This is my take on the last week in the news: Loyalty is eroding in all areas of society, world is on a war footing, Australia needs to pay attention to China and our dads need lessons in parenting.

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EMAIL: neil.mitchell@nine.com.au

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It's been over a year since Australian journalist Cheng Lei was released from wrongful detention in a Chinese prison cell. Arrested on bizarre, trumped-up charges, accused of spying, she was jailed and interrogated in appalling conditions for more than three years. To this day, she still doesn't know why.

In this episode, I attempt to understand Australia's complex and problematic relationship with China, and what we can learn from Cheng Lei's ordeal.

You can find Cheng Lei's book, 'Cheng Lei: A Memoir of Freedom', at all good retailers.

Content Warning:
This episode contains discussions of sensitive and potentially distressing themes, including suicide, sexual assault, and domestic violence. Listener discretion is advised. If you or someone you know needs support, you can speak with someone today by calling Lifeline on 13 11 14.

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This is my take on the last week in the news: Machete ban needs to be National, farmers tired of political squabbling over climate change & why Victoria does business like North Korea.

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EMAIL: neil.mitchell@nine.com.au

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In this episode, I sit down with farmer Emma Germano, advocate and former President of the Victorian Farmers Federation to talk about drought, food security, threats to the bush and how it impacts us all.

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This is my take on the last week in the news: Victoria's disastrous state budget, the bush is up in arms, a rebel Catholic Priest and what I think about the Coalition split.

Tell me what you think:

EMAIL: neil.mitchell@nine.com.au

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Years ago, I found myself at war with the Catholic Church. Now, as it continues to grapple with allegations of sexual abuse, a new Pope has been elected in the Vatican. In this episode, I sit down with one of the most outspoken advocates for survivors from inside the Church, Father Kevin Dillon.

Fr. Kevin Dillon is a retired Catholic Parish Priest, who, in 2013, established “Lifeboat Geelong” to provide pastoral support to victims of church related sexual abuse.

Content Warning:

This episode contains discussions of sexual abuse, which may be distressing or triggering for some listeners. Support is available. If you or someone you know is in crisis or needs someone to talk to, you can contact Lifeline at 13 11 14

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why the drought is a problem for every Australian, not just the farmers - and The Libs have a new leader... here's what she needs to do.

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EMAIL: neil.mitchell@nine.com.au

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I chat with Sylvia Arotin, woman of the year & founder of 'Guide & Grow' about the Montessori method, why the public school system is failing & how we can all be better parents.

Sylvia Arotin is the winner of the woman of the year at the Women Changing the World Awards in London, also winning gold in the Early Childhood Education category. You can find out more about Sylvia's work here.

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