Mike speaks with Michael Shoebridge, Director of Strategic Analysis Australia, who says China’s military actions are clear threats disguised as strategic signals.

As the Chinese navy prepares to fire missiles off Australia’s east coast, Beijing is asserting its dominance - operating freely, testing weapons, and gathering intelligence without restraint.

Civilian flight paths will be disrupted, and any approach to their flotilla risks hostile encounters, from radar targeting to ramming.

Shoebridge argues that Beijing has no real interest in diplomacy with Canberra, calling the idea of a relationship a political illusion.

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The cost of living crisis is forcing many separating couples to stay under the same roof due to high expenses and a rental shortage.

Mike speaks with Conflict Resolution Expert & Co-Parenting Institute Founder Lisanne Iriks, who shares her top tips for managing this situation:

1. Make agreements – Set clear expectations.
2. Create a parenting plan – Decide responsibilities for the kids, mealtimes, household tasks, and what to tell them.
3. Discuss finances – Plan how to manage money.
4. Talk about new partners – Setting boundaries can reduce conflict and tension, making cohabitation smoother during this transition

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Mike Jeffreys chats with Dale Sinden for the story behind today’s National Days for 25th February

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Mike Jeffreys chats with Russell Setright, Australia’s best known Naturopath & author of ‘Get Well in the Golden Years, to get the latest in health and well-being news.

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Mike speaks with Michelle Moriarty, Grief Expert, Social Worker, and Founder of Grief Connect, about what not to say to someone who’s grieving.

Grief is deeply personal, yet many struggle with what to say. Well-meaning comments can unintentionally worsen isolation. Based on her experience as a young widow, Michelle shares the top five things to avoid:

1. Everything happens for a reason.
2. I know how you feel.
3. Don’t worry, you’ll meet someone else.
4. They’re in a better place.
5. You need to move on.

The best support comes from acknowledging grief with empathy and compassion. Do you feel unsure about comforting someone who’s grieving?

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Mike speaks with Professor Sally Gainsbury, Director of the Gambling Treatment & Research Clinic at the University of Sydney, about whether financial stress drives more gambling.

Despite harm minimisation measures, NSW poker machine losses hit a record $8.64 billion last year.

The latest data shows a 7% rise in gaming profits for pubs and clubs - NSW gamblers lost over $1 million an hour in late 2024.

With losses surging, is hardship fueling the cycle?

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Mike speaks with Strategic Psychotherapist Bronwyn Penhaligon about why we always want what others have.

As Theodore Roosevelt said, “comparison is the thief of joy,” yet we often fall into the trap—scrolling social media, hearing others’ successes, and feeling inadequate.

But your journey is uniquely yours, and comparing yourself to others only clouds your progress.

To break free from self-doubt, try this:

1. List three things that make your journey special.
2. Reflect on why they matter.
3. Keep the list visible as a daily reminder to celebrate your own path.

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Mike speaks with Warren Davies, Community Mental Health Recovery Expert and The Unbreakable Farmer, about farmers’ fight against renewable energy projects.

While transmission lines are essential for renewables, they disrupt farmland, impact food production, and now, developers can access land without owners’ consent—outraging farmers in NSW and Victoria. Losing control over land worked for generations sets a dangerous precedent, stripping farmers of their rights.

Beyond property disputes, these projects take a toll on rural communities’ mental health. Protecting farmers' rights isn’t just about land—it’s about their future and well-being.

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