The Conditional Release Program

This week we are back with another news episode because there is a bloody lot going on. First up, Jack gives a quick eulogy for his friend Jon Kudelka, a political cartoonist who used to work with Jack at the Aus. He was a good man - and a funny one - and is a loss to the nation. We have an early days look at the violence that broke out in Sydney between protestors and police. Premier Minns keeps on saying he 'makes no apologies' but might have to change his tune on that as a lot of footage is coming out which paints NSW police in a very bad light. But then again, we did see footage of a very rude man assaulting a police officer('s bicycle) by obstructing its path while falling down. Then we saw him viciously place his ribs in the way of the officer's fists. Several times, no less. It's really bad. I think he should probably make apologies. We look at the sidelined story of the attempted terrorist attack in Perth. It didn't get much traction in the news and that quite reasonably upset a few people. We have seen some mentions in parliament, including a motion from Senator Thorpe but it has now been declared a terrorist attack and the alleged kid is allegedly in deep shit. We were going to look at gun laws and MFA but we just ran out of puff. We have that stuff written up though and it's coming soon. We lighten the mood by looking at the SATANIC SUPERBOWL HALF TIME SHOW which spoke SATANIC GIBBERISH and offended a lot of idiots. It's just racism though. Weird, confected racism. We touch on the epstein files. We look at a very funny sovcit. And Pete is back! Poorer than before but still richer than me and probably richer than you. If he's not, I bloody hope you are a patron. Give us money. AND FOR THE LOVE OF GOD PLEASE BUY CBCo beer at cbco.beer! We don't get a cut but it looks good to the marketing folks if you use CRP10 at the checkout. Keep the beer flowing and I will keep the pod coming. Bless!Enjoy! 

Show Notes - Episode 143Recorded: 3 February 2026Released: 8 February 2026Episode DescriptionJack the Insider (Joel Hill) and Hong Kong Jack tackle the RBA's surprise interest rate hike, the coalition's post-election implosion, and dive deep into the Epstein files fallout. From Gaza peace plans to Japanese economic roller coasters, plus Carlton's dodgy pre-season training—it's all here.Timestamps & Topics00:25 - Welcome & RBA Breaking NewsThe Reserve Bank hikes interest rates by 0.25 percentage points as predicted, with markets forecasting two more increases this year in response to 3.8% inflation.01:29 - Interest Rates: The Blunt InstrumentDiscussing government spending as the inflation driver and the uneven effects of rate hikes on mortgage holders versus savers.03:35 - Trump vs The FedHow the US Federal Reserve dropped rates under pressure from Trump despite similar inflation to Australia, and the risks of economic overheating.05:22 - Blame the Barmy Army?A tongue-in-cheek theory from KO: Did England's cricket supporters spending during the Ashes tour drive up inflation to 3.8%?06:49 - Cocaine EconomicsAustralia's most expensive drugs in the world, Rugby World Cup memories, and why Western Australia pays double.08:38 - Coalition Chaos: Nationals Hold OnDavid Littleproud's leadership survives as spill motion fails, but Andrew Hastie drops out of Liberal leadership race.09:33 - The Oxford ConnectionAngus Taylor, Tony Abbott, and Australia's history of Oxford-educated prime ministers—from Gorton to Turnbull.10:09 - Angus Taylor's Shadow Treasurer StrugglesTroy Bramston's scathing assessment of Taylor's poor performance and lost economic credibility for the Coalition.11:37 - Coalition Split ContinuesLittleproud rejects reconciliation attempts while Sussan Ley remains Liberal leader, with potential "none-of-the-above" candidates waiting in the wings.12:13 - Listener Ray on Electoral MathThe great compulsory preferential voting debate: why the Nationals win 15 seats on 3% of first preferences while Greens get one seat on 12%.14:26 - Anthony Green's PatienceThe legendary election analyst educates Twitter on how Labor would have won 85 seats under first-past-the-post voting.15:26 - One Nation's Coalition TargetsAnthony Green's analysis reveals 20 Liberal and National seats at risk from One Nation, with only five Labor seats vulnerable.17:27 - Could One Nation Replace the Nationals?Exploring the possibility of a major conservative realignment, with potential Nationals MPs considering defection.19:35 - What Do the Nationals Stand For?From "agrarian socialists" to today's identity crisis—the party that used to represent farmers now struggles to define its purpose.21:05 - Anti-Semitic Abuse at Sydney UniversityFormer staff member Rose Nakard faces court on stalking and intimidation charges for allegedly calling Jewish students "fucking filthy Zionists" and "parasites."24:45 - Community Response Over LegislationWhy community rejection of hate speech matters more than criminalising phrases like "globalise the intifada," and the problems with new laws affecting police discretion.27:21 - $25 Billion Hospital and NDIS DealAlbanese and state premiers sign massive health funding package while agreeing to limit NDIS growth to 6% or less.28:21 - Autism and the NDIS DebateMoving mild forms of autism out of NDIS into schools—sensible reform or cost-shifting? Only 23% of NDIS costs despite larger recipient numbers.29:38 - The NDIS Needs a Medicare-Style RethinkComparing the transition from Medibank to Medicare: why the NDIS needs root-and-branch reform, not just tinkering.31:03 - Chronic Illness Left OutPeople with ME, CFS, MS, and fibromyalgia struggle to access NDIS support while other areas may be over-serviced.33:26 - Spain's Migrant AmnestySpain grants legal status to 500,000 undocumented migrants—stark contrast to anti-immigration sentiment across Europe.35:48 - Epstein Files: 3 Million PagesTwo million documents missing, Kevin Rudd brushes off Epstein's name-dropping, and Peter Mandelson's career implodes.36:36 - What Was Epstein's Business?Unpacking the mystery: Victoria's Secret rip-off, half-billion-dollar investment clients, and the missing financial footprint.38:22 - Mandelson in His UnderpantsThe former UK ambassador to the US photographed with young woman, now "unemployable"—very odd for a gay man.39:22 - Chomsky, Woody Allen, and Strange Dinner PartiesThe inexplicable nature of intellectuals dining with Epstein, and Brett Ratner's creepy Epstein photos despite #MeToo allegations.42:33 - Clintons Agree to TestifyBill Clinton offers four-hour congressional interview, Hillary to make sworn statement about Epstein connections.43:28 - Andrew and Mandelson Under PressurePrince Andrew pushed to testify while Mandelson faces questions about unexplained £75K payments and acting as Epstein's lobbyist while a cabinet minister.46:15 - Put Your Pants On for PhotosWhy do old blokes keep getting photographed in their underwear with Epstein? A plea for sartorial sense.48:13 - Board of Peace: Trump's $1 Billion ClubExplaining Trump's confusing Gaza oversight initiative: permanent seats cost US$1 billion paid into Trump-managed accounts, not US Treasury.50:35 - Russia, Saudi Arabia, and the StansThe "very nice countries" signing onto the Board of Peace, while Europe says no en masse and Canada gets uninvited after Carney's tariff speech.51:56 - UAE Taking Control of GazaMore important than the Board of Peace: United Arab Emirates moving to run Gaza's civilian administration with Israeli and US backing.52:24 - Spain's 500,000 Migrant AmnestySouthern European states bearing the brunt of arrivals while finding their own solutions—Italy's Albania processing reduces numbers by 60%.53:50 - France's Budget Finally PassesAfter four months of deadlock, Macron's government gets budget through with no-confidence motions failing, bringing rare stability.54:42 - Global Energy Prices: Ireland Tops the ListHousehold electricity costs compared: Ireland, Italy, and Belgium most expensive in Europe; Russia at just 7 cents per kilowatt hour versus Australia's 26 cents.56:31 - Canadian Energy: 12 Cents Per Kilowatt HourMark Carney's priority to reduce energy costs in Canada, currently lower than the US at 12.5 cents.57:50 - European GDP: Tepid GrowthGermany, UK, and France stuck around 1-1.5% growth, with Spain and Portugal outperforming at 2.5%, while Russia posts 4% driven entirely by military spending.59:59 - Russia's War Economy TrapWith 2% unemployment, 8% inflation, and 20% interest rates, Russia's 4% GDP growth masks an economy with "nothing to go for it" without the war.01:02:19 - Why Would Russia End the War?No economic incentive to stop fighting when military spending drives the economy and ending the war means economic collapse and regime change risk.01:04:22 - European Army TalkGermany and France push controversial European army concept alongside NATO—bad idea with chain of command issues, likely won't happen.01:07:38 - Japan's Liz Truss MomentPM Takeichi's tax and spending pledges spook markets: ¥5 trillion revenue shortfall, £137 billion stimulus, cash handouts, and approval ratings sliding from 75% to 58%.01:10:23 - Chagos Islands: The Deal That Won't DieBritish Indian Ocean Territory dispute: Diego Garcia military base, Mauritius sovereignty claims, and why the US and Australia oppose the UK deal.01:13:48 - France's Immigration RhetoricMarine Le Pen's inflammatory language about asylum seekers, and why "remigration" policies face huge practical and legal obstacles.01:16:28 - London Murder Prosecutions at 13-Year LowOnly 39% of murders result in charges as London's crime crisis deepens, despite accusations of two-tier policing favouring establishment figures.01:19:23 - Melania: The MovieBrett Ratner's documentary earns $8 million in the US against $40 million production costs—but it's about access to Trump, not profit.01:22:38 - Australian Open: Record NumbersWomen's final delivers 3.8 million viewers (up 30% from 2024), total tournament audience up 9.3% to 14.3 million, cementing status as global sporting event.01:26:39 - Usman Tariq's Unusual ActionPakistani spinner's legal but confounding bowling: shuffle-shuffle-stop-bowl delivery frustrates Cameron Green and raises eyebrows.01:28:58 - Should Steve Smith Play T20?Mark Waugh says yes—36-year-old leg-spinner/batsman is Australia's best player. Missing Tim David as Pakistan dominates the series.01:31:24 - Carlton's Training Video DisasterDropped marks and out-of-bounds kicks in pre-season footage—but fans' hope springs eternal until about May.01:32:07 - King Street Chair-Throwing MemeBloke throws chair at bouncers, accidentally knocks out his mate instead. Victorian government announces "toughest chair laws in Australia." Stand up, Victoria.

Ai slop as usual for shownotes. If HKJ pays me some of those HKDs then I'll maybe make an effort. Until then, eat your robot kibble and enjoy the show!Also: there are mentions of construction noise in this episode and longtime listeners will remember that early episodes were plagued with banging and carrying on. Adobe podcast managed to filter this out very effectively and it just sounds a bit like they are moaning about nothing. But it was probably awful at the time. ------------------------------Australia Day tensions at home and political shocks abroad drive this packed episode of The Two Jacks. Joel (Jack the Insider) and Hong Kong Jack unpack the Liberal–National implosion, leadership manoeuvring, hate‑speech laws and neo‑Nazi “martyrs” springing from Australia Day rallies and a near‑catastrophic device in Perth. They then cross to the US for the fallout from the ICE killing of Minneapolis nurse Alex Pretty, Kristi Noem’s precarious future, Trump’s political instincts, and Mark Carney’s Davos warning that we now live in a world with “no rules.” Along the way they dissect Brexit’s economic hangover, EU over‑regulation, India’s Republic Day contrast with Australia’s low‑key national day, and finish with sport: Premier League title nerves, Australian Open heat controversies, bushfires, and a final detour through film censorship trivia in Ireland.00:00 – Theme and intro00:25 – Welcome back to The Two Jacks; Joel (Jack the Insider) in Australia and Hong Kong Jack set the scene for episode 142, recorded 27 January, the day after Australia Day.​Australian politics and the Liberal–National implosion00:40 – Coalition “no more”: the decoupling of Liberals and Nationals, and whether Anthony Albanese is the Stephen Bradbury of Australian politics or a quiet tactician.​01:10 – How Labor’s racial vilification moves and 18C history boxed the opposition in; Susan Ley’s failed emergency‑sitting gambit on antisemitism laws.​02:00 – Firearms law changes and new powers to ban hate groups like Hizb ut‑Tahrir and the National Socialist Network, and the role of ASIO referrals and ministerial discretion.​03:10 – Canavan’s “slippery slope” fears about bans being turned on mainstream groups, and what that reveals about the Nationals’ hunger for anti‑immigration rhetoric under pressure from One Nation and Pauline Hanson.​Centre‑right parties in a squeeze04:00 – The Nationals as the “five‑percenters” who pull the coalition’s agenda with a small vote share; listener Bassman calls them the “un‑Nationals.”​05:00 – Global “tough times” for centre‑right parties: the pincer between moving to the centre (and leaving a vacuum for far‑right populists) or moving right and losing the middle.​05:40 – Hong Kong Jack’s argument for broad churches: keeping everyone from sensible One Nation types to inner‑city wets under one tent, as Labor did with its far‑left “fruit loops” in the 1980s.​07:00 – Decline of small‑l liberals inside the Liberal Party, the thinning ranks of progressive conservatives, and the enduring “sprinkling of nuts” on the hard right.​Leadership spills and who’s next07:20 – Susan Ley’s lonely press conferences, Ted O’Brien’s silence, and the air of inevitability about a leadership spill before or by budget time.​08:20 – Why the leadership needs “strength at the top”: the Gareth Evans line to Hawke – “the dogs are pissing on your swag” – as a metaphor for knowing when to go.​09:20 – Conversation about Angus Taylor, Andrew Hastie, Ted O’Brien and even Tim Wilson as possible leaders, and why the wrong timing can make almost anyone opposition leader.​10:40 – History lesson: unlikely leaders who flourished, from Henry Bolte in Victoria to Albanese, once dismissed by his own colleagues as a long shot.​11:40 – Albanese’s long apprenticeship: learning from Howard’s cautious style and the Rudd–Gillard chaos, and his instinct for the national mood.​Listener mail: Nationals, Barnaby and “public bar” politicians13:00 – Listener Lawrence compares One Nation to Britain’s Reform Party; asks if Barnaby Joyce’s baggage (drought envoy rorts, “Watergate,” drunken footpath photo) undermines his retail skills.​14:20 – Debating whether Barnaby ever was the “best retail politician” in the country; why he works brilliantly in rural and regional pubs but is “poison in the cities.”​16:10 – The “public bar” politician ideal: Barnaby as hail‑fellow‑well‑met who genuinely likes the people he’s talking to, contrasted with Whitlam and Fraser looking awkward in 1970s pub photo ops.​17:20 – John Howard scrounging a fiver to shout a round, Barry Jones dying in Warrnambool pubs, and why Bob Hawke and Tony Abbott always looked at home with a schooner.​Australia Day, antisemitism and street violence18:00 – Australia Day wrap: The Australian newspaper’s “social cohesion crisis” framing after antisemitism, violence and extremist rhetoric.​19:10 – Perth’s rudimentary explosive device: ball bearings and screws around a liquid in a glass “coffee cup” thrown into an Invasion Day crowd at Forrest Place; police clear the area quickly.​21:00 – Melbourne: small March for Australia turnout, scuffles between their supporters and Invasion Day marchers, arrests likely to follow.​22:10 – Sydney: March for Australia rally of around 2,000 ending at Moore Park, open mic session, and the selection of a man wearing a Celtic cross shirt who launches into a vile antisemitic rant.​23:20 – His subsequent arrest in Darlinghurst and the Section 93Z charge (publicly threatening or inciting violence on racial or religious grounds), with possible three‑year jail term and $11,000 fine.​24:40 – Why the speech appears to meet the elements of the offence, and how such defendants are quickly turned into martyrs and crowdfunding heroes by the extreme right.​26:10 – The psychology of self‑styled martyrs seeking notoriety and donations; parallels with “Free Joel Davis” signs after threats to MP Allegra Spender.​Australia Day vs India’s Republic Day27:20 – Australia Day clashing with India’s Republic Day: Joel only just realises the overlap; Jack has known for years.​28:00 – History recap: Australia Day as a 1930s invention, not a national holiday until Keating’s government in 1995; its big cultural take‑off in the 1988 Bicentennial year.​29:10 – India’s enormous Republic Day parade: 10,000+ guests, missiles and tanks on show, EU leaders in attendance, congratulations from President Trump and President Xi – easily out‑shining Australia’s low‑key day.​30:00 – Why big military parades feel culturally wrong in Australia; the discomfort with tanks and squeaky‑wheeled machinery rolling down main streets.​30:30 – The 26 January date debate: protests by Invasion Day marchers vs “flag shaggers,” plateauing protest numbers, and the sense that for most Australians it’s just another day off.​31:20 – Arguments for a different nation‑building day (maybe early January for a built‑in long weekend), and the need for a better way to celebrate Australia’s achievements without performative patriotism.​32:40 – Local citizenship ceremonies, Australia Day ambassadors and quiet country‑town rituals that still work well in spite of the culture war.​Minneapolis outrage, ICE shootings and US politics34:20 – Turning to the United States: the shooting of ICU nurse Alex Pretty by ICE agents in Minneapolis and the shock it has injected into US domestic politics.​34:50 – Video evidence vs official narrative: Pretty appears to be disarmed before being shot; the administration initially claiming he was planning a massacre of ICE agents.​35:40 – Trump’s early blame of Democrat officials and policies, then a noticeable shift as outrage spreads more broadly across the political spectrum and the Insurrection Act chatter cools.​36:20 – Tom Homan’s deployment to Minneapolis, the demotion of Border Patrol commander Greg Bovino, and reports that Homan will now report directly to President Trump rather than Kristi Noem.​37:10 – Internal GOP friction: suggestions Noem relished confrontation, while Homan did not; speculation Noem may be the first cabinet‑level casualty.​38:00 – Use of children as bait in immigration operations, American citizens detained, and two civilians shot dead by ICE; discussion of likely multi‑million‑dollar compensation exposure.​39:00 – Allegations of bribery and “missing 50 large,” the checkered backgrounds of some ICE agents and rumours about extremist links and failed cops finding a home in ICE.​40:00 – A snap YouGov poll: 46% of respondents wanting ICE disbanded, 41% opposed, and how this feeds the narrative that Noem will be thrown under the bus.​Sanctuary cities, federal power and Pam Bondi’s letter41:10 – Trump’s boastful but error‑strewn talk on Article 5 of the NATO treaty, and his correction that still belittled allies’ sacrifices in Afghanistan.​41:40 – Casualties by nation: US 2,461, then significant losses from the UK, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Denmark, Australia, Poland, Spain and others – disproving Trump’s “America alone” framing.​42:30 – Sanctuary cities vs federal supremacy: recalling the 2012 Arizona case where the Supreme Court confirmed immigration enforcement as a federal responsibility, and how that collides with sanctuary policies.​43:10 – Pam Bondi’s letter to Minnesota’s governor after the second ICE killing: reported threat to pull ICE agents in exchange for electoral records, and the ominous implications of such demands.​Greenland, Davos and market games44:00 – Trump’s Greenland obsession revisited: from bluster at Davos about tariffs on European allies to a supposed “deal” that no‑one, including the Danes, can define.​44:40 – How tariff threats knocked markets down, then his Davos announcement walked them back and sent markets up; Ted Cruz warning Trump that crashing 401(k)s and high inflation would make the midterms a bloodbath.​45:40 – Japan and the US bond market: a brief panic in Japanese bonds, a Danish super fund’s sale of US Treasuries, and the longer‑term vulnerability given th

IT WAS TERRIBLE AS THE AI EDITOR THAT TAKES OUT UMS AND AHS JUST BUTCHERED IT - ZENCASTR SUCKSIt's better now. As usual, ai slop shownotes. Robots think that I am Jack or whatever. Enjoy!In this episode of The Two Jacks, Jack the Insider (Joel Hill) and Hong Kong Jack (Jack) dive into a packed agenda of Australian and global politics. They start with the federal government's urgent move to push through new hate speech and gun control laws, discussing the disbanding of neo-Nazi groups and the alarming rise of minors on extremism watchlists. The conversation takes a sharp turn into a heated debate over the "economic self-harm" of Brexit, with Jack the Insider citing a £100 billion annual trade loss while Hong Kong Jack remains a defiant supporter.The Jacks also cover:Trump’s Trade War: The impact of a 10% tariff hike on European allies and America’s dependence on Danish pharmaceuticals like Ozempic.UK Political Maneuvers: How Kemi Badenoch outsmarted Robert Jenrick’s defection to Nigel Farage’s Reform party.Sporting Scandals and Struggles: From the "oversold" crowds at the Australian Open to a bizarre aerodynamic "groin inflation" scandal in Norwegian ski jumping.00:00:25 – Introduction Jack the Insider (Joel) and Hong Kong Jack open the show on January 20, 2026, discussing the unscheduled sitting of the Australian Parliament to finalize an omnibus bill.00:01:05 – Hate Speech Legislation & The National Socialist Network The Jacks break down the removal of racial vilification clauses and the remaining "hate group" provisions. They discuss the reported disbanding—and subsequent lobbying efforts—of the National Socialist Network.00:04:17 – Extremism Watchlists & Youth Grooming A discussion on the 320 individuals currently monitored by security agencies, with a focus on the alarming number of minors being "groomed" by radical ideologies.00:06:50 – The Bondi Royal Commission & Law Enforcement Lethargy The hosts preview the upcoming Royal Commission, touching on claims that New South Wales Police may have ignored security warnings prior to major anti-Semitic incidents.00:08:14 – Anti-Semitism and Australian Migration History A look at the "New Australian" migration success story post-WWII and the current shameful necessity of armed guards at Jewish schools and synagogues.00:17:09 – Australian Gun Law Changes Analyzing the impact of new limits on ammunition and firearm ownership for amateur hunters and "weekend warriors."00:19:22 – Political Polling: The Rise of One Nation Recent Demos polling shows One Nation surging to over 20%, potentially acting as a "parking spot" for disaffected voters from both major parties.00:24:35 – Iran: Echoes of 1979 Reflecting on the 1979 Islamic Revolution and the late Mark Colvin’s coverage of the regime’s early massacres.00:27:50 – US Midterms & The Battle for Greenland A look at the Polymarket odds for the 2026 US Midterms and the strategic (and perhaps absurd) debate over the US acquisition of Greenland.00:33:11 – Trump’s Tariffs & "The Art of the Renegotiation" The impact of a 10% hike on European goods, including a deep dive into America's dependence on Denmark for Ozempic and insulin.00:35:22 – The Brexit Economic Autopsy The Jacks have a heated debate over the long-term economic damage of Brexit, including trade losses estimated at £100 billion a year and alleged Russian influence on the "Leave" campaign.00:42:15 – UK Politics: The Jenrick Defection How Kemi Badenoch outmaneuvered Robert Jenrick's defection to Nigel Farage's Reform party.00:46:09 – Germany’s Energy Crisis Friedrich Merz calls the exit from nuclear energy a "strategic mistake" as Germany reverts to brown coal to keep the lights on.00:49:29 – The Gaza "Board of Peace" Discussing the controversial international board involving Tony Blair and Jared Kushner, and Australia's invitation to join.00:54:29 – Sports: Australian Open & BBL Privatization Crowd chaos at the Australian Open and the warnings from Jason Gillespie regarding the potential sale of BBL franchises to overseas interests.01:06:53 – West Ham & The High Cost of Relegation The "sweetheart deal" for the Olympic Stadium is turning into a nightmare for UK taxpayers as West Ham faces the threat of the Championship.01:12:47 – Strange World: Norwegian Ski Jumping Scandal A bizarre report on Norwegian ski jumpers allegedly "artificially inflating" their suits for aerodynamic advantages.01:15:30 – Wrap Up The hosts invite listener feedback on Brexit and current events before signing off for the week. 

Listeners! We are long overdue for a news episode but this one dated bloody quickly - that being said, it's not completely pointless and there's plenty of meat left in this sandwich. Just pretend it's last week and be all like 'oooh I wonder what version of this bill will pass'. We will probably do something more concrete to follow up next week. Lots to discuss here.Anyway, this week we look at the big bad omnibus bill and the Royal Commission which had to happen because Wayne Carey and Sam Newman said so.We look at Brendan Nicholls, a good bloke having a bad week who is completely misunderstood and really just a great guy that works at Bunnings.Tommy Robinson accidentally reveals his sexual proclivities which are slightly at odds with his public grievances. Oh Tommy, you really Yaxleyed your Lennons on this one.And we have MAN LIVING IN BODY for SovCits. Does putting that in all caps turn his sassy title into a strawman? Probably. He needs to pony up a TFN for an inheritance - and he's working very hard not to get a lot of free money. He is an idiot.We have a new segment - Kill Count - where we compare and contrast Musk and RFK Jr.'s efforts to kill as many people as possible.And Babet is having a meltdown. As usual. He is an idiot.Enjoy!This episode of the Conditional Release Program rings in 2026 with a deep dive into the political and social fallout following the Bondi terror attack. Hosts Jack the Insider (Peter Hoysted) and Joel Hill navigate the complexities of new hate speech legislation, the sudden disbanding of neo-Nazi groups, and the controversies surrounding the upcoming Royal Commission.[00:00:30] Introduction: Happy New Year 2026? Jack and Joel open the year discussing the "depressing" state of global affairs, from regime changes to Donald Trump’s fixation on Greenland.[00:01:38] Sponsor: CBCO Beer A quick break to discuss why regime change goes better with hops. Use code CRP10 at CBCO.beer for 10% off.[00:02:13] Global Intel Stings Jack shares a developing story regarding an intelligence sting involving the Ukrainians, the French, and the United States.[00:02:54] The Bondi Aftermath & "Tribal Shitshow" A look at how the aftermath of the December 14 Bondi attacks has devolved into political tribalism rather than national unity.[00:04:17] The End of the National Socialist Network (NSN) Joel discusses the Telegram announcement that the NSN is disbanding by January 18, 2026—just as new federal laws are introduced.[00:07:51] The Combating Anti-Semitism, Hate, and Extremism Bill A breakdown of the draft bill that proposes five-year prison sentences for inciting racial hatred and empowers the government to ban extremist organizations.[00:11:42] The Politics of the Omnibus Bill The hosts debate the Coalition’s "unsalvageable" stance on the bill and the strategic separation of gun buyback provisions from hate speech laws.[00:21:04] The Rise of One Nation & The Death of the Liberals? Jack examines polling showing One Nation gaining ground as a protest vote and what this means for the future of the Liberal Party.[00:26:03] Defining Terrorism & Radicalization A discussion on the difficulties lawmakers face in defining terrorism and the specific targeting of religious leaders who advocate violence.[00:31:51] "Aggravated Grooming" Offences New laws targeting adults who attempt to radicalize minors under 18, a demographic that reportedly makes up half of current watch lists.[00:46:10] Hate Crime Case Study: Brendan Nichols The story of a 23-year-old Bunnings employee charged with attacking a Muslim Imam, involving a dramatic courtroom attempt to jump out of the dock.[00:58:13] The Royal Commission into Anti-Semitism and Social Cohesion Jack and Joel critique the appointment of retired High Court Judge Virginia Bell and the specific areas the inquiry will investigate.[01:09:02] Security Failures: CSG and the NSW Police A report that the Community Security Group warned police about inadequate security at Bondi prior to the attack, a claim that will be central to the Royal Commission.[01:14:33] Tommy Robinson’s Algorithm "Self-Own" The "pint-sized" nationalist (Stephen Yaxley-Lennon) accidentally reveals his browsing habits while complaining about YouTube advertisements.[01:18:49] SovSit Corner: The "Man Living in Body" The bizarre tale of Gregory Francis, a Sovereign Citizen who refuses to claim a $500,000 lakeside inheritance because he won't provide a tax file number.[01:27:36] Kill Count: Musk vs. RFK Jr. The ongoing debate over who will cause more global deaths: Elon Musk’s USAID cuts or Bobby Kennedy Jr.’s anti-vax shift at the CDC.[01:39:23] Zippy Babbitt’s UK Obsession Federal MP Ralph Babbit expresses fear over visiting London, while the hosts debunk his claims about UK crime rates and "radicalization".

AI slop as usual. Enjoy! In this wide-ranging episode, the Two Jacks dissect Australia's improved bushfire response amid the Victorian fires, the newly announced royal commission under Justice Virginia Bell, Kevin Rudd's resignation as US Ambassador, escalating unrest in Iran and Venezuela, Ukrainian paramilitary intrigue, US political and economic turbulence, and a detailed cricket analysis covering the Australian summer and England's ongoing struggles.0:00–0:27IntroductionOpening banter and Hong Kong theme music0:27–8:00Australian BushfiresDiscussion of recent Victorian fires around Alexandra and Longwood; praise for improved evacuation technology, CFA coordination, and community heroism since Black Saturday8:00–11:09Kevin Rudd's ResignationAnalysis of Rudd's departure as US Ambassador, his public spat with Elon Musk, and new role as Asia Society President11:09–20:50Royal Commission AnnouncementDeep dive into Virginia Bell's appointment, scope of the inquiry (governance failures, anti-Semitism, extremism), government delays, and potential security secrecy measures20:50–31:00Australian Political LandscapePolling analysis, Labor vs. LNP, One Nation's resurgence, upcoming South Australian election, and protest voting dynamics31:00–36:00US Economic & Political TurmoilVIX volatility, Jerome Powell's position, interest rate debates, and Trump administration's policy impacts36:00–45:00Iran Protests & Regional UnrestEconomic collapse (Rial devaluation), spreading regional protests, regime fragility, Western hesitation on intervention, and BRICS dynamics44:00–50:00Venezuela CrisisMaduro's grip on power, US sanctions, paramilitary threats, opposition struggles, and regional destabilization50:00–56:00US Domestic IssuesMinnesota shooting incident, police conduct debates, First Amendment tensions, and body-camera footage controversies56:00–1:00:00Ukraine Conflict UpdateDenis Kapustin's alleged drone strike death, neo-Nazi paramilitary links, GUR intelligence operations, and misinformation battles1:00:00–1:09:00European & UK PoliticsStarmer's Labour struggles, potential leadership challenges, Macron's position in France, and broader European political shifts1:09:00–1:22:00Cricket AnalysisAustralian summer review, BBL performances, emerging talent (multicultural pipeline), England's coaching chaos, disciplinary issues, and 2027 Ashes preview1:22:00–EndWrap-Up & Listener EngagementFinal thoughts and call for listener feedbackKey Topics CoveredAustralian Bushfires: Improved CFA response, evacuation technology, community resilience in Alexandra and LongwoodRoyal Commission: Justice Virginia Bell's appointment, scope including anti-Semitism and governance failures, procedural secrecyKevin Rudd: Resignation as US Ambassador, Musk feud, Asia Society appointmentIran: Economic devastation, hyperinflation, regional protest spread, US/Western response optionsVenezuela: Ongoing instability, Maduro's regime, sanctions impactUkraine: Denis Kapustin saga, paramilitary operations, GUR intelligence successesCricket: Australian talent depth, multicultural recruitment, England's discipline and coaching woes, 2027 Ashes outlookBRICS: Economic bloc now exceeding US+EU GDP, geopolitical implications

We love Dave. He turns up to things, he watches all those cringe videos and he keeps an eye on all the cooked little gremlins trying to evangelise the noble pursuit of racism, intolerance and paranoid conspiracy theories. Bless. He's been to a few rallies. We had a chat about that and some other things. It was like 3 weeks ago and it's finally being uploaded. To be honest, guys, it's been a depressing year. I find it more and more difficult to keep up with the latest news because it's just so DISAPPOINTING. We really have seen an uptick in people taking their dickhead pills over the past month and I just can't be excited by any of it. I'm working on getting my mojo back. For now, here's a chat with Dave. It's unscripted so there's a bit more um and ah than usual but that just adds to the charm (please agree). Enjoy!

Here's another one! I don't know if it's any good but the blurb seems interesting. Merry Christmas y'all. We thought that around now would be the time the antivax movement died. The data is clear - vaccines work. Not only that, but side effects are incredibly rare. Despite this, antivaxxers have simply lied their way through it - claiming that every heart attack is a result of the vaccines and pushing conspiracy theories alongside any celebrity death they can. With the 'revelation' that Pfizer didn't test for transmission in the clinical trials (clinical trials that antivaxxers previously denied ever happened) we have seen yet another perceived victory for these idiots, with many of them expecting some form of apology. I'm sorry you're an idiot? Will that do?Jack looks at the data - and we discuss the bad faith argument put forward as a result of this honest answer from a pfizer exec being conned by an antivax snake. Published 28th Oct 2022.

Merry Christmas ya filthy animals! Here's an xmas gift for y'all. Something from the premium vaults. This one is on the dumb Balenciaga outrage that happened back in the day when Q-Anon was a fringe thing and not a normal part of mainstream politics. Simpler times, somehow. Published 8th December 2022.Enjoy! ----------We were going to do this one on main but honestly heaps of shit has happened so let's swing this one to the patrons! We look at the absurdity of the Balenciaga scandal. I mean, they're not wrong - it's kinda fucked up. But are the right taking cancel culture as their own? Where's the line between art and fashion and which gulag should we throw them all into?The book burning right show their true colours with this one - but why do rich dickheads spend insane money commoditising children?!? Fuck knows... 

THERE ARE REPORTS OF AN ISSUE OF OVERLAP AT THE END OF THE EPISODE - THIS WILL (PROBABLY) BE FIXED AT SOME POINT. More slop but hey it's detailed. That's nice.00:25 – Hanukkah, Bondi and a terror attackJoel (Jack the Insider) opens the Christmas‑eve episode by recounting the Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach that turned into a mass‑shooting, with 16 dead including Holocaust survivor Alex Kleitman and 10‑year‑old Matilda.​He notes that one gunman, Sajid Akram, was killed and his son Naveed faces 59 charges including 15 murders and a terrorism offence, while funerals proceed under a cloud of grief.​02:05 – Anti‑Semitic threats and the rise of Jew hatredThe Jacks detail an anti‑Semitic threat on a Virgin Australia flight from Denpasar to Sydney, where a 19‑year‑old allegedly made violent gestures and threats toward a Jewish passenger.​They discuss how contemporary anti‑Semitism in Australia and the West feels broader and deeper than before, increasingly visible on progressive and left‑wing fringes as well as the far right.​04:55 – Jenny Leong’s “tentacles” remark and Greens politicsJoel quotes NSW Greens MLC Jenny Leong’s 2023 comments about the “Jewish lobby” and “Zionist lobby” having “tentacles” infiltrating community groups, likening the rhetoric to classic Nazi tropes in Der Stürmer.​Jack notes Leong is part of NSW’s hard‑left “watermelon” Greens and argues such language shows how anti‑Jewish narratives have crept into mainstream progressive politics in Australia, the UK and the US.​07:25 – Apologies, anti‑Zionism and the limits of definitionsThey note Leong apologised two months later for “poor choice of words” with anti‑Semitic implications, but Joel says the tentacle imagery hung “like a bad smell” over public debate.​The Jacks criticise semantic wrangling over definitions of anti‑Semitism and suggest calling much of it what it plainly is: old‑fashioned Jew hatred, often masked as anti‑Zionism.​10:25 – Who failed after 7 October? Government responses under fireJack argues federal and state leaders failed from “October 8th on” by not responding strongly enough to anti‑Jewish rhetoric and protests, suggesting Labor tried to balance Jewish concerns against Western Sydney Muslim votes.​Joel pushes back, citing Sean Carney’s column outlining how Naveed Akram’s jihadist associations, ASIO assessments and gun‑licence decisions date back to the Morrison/Dutton era and pre‑Albanese security failures.​13:55 – ASIO, gun licensing and unanswered questionsThe Jacks highlight ASIO’s prior knowledge of Naveed’s extremist links and question how Sajid Akram obtained a semi‑automatic shotgun with only an AB licence when B/C categories are needed for that weapon.​They call for frank explanations from ASIO and NSW firearms licensing about assessments, paper trails and whether bureaucratic or resourcing failures allowed Akram to amass an arsenal worth around $30,000.​17:55 – Under‑resourced counter‑terror units and a fearful Jewish communityJoel cites a retired AFP counter‑terror investigator who says counter‑terror units are stacked with officers fresh out of the academy instead of seasoned detectives.​Jack reflects on three decades of Jewish institutions in Sydney’s east needing armed guards, and shares conversations with Jewish friends who now quietly contemplate leaving Australia because they no longer feel safe.​20:35 – “Don’t bring your old hatreds here”The Jacks trace anti‑Jewish attacks in Sydney back to the 1982 Hakoah Club car bombing and the simultaneous attack on the Israeli consulate, arguing Jewish Australians have lived with this threat for over 40 years.​They say successive governments failed to hammer home a core Australian expectation: migrants must not import centuries‑old religious or ethnic hatreds into their new home.​23:05 – Segal anti‑Semitism strategy and hate‑speech lawsThey briefly canvass the Gillian Segal anti‑Semitism strategy; Jack dismisses it as “word salad” and window dressing, while Joel notes the government has been slow to act on its recommendations.​On hate‑speech laws, Jack argues bans on offensive political opinions tend to drive hatred underground and make it more dangerous, but both agree incitement to violence must remain a prosecutable offence, possibly with updated legislation.​26:00 – Policing protests and the limits of crowd controlThe Jacks explain why police sometimes tolerate ugly slogans at protests: wading in for arrests can inflame crowds that already vastly outnumber officers.​They stress the need to balance immediate public safety and officer safety with the longer‑term risk that demonstrators feel they can incite hatred with impunity.​29:00 – Bondi’s stain and its heroesJoel laments that Bondi Beach, an iconic Australian destination, will now always be associated with a massacre, describing a moment of nausea as the death toll climbed on that Sunday night.​Jack reminisces about Bondi’s 1990s mix of Kiwis, working‑class locals and a relaxed Jewish presence, and fears that openness has been permanently damaged.​32:05 – Old‑school cop and a Syrian‑Australian heroThey praise the middle‑aged, tie‑wearing NSW officer who initiated the “beginning of the end” of the attack and commend off‑duty police who rushed to Bondi and threw on uniforms.​Joel celebrates North Bondi tobacconist Al Ahmad, a Syrian‑born resident who tackled the gunman with astonishing courage, noting he now seems certain to receive Australian citizenship along with his parents.​35:10 – Patrol strength, long guns and local station realitiesThe Jacks relay reports that only three officers were on duty at Bondi police station, which Joel describes as a relatively minor station compared to Rose Bay or Maroubra.​They question why frontline police responding to long‑gun threats were not issued rifles of their own and suggest NSW should review access to long arms for first responders in high‑risk scenarios.​38:00 – Multiculturalism, old enmities and what really matters nextJack argues that, in an immigrant nation, the most important response is cultural: reinstilling the norm that old tribal feuds must be left behind, not accommodated.​Joel agrees this message should be central in citizenship education and public rhetoric, more important than technocratic hate‑speech tweaks or reactive gun‑law posturing.​42:05 – National Cabinet, ASIO and the demand for competenceThey criticise the National Cabinet’s muted post‑Bondi meeting, which produced little beyond talk, and suggest the Prime Minister’s cautious style leaves a leadership vacuum in national crises.​The Jacks insist Australians accept that security agencies cannot be omniscient, but say they must be properly resourced, competent and transparent when they make mistakes.​45:25 – Around the world: headscarves, condoms, climate and Reddit vs CanberraThe Jacks whip around global headlines: Austria’s ban on headscarves for under‑14s, China’s 13% tax on condoms and contraceptives to boost fertility, Denmark listing the US as a security risk, and the US government quietly deleting “fossil fuels” as a named cause of climate change from official websites.​They note Reddit’s legal challenge to Australia’s under‑16 social media ban and question whether Reddit is the ideal platform to front that fight given its often unpoliced content.​47:35 – Venezuela, the ICC and the limits of international lawVenezuela moves to withdraw from the International Criminal Court as investigations into alleged Maduro‑regime crimes against humanity advance.​Jack says the episode encapsulates international law’s limits: states happily sign the Rome Statute until it becomes inconvenient, then walk away.​48:55 – Ireland rearms and Russia blocks “unfriendly” callsIreland announces a 55 per cent jump in defence spending to protect undersea data cables and deter drones, reflecting its geostrategic importance as a trans‑Atlantic communications hub.​Russia, meanwhile, moves to block incoming calls from “unfriendly” states; the Jacks mock the performative toughness and note how easily scammers will route around any such ban.​51:15 – Rob Reiner’s murder and a towering film legacyThey react with shock to the murder of legendary director Rob Reiner and his wife, allegedly by Reiner’s troubled son, whose earlier violence was itself the subject of a film.​Jack runs through Reiner’s extraordinary run—This Is Spinal Tap, The Princess Bride, Stand By Me, When Harry Met Sally, A Few Good Men—and argues that if you’d made only those, you’d still have had a remarkable career.​54:45 – “This one goes to 11” and Trump’s gracelessnessThe Jacks recall how Spinal Tap helped invent the mockumentary form and embedded lines like “this one goes to 11” into pop‑culture vocabulary.​They condemn Donald Trump’s statement calling Reiner “a terrible human being” after his death, with conservative actor James Woods publicly rebuking Trump and praising Reiner’s personal kindness despite political differences.​57:40 – Carl Reiner, Mel Brooks and comedy royaltyJoel outlines Rob Reiner’s upbringing in a house full of comedic giants, with father Carl Reiner and close friend Mel Brooks holding weekly movie nights together well into old age, as captured in Jerry Seinfeld’s Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee.​They reminisce about Carl and Mel’s influence on Jewish humour and lament the passing of a generation of comic geniuses.​01:01:05 – EVs, hybrids and a Two Jacks lunch betThe Jacks revisit their running argument over electric vehicles, prompted by Ford CEO Jim Farley’s plan to pivot the F‑150 towards hybrids instead of pure EVs.​Joel, a hybrid owner, sees hybrids as a transition technology in countries like Australia where fast‑charge infrastructure is patchy; he cites global EV sales rising to roughly 18–20 per cent of new car sales in 2025, with internal‑combustion shares steadily shrinking.​01:03:05 – Charging reality vs theory in AustraliaJoel recounts his in‑laws’ BMW EV trip from central Victoria to Sydney using free or cheap NR

A whole mess of AI generated shownotes. Enjoy! 00:25 – Christmas in Hong Kong, KFC in JapanJoel (Jack the Insider) opens Episode 138 and checks in with Jack (Hong Kong Jack) about Hong Kong’s love of Christmas shopping, surreal mall installations and the absence of nativity scenes, before detouring to Japan’s KFC-at-Christmas tradition.​01:50 – Australia’s world‑first social media ban for under‑16sThe Jacks unpack the new national ban on social media for under‑16s, the generational politics of Gen Alpha kids and millennial parents, and the “pick up a book, go for a bike ride” messaging from Anthony Albanese and Julie Inman Grant.​They read out Vox pops about kids discovering life without apps, YouTube‑driven body image issues, and the early scramble to alternative chat and file‑sharing apps like LemonAid.​05:35 – Social engineering, High Court challenge and mental health concernsThey describe the policy as a conscious piece of social engineering aimed at reshaping youth culture over a decade, and note the High Court challenge led by the Digital Freedom Movement and Libertarian MLC John Ruddick.​Beyond Blue, Headspace, ReachOut and the Black Dog Institute warn about cutting off access to online mental‑health support, as the Jacks weigh the internet’s harms against the value of peer support communities for young people.​09:35 – Enforcement gaps, workarounds and parental resistanceThe Jacks discuss uneven implementation, with some under‑16s apparently still able to access Facebook and Instagram while other apps are wiped, and a rush into less‑regulated platforms.​They note reports that up to a third of parents will quietly help kids stay online and float the idea of a nationwide “kitchen‑table” style forum to help parents understand the risks and responsibilities around kids’ social media use.​12:00 – A social experiment the world is watchingThey canvas overseas interest, with Denmark, Spain and others eyeing bans at 15 rather than 16, and Sarah Ferguson’s description of Australia’s move as a live “social experiment” whose results are very much unknown.​13:05 – Richo’s state funeral and the dark arts of NSW Labor RightThe conversation turns to Graham “Richo” Richardson’s state funeral, his reputation as Labor’s master organiser and electoral numbers man, and his long life “on the public purse”.​Joel recounts Richo’s link to Balmain Welding and Stan “Standover” Smith, arguing that New South Wales Labor Right’s success always had a darker underbelly.​15:10 – Paul Brereton, the NACC and conflicts of interestThey examine National Anti‑Corruption Commission boss Paul Brereton’s updated disclosures about his ongoing work with the Inspector‑General of the ADF and Afghanistan war‑crimes inquiries, revealed via FOI.​The Jacks question whether someone so intertwined with Defence can credibly oversee corruption matters touching Defence acquisitions, and whether carving out whole domains from his remit makes his appointment untenable.​18:25 – A quiet NACC, no perp walks and media theatreThe Jacks note how quietly the NACC has operated in Canberra—“blink and you’d miss them”—with none of the televised “perp walks” beloved of New South Wales ICAC coverage.​Jack welcomes the absence of media spectacle; Joel admits to missing the grimace‑through‑the‑cameras moment as accused figures run the gauntlet.​19:50 – Victorian youth vote turns on LaborNew polling of 18–34‑year‑olds in Victoria shows Labor’s vote down 11 points to 28 per cent and the Coalition’s up 17 points to 37 per cent, with the Greens steady at 20 per cent.​The Jacks argue the Victorian Labor government looks to be in terminal decline, discuss leadership options for Jacinta Allan, and canvass how quickly preference “cascades” can flip a long‑term government once momentum turns.​22:15 – Green exports vs coal, Treasury modelling under fireThey dissect Treasury modelling which suggests “green exports” (critical minerals, rare earths, battery inputs) will surpass coal and gas within a decade, and note scepticism from former Treasury official and now CBA chief economist Stephen Yeaman.​The Jacks highlight International Energy Agency updates showing coal demand in key markets staying high, and the reality that renewables growth is largely meeting new demand rather than cutting deeply into existing coal and gas use.​25:05 – Coal to 2049 and the reality of the gridJack points to Australian market operator projections that coal will remain in the domestic mix until at least 2049, while Joel questions which ageing coal plants will physically survive that long without new builds.​They agree modelling must continually be revised against actual demand profiles in China, India, Indonesia and elsewhere, where coal still supplies half or more of electricity.​27:20 – 30‑year suppression orders and transparencyThe Jacks shift to a 30‑year suppression order over evidence behind Tanya Plibersek’s decision to block a $1 billion coal mine until 2055, and more broadly the proliferation of long‑term suppression orders in Australia.​They criticise the over‑use of secrecy in both environmental and criminal matters, arguing it breeds suspicion that justice and accountability can be bought by the wealthy.​28:25 – The “prominent family” sexual assault case in VictoriaWithout naming the individual, they discuss a Victorian case involving the convicted son of a prominent family whose identity remains suppressed even after guilty findings for serious sexual offences.​They worry that blanket suppression encourages rumour, misidentification and a sense that powerful people get special treatment, even when protection of victims is a legitimate concern.​30:05 – From undercover cop to gangland wars: how secrecy backfiresJoel revisits an NSW example where an undercover police officer’s drink‑driving conviction was suppressed for 55 years, and Melbourne gangland cases where key cooperating witnesses remained pseudonymous for decades.​The Jacks argue that when authorities create information vacuums, gossip and conspiracy inevitably rush in to fill the space.​33:50 – MP expenses, family reunion travel and Annika Wells’ bad day outThey turn to MPs’ entitlements and “family reunion” travel: Annika Wells’ ski‑trip optics and poor press conference performance, Don Farrell’s extensive family travel, and Sarah Hanson‑Young’s $50,000 in family travel for her lobbyist husband.​While acknowledging how hard federal life is—especially for WA MPs—they question where legitimate family support ends and taxpayer‑funded lifestyle begins.​37:05 – Why family reunion perks exist (and how they’re abused)The Jacks recall the tragic case of Labor MP Greg Wilton as a driver for more generous family travel rules, given the emotional cost of long separations.​They conclude the system is necessary but ripe for exploitation, and note the Coalition’s relatively muted response given its own exposure to the same rules.​39:15 – Diplomatic drinks trolleys: London, New York and the UNJoel notes Stephen Smith’s stint as High Commissioner in London—the “ultimate drinks trolley” of Australian diplomacy—and his replacement by former SA Premier Jay Weatherill.​Jack mentions Smith’s reputation for being stingy with hospitality at Australia House, in contrast to the traditionally lavish networking role of London and New York postings.​40:40 – Barnaby Joyce joins One NationThe big domestic political move: Barnaby Joyce’s shift from the Nationals to One Nation, including his steak‑on‑a‑sandwich‑press dinner with Pauline Hanson.​The Jacks canvass whether Joyce runs again in New England or heads for the Senate, and the anger among New England voters who may feel abandoned.​42:25 – One Nation’s growth, branch‑building and Pauline’s futureThey dig into polling from Cos Samaras suggesting 39 per cent of Coalition voters say they’d be more likely to vote One Nation if Joyce led the party, and the risk of the Coalition following the UK Tories into long‑term decline.​The Jacks note One Nation’s organisational maturation—building actual branches and volunteer networks in NSW and Queensland—and wonder whether Pauline Hanson herself now caps the party’s potential.​45:20 – Kemi Badenoch, a revived UK Conservative Party and Reform’s ceilingAttention swings to the UK, with fresh polling showing Labour slumping to the high teens, the Conservatives recovering into the high teens/low 20s, and Reform polling in the mid‑20s to low‑30s depending on the firm.​They credit new Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch for lifting morale by dominating Keir Starmer at the despatch box, but caution that Reform’s rise may still be more protest than durable realignment.​49:45 – Fragmenting party systems in Europe and the UKDrawing on Michael Gove’s comments, the Jacks sketch the new “four‑party” pattern across Europe—radical left/Green, social democratic, Christian Democrat centre‑right, and populist right—and argue the UK is slowly following suit.​They suggest both Labour and the Conservatives can no longer comfortably absorb all votes on their respective sides of politics, with Reform and Greens carving out durable niches.​53:05 – US seizes a Venezuelan tanker, Trump calls it the “biggest ever”The Jacks look at the US Coast Guard’s seizure of a sanctioned Venezuelan oil tanker accused of moving Venezuelan and Iranian oil in support of foreign terrorist groups.​Joel notes Trump’s boast that it’s “the largest tanker ever seized”, while quoting Pam Bondi’s more sober explanation of the sanctions basis.​54:45 – Five years of social media to enter the US?They examine a Trump‑era proposal to require even visa‑waiver travellers to provide five years of social media history before entering the United States.​The Jacks question the logistical feasibility, highlight the trend of travellers using “burner phones” for US trips, and argue measures like this would severely damage American tourism.​57:10 – SCOTUS, independent agencies and presidential powerThe Jacks discuss a pending US Supreme C

Possibly the longest shownotes in history thanks to Gemini 3 Pro. Bless the swamp from which this AI slop emerged and enjoy the episode. Or just read this, I suppose. The title sucks terribly. Do better, Gemmo! Show Notes with Time‑Shifted Timestamps(All timestamps below have been shifted forward by 25 seconds to allow for theme music, as requested.)00:00 – Welcome, Cricket and the Pink Ball at the Gabba00:00:25 – Jack the Insider (Joel Hill) opens episode 137 of The Two Jacks and notes they’re recording just after midday on 4 December.00:00:36 – Quick chat about the looming day–night Test at the Gabba and the prospect it could finish very quickly.00:00:44 – Hong Kong Jack explains why dusk session timings in Hong Kong line up perfectly with “Asahi o’clock”.00:01:07 – The Jacks wonder which pink ball is in use – Duke or Kookaburra – and what that means for Mitchell Starc and the batters.00:01:30 – They flag that full cricket chat will come later in the episode.Tai Po Fire, Mourning and Accountability in Hong Kong00:01:53 – Jack the Insider pivots from sport to tragedy: an update on the Tai Po (Typo) fire in Hong Kong, now with 159 dead, from ages 1 to 97.00:02:07 – Hong Kong Jack describes the government‑ordered three‑day citywide mourning period, mass flower layings, official ceremonies and a three‑minute silence.00:02:35 – Discussion of schools cancelling Christmas parties and staff functions in solidarity; a sense the tragedy is being taken seriously across society.00:02:55 – Hong Kong Jack outlines the judge‑led inquiry: not only into the Tai Po fire’s causes, but also systemic issues in building management and renovation contracts on large estates, with hints of corruption.00:03:30 – Evidence emerging that the green construction cloth lacked proper fire retardant and that flammable materials were used to seal lift wells, helping the fire move inside.00:04:23 – Bodies, including one man, found in stairwells and lobbies; Hong Kong Jack cautions against jumping to conclusions before investigators reconstruct the fire.00:04:53 – Arrest tally climbs to around 12, mostly consultants/contractors involved in management and renovations rather than labourers.00:05:35 – Hong Kong Jack notes large numbers of displaced residents in hotels and temporary accommodation and outlines generous government payments to families of foreign domestic workers killed (about HKD 800,000 per family).00:06:05 – A harrowing vignette: a Javanese truck driver receives a final phone call from his wife, trapped with her employers’ baby, seeking forgiveness because there is no escape.00:06:35 – The Jacks reflect on the horror of the story and promise to revisit the inquiry as more facts emerge.Australia’s Under‑16 Social Media Restrictions & VPNs00:06:50 – Jack the Insider turns to domestic Australian politics: the under‑16 social media restrictions about to kick in.00:07:05 – He notes overwhelming parental support (around 80%) but says the government is now “hosing down expectations” and reframing the policy as a long‑term “cultural change” effort.00:07:30 – Platforms not yet on the restricted list – Roblox and Discord – are flagged as problematic globally for child sexual exploitation, illustrating rollout gaps.00:08:05 – They discuss technical enforcement: existing account age data, length of time on a platform and the likelihood that some adults will be wrongly flagged but quickly reinstated.00:08:35 – Jack the Insider explains the government’s theory of cultural change: a generation that grows up never having had TikTok or Instagram under 16 “won’t know what they’re missing”.00:09:00 – Hong Kong Jack compares Australia to mainland China’s efforts to control the internet and points out China still can’t stamp out VPN usage, predicting similar Australian difficulties.00:09:25 – Jack the Insider clarifies that VPNs are not illegal in Australia; about 27% of connected Australians already use one, probably now closer to a third.00:09:55 – He strongly recommends everyone use a VPN for privacy and location masking, and warns that good VPNs now explicitly advise not to choose Australia as an exit node because of the new regime.00:11:00 – They note that Malaysia and several European countries (Denmark, Spain, France and EU initiatives) are eyeing similar under‑age social media restrictions, with large fines (Australia’s up to about AUD 50 million or 1% of turnover).00:12:20 – Meta is already scanning and booting under‑age users, but teenagers are sharing tips on evading age checks. Jack the Insider describes various age‑verification methods: selfie‑based AI checks, account age, and Roblox’s move to ban under‑15s.00:13:45 – Anecdote about Macau security doing ID checks: Hong Kong Jack’s son is checked for being over 21, while Jack’s own age makes ID unnecessary—an amusing generational moment.00:14:55 – The Jacks agree the policy is unlikely to stop kids having TikTok accounts but might “nudge” behaviour toward less screen time.00:16:00 – Jack the Insider stresses the real dangers of the internet—particularly organised child sexual exploitation rings like the notorious “764” network—and questions whether blunt prohibition can solve these issues.Bruce Lehrmann, Appeals and Costs00:18:22 – They move to the Bruce Lehrmann defamation saga: his appeal has failed and he’s likely millions of dollars in debt.00:18:45 – Discussion of the prospect of a High Court appeal, the low likelihood of leave being granted, and the sense that further appeals are “good money after bad”.00:19:22 – Jack the Insider notes outstanding criminal charges against Lehrmann in Toowoomba relating to an alleged statutory rape, and outlines the allegation about removing a condom after earlier consensual sex.00:20:07 – They discuss the probable difficulty of prosecuting that case, and then pivot to the practical question: who is funding Lehrmann’s ongoing legal adventures?00:20:35 – Hong Kong Jack explains why some lawyers or firms may take on such cases for profile, despite poor prospects of payment, and they canvass talk of crowdfunding efforts.00:21:07 – The Jacks agree Lehrmann should have left the public stage after the criminal trial was discontinued; now, bankruptcy in 2026 looks likely.00:21:58 – Limited sympathy for Channel 10 or Lisa Wilkinson; more sympathy reserved for Brittany Higgins and Fiona Brown, who are seen as exceptions in an otherwise “pretty ordinary” cast.NACC, Commissioner Brereton and Conflicts of Interest00:23:24 – The Jacks turn to the National Anti‑Corruption Commission (NACC) and Commissioner Paul Brereton’s side work for Defence.00:24:03 – Hong Kong Jack recounts Senate Estimates footage where officials first claimed Brereton’s Defence consulting work occurred outside NACC hours, then later admitted more than ten instances (possibly close to 20) during NACC office time.00:25:25 – Discussion of conflict‑of‑interest: the Commissioner maintaining a paid Defence relationship while heading the body that may need to investigate Defence.00:25:57 – The Jacks question the tenability of his position, especially given the NACC’s opaque nature, its minimal public reporting obligations and a salary around AUD 800k–900k plus expenses.The Struggling Australian and Global Economy, Productivity and ANZ00:26:20 – Jack the Insider outlines Australia’s sluggish economy: inflation remains sticky, GDP growth is flat, and government spending is driving much of the growth.00:27:00 – They discuss a small, tentative rise in productivity (around 0.2% for the quarter) and the Treasurer’s caution that productivity figures are volatile.00:27:57 – Hong Kong Jack stresses that historically, economies escape malaise through productivity‑driven growth; there is no easy alternative, in Australia or globally.00:28:23 – Broader global picture: the US isn’t in outright recession but is crawling; Europe is sluggish; Poland is a rare bright spot but rapid growth brings its own risks.ANZ and Post‑Royal Commission Failures00:28:54 – Focus shifts to ANZ’s continuing governance and compliance failures after the Banking Royal Commission.00:29:30 – Jack the Insider shares a personal story about dealing with ANZ’s deceased estates department following his mother and stepfather’s deaths and the difficulty in releasing funds to pay for funerals.00:30:20 – Justice Jonathan Beach’s scathing remarks: ANZ is still mishandling deceased estates, charging fees and interest to dead customers, despite years of warnings.00:31:34 – They recall Royal Commission revelations about “fees for no service” and charging the dead, plus ANZ’s recent exclusion from certain Commonwealth bond business due to rorting.00:32:12 – The Jacks see this as a clear culture problem: five years on, the basics still aren’t fixed, suggesting inadequate investment in compliance and little genuine reform.UK Justice Backlog and Curtailing Jury Trials00:33:05 – The conversation moves to the UK’s proposal to restrict jury trials for offences likely to attract less than a two‑year sentence.00:33:35 – Hong Kong Jack notes the English historical attachment to jury trials dating back to Magna Carta, and that defendants have long had the right to opt for a jury if imprisonment is possible.00:34:38 – Justice Minister David Lammy, once a fierce critic of similar Tory proposals, is now advancing the idea himself, creating a political shambles.00:35:02 – They weigh up pros and cons of judge‑only trials for complex financial crimes, where juries may struggle to follow long, technical evidence.00:36:10 – Jack the Insider points out that even judges can find such cases difficult, but there is at least some expertise advantage.00:36:22 – They revisit the Southport riots and harsh sentences for people inciting attacks on hotels housing asylum seekers, arguing that common‑sense community judgment via juries may be better in such politically charged cases.00:37:26 – Ultimately, they doubt the reforms will meaningfully reduce the UK’s huge court backlog an

We are back with some news! Jack looks at a theory on why there are fewer serial killers now than ever - is it because CBCo started brewing? Maybe true crime podcasters. But Jack has a theory. ACIP under Kennedy have yanked the Hepatitis B Vaccine (HBV) recommendation which is going to give RFK Jr's death count a nudge - but the numbers will come long after he's dead. Does that mean he gets away with it? Probably. Marco Rubio changes the official State Department font back to Times New Roman because Calibri is something something DEI. Is Calibri a bit gay? I suppose so? In cooker update we look at Monica's massive flop and a few other things, basic housekeeping. In SovCits we have a cracker of a story and it's predictably dumb. Speaking of predictably dumb, it's Babet this week and it's not very interesting. Enjoy!

AI slop shownotes as per usual. Possible Episode TitlesBears, Budgets, and the Billion-Dollar InterfaceThe BOM Shell, Hong Kong Fires, and Pink Ball TacticsBamboo Scaffolds and Bureaucratic BlowoutsFrom the Kowloon Hills to the Gabba: Bears, Bombs, and BazballEpisode BlurbIn Episode 136, Jack the Insider and Hong Kong Jack connect to discuss a tragic week in Hong Kong following a devastating fire in the New Territories. The Jacks dive deep into the bureaucracy back home, tearing apart the Australian Bureau of Meteorology’s "interface" upgrade that ballooned from $4 million to $94 million—a classic case of consultant heavy-lifting and public service decline.The conversation spans the globe, touching on the underwhelming COP summit in Brazil, the "shambolic" UK Budget under Keir Starmer, and the curious bonhomie between Donald Trump and his political rivals. Plus, there are bears attacking in Japan and "wrench attacks" in Vancouver.Finally, the boys turn their eyes to the Gabba for the Pink Ball Test. Can England bounce back? Is Travis Head the key? And who will take home the flag in the AFLW Grand Final?Show Notes & Timestamps[00:00:00] Tragedy in Hong KongHong Kong Jack reports on the devastating fire in the New Territories with a death toll nearing 100. The boys discuss the history of the apartment blocks, the use of bamboo scaffolding in construction, and the grim reality of high-density living for the elderly.[00:09:13] The Lantau SwimA lighter note from HK: two swimmers tackle the waters around Lantau Island. The Jacks question the water quality near the Pearl River Delta.[00:10:31] Victorian Politics: A New Hope?Discussion on the polling boost for Victorian Liberal Leader Jess Wilson. Is the shine coming off the Labor government, and can the Liberals actually win the next state election?[00:14:03] COP30 in BrazilA wrap-up of the climate summit in Belém. The consensus? A lot of money spent for very little actionable result, and relief that Australia didn't drop a billion dollars hosting it.[00:16:15] The BOM Website FiascoJoel tears into the Bureau of Meteorology’s upgrade. What was sold as a $4 million "interface" refresh has skyrocketed to $94 million. A broader discussion on the "consultancy disease" (Accenture, IBM) and the hollowing out of IT skills within the Australian Public Service.[00:28:03] The Brittany Higgins Saga ContinuesAnalysis of Cameron Milner’s "Watergate" comments regarding Labor’s handling of the Fiona Brown and Linda Reynolds legal claims. The Jacks argue for a swift settlement and a fair go for Fiona Brown.[00:35:10] Inflation & The Public ServiceInflation sticks at 3.5%, driven largely by government spending. Discussion on the massive expansion of the public service workforce under the current government and the lack of a "Peter Walsh-style" finance minister to curb spending.[00:39:49] Ukraine, Russia, and the Peace DealThe latest on the peace proposals. Is a "dirty deal" inevitable? The Jacks discuss Russia’s war economy, J.D. Vance’s peace plan, and why Poland’s military build-up is the model for the rest of Europe.[00:51:37] UK Budget ShamblesReaction to the Starmer Government’s budget. Leaks, "mansion taxes," and rising welfare bills for the "work-shy." Plus, Kemi Badenoch’s parliamentary performance compared to the Keating era.[00:59:04] The BBC’s Funding CrisisThe "Beeb" blows a billion dollars as license fee cancellations soar. Joel and Jack discuss the archaic nature of the TV license fee compared to funding via general revenue.[01:02:19] Bear Attacks in JapanAn unexpected crisis in Japan: Asiatic brown bears are moving from rural areas to urban centres, mauling nearly 200 people.[01:05:39] Crypto Crime in "Hongcouver"A violent "wrench attack" in British Columbia highlights the dangers of physical crypto theft. Joel muses on the future of encryption vs. supercomputers.[01:08:58] US Politics: Trump & The "Fascist" LabelDonald Trump’s surprisingly civil meeting with NY political figures (Zohran Mamdani) despite previous name-calling. Plus, the dismissal of the James Comey and Letitia James indictments.[01:18:19] Cricket: The Gabba Pink Ball TestPreviewing the Test Match. Can England recover from their Perth tactics? The debate over Scott Boland’s bowling, Mitchell Stark’s form, and why it’s time to call time on Usman Khawaja. The Jacks predict tactics for the swinging pink ball.[01:28:41] India’s Coaching WoesAfter a 2-0 drubbing by South Africa at home, Gautam Gambhir’s tenure is under the microscope.[01:31:05] AFLW Grand Final PreviewBrisbane Lions vs. North Melbourne at Princes Park. North are on a historic winning streak, but can the Lions cause an upset?[01:32:48] Racing & Offshore BettingA look at the leakage of wagering revenue to offshore operators and James Packer’s recent comments on tax.

This week we have swapped Jack for Adriana Boisen who is an activist and member of the Palestine Action Group who thinks NSW Premier Chris Minns may be walking into yet another trap set by the NSN. Can we legislate neo-nazis into nonexistence? Probably not. But it makes a great headline! While the new laws are specific to nazi ideology - what does that actually mean and who decides what that is? The cops or the courts. In the end, the process is the punishment and we have seen some very dubious applications of existing laws that are meant to target neo nazis and end up punishing people who clearly are not nazis. It doesn't really matter what the outcome of the court case is, defending a criminal charge sucks. It is episode 200 which we should probably celebrate somehow but we will save that for next episode. Or we will forget. I don't know how many promises I have broken over the course of the podcast so I won't make this one. But good things are in the pipeline.Enjoy!

We are back with a classic news episode. We lead with Epstein - the thorn in Donald Trump's diaper. Did he suck off Bill Clinton? Probably not. Does he really give off a 'generous lover' aura?We also check out how old Tredders is going. It's not great. To summarise, Port Adelaide asked him to apologise for his comments on our Jewish friends and he said no.We take a quick look at the mountain of nazi news that has recently developed and bask in the schaudenfreude of the post Macquarie Street consequence festival. We recorded on Sunday so I have added a bit of an update on Matty Grutes who has had a absolute shit of a week. We look at some of the other dummies who thought the time was right to take off the mask. The time is never right to take off the mask! Get off twitter and touch some grass. People still hate nazis.In SovCits we look at a previous SovCit who remains a bit SovCitty - Andrew Morton Garrett who is a very funny boy. A winemaker who may have sampled too much of his own product. He now owns Australia. Geez. Better not laugh at him I suppose. We mentioned him in episode 156 and hopefully we will pump out an episode on him. He really is hilarious.And of course we have Pete - a man who recently dared go to the shops without shoes or a shirt, likely after a swim at the beach, and then made the truly sinister motion of putting his hands in his hair. As someone with very little hair this offends me on several levels, so I think it's completely reasonable what news.com.au decided to say about this tawdry affair. At the shops. Near a beach.Enjoy!

Recorded: November 6, 2025 (Oaks Day)Hosts: Joel Hill (Jack the Insider) & Hong Kong JackEpisode DescriptionJoin Jack the Insider and Hong Kong Jack as they dissect the Coalition's spectacular implosion, the Nationals' abandonment of net zero, and why Dennis Shanahan called this opposition "the worst in 40 years." Plus: Trump's approval hits rock bottom, US midterm election results send shockwaves, and why Ireland elected a grim president who toured Syria with Assad.Timestamps & Show Notes00:00:25 - Welcome & Oaks Day ChatThe Jacks kick off discussing Melbourne's Oaks Day and why it was always better than the Cup for racing enthusiasts. Hong Kong Jack shares a memorable story about a judge who mysteriously adjourned court so everyone could hit the track.​00:02:39 - Coalition in Crisis: Net Zero AbandonedThe National Party abandons net zero emissions targets, putting enormous pressure on the Liberal Party. Dennis Shanahan declares this the "worst opposition in 40 years" after a horror question time where Alex Hawke couldn't understand basic parliamentary procedures.​00:05:38 - South Australian Liberal Party Mass ExodusOver 200 members quit the SA Liberal Party in protest of Susan Ley's leadership and failure to abandon net zero. The state branch, dominated by hard-right figures like Senator Alex Antic, has a history of internal bloodshed.​00:07:33 - What Does Net Zero Actually Mean?The Jacks discuss how net zero has become an "article of faith" for enough Australians to matter politically, even if most people can't define it. It essentially represents action on climate change in voters' minds.​00:12:29 - Can Susan Ley Survive to Christmas?Hong Kong Jack predicts Ley might not survive until Christmas as Liberal leader, noting the killing season is upon us with the last parliamentary sitting coming up. Her best chance? That nobody else wants the awful job.​00:14:38 - The James Patterson ProblemSenator James Patterson is described as a rising star who actually reads his briefs, but he's stuck in the Senate. Finding him a safe House seat in Victoria is virtually impossible with Monash (the safest Liberal seat) held by only 4%.​00:16:58 - Liberal Party: From Major to MinorJack the Insider argues we're witnessing the Liberal Party's descent from major to minor party status, not unlike what happened to the United Australia Party in 1943. With only 26 members in parliament and 24% primary vote, the party faces potential oblivion.​00:18:34 - One Nation's Rise: 15-16% and GrowingOne Nation's support has surged from 6% to 15-16%, with the party establishing branches across NSW and Queensland. The biggest threat isn't to the Liberals, but to the Nationals in mining-based seats like Hunter and Capricornia.​00:21:46 - COP in Adelaide: A Billion Dollar Boondoggle?The proposed Conference of the Parties climate summit in Adelaide carries a $1 billion price tag. Hong Kong Jack questions who would notice if it didn't happen "apart from the grifters."​00:23:27 - National Anti-Corruption Commission TroublesCommissioner Paul Brereton faces serious conflict of interest issues due to his Army Reserve role and involvement in Afghanistan war crimes inquiries. The commission operates largely in secret, disappointing those who wanted an ICAC-style public inquiry.​00:28:23 - RoboDebt: Why No Criminal Charges?Discussion of the SBS documentary on RoboDebt and why senior public servants who knew the scheme was illegal haven't faced criminal charges. Some even got promoted despite their roles in the scandal.​00:30:19 - Bureau of Meteorology Website DisasterThe BOM's new website launched right before severe Queensland storms, leaving users unable to understand warnings. The acting CEO was dragged before Minister Murray Watt for a ritual flogging and awkward video apology.​00:35:52 - "Free" Solar Power AnnouncementChris Bowen announces three hours of free solar power daily for homes with smart meters in NSW, SE Queensland, and SA. Hong Kong Jack calls it "smoke and mirrors" - really just an attempt to shift demand to low-usage periods.​00:38:16 - Streaming Services Must Fund Aussie ContentNew laws will require streaming platforms to invest 10% of expenditure or 7.5% of revenue in Australian content. Hong Kong Jack immediately asks if 98% can go to true crime documentaries.​00:41:56 - Coalition Support Crashes to Record Low 24%Newspoll shows Coalition primary vote at just 24%, down from 40% in February. Combined with Labor's 33-34%, less than 60% of voters support the major parties - down from 80% in 2004.​00:44:39 - Andrew Neil: The Death of Centre-Right PartiesDiscussion of Andrew Neil's speech to the Centre for Independent Studies about how conservative parties have lost the metropolitan, educated "lanyard class" who were once their base. The UK Conservatives now hold just 9 metropolitan seats.​00:48:34 - The Great Inversion: Rich Counties Vote DemocratIn the 1950s, Republicans won 56% of America's richest counties. In 2024, Democrats won 190 of the 200 richest counties. The establishment institutions - universities, judiciary, civil service - have all shifted centre-left.​00:51:19 - US Employment & Immigration CrackdownUS unemployment sits at 4.3%, but labor shortages are emerging as ICE sweeps up workers and visa costs skyrocket to $100,000. Meanwhile, Trump's disapproval rating hits 63% - the highest of either term.​00:52:53 - Virginia & New Jersey: Democrats DominateTuesday's elections saw Democrats win overwhelmingly in traditionally blue areas, with every single county shifting toward Democrats - the complete reverse of 2024's presidential election pattern. Latino voters showed 30% leads for Democrats.​00:59:28 - Cost of Living Kills AdministrationsBoth Trump and Biden made the same mistake: telling Americans inflation is under control while grocery bills say otherwise. The New York mayor-elect won by focusing relentlessly on reducing childcare and living costs.​01:02:21 - Trump Has the World's Biggest Laser PointerDiscussion of how Trump controls the news cycle while Americans struggle with real costs. "Trump has the biggest laser pointer in the world and all the media are cats" chasing wherever he points it.​01:03:23 - Millennials Aren't Becoming ConservativeUnlike previous generations, millennials in their 40s with mortgages and kids aren't shifting right. They continue voting left, with Liberals only leading in the 65+ demographic (52-48). Housing affordability drives cynicism and socialist sympathies.​01:07:20 - New York's New Socialist MayorMandami wins NYC mayor's race with strong support from new arrivals who feel they'll never get a fair go. Long-time residents still voted for the corrupt Andrew Cuomo, knowing what a "terrible human being" he is.​01:09:13 - News in BriefEuropean firms create $6.5B SpaceX rival - Hungary begs for Russian oil exemption - Israeli startup raises $60M for sun-reflecting climate tech that could disrupt weather - Gaza rebuilding cost hits $70B - Trump companies made $1B in crypto profits - North Korea builds museum for Ukraine war dead - Ireland elects grim anti-NATO president who toured Syria with Assad.​01:13:55 - Supreme Court Tariff ShowdownSCOTUS hears arguments on Trump's emergency tariff powers - a 50-50 call that could force refunds of all tariff money collected and potentially save the presidency by making him walk it back.​01:16:45 - Government Shutdown & Dick Cheney's DeathThe shutdown continues as 9 of 10 states most reliant on food assistance are red states. Dick Cheney dies at 84, described by critics as someone who should have been tried as a war criminal and by W as "among the finest public servants of his generation."​Suggested Episode Titles"The Coalition's 24% Problem""Net Zero to Hero: How the Nats Torpedoed the Libs""Worst Opposition in 40 Years: Coalition Chaos""Millionaires, Millennials, and the Death of Conservative Politics""The Laser Pointer Presidency: Trump's Media Circus""From Major to Minor: The Liberal Party's Long Goodbye""Cost of Living: The Killer That Never Misses""Susan Ley's Impossible Choice: Net Zero or Political Oblivion"Next Episode: Episode 134Produced by: Joel (currently surviving law school exams)Thanks for listening to Two Jacks - where Australian and international politics get the analysis they deserve.

AI slop shownotes as usual. Apologies for delay.Episode recorded: October 31, 2025Hosts: Joel Hill (Jack the Insider) and Jack (Hong Kong Jack)Episode Title Suggestions:"Halloween, Heists, and the House of Windsor""From Prince Andrew to Patriotism: A Global Round-Up""The Great Unraveling: Royals, Republics, and Rock T-Shirts""Crown Jewels, Cricket, and Cultural Appropriation""Episode 132: When Privilege Meets Reality"Show Notes with Timestamps00:00:26 - Welcome & Halloween CelebrationsThe Jacks kick off with a discussion about Halloween and All Souls Day, debating whether it's an American import or a genuine cultural celebration. Hong Kong Jack describes the costume-clad children heading to school and the refreshing lack of political correctness in Halloween dress.00:03:15 - Americanisation of Culture DebateJack challenges the hypocrisy of those who complain about American cultural influence while wearing blue jeans, sneakers, and listening to rock and roll.00:04:16 - Prince Andrew's DownfallDeep dive into Prince Andrew's stripping of royal titles and exile to Sandringham. The hosts discuss the ongoing Epstein scandal, alleged misconduct, and the monarchy's survival strategy. Jack the Insider argues this is about protecting the institution itself, not just managing Andrew's behavior.00:08:25 - Royal Entitlement & The SuccessionDiscussion of Andrew's bloated sense of entitlement, his eighth place in line to the throne, and comparisons to Edward VIII. The hosts debate whether the Royal Family can truly cut Andrew adrift or if he remains a necessary burden.00:12:36 - Copyright, Paywalls, and Making a DollarAnalysis of a copyright controversy involving an aggregator charging $100/month to over 100 prominent Australians for content stolen from behind paywalls. The Australian media's response and the broader implications for journalism funding.00:20:30 - AI and Copyright ProtectionThe Albanese government's move to enshrine copyright protections against tech giants like Meta/Facebook, which pirated millions of books to train AI models. The Productivity Commission's controversial position favoring tech companies over creators.00:24:48 - Can the Left Be Patriotic?Joe Hildebrand's campaign questioning left-wing patriotism sparks a broader conversation about what Australian values actually mean, the "Build Back Australia" movement, and why we can't manufacture cars anymore.00:32:27 - The Anzac Day RevivalTracing how Anzac Day went from near-extinction in the 1970s to becoming a major cultural touchstone, with young Australians traveling to Gallipoli, the Kokoda Track, and other war memorial sites.00:35:47 - Immigration and Cultural StrengthJack's powerful argument that the true test of patriotism is whether new arrivals see themselves as Australian and whether our culture is strong enough to absorb them—contrasting with Europe's struggles with multiculturalism.00:40:13 - Organized Crime and the Tobacco Black MarketColes announces a 57% drop in cigarette sales as Australia's tobacco excise policies create a multi-billion dollar black market. Discussion of whether reducing excise is the only way to combat entrenched organized crime.00:47:46 - Stamp Duty as a Housing BarrierReserve Bank Governor Michelle Bullock criticizes stamp duty as preventing retirees from downsizing and workers from relocating. Analysis of how $65,000 in stamp duty on a $1.5M property creates market paralysis.00:50:46 - One Nation RebrandsPauline Hanson drops her name from the party as One Nation polls at 15% and builds electoral infrastructure. Comparisons to the Australian Democrats' evolution and discussion of whether they can become a serious second-tier party.00:54:29 - The Great French Jewel HeistUpdates on arrests following the $150M Louvre heist of French crown jewels—were they criminal masterminds or idiots without an exit plan?00:55:50 - Japan's First Woman Prime MinisterJapan's impressive new conservative Prime Minister, her Margaret Thatcher connection, and the challenges of governing in Japan's volatile political environment.00:57:12 - Argentina's Milei Wins BigJavier Milei's landslide midterm victory (41% of the vote) raises questions about Trump's financial bailout and the role of foreign aid in domestic politics.00:59:15 - Gaza Ceasefire and Hamas ControlAnalysis of the fragile Gaza ceasefire, Hamas reasserting control, and the impossible dilemma of who will enforce peace when no country wants the casualties.01:02:17 - Anthony Albanese's Joy Division T-ShirtThe controversy over the PM wearing a Joy Division band t-shirt (with Nazi concentration camp origins) off the VIP plane. Jane Hume's dismissal: "Anyone wearing a rock band t-shirt is a bit naff."01:05:32 - APEC Conference in South KoreaTrump's meetings with Xi Jinping and other Pacific leaders, with results to be determined in the coming months.01:06:41 - Politicians and Fake BackstoriesFrom George Santos to Gavin Newsom claiming he lived on "Wonder Bread and mac and cheese" despite being from wealthy Getty-connected family. Kevin Rudd's "homeless" car story and Malcolm Turnbull's Double Bay childhood. The Jeanette Howard story: insisting her train driver father be called a "locomotive engineer."01:11:30 - Iran's Hijab RetreatAfter executing protesters over headscarf enforcement, Iran suddenly pulls back on restrictions. Are US and Israeli strikes forcing the regime to moderate for survival?01:13:47 - The Richest Counties FlipAndrew Neil's observation: In Eisenhower's era, Republicans won 190 of the 200 richest US counties. In 2024, Kamala Harris won 190 of the 200 richest counties—a complete reversal showing the transformation of party alignment.01:15:40 - Women's Cricket World CupAustralia's women lose to India in a thrilling semi-final despite Phoebe Litchfield's brilliance. The hosts argue it's good for the sport to not have one team dominate indefinitely.01:17:21 - Ashes Selection SpeculationDebate over Australia's top six for the Perth Test: Khawaja and Manus to open, with Smith, Head, Green, and Webster rounding out the batting order. Steve Smith's incredible captaincy stats: averaging 70 with 16 centuries.01:22:16 - England's Jofra Archer ProblemQuestions about whether England will risk selecting injury-prone Archer despite no first-class cricket since July and missing New Zealand ODI games.01:23:02 - Manchester City's Penalty DramaErling Haaland's bizarre penalty miss against Sporting Lisbon becomes an instant meme as City struggles through another challenging season.01:24:50 - NBA & NHL UpdatesRound-up of basketball and hockey action, including standout performances and playoff implications.01:26:08 - Oasis Reunion in CrisisLiam Gallagher's voice problems threaten the reunion tour. Discussion of whether the band can survive without Liam's vocals and Noel's brilliance.01:29:18 - Music RecommendationsThe hosts share their latest musical discoveries, from classic rock to contemporary artists making waves internationally.01:34:24 - Vegetarian Beef WellingtonJack's bemusement at a restaurant advertisement for "vegetarian beef Wellington"—perhaps a bit too soon after recent cultural controversies.01:35:10 - Closing & Next Week's PreviewSign-off with promises of more Trump administration coverage, US job figures, corporate layoffs, and the Democrats' failure to deliver on "jobs, jobs, jobs."Key Themes This Episode:Royal family crisis managementCopyright in the AI ageAustralian patriotism and immigrationUnintended consequences of prohibition policiesPolitical authenticity vs. manufactured backstoriesSport as cultural common groundTwo Jacks returns next week for Episode 133 with deep dives into Trump's White House, US economic indicators, and more global affairs analysis.

The Conditional Release Program - Live from Skepticon 2025! Well, almost. We did a re-record. We were limited to an hour and we had some issues getting the audio file right. So we just did the script again! You won't hear the riotous laugher and rapturous applause from the audience but if you make believe you might just hear us being funny and getting a reaction. Skepticon was a lot of fun - next year it will be in Sydney and any folks that want to check out the Skeptics should head over to https://www.skeptics.com.au/ and go meet some likeminded folks! In this episode we look at the Ozenkadnook Tiger, Joel's cooked upbringing and the miracles of drinking piss. But we also revisit the important condition known as ME/CFS which has so far been terribly mismanaged by conventional medicine. Sometimes they get it wrong too. Hope you enjoy this one as much as we enjoyed crafting it. Normal programming to resume in full soon - good things ahead :-)

Just FYI there is no @thetwojacks account on 'social media' - well, not that I know of. How good is AI! We will surely be replaced. Soon. Definitely worth the water usage. Proposed Episode Titles"Diplomacy, Deadlines & Drama: The Two Jacks #131""Cargo Plane Crashes, Canberra Intrigues: The Two Jacks #131""Political Punchlines and Parliamentary Plots — Two Jacks Podcast""Mineral Deals & Media Moments: Episode 131"Episode SummaryIn this episode, The Two Jacks break down a tumultuous week in global politics, aviation, and Australian parliamentary affairs. Highlights include a fatal cargo plane crash at Hong Kong airport, Prime Minister Albanese’s high-stakes visit to Washington, DC, and the shifting sands of party leadership in Canberra. Lively debate, incisive commentary, and recurring humor fill an hour packed with analysis—from the fate of Prince Andrew to the fallout of Brittany Higgins’ legal battles.Segment Timestamps & Key TopicsTimestampTopic/Segment00:01Greetings; episode intro and context00:16Hong Kong airport cargo plane crash — causes, casualties, aftermath01:32Anthony Albanese, Trump, and Australia’s US delegation — diplomatic exchanges04:32US-Australia $8.5B critical minerals framework agreement, Waggerup & Arafura09:27Coalition criticism: Kevin Rudd’s role, embarrassment, media moments12:14Internal Liberal Party analysis—Paterson, Taylor, Lay, women’s vote, future18:41Barnaby Joyce’s future: One Nation rumors, role of minor parties25:25Expansion of the House of Representatives — numbers, constitutional effects33:15Senate comparisons: Australia vs US, anecdotes about Ricky Muir44:42Higgins-Lehrmann-Reynolds fallout: legal actions, media fatigue53:24Australia in global happiness rankings, comparison to Scandinavian countries58:30Closing remarks and preview for next episodeCall to ActionSubscribe, rate, and review on your podcast platform of choice.Send feedback or questions via the show's website or email.Follow @TheTwoJacks on social media for updates and more content.