The Iron Fist and the Velvet Glove

In this episode of the Iron Fist and Velvet Glove podcast, hosts Trevor, Scott, and Joe discuss a variety of pressing topics, including the perception and realities of artificial intelligence, controversial opinions on evolution, and the complexities of international relations. The trio delves into recent Australian political discussions about China and Taiwan, highlighting media bias and propaganda. They also touch upon the qualifications of government officials in meritocratic vs. democratic systems, with a particular focus on China and Singapore. Additional conversations cover the controversial Johnson Amendment in the U.S., the Epstein files, and surprising survey results about fear...

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Debating Anti-Semitism: Free Speech, Government Policies, and Social Cohesion

In Episode 476, hosts Trevor and Joe discuss the recent release of the Special Envoy's report on combating antisemitism in Australia. The report, focused on curbing criticism of Israel, sparks debates about control over institutions, government policies, and freedom of speech. The hosts express concerns over the influence of powerful interest groups and the implications of adopting the IHRA definition of antisemitism. They also highlight the contrast between public perceptions of Israel among different age groups and critique the social coherence argument used to justify the...

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In this episode, the hosts return from a break to offer an in-depth and provocative discussion on recent global events, particularly the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. They critique media coverage, contrasting the attention given to chants against the Israeli Defense Force at a UK music festival with the underreported humanitarian crises in Gaza. The conversation extends to the broader implications of global politics, touching upon historical contexts, American foreign policy, and the influence of authoritarian regimes. The podcast also delves into the potential pitfalls of alliance with the U.S. under the Trump administration and the systemic issues...

In episode 474 of 'The Iron Fist and the Velvet Glove Podcast,' hosts Trevor and Joe discuss the recent U.S. bombing of Iran's nuclear facilities, analyzing the lack of justification and the broader international response. The episode critiques President Trump's decision to bomb despite intelligence reports indicating no immediate threat, examines the geopolitical implications, and addresses the polarized media narratives. Trevor and Joe offer insights into international law, the influence of lobbyists, and the impact of disinformation. The hosts conclude with humorous anecdotes and listener interactions, highlighting the complex and often hypocritical landscape of international politics.

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Israel was not satisfied with killing Palestinians.

The latest episode of 'The Iron Fist and the Velvet Glove' podcast dives into recent global events. The hosts discuss Israel's recent military actions against Iran, exploring the complexities and historical context behind the conflict. They examine media biases, US foreign policy, and geopolitical hypocrisy, highlighting reactions from various international actors. The podcast also touches on domestic US issues, including the actions of ICE agents, Trump's peculiar policies, and the ongoing AUKUS submarine deal. The hosts critique Australian political responses and question the future direction of defence spending and international...

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In this episode, hosts Trevor (Iron Fist), Scott (Velvet Glove), and Joe (Tech Guy) discuss recent events and pressing issues. They begin with a review of the recent election, where Albanese was unexpectedly returned with an increased majority, the implosion of the Greens' vote, and the prolonged impacts on political dynamics including coalition balance and the future of the Liberal Party. The conversation shifts to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, describing the Israeli government's brutal actions and the global community's response. The team also delves into superannuation tax changes, emphasizing the impact on balances exceeding $3 million...

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The Iron Fist and the Velvet Glove - Episode 471: Current Affairs and Heated Debates

In this episode, hosts Trevor and Joe, alongside co-host Scott (absent in this episode), discuss a range of topical issues, from geopolitical tensions to local political dynamics. They begin by tackling the ongoing conflict in Gaza, expressing frustration over the pervasive propaganda and narrative control. They criticize the west's support for Israel despite blatant human rights violations. The discussion also covers the portrayal and handling of atrocities in the media, drawing parallels with past conflicts and their coverage. The hosts...

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In this episode of 'The Iron Fist and the Velvet Glove,' hosts Trevor and Joe delve into the shocking election results in Australia, with a focus on the defeat of Peter Dutton and the Liberal Party's decline. They discuss various theories behind the Liberal Party's loss, including strategy errors and demographic shifts. The episode also touches on misinterpretations of election results relating to the Greens, Senate outcomes, and potential new leaders in the opposition. The hosts conclude with a surprising confirmation of North Korean troops fighting for Russia in Ukraine, a topic of previous contention.<...

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In episode 469, Trevor (Iron Fist), Scott (Velvet Glove), and Joe (Tech Guy)discuss various pressing issues, including the federal election in Australia, the current polling trends, and the policies of different political parties. The conversation also covers international topics such as Israel's blockade in Gaza, the US-China tariff disputes under Trump, and the economic and societal implications of these events.

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview

00:33 Panel Introductions and Banter

01:05 Federal Election Discussion

04:29 Vote Compass Insights

06:02 Polling and Gender Differences

11:57 Housing Market and Policies

28:48...

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In this episode, Trevor, Joe, and their guest, Cameron Leckie from Australia's Voice, delve into the latest political and social issues affecting Australia. The conversation covers a range of topics including the inefficacies of AUKUS, the necessity for parliamentary approval before entering wars, economic implications of alliances, and media bias. Cameron provides insight into his candidacy for the Senate, highlighting his background in the military and soil science, and outlines Australia's Voice's policies on housing, bank reform, and taxation. Additionally, the discussion touches on Australia's foreign policy, support for Palestine, and the challenges of addressing critical...

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A Deep Dive into Socialist Equality: Elections, Policies, and the Future

In this special episode of 'The Iron Fist in the Velvet Glove' podcast, host Trevor is joined by Max Boddy and Warwick Dove from the Socialist Equality Party. The discussion delves into the hurdles faced by the party in registering candidates due to stringent requirements by the Australian Electoral Commission. Warwick shares his journey from industry worker to party member, highlighting the limitations of trade unions and the Labor Party. Max discusses his political awakening at university and the necessity of socialism as...

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Episode 466: Tariffs, Trade, and Political Missteps

In this episode, Trevor (the Iron Fist), Scott (the Velvet Glove), and Joe (the Tech Guy) return from a brief hiatus to discuss a variety of current affairs. The primary focus is on President Trump's controversial tariffs, the economic implications, and the historical context of tariffs in the U.S. The conversation also delves into the trade deficits and the flawed logic behind Trump's tariff policies, the sale and potential reacquisition of the Port of Darwin by the Australian government, and domestic political maneuvers such as the public...

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Episode 465: The Iron Fist and the Velvet Glove - A Deep Dive into Recent Global and Local Events

In this episode, hosts Trevor (Iron Fist) and Joe (Tech Guy) discuss a range of pressing issues from the past week. Topics include the collapse of the ceasefire in Gaza, the socioeconomic implications of recent Israeli airstrikes, and the moral complexities faced by both nations and individuals. They also delve into local Australian news, including Peter Dutton’s political stance on Israel, the potential closing of Pine Gap, and the effectiveness of the ORUS deal. The ep...

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In this engaging episode, the hosts cover a broad range of topics including international and domestic politics, global economic trends, and the impact of climate events. Key discussions include an analysis of the past two weeks' major happenings, the influence of Trump-era policies on Canada, Russia's international positioning and economy, controversial hate speech laws in Australia, and the persistent geopolitical tensions involving NATO and Ukraine. The episode also touches on the historical context of various political decisions and the ethical implications surrounding them, providing listeners with in-depth insights from credible sources and first-hand experiences.

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Join us as we discuss the latest political events, including Trump's press conference, international relations, and the implications for Ukraine.

To financially support the Podcast you can make:

We Livestream every Monday night at 7:30 pm Brisbane time. Follow us on Facebook or YouTube. Watch us live and join the discussion in the chat room.

We have a website. www.ironfistvelvetglove.com.au

The central theme of this podcast revolves around the multifaceted political landscape, wherein we critically examine the emergence of Clive Palmer's newly minted political party, the Trumpet of Patriots. We delve into the implications of this development amidst discussions on pertinent issues such as proposed alterations to penalty rates and the strategic maneuvers of the Chinese Navy near Australian waters, which have evoked significant public concern. Furthermore, we contemplate the opposition's response to these unfolding events, alongside reflections on missed opportunities in Australian diplomacy, particularly concerning engagement with China. As we navigate through the complexities of global affairs—including th...

The episode offers an in-depth analysis of the recent geopolitical developments surrounding Donald Trump and his purported negotiations with Vladimir Putin regarding Ukraine. Additionally, the speakers address the rise of antisemitism in Australia, spurred by sensationalist media coverage and public incidents, such as the controversy surrounding the Cairo Takeaway restaurant. They question the veracity of claims regarding a surge in antisemitic behaviour, exploring whether such narratives are being manufactured for political gain. By providing context and examining the underlying motives, the speakers encourage listeners to assess the information presented to them critically and to consider the broader implications of...

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To financially support the Podcast you can make:

We Livestream every Monday night at 7:30 pm Brisbane time. Follow us on Facebook or YouTube. Watch us live and join the discussion in the chat room.

We have a website. www.ironfistvelvetglove.com.au

You can email us. The address is trevor@ironfistvelvetglove.com.au

<...

This podcast episode delves into the critical discourse surrounding the evaluation of ideas, both commendable and questionable, that have surfaced in the past week. We engage in a rigorous examination of significant global events, including the nuanced implications of recent allegations of anti-Semitism in Australia and the complexities of governmental efficiency under scrutiny. A particular focus is directed towards the withdrawal of North Korean troops from Ukraine, a topic that unveils the intricacies of international relations and the media's role in shaping narratives. We further explore the technological advancements in artificial intelligence, particularly in the context of Chinese developments...

This week, the hosts dive into the chaotic world of political absurdities, touching on everything from Trump's bizarre claims about Chinese soldiers in Panama to the questionable credibility of various political figures. They explore the implications of ISDS clauses in trade agreements, highlighting Clive Palmer's alarming attempts to cash in on them, which could cost Australia billions. The conversation also veers into the realm of media bias, particularly how coverage of disasters in California often eclipses tragedies occurring elsewhere, especially when wealthy individuals are affected. With irreverent humor, they dissect the strange dynamics of modern politics, including the oddities...

This episode delves into the complex and often misunderstood events surrounding the Tiananmen Square protests of 1989, challenging the widely accepted narrative of a brutal massacre. Trevor examines various reports and perspectives, revealing that while violence occurred in Beijing, the narrative of thousands of students being killed in the square itself may be significantly exaggerated or even fabricated. He discusses the involvement of American foreign policy and intelligence agencies in the protests, suggesting that the movement was not solely a spontaneous call for democracy but rather influenced by external forces seeking regime change in China. Through a careful review of...

This week, Trevor and Joe dive into the week's pressing issues, including the ongoing global tensions surrounding Israel and Gaza, and how media narratives shape public perception. They discuss the influence of powerful figures raising concerns about journalistic integrity. The conversation also touches on the growing concerns around artificial intelligence, with Joe sharing insights on the limitations of AI and the implications for various industries. Additionally, they tackle the whimsical idea of Donald Trump wanting to take over Greenland, exploring the absurdity of his statements while reflecting on geopolitical maneuvers. With a blend of humour and serious analysis, the...

This episode delves into the complexities and contradictions surrounding global events, particularly focusing on the situation in Syria and the reactions to recent violence against Jewish communities in Australia. The hosts, Trevor and Joe, discuss the challenges of having meaningful conversations about sensitive topics that have become heavily propagandized, emphasizing the difficulty of addressing issues like the genocide in Gaza. They also touch on the absurdity of the Australian government's decision to fund a Papua New Guinea rugby league team while neglecting pressing social issues like healthcare and education. Amidst this, they explore the implications of international relations, particularly...

In this episode, the hosts dive into a variety of thought-provoking topics. Trevor kicks off with a story about Mailchimp banning his email service due to an article critical of Israel, sparking a discussion on the challenges of sharing controversial content. Scott then discusses President Biden's controversial decision to pardon his son, Hunter Biden, for tax and firearms felonies, comparing it to previous political scandals. Trevor shares an amusing anecdote about visiting an old-school barbershop. The conversation takes a serious turn as they discuss proposed legislation in Queensland to impose mandatory life sentences for children as young as ten...

In this episode, Trevor, also known as The Iron Fist, and Joe, the Tech Guy, discuss recent global events, including public attitudes towards a ceasefire in Ukraine and Russia, the ICC’s decision to arrest Netanyahu, and a variety of other geopolitical topics. They highlight polling statistics, international reactions, and media coverage. Additionally, they explore how personal biases affect public perception, exemplified by discussions about Flat Earthers. The episode also touches on domestic politics and the effects of misinformation, providing a comprehensive analysis of the past week's events.

00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview

00:52 Joe's Health and Li...

In this episode, Trevor (the Iron Fist), Scott (the Velvet Glove) and Joe (the Tech Guy) analyze recent global events and political decisions. Topics include the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Russia’s war with Ukraine, North Korean involvement in Ukraine, and the potential consequences of American internal politics on global stability, particularly under a Trump administration. They also discuss Australia's submarine deal with the US, becoming increasingly skeptical of its execution. Amid heavy debates, the hosts navigate through differing opinions, speculating about the future geopolitical landscape.

00:00 Introduction and Greetings

01:07 Health Updates and Casual Banter

01:50 Discussion on...

In Episode 451 of the Iron Fist and the Velvet Glove podcast, hosts Trevor and Scott, along with Joe, dissect Donald Trump's second election victory, its implications, and the broader political landscape. They explore themes from the book 'Democracy for Realists,' discuss potential future impacts on the US justice system, and forecast Trump's policies, including his choices for the Supreme Court and his relationship with international allies. The episode also delves into local Australian politics, critiquing the proposed social media age limit law and analyzing Murdoch media's influence on government decisions. The conversation rounds off with commentary on global...

In this episode, Trevor, Scott and Joe delve into Trevor’s insights from reading a biography on Vladimir Putin, reflecting on Putin's leadership, democracy in Russia, and contrasting it with Western democracy. The hosts also challenge the credibility of reports on North Korean troops in Russia, suggesting possible misinformation and propaganda tactics. Additionally, they cover topics such as the U.S. election, possible voter behavior in response to Trump’s antics, and financial contributions to political campaigns by Coal Australia. Throughout the discussion, they highlight the importance of media literacy and skepticism towards information sources.

00:00 Introduction and Epis...

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Fake Crime Wave.

In episode 449 of the Iron Fist and the Velvet Glove podcast, the hosts—Trevor (the Iron Fist), Scott (the Velvet Glove), and Joe—discuss the recent Queensland election results, examining the implications for both state and federal politics. They delve into factors affecting the election, such as youth crime and abortion debates, and scrutinize the performances of key political figures. The episode also features a critical analysis of external threats posed by authoritarian regimes as presented in an article by Greg Sheridan. The conversation touches on various aspects of political bias, cult...

An interview with Marc James Léger

00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement

00:13 Mark James Leger on Identity Politics

05:25 Personal Experiences and Public Secrets

10:21 The Impact of Identity Politics on Academia

14:22 Historical Context and Marxism

22:48 The Shift from Class to Identity Politics

29:29 The Professional Managerial Class and Cultural Shifts

40:45 Post-War Cultural Changes and Consumerism

53:32 Emergence of New Social Mores

54:16 The Cultural Impact of Barbie

54:54 Current State of Society

55:33 Challenges in Publishing

56:19 Slide1

56:28 C...

In this episode of the Iron Fist and Velvet Glove podcast, the hosts discuss a variety of topics including the upcoming Queensland State election, focusing on issues like abortion, voluntary assisted dying, and free school lunches. The conversation touches on the radical language used by the Australian Christian Lobby against recent political developments. Other topics include the misinformation bill impacting religious freedom, public health concerns related to dementia, and broader political landscapes involving Donald Trump and the UK Conservative Party's internal politics. The episode concludes with a humorous and critical look at American socio-political issues and the role of...

Using Notebook LM to convert an essay into a podcast, the show addresses U.S. foreign policy, China’s rise, and speculative scenarios involving geopolitical shifts. The AI-generated discussion critiques the U.S.’s historical global influence, highlights China's strategic economic planning, and explores potential impacts of a diminished U.S. role on international security. The episode raises questions about AI's influence in shaping narratives and encourages critical thinking about global politics and future world order.

00:00 Introduction: Setting the Stage for a Global Review

00:30 A Unique Episode: Exploring AI-Generated Content

02:48 Foreign Affairs Summary: A Cr...

In this episode of the 'Iron Fist and the Velvet Glove' podcast, hosts Trevor, Scott, and Joe discuss a wide array of topics. Initially, they delve into Scott's decision not to vote for the Greens in the upcoming federal and state elections, stemming from disagreements over their stance on a housing bill and interest rates. This spurs a deeper discussion on the role of the Reserve Bank versus government control of interest rates. The hosts also touch on international affairs, notably Israel's recent military actions and the potential for nuclear conflict. The conversation shifts to domestic politics, with reflections...

In this episode of the Iron Fist Velvet Glove podcast, hosts Trevor, Scott (The Velvet Glove), and Joe cover a wide range of topics including the recent debate involving Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, the behavior of Trump's supporters, and various political issues within the United States and internationally. They delve into the topic of female politicians and their effectiveness, discuss the U.S. Anti-Corruption Commission's decision on the Robodet scandal, and examine Sweden's new policy offering migrants financial incentives to leave the country. They also explore controversial U.S. military research on nuclear weapons' effects on agriculture and...

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Discussing Politics, Democracy, and Current Affairs

In this episode of 'The Iron Fist and the Velvet Glove' podcast, Trevor, Scott, and Joe convene to discuss a variety of contemporary issues, including the political situation in France following Macron's appointment of a new Prime Minister and the implications for French democracy. They delve into the recent National Anti-Corruption Commission's controversial decision not to investigate referrals from the Robo Debt Royal Commission. The conversation also touches on historical and present comparisons of governance systems, particularly between Western democracies and China's political structure, and examines Kamala Harris's...

Loss of Hope

In episode 442, Trevor and Joe (without Scott) delve into various hot topics including political disillusionment, the Northern Territory election, and Labor's stance on counting gay people in the Census. They discuss Twitter's ban in Brazil, the arrest of Telegram's founder in France, and broader issues of free speech and censorship. The episode also scrutinizes profit margins amidst allegations of price gouging in Australia and the role of propaganda in shaping public opinion. Additionally, there’s a notable segment on Donald Trump's antics and RFK Jr.'s controversial vaccine stance.

00:00 Introduction and Episode Ov...

In this episode, the hosts delve into a range of current affairs including US politics, Australian domestic issues, and international relations. Discussion topics include Peter Dutton's political strategies likened to Trump, the controversial AUKUS agreement, and Paul Keating's critical views on Australia's geopolitical stance with China. The episode also touches on the lack of robust local content in Australian news, the surprising slip-ups by New South Wales Liberals, and the complexity of the Bangladesh leadership change. Throughout, the hosts debate the impacts of military alliances and the media's portrayal of international events.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

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Unmasking Media Narratives: Venezuela's Election Controversy

In this special episode of 'Iron Fist and the Velvet Glove,' Trevor explores the complexities surrounding the recent Venezuelan election and critiques the mainstream media's portrayal of events. Trevor delves into US involvement in regime change strategies, the credibility of election processes in Venezuela, and the reliability of international observers. He addresses allegations against opposition figures and counters Western media narratives by providing historical context and analysis. Featuring segments from observers and critiques of biased reporting, this episode calls for a critical examination of the information we consume.

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In Episode 439 of the Iron Fist and the Velvet Glove podcast, Trevor, Joe and Scott discuss the scarcity of good news, highlighting Kamala Harris's recent political moves against Trump and her potential to break political glass ceilings. The conversation shifts to the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict, the tragic consequences of military action, and the pervasive international apathy toward the humanitarian crisis. The hosts also review the controversies surrounding gender identity in sports, specifically focusing on a boxer with suspected differences in sexual development (DSD). Furthermore, the episode touches on societal unrest in the UK, American political maneuvers to potentially alter...

In Episode 438, hosts Trevor and Joe return to discuss a wide range of topics including the Paris Olympics, political controversies, and the latest in Australian and international news. Key topics include the controversial opening ceremony in the Paris Olympics, political strife involving Trump and Netanyahu, the sanctions on Israeli settlers by Australia, and the Canadian submarine deal. The episode also touches on the Murdoch family feud, potential French austerity measures, and rising strike actions in Australia. The hosts share personal anecdotes, including Trevor's experience with his granddaughter discovering TV advertisements, and they conclude with a critical look at the...