-level chaos. On this episode of The Summary, host Josh Bryant digs into how an imported tree became an Australian cultural icon. Professor Susan Martin from La Trobe University shares the history behind how jacarandas arrived on our shores, the folklore surrounding their springtime bloom, and how they became an enduring feature of suburbs nationwide. Then, Jeff Smith, President of the Grafton Jacaranda Festival, joins to explain how his northern New South Wales town crowned itself the jacaranda capital of Australia, drawing tourists from around the world and managing crowds flocking to get the perfect photo. Tap the follow button in your podcast app to get the latest episode from The Summary. The Summary, a podcast that keeps you connected to what matters, and why.

Listen to the full show of Mornings with Mark Levy

From the Summary Podcast - Four weeks after the ban on card surcharges came into effect, customers and business owners are still dealing with confusion, rising costs, and unexpected price hikes. While the reform was designed to increase transparency at the checkout, many cafes and venues have lifted overall prices well beyond the cost of payment processing. On this episode of The Summary, host Josh Bryant looks into whether the surcharge ban delivered on its promise or simply triggered a new round of inflation. Clinton Maynard, host of Money News, breaks down the actual transaction costs for merchants and where the tax office fits into the puzzle. Then, Wes Lambert, Chief Executive of the Australian Restaurant and Cafe Association, explains why absorbing merchant fees became the final straw for struggling hospitality venues already battling surging overheads. Tap the follow button in your podcast app to get the latest episode from The Summary. The Summary, a podcast that keeps you connected to what matters, and why.

Senator Michaelia Cash has told Mark Levy that debating respectfully should not mean the Government avoids tough questions.  She tells Mark Levy that the PM is desperate to shut down his political opponents 

Listen to the full show of Mornings with Mark Levy

Listen to the full interview with Ryan Park. 

From The Summary podcast - Roughly one-third of Australian households have experienced serious strain trying to put meals on the table over the past year, forcing countless families to choose between basic essentials and everyday groceries. On this episode of The Summary, host Josh Bryant investigates what is driving this unprecedented spike in food insecurity and asks whether relief agencies can cope with relentless community demand. Foodbank Chief Executive Kylea Tink outlines how widespread the hunger crisis has become, why working families and younger demographics are finding themselves in unfamiliar territory, and what systemic changes are needed to offer relief. Then, Daniel Moorfield, Chief Executive of food rescue charity SecondBite, breaks down the strain on frontline organizations, the impact of falling donations during tough economic times, and why anyone struggling should still reach out for support. Tap the follow button in your podcast app to get the latest episode from The Summary. The Summary, a podcast that keeps you connected to what matters, and why.

Listen to the full show of Mornings with Mark Levy

National Patient Transport confirmed it will exit the state after failing to renegotiate a contract with the state government.    CEO Damien De Zilva has told Mark Levy he's concerned for patient transport services once his business leaves the market 

Senator Dave Sharma has told Mark Levy that the Government is spending too much, and is not listening to the call of the public.  The Coaltion has announced $31 billion dollars in cuts, that they'd bring in if in Government/ 

From the Summary Podcast - Described by cybersecurity experts as the digital equivalent of an unexploded bomb, a major vulnerability in the widespread programming language PHP has forced high-profile websites offline and sent network administrators scrambling. On this episode of The Summary, host Josh Bryant looks into how this critical flaw was discovered and what businesses and everyday internet users need to do to stay secure. Cybersecurity expert Nigel Phair explains what PHP powers across the modern web and why the widespread nature of the code makes this flaw so dangerous. Then, Dr. Rahat Masood from UNSW’s Institute for Cyber Security discusses how artificial intelligence was used to uncover this long-hidden backdoor, the challenge of building foolproof digital infrastructure, and the looming threat of malicious actors harnessing AI to find zero-day vulnerabilities in the dark. Tap the follow button in your podcast app to get the latest episode from The Summary. The Summary, a podcast that keeps you connected to what matters, and why.

Listen to the full show of Mornings with Mark Levy

RSL NSW President Vince Williams has called out a bureaucratic plan to re-name Kogarah's War Memorial Pool, saying it is disrespectful to veterans.  Mayor of the local Georges River Council, Elise Borg called into the show to tell Mark Levy she does not want 'War Memorial' removed from the name, despite a naming policy vote tonight. 

From The Summary Podcast -  Australian home values are falling at their fastest pace in over a decade, with quarterly data confirming price drops across every single capital city. On this episode of The Summary, host Josh Bryant investigates why the heat has completely left the property market and how far values could slide. Dr. Nicola Powell, Chief of Economics and Research at Domain, breaks down the latest market data, contrasting houses against apartments and detailing why resilient capitals and regional markets are finally cooling off. Then, Professor Hal Pawson from UNSW’s City Futures Research Centre analyzes the wider economic risks, negative equity concerns for recent buyers, and what declining property tax revenues mean for state governments. Tap the follow button in your podcast app to get the latest episode from The Summary. The Summary, a podcast that keeps you connected to what matters, and why.

Listen to the full show of Mornings with Mark Levy

A concerned mother, Jenna, tells Mark Levy that students at Warragamba Public School were abused by a bus driver before being kicked off the service.  Teachers at the school were forced to collect two children from the street, and parents were asked to pick up their kids after the incident.  Jenna praised the work of staff at Warragamba Public School, but shared her frustration with the bus company for not speaking to parents. 

From the Summary Podcast -  Australia’s newest international hub, Western Sydney Airport, is officially welcoming its first passenger flights this weekend, unlocking round-the-clock air travel and major trade opportunities. On this episode of The Summary, host Josh Bryant explores the monumental feat of launching a 24-hour airport and what it means for travelers and supply chains across the country. Infrastructure Australia Chief Executive Adam Copp discusses the immense complexity of establishing a major international aviation hub, the long-term benefit of 24/7 flight operations for Sydney, and how the network will expand as more airlines come online. Then, Paul Zalai, Director of the Freight and Trade Alliance, breaks down the early success of freight operations at the site, how the facility promises faster delivery times for everyday Australians, and the massive boost it provides to Australian exporters. Tap the follow button in your podcast app to get the latest episode from The Summary. The Summary, a podcast that keeps you connected to what matters, and why.

The NSW Government has been accused of working against hospitality businesses and small operators, by creating more red tape.  The Environment Minister's plan, which has passed parliament, would see cafes and other venues forced to use recyclable cups in place of their current offering.  Penny Sharpe was also quizzed about the Minns Government's Great Koala National Park, and if it is actually needed to help restore the animal's population. 

Protesters at the University of Technology Sydney have called on students to 'fight' One Nation leader, with a poster distributed across campus days after the Prime Minister called for the political temperature to be turned down.  Mark Levy says the poster is divisive. 

From the Summary Podcast -Doctors are raising the alarm over a dangerous spike in emergency room visits linked to black market peptides, driven by misleading promises on social media. In New South Wales alone, hospital admissions from unapproved peptide use surged from just five to over 200 in a single year. On this episode of The Summary, host Josh Bryant investigates what these substances are, why they pose such serious risks, and how health authorities are fighting to keep them off the streets. Dr. Michael Wright, President of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP), explains the health promises enticing buyers online and the severe physical complications patients face. Then, Professor Robyn Langham, Chief Medical Adviser for the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), details how illicit peptides enter the country, regulatory enforcement efforts, and the TGA's warning to buyers and illegal sellers alike. Tap the follow button in your podcast app to get the latest episode from The Summary. The Summary, a podcast that keeps you connected to what matters, and why.

Listen to the full show of Mornings with Mark Levy

Liberal MP and former SAS soldier Andrew Hastie has shared his reaction to Ben Fordham's interview with Ben Roberts-Smith. Mr Hastie was quizzed on changes to Hors De Combat laws, which now apply retrospectively to the period when Roberts-Smith was deployed, and also discussed political violence concerns after the alleged attack on Independent MP Helen Haines.   

From the Summary Podcast - As tens of thousands of high school students sit their final end-of-year exams, schools and policymakers face a fundamental crisis: can traditional assessment models survive in a world dominated by artificial intelligence? On this episode of The Summary, host Josh Bryant explores how generative AI tools are reshaping the classroom and whether the future of education will shift away from memorizing facts toward mastering prompt engineering. Andy Mison, President of the Australian Secondary Principals Association, discusses how teachers are tracking student capability when AI detection tools fail and how schools guide students to use technology responsibly. Then, Professor Leslie Loble from the University of Technology Sydney, an expert in AI and education, breaks down the need to overhaul legacy testing systems, the potential loss of traditional learning techniques, and whether future exams will test topic knowledge or technological fluency. Tap the follow button in your podcast app to get the latest episode from The Summary. The Summary, a podcast that keeps you connected to what matters, and why.

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Her Excellency Sam Mostyn joined Mark Levy in the wake of the alleged attack on Independent MP Helen Haines, highlighting the political division that Australia is currently facing. The Governor-General encouraged Australians to work with the facts, in order to hold onto our democratic principles.

From the Summary Podcast - Independent MP Helen Haines has been hit by a car in what authorities are treating as a deliberate attack, shocking the nation and sparking an urgent national conversation about political violence and public discourse. On this episode of The Summary, host Josh Bryant investigates the incident and the broader surge in threats against Australian representatives. Federal Politics Editor Michael Pachi breaks down what we know about the investigation so far, who Helen Haines is, and the political reactions calling for the temperature of public debate to be lowered. Then, Associate Professor Josh Roose from Deakin University discusses the rise of violent language targeting public figures, how casual extreme rhetoric contributes to real-world harm, and whether Australia is witnessing a dangerous shift in how political differences are expressed. Tap the follow button in your podcast app to get the latest episode from The Summary. The Summary, a podcast that keeps you connected to what matters, and why.

Listen to the full show of Mornings with Mark Levy

Opposition Leader Angus Taylor has shared well wishes in the wake of a 'targeted attack' on Independent MP Helen Haines, while calling on law enforcement to act strongly.  Pressed on comments made by Liberal MP Angie Bell about 'stoning' the Prime Minister, Mr Taylor tells Mark Levy it was appropriate that Ms Bell withdraw the comments.

The Invasive Species Council and NSW Agriculture Minister Tara Moriarty share concerns that Red Imported Fire Ants found at a Sydney Logistics Centre may have been there for up to 12 months.  Conceding to Mark Levy that his concerns earlier this month were warranted, Minister Moriarty says she is doing everything she can to keep these pests out of New South Wales.  Jack Gough, CEO of the Invasive Species Council says he is wary of the delays in responding to the ants, but has faith in the Department of Primary Industries in managing the outbreak. 

From the Summary Podcast - The Australian Government has officially introduced its Digital Duty of Care legislation to parliament, proposing sweeping changes to how social media platforms operate and allowing users to opt out of recommendation algorithms. On this episode of The Summary, host Josh Bryant explores how these proposed laws could reshape the internet.  Federal Politics Reporter Nelson Scott breaks down the political negotiations in parliament, key concessions made regarding free speech concerns, and why the Greens could push the government for even tougher rules. Dr. Belinda Barnet from Swinburne University of Technology examines what an algorithm-free feed would actually look like, whether Australia can truly enforce compliance on global tech giants, and the likelihood of everyday citizens launching class-action lawsuits. Tap the follow button in your podcast app to get the latest episode from The Summary. The Summary, a podcast that keeps you connected to what matters, and why.

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From the Summary Podcast - Swarms of Bogong moths have descended on Australia’s East Coast in numbers not seen for years, prompting questions about their endangered status and the health of local ecosystems. Host Josh Bryant examines the factors behind this unexpected migration boom and what it means for native wildlife. Dr. Marissa Parrott, Senior Conservation Biologist at Zoos Victoria, breaks down why a single boom year does not mean the species is saved, while highlighting the positive knock-on effects for native animals like the Mountain Pygmy-possum. Later, Marnie Ogg, founder of the Australasian Dark Sky Alliance, explains how household and commercial light pollution disrupts nocturnal wildlife and shares practical tips for reducing light output to protect native species and save energy. Tap the follow button in your podcast app to get the latest episode from The Summary. The Summary, a podcast that keeps you connected to what matters, and why.

Listen to the full show of Mornings with Mark Levy

Listen to the full show of Mornings with Mark Levy

From the Summary Podcast - The proposal to broadcast a live execution by firing squad online has reignited fierce arguments over deterrence, state power, and exposure to extreme content. Host Josh Bryant examines the multifaceted impact of this controversial move with three key experts. Naomi Lim, White House Reporter at the Washington Examiner, explains the US political context and the likelihood of officials calling off the stream. US Studies Centre expert Associate Professor David Smith explores foreign policy implications, public reaction, and fears of fueling radicalization. Criminal psychologist and host of the Motive and Method podcast Dr. Tim Watson Monro discusses Australia's abolition of capital punishment and the potential trauma for everyday citizens watching such graphic footage online. Tap the follow button in your podcast app to get the latest episode from The Summary. The Summary, a podcast that keeps you connected to what matters, and why.

The State Treasurer says their policy to assist small businesses in managing federal tax changes is a common sense approach. Asked if there's tension with the Federal Government over funding and tax changes, Mr Mookhey says he did not want to politicise the issue.  On the Opposition's plan to build new Metros, the Treasurer believes the party would be forced to privatise more assets. 

From the Summary Podcast - While more than a third of Australians still turn to traditional search engines first for medical information, growing numbers are leaning on artificial intelligence and social media for answers. Host Josh Bryant examines how looking up symptoms online is impacting the doctor-patient relationship. Featuring perspective from HBF Chief Medical Officer Dr. Andy Papa-Adams on changing search habits, alongside insights from former Deputy Chief Medical Officer Dr. Nick Coatsworth on both the advantages of AI as a supplementary tool and the serious risks of patients self-treating based on unverified online advice. Tap the follow button in your podcast app to get the latest episode from The Summary. The Summary, a podcast that keeps you connected to what matters, and why.

Listen to the full show of Mornings with Mark Levy

Corrections Minister Anoulack Chanthivong has confirmed to Mark Levy that new technology trials will be undertaken this year, to prevent drones from dropping contraband into state prisons. The Minister also responded to claims that the Goulburn Mayor was banned from an open day at Goulburn's correction facility - claiming he did not know why she would have been turned away. 

Mark Levy has called out the State Government's Agriculture Minister for delays in alerting the public to an infestation of fire ants at a Sydney port.  Nationals Leader Gurmesh Singh shared his concerns with management of ants with Mark, before Tara Moriarty called in to defend her response. In the heated interview, Ms Moriarty accused Mark Levy of working in concert with the Nationals - something he said he 'would not cop'. 

From the Summary Podcast - In a major milestone for Australia’s car market, electric vehicles have officially outsold petrol vehicles in a single month for the first time. With over 27,000 EVs sold in August alone, the rapid shift away from fossil fuels is accelerating faster than ever. On this episode of The Summary, host Josh Bryant sits down with motoring journalist Trent Nikolic to examine what is driving this EV boom and whether our charging logistics can handle the demand. Plus, Dr. Chris Jones from the Australian Electric Vehicle Association breaks down why falling petrol tax revenue is forcing a national debate on fuel excise reform and road user charges. Tap the follow button in your podcast app to get the latest episode from The Summary. The Summary, a podcast that keeps you connected to what matters, and why.

Listen to the full show of Mornings with Mark Levy

Former Liberal MP Josh Frydenberg joined Mark Levy to discuss his new book, 'A Grateful Son', talking about his life and lengthy political career. Mr Frydenberg told Mark that John Howard was an inspiration for him, in his political life.  On a possible return to politics, the former Treasurer said he will make a decision on his future with his family some time next year.