Once, Iran was the cradle of civilisation, but now it’s the cradle of war. The US/Israeli invasion could play out in multiple ways, some good, mostly bad. But the larger question is what war ultimately achieves in the modern era. Ever since the US war in Vietnam, aggressors large and small, democratic and authoritarian, have regretted their decision to opt for aggression. Barnes and Cohen discuss this, and the other issue of the moment, the budget aftermath. It's time to: ListenUp!This marks the final episode of Listen Up! on News24.
23 Feb 2026
A soft budget and a hard Johannesburg mayoral race
A strong gold price, lower interest rates, stronger consumer spending and marginally higher economic growth suggest a smoother national budget, particularly compared to last year when a surprise VAT increase sparked a crisis in the government of national unity. But does that mean SA is out of the woods? Absolutely not, argues Barnes, who points to larger structural economic issues that have yet to be addressed. What is structurally sound is the SA cricket team, and South Africa’s lack of snow. It’s time to: ListenUp!This show airs every Tuesday morning wherever you get your podcasts.
17 Feb 2026
There must be better ways to choose our leaders
Beer and national debt, which is the most important? Barnes and Cohen discuss this crucial question. But more importantly, how are we choosing our government ministers and their entourages? Shouldn’t the ministers choose the president, rather than the president choose the ministers? Just asking. It’s time to: ListenUp! This show airs every Tuesday morning wherever you get your podcasts.
Reach and audience
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YouTube views
1,337,051
Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
Podcast Authority Score: 37 / 100
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Quality
40
Social presence
0
YouTube
86
Engagement
0
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