Claim OwnershipOn Point
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© Simon O'Connor
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Join Simon O'Connor and guests as they engage with contemporary topics, both here in New Zealand and abroad.
59 Episodes
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How does the conflict in Ukraine end? For this latest episode of On Point – released on the first anniversary of the Russian invasion - join me and national security expert and journalist, Misha Zelinsky, as we discuss the war in Ukraine so far. Misha is an Australian, Fulbright Scholar, and also was in Kyiv as this stage of the war began. Together we discuss how this all started, what the West did and could have done, as well as discussing possible end scenarios.
With news that Labour’s obsession with so called ‘hate speech’ laws continues, it is very timely I sat down with Danish free speech advocate and author, Jacob Mchangama. He strongly argues for how societies across the globe have benefited from free speech, particularly the marganilised. He is the guest speaker at the upcoming Free Speech Union AGM, so check that out too as he will be here in New Zealand!
Security and cooperation in the Pacific. I sit down with Dr Charles Edel from the Center for Strategic and International Studies and former professor of strategy and policy at the U.S. Naval War College. We talk how the likes of the United States, New Zealand, and other likeminded countries can work together to ensure a peaceful democratic Pacific,
The killing of Mahsa Amini by Iranian authorities is deeply disturbing, as is the violence the regime is applying to its own citizens calling for freedom and change. I talk to two New Zealand-Iranian women about what is going on; how the fight for freedom is progressing; and the relative silence of New Zealand leadership.
I sit down with former TV and radio broadcaster Peter Williams. We talk democracy and media, freedoms and Three Waters and much more. Tune in, share, and let me know your thoughts.
A wide ranging chat with the head of the Maxim Institute, Tim Wilson, around how we better discuss idea ms here in New Zealand. Tim will also be known to many from his time on Seven Sharp, journalistic work, his books, and via his writings in the likes of Metro. Tune in for one very amusing and insightful chat
How do we best help those in need in our communities? Where does the assistance of government help or hinder, and how to we better empower community providers? I sit down with Ronji Taneilu from the Salvation Army to hear his take and experience on these important questions.
Dr Bryce Edwards joins me on the podcast – talking media, freedom, and what is going wrong on the Left of politics. This is a podcast not to miss
In the latest On Point Podcast we are taken to the border of Ukraine. My friend Nicolai shares with us his experiences while working with Ukrainian refugees, lessons learnt along the way – and how you can support these efforts.
A prosperous society is one that values freedoms and rights. In recent years, countries like New Zealand have slipped in prosperity rankings according to London-based think tank, Legatum Institute.
Lagatum's Director of Policy, Dr Stephen Brien, joins me on the latest episode of On Point to discuss their latest research.
New Zealand is not immune from anti-semitism. I sit down with Juliet Moses from the NZ Jewish Council to discuss their recent report which shows a growth of anti-semitism here and a worrying lack of knowledge about the Holocaust by kiwis.
How we all get along in a society filled with different views, cultures, beliefs, and outlooks is becoming increasingly relevant in New Zealand society. I sat down with Professor Sir Peter Gluckman, Director at The Centre for Informed Futures (Koi Tū), to talk through his think tank’s most recent report - Sustaining Aotearoa New Zealand as a cohesive society. We discuss the erosion of confidence in key authorities, the challenges in media, and some of the actions we can take to make positive change in New Zealand. With all that has been happening in recent days, this is a rather ‘serendipitous’ podcast
The attempt to silence Joe Rogan in recent days raises many more worrying questions of where our society is headed in terms of free speech and expression. In this podcast I discuss why it’s ok to be wrong and talk about what a more rational response looks like.
Lots of people talk about the ‘separation of church and state’, yet very few actually seem to understand what this actually means. In this podcast, I delve into what this separation means, how it goes both ways, and how the phrase is often used to simply shut down debate. Tune in
Division is increasing in New Zealand. I discussed this in parliament, but in this podcast I dive deeper illustrating how division is being deliberately sought along with the scapegoating of certain groups. I also explain why I think this is happening – not just the current catalysts, but the end game being played.
Join me as I talk with Canadian MP, Garnett Genius, as we talk China, AUKUS, and the recent Canadian elections. Garnett is making waves in foreign affairs so check out this latest podcast to find out why.
Join National MPs Simon O'Connor and Christopher Luxon for a live discussion on the Government's controversial Three Waters reforms proposal.
We hear a lot of about conservatism, but what do you really know about this world view? Media and others present it one way but show no real understanding. So join me and Brendan Malone as we discuss what genuine conservatism is and how it is a great philosophy to engage life and politics.
Join me and Denis Gianoutsos – host of the ‘Leadership is Changing’ podcast and business coach – to talk about what makes for effective leadership and teamwork in today’s challenging world.
Let’s talk blasphemy! A few years ago, New Zealand rightly removed blasphemy laws, but now we are seeing new forms of ‘secular blasphemy' developing – topics that cannot be discussed and words that cannot be used. Join me and Alex Penk, independent researcher and writer, as we discuss this and more thought provoking issues.
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