We sit down with retired Major General Mick Ryan, a 35-year veteran of the Australian Army, to delve into pressing issues of modern defense strategy. We explore his advocacy for increased defense spending in Australia and dive into cutting-edge topics like AI, automation, and drone technology in modern warfare. We also delve into the strategic rationale behind the recent U.S. raids on Iranian nuclear sites, discussing the intelligence and motivations behind that decision. Plus, we cover the AUKUS submarine deal and its technological implications. Don't miss this in-depth conversation on how Australia can prepare for future challenges and stay ahead in an ever-evolving global landscape.Check out Mick Ryan's book, White Sun War, on Amazon - https://bit.ly/4nyiUwMFollow his insights on his Substack - https://substack.com/@mickryan#DefenseStrategy #MilitaryTechnology #MickRyan #AustralianArmy #AUKUS #AIinWarfare #DroneTechnology #DefenseSpending #USAustraliaRelations #Geopolitics #SubmarineDeal #WhiteSunWar #militaryinsights --A Southern Skies Media productionPresented by Steve VisscherVoiceover by Sarah Patterson© 2025
Jim Penman: Business, Politics, and the Future of Small Enterprise in AustraliaJim Penman is one of Australia's most successful entrepreneurs, having built Jim’s Group from a humble lawn mowing business in 1989 into a national home services franchise empire, generating over one billion dollars in annual turnover. His story began during an economic downturn — and today, many of those same financial headwinds are back.In this episode of The Clear Signal, Jim joins Steve Visscher for a wide-ranging conversation about:✅ Starting a business during recessionary times✅ How government overreach, excessive taxes, and red tape are stifling small business growth✅ The ongoing housing crisis and why current policies are failing✅ His fierce defence of franchisees during Victoria's harsh COVID-19 lockdowns✅ And why he’s considering a run for politics in the 2026 Victorian state electionJim also shares insights into the values that underpin his business philosophy, and why empowering small business owners remains his life’s mission.👉 Subscribe for more interviews with thought leaders, entrepreneurs, and policy influencers:https://www.youtube.com/@ClearSignalMedia👉 Visit The Clear Signal website:https://www.clearsignal.com.au📌 Follow us for more:#TheClearSignal #JimPenman #JimsGroup #SmallBusinessAustralia #AustralianPolitics #HousingCrisis #Entrepreneurship #VictoriaPolitics #COVIDLockdowns #SteveVisscher #Franchising #BusinessGrowth #EconomicPolicy #RecessionProofBusiness
The 2025 federal election was meant to be a close one. But instead of a tight contest or a hung parliament, Labor walked away with a massive majority. Peter Dutton even lost his own seat. The Coalition? Left looking lost, leaderless, and completely out of touch.In the latest episode of The Clear Signal, I catch up with journalist and political commentator Damian Coory from The Other Side to unpack the chaos.We talk about:👉 Why the Coalition’s message didn’t land👉 How Labor managed to control the narrative👉 What Sussan Ley’s leadership means for the future👉 Whether conservative politics in Australia can be saved—or if we’re witnessing the conditions for something new to emergeWith voter confidence in the centre-right crumbling, is this a historical turning point? Could this moment be the start of a grassroots movement like Reform UK in Britain, driven by people tired of political compromise and weak messaging?--Host: Steve VisscherGuest: Damian Coory (The Other Side)Voiceover: Sarah PattersonProduced by: Southern Skies Media© 2025
Edition 23 – Australian Military Strategy: Getting it RightGuest: Marcus Hellyer | Host: Steve VisscherHas Australia grown too complacent about its national defence?In this timely episode of The Clear Signal, host Steve Visscher is joined by long-time defence analyst Marcus Hellyer from Strategic Analysis Australia to unpack the complex challenges facing the Australian Defence Force (ADF).They discuss:🇦🇺 Whether Australia has taken its eye off the ball on defence🪖 Critical recruitment issues and declining ADF capability🌏 The regional strategic landscape and China's increasing assertiveness🚢 Australia's future submarine program and the AUKUS alliance🇺🇸 US military support and shifting policies under Donald Trump📘 And how Outrider, a novel by former SASR soldier Mark Wales, mirrors potential future conflicts🎙️ Voiceover by Sarah Patterson📅 Recorded May 2025🔗 More from Marcus Hellyer:🎧 The Grumpy Strategist podcast:https://strategicanalysis.org/category/strategic-analysis-australia-podcasts🎙️ ADM Podcast – Episode 94:https://www.australiandefence.com.au/podcasts/adm-podcast-94-australia-s-ability-to-survive-in-a-rapidly-changing-world-with-the-grumpy-strategists🌐 Visit https://clearsignal.com.au for full episodes, articles and exclusive interviews.A Southern Skies Media Production© 2025
Election 2025: Are Australia's Political Parties Failing at Communication?In this episode of The Clear Signal, Steve is joined by media analyst Nic Hayes from Media Stable to unpack the media strategies behind Australia’s 2025 federal election campaign.With Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and the ALP cruising toward a possible win — or perhaps a hung parliament with the Greens — and Peter Dutton struggling to connect with voters, we ask: Why is this election so uninspiring? And more importantly: Why are major parties ignoring newer media platforms like podcasts, YouTube, and independent creators?As American politicians embrace non-legacy media, Australia’s political strategists appear stuck in the past — relying on one-liners and controlled slogans rather than authentic, long-form discussions. Is this a missed opportunity to connect with modern voters? Are the parties afraid their candidates can’t handle open dialogue?It’s also clear that the ALP and the broader left side of politics are far more adept at harnessing modern media messaging techniques — often finding success even during periods of unpopularity. Perhaps the most striking example of this was former Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews, who maintained a strong narrative despite the harsh COVID lockdowns imposed on the state. Now acting as a political advisor to Anthony Albanese during this campaign, Andrews’ influence appears to be paying dividends, leaving Dutton and the Liberal Party trailing in both messaging clarity and media strategy.We dive deep into these questions and more in this critical analysis of political communication in 2025.--Recorded April 2025--Presented by Steve VisscherVoiceovers by Sarah Patterson The Clear Signal is a Southern Skies Media Production© 2025clearsignal.com.au#Election2025 #AustralianPolitics #PoliticalStrategy #AnthonyAlbanese #PeterDutton #MediaAnalysis #NicHayes #TheClearSignal #SteveVisscher #AusPol #PodcastAustralia #IndependentMedia #CommunicationStrategy #NewMedia #LegacyMedia #GreensAustralia #HungParliament #DanielAndrews
Show 21 (Series 2 - Episode 1)John Kiriakou - John was recruited into the CIA in the late 1980's and worked in many overseas postings in a career spanning 14 years. From Greece to Afghanistan and many other places besides, it was his role heading an operation in Pakistan to capture high ranking al-Qaeda leader Abu Zubuydah that would bring him to prominence, and would have an impact on his life which was in equal parts profound and unexpected.In 2007, Kiriakou made the decision to publicly expose the CIA's use of "enhanced interrogation techniques" on Zubuydah, calling into question their legality. It was a decision which would eventually lead to him being imprisioned for more than two years.Upon his release, John embarked on careers in business and journalism, and regularly appears on television, radio and podcasts analysing world events and talking about his exploits in the clandestine world.In this edition, we discuss the recent US elections, Donald Trump's first months back in-office, and how Australia's intelligence services are regarded by their US counterparts. We look back to 9/11 and forward to the growing influence of China in the Asia Pacific region, and we touch on some of John's exploits during his long career...and beyond.--LinksLoud & Clear with John Kiriakou - https://johnkiriakou.substack.com/Speaking Tour - https://tigerslanestudios.com/an-evening-with-the-ex-cia/Julian Dorey Podcast - https://juliandoreypodcast.com/Dalton Fischer Podcast - https://www.youtube.com/@DaltonFischerPodcast/videosDanny Jones Podcast - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbtV5L8TVB0zQ9khThGApLwAndrew Bustamente - https://everydayspy.com/--Recorded March 2025--Presented by Steve VisscherVoiceovers by Sarah PattersonThe Clear Signal is a Southern Skies Media Production© 2025clearsignal.com.au
SHOW 20Trevor Long - One of Australia's best known technology reporters discussing recent government attempts at regulating online and social media, digital identities and the wonders of industry trade shows. Find Trevor at eftm.com--John Cadogan - Long-time motoring journalist from autoexpert.com.au discussing the latest sales trends in the local automotive market, Chinese imports and the continued rise of electric vehicles--Recorded November 2024--Presented by Steve VisscherVoiceovers by Sarah Patterson & Terry DanielThe Clear Signal is a Southern Skies Media Production© 2025clearsignal.com.au
Media Power & Retail Psychology | The Clear Signal with Steve Visscher – Episode 19In this thought-provoking episode of The Clear Signal, Steve Visscher is joined by two experts to explore the changing media landscape and the subtle tactics behind successful retail sales.🗞️ Nic Hayes – Media analyst, journalist, and Managing Director of Media Stable, Nic provides a sharp analysis of the recent U.S. elections and what they reveal about the rise of "new media." Has traditional political communication taken a back seat? Nic dives deep into how modern messaging, influencer-driven content, and digital platforms are reshaping the way political narratives are delivered and received.🛍️ Nicole O'Sullivan – Business coach and Director at Birds Eye View Consulting, Nicole shares fascinating insights into the psychology of retail. Learn how brands and sales professionals use powerful psychological cues to influence buyer behaviour, and how anyone in sales can master the art of closing with confidence and authenticity.🎧 This episode blends media strategy and consumer psychology into one essential listen for marketers, communicators, and curious minds alike.🔗 Catch more episodes at clearsignal.com.au📲 Available on all major podcast platforms!#MediaStrategy #NewMedia #USElections2024 #PoliticalCommunication #NicHayes #RetailPsychology #SalesCoaching #NicoleOSullivan #BirdsEyeViewConsulting #MarketingTips #DigitalInfluence #TheClearSignal #SteveVisscher #PodcastAustralia #ConsumerBehaviour #ModernMedia--Recorded November 2024--Presented by Steve VisscherVoiceovers by Sarah Patterson & Terry DanielThe Clear Signal is a Southern Skies Media Production© 2025clearsignal.com.au
Frequent Flyer Hacks & Dog Training Tips | The Clear Signal with Steve Visscher – Episode 18In this fun and practical episode of The Clear Signal, Steve Visscher explores how to get the most out of your airline rewards — and how to get the most out of your dog!✈️ Callum Rendell – Frequent flyer expert and host of the popular YouTube channel Pointy End Secrets, Callum has travelled the world using smart points strategies. He shares his top tips on stretching your airline rewards, avoiding rookie mistakes, and travelling in style — often for less than you’d expect.🐶 Rose Grmusa – Accredited dog trainer from Melbourne Dog Trainers, Rose brings years of experience helping owners better understand their dogs. From basic obedience to building stronger bonds, Rose offers practical advice for being a more confident, consistent, and caring pet parent.🎧 Whether you're planning your next trip or trying to stop your dog from chewing the couch — this episode is packed with actionable advice!🔗 More great episodes at clearsignal.com.au📲 Stream anywhere you get your podcasts!#FrequentFlyerTips #TravelHacks #PointyEndSecrets #CallumRendell #DogTraining #PetParenting #RoseGrmusa #MelbourneDogTrainers #AirlinePoints #TheClearSignal #SteveVisscher #PodcastAustralia #TravelSmart #ObedienceTraining #LifeTips--Recorded November 2024--Presented by Steve VisscherVoiceovers by Sarah Patterson & Terry DanielThe Clear Signal is a Southern Skies Media Production© 2025clearsignal.com.au
Secrets of Stress-Free Travel & Defence Force Challenges | The Clear Signal with Steve Visscher – Episode 17In this insightful episode of The Clear Signal, Steve Visscher is joined by two experts in vastly different but equally fascinating fields — travel and national defence.Irene Jones – Managing Director of Travelglobe, shares her insider knowledge on the travel industry. From her favourite destinations to how frequent flyer programs really work, Irene breaks down the secrets behind airline seat pricing and explains why using a professional travel agent can make all the difference to your next holiday. Don’t book your trip without hearing this!Grant McHerron – Co-host of the Australian Defence Magazine Podcast, seasoned journalist, and Steve’s long-time business partner. Grant delves into the current state of the Australian Defence Force (ADF), recruitment challenges, and the incredible technology shaping the future of Australia’s military capability.🎧 Whether you're planning your dream vacation or curious about Australia’s defence readiness, this episode delivers expert advice, thoughtful commentary, and real-world insights you won't hear anywhere else.🔗 Find more episodes and behind-the-scenes stories at clearsignal.com.au📲 Stream now on all major podcast platforms!#TravelTips #TravelAgentAdvice #FrequentFlyerPoints #AviationSecrets #AustralianDefenceForce #ADFRecruitment #MilitaryTechnology #GrantMcHerron #IreneJones #Travelglobe #SteveVisscher #TheClearSignal #AustraliaPodcast #DefencePodcast #MilitaryInnovation #SmartTravel #PodcastInterview--Recorded November 2024--Presented by Steve VisscherVoiceovers by Sarah Patterson & Terry DanielThe Clear Signal is a Southern Skies Media Production© 2025clearsignal.com.au
SHOW 17 Cybersecurity Tips & Giant Food Challenges with Clyde Netto & Katina DeJarnettIn this episode of The Clear Signal, host Steve Visscher welcomes two exciting guests from completely different worlds—cybersecurity and competitive eating!🔐 Clyde Netto, Chief Technology Officer at Grace Technology Solutions, shares practical tips on how to protect your computer from malware, ransomware, and hackers. Whether you’re a casual user or a small business owner, Clyde offers clear and effective cybersecurity strategies to stay safe in today’s digital world.🍔 Then we switch gears for some delicious fun with Katina DeJarnett, creator and host of the wildly popular YouTube channel Katina Eats Kilos. Katina travels the world taking on insane food challenges, eating massive meals with a smile and plenty of style. She opens up about her journey into this niche, life on the road, and what it’s really like behind the scenes of her viral videos.🎧 Listen now at: https://cleaarsignal.com.au--Recorded October 2024--Presented by Steve VisscherVoiceovers by Sarah Patterson & Terry DanielThe Clear Signal is a Southern Skies Media Production© 2025clearsignal.com.au
Food Waste & Women Who Soar | The Clear Signal with Steve Visscher – Episode 15In this powerful and wide-ranging episode of The Clear Signal, we explore two very different yet deeply inspiring topics — the future of food and the fearless women of aviation.🥫 Kim Berry – Managing Editor of Food & Drink Business Magazine, Kim breaks down the complexities of Australia’s food systems. From supply chain challenges affecting producers to the massive environmental and economic costs of food waste, she offers critical insight into how we can all make better choices for a more sustainable future.✈️ Kathy Mexted – Acclaimed journalist, photographer, and author of Take Flight: Incredible Stories of Australian Women Who Reach For The Sky (Buy here). Kathy shares some of the remarkable tales from her latest book and dives into her process for writing real-life stories that inspire, empower, and take readers to new heights.🎧 It’s a fascinating conversation that spans grounded realities and sky-high dreams — with lessons for us all.🔗 Explore more episodes at clearsignal.com.au📲 Listen wherever you get your favourite podcasts!#FoodSystems #SustainableFood #FoodWasteSolutions #KimBerry #KathyMexted #TakeFlight #WomenInAviation #AussieAuthors #PodcastAustralia #TheClearSignal #SteveVisscher #AviationHistory #WomenWhoInspire #FoodSupplyChain #Storytelling--Recorded October 2024--Presented by Steve VisscherVoiceovers by Sarah Patterson & Terry DanielThe Clear Signal is a Southern Skies Media Production© 2025clearsignal.com.au
Gut Health, Greens & Disability Empowerment | The Clear Signal with Steve Visscher – Episode 14In this uplifting and informative episode of The Clear Signal, we explore the power of nutrition and the life-changing impact of disability support done right.🥦 Kathleen Everingham – Naturopath, nutritionist, and host of Healthy & Fresh (healthyandfresh.com.au), Kathleen shares practical advice on making healthier food choices, using supplements wisely, and managing common digestive issues. Plus, can she finally convince Steve to give Brussels sprouts another chance? Tune in to find out!💙 Cindy Warren – Founder of Umbrella Support, Cindy brings warmth and passion to her work with people living with disabilities. She shares powerful stories of helping clients gain confidence, independence, and real-world experience through partnerships with local businesses in hospitality, media, and beyond.🎧 This episode is a blend of nutritional know-how and human kindness — a feel-good listen packed with real-world takeaways.🔗 Find more inspiring episodes at clearsignal.com.au📲 Now streaming on all major podcast platforms!#GutHealth #NutritionTips #DigestiveWellness #KathleenEveringham #HealthyAndFresh #DisabilitySupport #CindyWarren #UmbrellaSupport #InclusiveEmployment #PodcastAustralia #TheClearSignal #SteveVisscher #HealthyLiving #EmpowermentThroughSupport #Naturopathy--Recorded September 2024--Presented by Steve VisscherVoiceovers by Sarah Patterson & Terry DanielThe Clear Signal is a Southern Skies Media Production© 2025clearsignal.com.au
Supermarket Science & Radio Royalty | The Clear Signal with Steve Visscher – Episode 13In this episode of The Clear Signal, Steve Visscher sits down with two influential figures from very different fields — one shaping the future of your grocery aisle, and the other shaping voices behind the mic.🛒 Tanya Barden – Former CEO of the Australian Food & Grocery Council, Tanya unpacks the complex landscape of Australia’s food and beverage industry. From supply chain disruptions to the rising cost of living and the technologies revolutionising what ends up on supermarket shelves, Tanya explains the challenges and opportunities shaping what we eat and how we shop.🎙️ Gary Mac – A true legend of Australian radio, Gary’s decades-long career includes working alongside some of the biggest names in entertainment. As founder of the Melbourne School of Radio, he’s mentored countless aspiring broadcasters and voice artists. Gary shares behind-the-scenes stories, industry wisdom, and the magic of old-school radio with a modern twist.🎧 This episode combines business insight and broadcasting nostalgia — an engaging listen for foodies, media lovers, and curious minds alike.🔗 Explore more interviews at clearsignal.com.au📲 Available now on all major podcast platforms!#FoodIndustryAustralia #SupermarketTech #TanyaBarden #AFGC #RadioLegends #GaryMac #MelbourneSchoolOfRadio #VoiceOverIndustry #AustralianPodcast #TheClearSignal #SteveVisscher #MediaMentors #FoodTech #GroceryTrends #PodcastAustralia--Recorded September 2024--Presented by Steve VisscherVoiceovers by Sarah Patterson & Terry DanielThe Clear Signal is a Southern Skies Media Production© 2025
Australia’s Nuclear Future & Media Psychology | The Clear Signal with Steve Visscher – Episode 12In this electrifying episode of The Clear Signal, we dive into the future of Australia’s energy system and the fascinating science behind the ads we love (or love to hate).⚡ Dr. Adi Paterson – Former CEO of ANSTO and one of Australia’s leading voices on nuclear energy, Dr. Paterson offers a clear-eyed look at the challenges facing Australia’s power grid. He explains the role nuclear power could play in creating a reliable, low-emission energy future — and what needs to change to make that happen.📺 Daz Smith – A seasoned advertising creative with decades in radio and TV, Daz pulls back the curtain on how great ads are made. From psychological triggers to production techniques, and his latest venture into streaming radio with The Buzzz, Daz shares sharp insights on how media continues to evolve.🎧 This episode blends energy innovation with creative communication — two powerful forces shaping Australia’s future.🔗 Catch more episodes at clearsignal.com.au📲 Subscribe and stream on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts & more.#NuclearEnergyAustralia #CleanEnergyFuture #ANSTO #DrAdiPaterson #MediaPsychology #AdvertisingTips #TheBuzzzRadio #StreamingRadio #RadioAds #TVCommercials #DazSmith #TheClearSignal #SteveVisscher #AustralianPodcast #EnergyDebate #PodcastYouTube--Recorded September 2024--Presented by Steve VisscherVoiceovers by Sarah Patterson & Terry DanielThe Clear Signal is a Southern Skies Media Production© 2025
A Life of Service & Safer Roads | The Clear Signal with Steve Visscher – Episode 11 (Audio Only)In this deeply reflective audio-only edition of The Clear Signal, Steve Visscher speaks with two guests who’ve dedicated their lives to service — one through emergency response and leadership, the other through advocacy for rider safety on Australian roads.🚓 Jim Read AFSM – Former Captain in Victoria’s Country Fire Authority and long-serving member of Victoria Police, Jim shares insights from over 55 years of volunteer firefighting and 40 years in law enforcement. From frontline duties to leadership roles, Jim discusses the vital role of community service, the evolution of emergency response, and the enduring value of volunteerism.🏍️ Damien Codognotto – Spokesperson for the Motorcycle Riders Association, Damien talks about the organisation’s role in promoting rider safety, reducing accident rates, and lobbying for the rights and wellbeing of motorcycle riders across Australia.🎙️ This episode offers powerful stories, hard-earned wisdom, and practical advocacy — all from voices that live what they speak.🔗 Listen now at clearsignal.com.au📲 Stream on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts & more.#VolunteerFirefighter #JimReadAFSM #VictorianPolice #EmergencyServices #Leadership #DamienCodognotto #MotorcycleSafety #MRAA #RoadSafetyAustralia #TheClearSignal #SteveVisscher #AudioOnlyPodcast #CommunityService #PodcastAustralia #RiderAdvocacy--Recorded September 2024--Presented by Steve VisscherVoiceovers by Sarah Patterson & Terry DanielThe Clear Signal is a Southern Skies Media Production© 2025clearsignal.com.au
SHOW 10Ryan Campbell - World record holder as the youngest person to fly solo around the world, Ryan had to world at his feet before tragedy struck, setting him on an inspiring journey of healing, resilience and a determination to help others through public speaking. Find Ryan at ryancampbell.coNadia Peiris - RSPCA Victoria's Manager of Animal Care, discussing the issues of pet adoption, the joy of fostering animals and offering advice on caring for your pets when challenges arise.--Recorded August 2024--Presented by Steve VisscherVoiceovers by Sarah Patterson & Terry DanielThe Clear Signal is a Southern Skies Media Production© 2025clearsignal.com.au
SHOW 9Rob Sutton - Managing Director of Mirragin RAS Consulting, a leader in remote autonomous systems & drones, discussing the advances in this technology and how it is transforming the defence industry.Bas Scheffers - Director and co-founder of OzRunways, discussing entrepreneurship and his journey taking a small tech start-up in the aviation industry through to being acquired by a large, multinational company. --Recorded July 2024--Presented by Steve VisscherVoiceovers by Sarah Patterson & Terry DanielThe Clear Signal is a Southern Skies Media Production© 2025clearsignal.com.au
SHOW 8Roger Jaensch MP - Member for the Tasmanian state seat of Braddon discussing his career path, the decision to enter politics, and reminiscing over shared experiences with Steve in their younger daysTerry Daniel - Life-long radio presenter and owner of Australian Independent Radio News, looking back on his career, his family-wide involvement in radio, and the fun he had learning to fly while being a traffic reporter--Recorded May 2024--Presented by Steve VisscherVoiceovers by Sarah Patterson & Terry DanielThe Clear Signal is a Southern Skies Media Production© 2025clearsignal.com.au
SHOW 7Derryn Hinch - One of Australia's most experienced and best known journalists, former Senator, author & television presenter, discussing his career & thoughts on modern journalismTony Harrington - Discussing the issue of men's mental health, specifically in the construction industry, and the role financial stresses tie into it--Recorded May 2024--Presented by Steve VisscherVoiceovers by Sarah Patterson & Terry DanielThe Clear Signal is a Southern Skies Media Production© 2025clearsignal.com.au