Episodes

  • The Two Jacks - Episode 118 - Diplomatic Facepalms & Footy Failures: The Jack-off We Didn’t Deserve

    The Two Jacks - Episode 118 - Diplomatic Facepalms & Footy Failures: The Jack-off We Didn’t Deserve
    Jun 26 2025

    So the episode title is courtesy of ChatGPT and proof that AI is not going to replace us - yet.

    What?

    Anyway here's more AI slop. I didn't see the episode 117 but I'm on holiday so I am doing it later.

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    1 hr and 22 mins
  • Episode 186 - RIP Denis - Minnesota Motives - Cooker Update

    Episode 186 - RIP Denis - Minnesota Motives - Cooker Update
    Jun 18 2025

    No AI slop shownotes (as is now tradition) because I did this edit in two parts. But basically Jack sees off his mate Denis Ryan who listeners will know was a Ballarat detective who fought the church to stop child sex offending and was harshly punished for his good deeds. We also look at the idiots saying the Minnesota assassinations were 'left wing violence'. We discuss the relevance of cookers which brings us right to Monica's latest grift - the hollow and pointless private prosecution of Dan Andrews. And then we have SovCits, MAGA paedos and BABET!

    Big week folks. Enjoy!



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    1 hr and 50 mins
  • The Two Jacks - Episode 116 - Media Meltdown, Super Tax, Housing Headaches, and Trump's Power Plays

    The Two Jacks - Episode 116 - Media Meltdown, Super Tax, Housing Headaches, and Trump's Power Plays
    Jun 14 2025

    This episode of "The Two Jacks," with Jack the Insider and Hong Kong Jack, covers a range of topics including the struggles of free-to-air television in Australia, the proposed superannuation tax on high balances, the complexities of housing affordability and development approvals, and the political landscape in the United States, particularly regarding immigration and the actions of the Trump administration. They also touch on the passing of author Frederick Forsyth, the controversial Gaza Freedom Flotilla with Greta Thunberg, and lighter topics like the "Dull Men's Club" and AFL updates.

    Timestamped Events:

    • 00:00:51: Discussion on the cancellation of Channel 10's "The Project" and the future of free-to-air television in Australia.
    • 00:20: Superannuation tax on unrealized capital gains is debated, including a case study.
    • 00:30: Housing affordability and the challenges of planning approvals are discussed.
    • 00:40: The dynamic between Elon Musk and Donald Trump, and the power of the presidency is explored.
    • 00:46: The conversation shifts to Trump and the courts, and the use of federal power regarding immigration.
    • 01:04: The life and work of author Frederick Forsyth are remembered.
    • 01:09: The Gaza Freedom Flotilla and Greta Thunberg's involvement are analyzed.
    • 01:19: The "Dull Men's Club" is introduced.
    • 01:21: AFL updates, including a controversial bump and discussion of CTE.
    • 01:27: Rugby and football (soccer) are discussed, including Ange Postecoglou's departure from Tottenham.
    • 01:31: Tennis at Roland Garros and interesting sports statistics are shared.
    • 01:35: Closing remarks and listener interaction information.
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    1 hr and 38 mins
  • The Two Jacks - Episode 115 - Mildura Mafia, Black Eyes, and the Occasional Riot

    The Two Jacks - Episode 115 - Mildura Mafia, Black Eyes, and the Occasional Riot
    Jun 14 2025

    This episode of 'The Two Jacks' features Jack the Insider and Hong Kong Jack discussing a range of topics. A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to the story of former Victoria Police detective Denis Ryan and his fight for justice against clerical abuse, detailed in the book Unholy Trinity. They also touch upon Australian and international politics, including sectarianism, the current state of the Labor and Green parties, the situation in Tasmania, and US and UK politics with commentary on Elon Musk, the Democrats, and Sir Keir Starmer. The episode concludes with a discussion on sports, specifically AFL, NRL, and cricket.

    PS - THESE SHOWNOTES ARE AI GENERATED

    • (0:00:33) - Discussion of the life and fight for justice of former Vic Boll police detective Denis Ryan, who sought to prosecute Monsignor John Day for child sex offenses in Mildura in 1972, referencing the book Unholy Trinity.
    • (0:09:31) - The police force's reaction to Denis Ryan's investigation, the "Catholic mafia" stymying the investigation, and Denis being ostracized.
    • (0:17:43) - Joel Hill's encounter with then Chief Commissioner of Victoria Police, Graham Ashton, and asking him when he would apologize to Denis Ryan, which eventually led to formal apologies and compensation.
    • (0:30:09) - Discussion of Dorinda Cox, former WA Green senator, joining the Labor Party and the political implications.
    • (0:41:03) - Moving on from Australian politics to Elon Musk's unhappiness with a congressional spending bill and related gossip.
    • (0:50:30) - Moving on to Ukraine and their significant win with drones taking out a substantial number of Russia's bomber fleet and the wider implications for the war.
    • (0:55:09) - Moving on to the UK and Sir Keir Starmer's woes, including attacks from within his party and being spooked by the Reform party, and a discussion on immigration issues.
    • (1:07:03) - Moving on to sport, mentioning the Tasmanian Devils AFL team and their reliance on political results in Tasmania, leading into a wider discussion on AFL governance and umpiring issues.
    • (1:20:56) - Moving on to NRL, discussing State of Origin and a listener's lament about the South Sydney Rabbitohs.
    • (1:23:46) - Discussion of PSG (Paris Saint-Germain) winning the Champions League final against Inter Milan and related events.
    • (1:25:38) - Looking ahead to next week, mentioning the Test Championship at Lord's and Virat Kohli's IPL win, and discussing Australian cricket.
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    1 hr and 30 mins
  • The Two Jacks - Episode 114 -

    The Two Jacks - Episode 114 -
    May 30 2025
    AI slop shownotes. This one gets spicy on Israel and Palestine! Podcast Episode: Two Jacks – Episode 114Post-Production for Recording 1Run Date: 30 May 2025ShownotesIntroduction (0:00)Jack the Insider and Hong Kong Jack return after a brief hiatus due to Joel traveling to Hawaii.Opening banter about Hawaii, the weather, and a lighthearted remark about avoiding bushfires.Australian Politics and Election Analysis (0:59)Deep dive into the aftermath of a recent election result, including:Two-party preferred votes: 55.19% to 44.81%.Discussions about the myths of how a "first past the post" voting system would have impacted the election outcomes.Historical context on the introduction of Australia's preferential voting system in 1918 to prevent Labor domination.Commentary on Tom Elliott’s controversial opinion about voting systems.Analysis of minor parties and how the removal of preferential voting would affect their representation, disadvantaging groups like the Greens or minor right parties.Hong Kong Jack shares insights about how voting systems shape campaign strategies in Australia versus the UK.Coalition Dynamics and Leadership Updates (6:00)Jack the Insider and Hong Kong Jack dissect the challenges facing the Coalition post-election:Tension between the Liberals and Nationals sparked by Littleproud’s leadership and uncertain policy positioning.Discussion on key personnel changes, including the demotion of shadow ministers like Sarah Henderson and Jane Hume.Predictions of leadership instability within the Nationals, with Jack the Insider forecasting Littleproud’s leadership might not survive past November.Broader Political Landscape Commentary (14:00)Speculation on the viability of the Liberal Party as it moves further right ideologically while alienating moderates.Historical perspective on the collapse of right-wing parties in Australian politics and the risk of the Liberal Party facing similar consequences.Critique of Peter Dutton's focus on regional Australia, leaving traditional city-based constituencies vulnerable to Teal independents.International Politics: US, UK, and Poland (26:00)United Kingdom:Decline in support for Keir Starmer’s Labour due to coalition infighting and lack of direction. Rumors about Angela Rayner potentially challenging Starmer for leadership.Discussions touch on “super injunction” rumors and polling trends showing growing support for Reform UK.Poland:Highlights of Poland’s economic growth, with projections of it surpassing Japan in GDP per capita by 2026–27.Observations about Poland’s political stability and the upcoming Presidential Election, with tensions between hard-right and centrist candidates.United States:A critical review of Trump’s controversial economic policies and debt ceiling negotiations.Jack the Insider critiques the "Make America Healthy Again" initiative by Bobby Kennedy Jr., particularly its stance on restricting government scientists from publishing research and COVID vaccine policies.Broader concerns about the decline in public trust toward pandemic management.Middle East: Israel-Gaza Conflict (1:04:00)Analysis of the dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza with criticism of aid distribution and alleged human rights violations.Jack the Insider highlights concerns about Israel’s political motivations and the use of Palestinians as human shields.Debate on whether Hamas or Netanyahu bears greater moral responsibility, with differing perspectives from Hong Kong Jack and Jack the Insider.Sports Corner (1:13:00)Australian Rules Football (AFL):Collingwood’s dominance this season; speculation on the flag being theirs to lose.Challenges faced by Carlton and Sydney as they linger outside the finals contention.Rugby:Expectations for the British Lions Tour and its significance for Australian Rugby Union.Insights into the resilience and consistent performance of the Brumbies compared to other Super Rugby teams.Soccer:Ange Postecoglou’s success at Tottenham Hotspur, securing their first trophy in years amidst uncertainty about his tenure.Cricket:Cameron Green’s exceptional batting form in county cricket and its implications for Australia’s Test Championship squad selection.State of Origin Rugby League:New South Wales claim a gritty Game 1 victory against Queensland at Lang Park, with the series set to continue at Optus Stadium in Perth and the Olympic Stadium in Sydney.Closing Thoughts (1:28:00)Jack the Insider invites listeners to send in feedback and contributions for future episodes.Upcoming topics preview: The Victorian Liberal Party’s internal turmoil, with potential fallout over legal disputes involving former leader John Pesutto.Thank you for tuning in to Two Jacks!Email Jack the Insider: jacktheinsider@gmail.comSubscribe to Hong Kong Jack on Substack for updates!
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    1 hr and 32 mins
  • The Two Jacks - Episode 113 - Sussssssan Ley is Ley-der

    The Two Jacks - Episode 113 - Sussssssan Ley is Ley-der
    May 13 2025

    In this episode of The Two Jacks, Jack the Insider and Hong Kong Jack tackle the latest in Australian politics, global media developments, and international affairs. It's a fast-paced discussion of the political landscape, leadership upheavals, cabinet shakeups, pressing policies, and more. Tune in for sharp observations and witty takes!

    Key Topics Covered

    1. Australian Politics
    • The Liberal Party's election of a new leader, Suzanne ("Sussan") Ley.
    • A deep dive into her unconventional numerology backstory.
    • Her leadership votes (29–25) as she edges out Angus Taylor.
    • Ted O’Brien as deputy leader – his Sunshine Coast seat, ties to Taiwan, and study in Asia.
    • The Nationals' direction and challenges: David Littleproud retains leadership while debates over net-zero emissions targets continue.
    • The tension between the Coalition's philosophical stance on nuclear energy and policy realignment.
    1. Labor's New Cabinet
    • The fallout of Anthony Albanese’s factional compromises in reshuffling the cabinet.
    • The exclusion of Ed Husic and Mark Dreyfuß sparks conversations about faction-driven decisions.
    • The introduction of “special envoys” within the ministry – quirky or functional?
    • Reflections on the dynamics between faction leaders and Prime Minister Albanese.
    1. Post-Referendum Delusions
    • Analysis of the repercussions of the Voice referendum loss.
    • How the Coalition misread their referendum win as momentum for taking government.
    • The dangers of hubris in both major Australian political parties.
    1. Gaza Crisis and Morality in Politics
    • A reflective discussion on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and its global implications.
    1. Global Geopolitics
    • Putin’s stance following European leaders’ ultimatum.
    • U.S. tariffs on China: economic realities and diplomatic maneuvers.
    • Commentary on the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict with Donald Trump’s threats of sanctions.
    1. Germany’s Rearmament and Political Landscape
    • The challenges around Germany’s massive military investment and reshaped leadership under conservative Frederick Merz.
    • The rise of far-right party AFD and its broader European implications.
    1. Immigration in Focus
    • The political shift in the U.K. as Sir Keir Starmer changes his stance on immigration policies.
    • Lessons from Australian immigration history and reflections on Europe’s response.
    1. Sport, Pop Culture & More
    • Cricket: Tribute to Virat Kohli as he retires from Test cricket. His stats, legacy, and influence on Indian cricket.
    • AFL: A breakdown of the tight matches, umpiring controversies, and the top 8 ladder. Should draws remain?
    • NRL: Celebrating Latrell Mitchell’s game-winning 50-meter field goal and the rise of unexpected teams like the NZ Warriors.
    • IPL and Security Concerns: Adjustments to the tournament amidst heightened conflict.
    • Nostalgia-filled commentary on Pope Leo XIV (the American Chicagoan Pope) and his potential love for baseball’s Chicago White Sox.
    1. Humor & Extras
    • Stories of televangelist Jim Bakker’s plea for funds and Nigerian email scam jokes rounded out with trademark Two Jacks humor.

    Listener Takeaways

    • The Two Jacks dissect Australian media with insider insight, offering a combination of timely analysis and a bit of much-needed levity on heavy topics.
    • From the cricket pitch to political caucuses, this episode highlights the intersection of power, performance, and policy.

    Links/Resources

    • Follow Jack the Insider on Twitter: @JackTheInsider
    • Subscribe to Hong Kong Jack’s Substack: HongKongJack.Substack.com

    Contact The Two Jacks

    Have feedback, questions, or topics you’d like covered in a future episode? Reach out:

    • Email: The Two Jacks

    Join us for Episode 113 of The Two Jacks for bold takes, sharp critiques, and a few laughs along the way!
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    1 hr and 28 mins
  • Episode 185 - Post 2025 Federal Election Wrap

    Episode 185 - Post 2025 Federal Election Wrap
    May 7 2025
    MORE UNINTENTIONALLY FUNNY AI SLOP SHOWNOTES. Peter Hoistead? Thanks Gemini. Thanks listeners. We love you. Buy CBCo it's excellent beer. The Conditional Release Program - Episode 185: Federal Election 2025 Post-SpecialHosts: Joel Hill & Jack the Insider (Peter Hoistead)Overall Theme: A deep dive into the results and implications of the 2025 Australian Federal Election, focusing on Labor's historic victory, the Coalition's catastrophic loss, and the performance of minor parties and independents.Key Segments & Talking Points:(Part 1 - Approximate Timestamps based on original transcript, subject to adjustment)[00:00:00 - 00:01:23] Introduction & Election OverviewJoel laments being banned from betting on the election, particularly Labor's strong odds.Jack notes Joel would have won significantly, especially on Labor at $2.60.Historic Labor Win: Anthony "Albo" Albanese leads Labor to a significant victory.Libs sent into an "existential crisis."Albo is the first PM to be re-elected since John Howard in 2004.Largest Labor victory on a two-party preferred basis since John Curtin in 1943 (votes still being counted).Crucial Stat: The Albanese government is the only first-term government to have a swing towards it in Australian political history.[00:01:23 - 00:03:38] Significance of the Swing to LaborPrevious first-term governments (Howard '98, Hawke '84, Fraser '77, Whitlam '74, Menzies) all had swings against them when seeking a second term.Albo's government achieved an approximate 4% swing towards it (votes still being counted).Discussion points: Where it went right for Labor, and wrong for the Coalition, Greens, and Teals.Far-right "Cookers" performed terribly. Pauline Hanson's One Nation (FONY) might see minor representation.[00:03:38 - 00:05:11] Patreon & Sponsor Shout-outsReminder to support the podcast on Patreon: www.patreon.com/theconditionalreleaseprogram (for as little as $5/month).CB Co. Beer: Praised for their IPA and new Hazy XPA. Competition to win $100,000. Use code CRP10 for 10% off at cbco.beer.[00:05:11 - 00:08:52] Polling Inaccuracies & Liberal OptimismReiteration of the ~4% swing to Labor.Comparison of final poll predictions vs. actual results:Freshwater: Labor 51.5% (was Liberal pollster, told Libs they were close).Newspoll: 52.5% (Labor used their private polling).Essential: 53.5%.YouGov: 52.2% - 52.9%.Polling companies significantly underestimated Labor's vote, especially those advising the Coalition.The misplaced optimism at Liberal Party HQ on election night.[00:08:52 - 00:16:00] Specific Seat Results & Labor GainsGilmore (NSW South Coast): Fiona Phillips (Labor) won 55-45 (3-4% swing to her), despite Andrew Constance (Liberal) being the favourite.Bennelong (Howard's old seat): Jeremy Laxail (Labor) won 59-41 against Scott Young (problematic Liberal candidate), a 10% swing to Labor.Parramatta: Andrew Charlton (Labor) won 62-38 (was 53.47 in 2022).Aston (Victoria): Labor won in a historic by-election previously, now a 4% swing to the Labor candidate, winning 53-47.Boothby (SA): Louise Miller-Frost (Labor) achieved an 8% swing, holding the seat 61-39.Tangney (WA): Sam Lim (Labor, ex-cop & dolphin trainer) secured a 3% swing, now 56-44. Large Bhutanese diaspora noted.Leichhardt (FNQ): Labor's Matt Smith won 57-43 after Warren Entsch (LNP) retired (10% swing).Hunter (NSW): Dan Repiccioli (Labor) re-elected with 44% primary vote (5% swing on primary). Fended off Nats and One Nation (Stuart Bonds' inflated vote claims by "One Australia" on X).[00:16:00 - 00:18:49] Diversifying Parliament & Women in PoliticsPraise for non-lawyer backgrounds in Parliament (e.g., Dan Repiccioli, Sam Lim).Critique of the typical lawyer/staffer/union pathway.Labor's success in diversifying candidate backgrounds and increasing female representation.Liberals struggling with female representation despite some efforts. Discussion of potential quotas in the Liberal party and the backlash it would cause.Margaret Thatcher quote: "If you want something said, ask a man. If you want something done, ask a woman."[00:18:49 - 00:27:26] The Teals: Mixed Results & ChallengesInitial appearance of a Teal "romp" on election night.Bradfield (NSW North Shore): Teal Nicolette Boele (Burle/Bola) behind Liberal Giselle Kaptarian by 178 votes (updated during recording).Goldstein (VIC): Tim Wilson (Liberal) leading Zoe Daniel (Teal) by 925 votes. Wilson is likely back. Joel comments on Wilson's IPA association vs. his "gay, wet, mediocre, progressive side." Jack notes Wilson often highlights his sexuality.Jim Chalmers' quip about Tim Wilson: "Popular for all those who haven't met him."Kooyong (VIC): Monique Ryan (Teal) leading by 1002 votes (97,000 counted, ~8,000 postals to go). Redistribution added parts of Toorak, making it harder for Ryan.Liberal candidate Amelia Hamer: "Trust fund renter" controversy, owns multiple properties, London bolthole.Corflute wars in Kooyong: Hamer campaign's excessive use of ...
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    2 hrs and 8 mins
  • The Two Jacks - Episode 112 - Australian Election Post-Mortem, Canadian Stunner & Trump's Papal Dreams

    The Two Jacks - Episode 112 - Australian Election Post-Mortem, Canadian Stunner & Trump's Papal Dreams
    May 7 2025
    More AI notes for y'all. They're not bad! Episode Link: Find this and other episodes at The Conditional Release Program on RedCircle.Recorded: May 5, 2025 (two days after the Australian Federal Election)Hosts: Jack the Insider & Hong Kong JackIn this episode, The Two Jacks dissect the stunning Australian federal election results, explore a surprising political turnaround in Canada, ponder the next Pope, and touch on global political shifts from the UK to Germany, and the latest from Trump's America.(00:00:00) Introduction & Australian Election: An Orderly Affair Jack the Insider and Hong Kong Jack kick off by praising the smooth and festive nature of the Australian federal election, highlighting the efficiency of the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) and the beloved "democracy sausage."(00:02:21) The Pre-Poll Phenomenon A discussion on the increasing trend of pre-polling, with over half of Australians casting their vote before election day. The hosts debate the merits of shortening the pre-polling period, with Hong Kong Jack lamenting the decline of traditional Saturday voting.(00:06:06) Betting Blunders & Historic Results Labor's remarkable journey from $15 outsiders to $1.07 unbackable favourites to form government is reviewed. The episode highlights key historical markers:Anthony Albanese: The first Prime Minister re-elected since 2004.A significant Labor victory, with Albanese leading the first government in Australian political history to increase its majority in a second term.(00:09:17) Seat Swings, Mea Culpas & The Greens' Tumble The hosts reflect on their pre-election predictions against the reality of significant swings to Labor (e.g., a 10% swing in Bennelong). Labor is projected to win around 90 seats.The Greens: A tough election, with leader Adam Bandt likely to lose his seat in Melbourne. Zoe Daniel (Teal) is also in a precarious position in Goldstein. The Greens may lose Ryan back to the Liberals and potentially face no representation in the House of Representatives.(00:13:38) A UK Perspective & Labor's Resurgence Hong Kong Jack shares insights from the UK, where observers noted Labor's landslide and the "leaderless, rudderless, pointless" state of the Coalition. This challenges the narrative that incumbents always lose, citing recent Canadian and Australian results.(00:16:27) Liberal Campaign Catastrophe: A "Don't Do This" Case Study A deep dive into the Liberal Party's "dreadful campaign," marked by:The ill-conceived work-from-home policy, poorly communicated by Senator Jane Hume and lacking consultation.A string of policy backflips and poorly planned announcements (e.g., fuel excise cut, Melbourne airport rail funding announced at a winery).Peter Dutton has accepted responsibility for the campaign's failures.(00:22:46) Trump's Take & The Muted MAGA Effect Donald Trump's reaction to the Australian election (congratulating "Albert" while feigning ignorance of Dutton) is discussed. The hosts agree that MAGA influence was minimal, with Albanese's message of "kindness is not weakness" resonating more strongly.(00:25:13) The Liberal Party's Existential Crossroads A critical analysis of the Liberal Party's future, having lost traditional heartland seats and failed to broaden its appeal beyond an aging demographic.The danger of vacating the political centre and the flawed strategy of chasing a new "working-class" constituency.Hong Kong Jack draws parallels to Labor's wilderness years (1977, 1996), emphasizing the need for honest self-reflection for any chance of recovery.Labor's structural advantages: benefiting from Green preferences and a more unified progressive base compared to a fragmented right-wing, further diluted by entities like Clive Palmer's party.(00:39:58) Senate Snapshot: Stability Prevails An overview of the projected Senate makeup across the states:NSW & VIC: Likely Labor 3, Liberals 2, Greens 1.QLD: Labor 2, Libs 2, Greens 1, with One Nation's Malcolm Roberts likely re-elected.TAS: Jacqui Lambie expected to return.ACT: Independent David Pocock secures his quota alongside a Labor senator.Overall, the Senate composition is unlikely to see dramatic changes. David Pocock is commended for his diligent work.(00:42:25) Who Will Lead the Liberals? A Party in Search of Direction Speculation on the future leadership of the Liberal Party, with few obvious candidates emerging from a depleted frontbench. Dan Tehan is mentioned as a possible moderate caretaker, though the path back to government looks long and arduous.(00:45:58) Albanese: The New "Labor God" & Chalmers' Contribution Anthony Albanese is lauded for his historic achievement, with Jim Chalmers highlighted as a key performer and media operator for Labor, despite Hong Kong Jack's gentle ribbing about his lengthy essays.(00:48:56) Canadian Politics Upended: Liberals' Shock Comeback A look at the Canadian election, where the Liberals achieved a stunning turnaround, with Conservative leader Pierre ...
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    1 hr and 35 mins