Overnight With Michael Mclaren

Ask Bianca Nogrady, freelance science journalist and broadcaster, answers listeners' questions.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Phil O’Neil’s weekly political chat with Terry Barnes – Columnist, political and policy consultant & former Howard government adviser.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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The recent Federal Court decision finding the ABC acted unlawfully in terminating broadcaster Antoinette Lattouf over a social media post on the Israel-Gaza war, speaks to an increasingly complex, modern workplace challenge - balancing individual views with the responsibilities of public-facing employment.  HR Expert, Jonathon Woolfrey tells Phil, “This decision demonstrates that personal freedom doesn’t stop at the workplace door.” “But it also means organisations need to think very carefully about where they mark those boundaries, especially in roles that are visible to the public or customers.  Managing this tension has become increasingly complex in the modern workplace,” he said.  Jonathon explains what, if any, restrictions an employer can reasonably impose on a worker’s right to publicly express political or controversial opinions on social media, and he has advice for workers on how they might self-regulate their own online behaviour.See omnystudio.co

Could too much sleep be worse than too little?  A new study suggests sleeping more than nine hours a night may be linked to a higher risk of death—but the real story may lie beneath the surface. Phil speaks with Amanda Slinger, Sleep Health Expert and founder of SleepSpot, who explains that long sleep often points to underlying issues like heart disease, depression, or sleep disorders such as sleep apnoea. She says an occasional sleep-in isn’t a worry, but sudden changes in your sleep habits should be taken seriously. Instead of focusing just on how long you sleep, Amanda stresses the importance of sleep quality, consistency, and listening to what your sleep is saying about your overall health.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Phil O’Neil is joined by Sarah Boorer, Communications professional & CWA award-winning cook, to look at the world of baked goods, delicious treats and & easy recipes. This week Sarah whips up classic chocolate self-saucing pudding (recipe courtesy Women’s Weekly) Ingredients1 cup (150g) self-raising flour1/4 cup (25g) cocoa powder1/2 cup (110g) firmly packed brown sugar1/2 cup (125ml) milk1 egg60 gram butter, melted, cooledCream or vanilla ice-cream, to serve Sauce1/3 cup (35g) cocoa powder1/2 cup (110g) firmly packed brown sugar1 3/4 cup (430ml) boiling water Method1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan-forced). Grease a 1.5 litre (6-cup)ovenproof dish and place on an oven tray lined with baking paper or foil (this willcatch any drips).2. Sift the flour and cocoa powder into a medium bowl. Add the sugar and stir tobreak up any lumps.3. Whisk together the milk, egg and butter in a jug. Add the milk mixture to the dryingredients; use a whisk to stir to a smooth batter. Pour into th

Professor David Flint chats to Phil O’Neil on the week’s important issues & political news.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

While frequent swearing at work can seem unprofessional, a well-placed expletive can actually strengthen a leader’s message. Phil speaks with Communications Expert Monica Lunin, who says Donald Trump’s recent F-bomb—though likely not strategic—was on-brand and reinforced his tough stance during the Israel-Iran ceasefire tensions.  Monica explains that one of Trump’s communication strengths is sounding unscripted. Like it or not, his supporters feel they’re hearing the real him—and in this case, his anger made the message more impactful.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Phil is joined by Trevor Long, Today Show Technology Commentator, to explore the latest in technology news.  Trevor takes a look at... Major sports rights change as Optus Sport shuts down, Stan Scoops up soccer Samsung's newest Computer monitor is also a great TV The new software that scans your phone constantly for potential scams See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Phil O’Neil 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Clearing clutter for peace of mind As we age, the things we once thought brought happiness can become overwhelming clutter. Phil speaks with Debbie Childs, CEO of HelpingMinds, who recommends the ‘Swedish Death Clean’—a mindful way to simplify your space by asking: Would I want my loved ones to deal with this if I were gone? If not, it’s time to let it go. Debbie’s tips: Start small—like a drawer.. Sort items into keep, donate, or discard. Set a 10-minute timer. Use a “one in, one out” rule. Decluttering clears not just your space, but your mind. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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A Melbourne council’s decision to spend $370,000 on a 12-month private security trial has sparked backlash from locals who say it’s a waste of money. Mike speaks with Gina Field, Operational Security Expert and Founder of Nepean Regional Security, who says mobile patrols are highly effective in reducing crime—especially in areas where police are stretched. She stresses that private security isn’t a replacement for police, nor are they armed or making arrests. Instead, they provide a visible presence and work closely with police, helping speed up response times.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Mike speaks with journalist and author Tom Gilling about his new book Start Digging, You Bastards!, out July 1, 2025. The book tells the gripping story of Australian and New Zealand soldiers who played a pivotal role in turning the tide of World War II in North Africa. Set in July 1942, as Rommel’s forces pushed toward Cairo, the Allies made a desperate stand at El Alamein. Gilling vividly recounts the brutal desert battles, the courage of the 9th Australian and 2nd New Zealand Divisions, and how their tenacity helped halt the Axis advance and change the course of the war.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mike Jeffreys chats with Dale Sinden for the story behind today’s National Days for 30th June.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mike Jeffreys talks movies and entertainment with Alex First, editor of itellyouwhatithink.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mike chats with relationship counsellor and bestselling author Amanda Lambros about the growing trend of Australians paying for cuddles. With one in three people feeling lonely, it’s no surprise professional cuddling—costing anywhere from $30 to $300 an hour—is becoming more popular as a way to ease the isolation of modern life.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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