This week: we turn 100 and the world changes around us. Unfortunately Eliza is too busy for extensive shownotes this week. Perhaps that will be incorporated into next week's virtual learning program. But this week Eliza and Geraldine talk all things Corona, as the scale of this crisis begins to dawn on the world. Join the discussion at the Facebook page "Long Distance Callers" or email at ldcpodcast1@gmail.com Thankyou for listening!!

This week: we turn 100 and the world changes around us. Unfortunately Eliza is too busy for extensive shownotes this week. Perhaps that will be incorporated into next week's virtual learning program. But this week Eliza and Geraldine talk all things Corona, as the scale of this crisis begins to dawn on the world. Join the discussion at the Facebook page "Long Distance Callers" or email at ldcpodcast1@gmail.com Thankyou for listening!!

Long Distance Call

Our 100th episode: Crisis Special

The coronavirus crisis appears to be reaching a crescendo in Australia. Panic is rising and that's leaving Geraldine quite concerned. She's in favour of the British phrase "Keep Calm and Carry On." Geraldine would prefer to exercise her own judgement about the best way to respond to the pandemic, rather than abide by strict quarantine measures dictated by the Government. Eliza disagrees with Geraldine's attitude. She thinks the scale of the health crisis warrants an extreme approach. Lebanon is basically in "lockdown" with schools, restaurants, parks and shopping malls all closed. Two weeks of homeschooling has been a stretch. But Eliza has resigned herself to the new routine for another two months at least. Midway through the podcast Eliza breaks the news that the Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton had fallen ill with the virus. The women also discuss what history can teach us about the best way to manage the crisis. Join the conversation at the Facebook page "Long Distance Callers" or email us at ldcpodcast1@gmail.com History in a Crisis - Lessons for Covid-19 <a href="https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMp2004361" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMp2004361</a> Singapore Prime Minister addresses the country on Covid-19 <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KaoVg6ejgRQ" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KaoVg6ejgRQ</a> British PM Boris Johnson on Covid-19 <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xRadMzCKnCU" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xRadMzCKnCU</a>

The coronavirus crisis appears to be reaching a crescendo in Australia. Panic is rising and that's leaving Geraldine quite concerned. She's in favour of the British phrase "Keep Calm and Carry On." Geraldine would prefer to exercise her own judgement about the best way to respond to the pandemic, rather than abide by strict quarantine measures dictated by the Government. Eliza disagrees with Geraldine's attitude. She thinks the scale of the health crisis warrants an extreme approach. Lebanon is basically in "lockdown" with schools, restaurants, parks and shopping malls all closed. Two weeks of homeschooling has been a stretch. But Eliza has resigned herself to the new routine for another two months at least. Midway through the podcast Eliza breaks the news that the Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton had fallen ill with the virus. The women also discuss what history can teach us about the best way to manage the crisis. Join the conversation at the Facebook page "Long Distance Callers" or email us at ldcpodcast1@gmail.com History in a Crisis - Lessons for Covid-19 https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMp2004361 Singapore Prime Minister addresses the country on Covid-19 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KaoVg6ejgRQ British PM Boris Johnson on Covid-19 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xRadMzCKnCU

Coronavirus Comes Home

There were some technical problems with the episode uploaded Sunday morning AEDT ... so we're having another go <h1>RUOK Australia?</h1> What on earth is happening with the run on loo roll? Geraldine thinks it's a symptom of the need for control in the face of the global flu epidemic. Eliza thinks life in the West has been stripped of a lot of risk. So when a genuine threat looms on the horizon, people panic more than countries in troubled regions like the Middle East. Also: Biden's back in America. Geraldine and Eliza discuss Elizabeth Warren's decline in more detail and question how much 'likeability' will play a factor in the final decision. The women discuss Israeli politics. And why we read books. Join the conversation at the Facebook page "Long Distance Callers" or email ldcpodcast1@gmail.com Thanks for listening!

There were some technical problems with the episode uploaded Sunday morning AEDT ... so we're having another go RUOK Australia? What on earth is happening with the run on loo roll? Geraldine thinks it's a symptom of the need for control in the face of the global flu epidemic. Eliza thinks life in the West has been stripped of a lot of risk. So when a genuine threat looms on the horizon, people panic more than countries in troubled regions like the Middle East. Also: Biden's back in America. Geraldine and Eliza discuss Elizabeth Warren's decline in more detail and question how much 'likeability' will play a factor in the final decision. The women discuss Israeli politics. And why we read books. Join the conversation at the Facebook page "Long Distance Callers" or email ldcpodcast1@gmail.com Thanks for listening!

v.2 Australia's Toilet Paper Shame

The Corona Virus has arrived in Lebanon. There's been four confirmed cases of the flu from people who have recently returned from Iran. Schools are closed for a week (or more) and hand sanitizer is selling out. Eliza is feeling vaguely demoralizaed by the prospect of another big upheaval to normal life. But she's doing her best to combat the panic spreading through the school WhatsApp groups. Meanwhile, Super Tuesday is around the corner. Eliza wonders why Elizabeth Warren's star has fallen. Is it because she's sharp and people find that challenging in a female leader? Geraldine thinks Warren was targetted by the big tech companies who feared regulation. Whatever the real reason, it looks like Sanders will win the nomination. Also this week, Geraldine discusses new research about the ABC audience. And Eliza isn't a fan of fondue. Please join the conversation at the Facebook page "Long Distance Callers" or email us at ldcpodcast1@gmail.com

The Corona Virus has arrived in Lebanon. There's been four confirmed cases of the flu from people who have recently returned from Iran. Schools are closed for a week (or more) and hand sanitizer is selling out. Eliza is feeling vaguely demoralizaed by the prospect of another big upheaval to normal life. But she's doing her best to combat the panic spreading through the school WhatsApp groups. Meanwhile, Super Tuesday is around the corner. Eliza wonders why Elizabeth Warren's star has fallen. Is it because she's sharp and people find that challenging in a female leader? Geraldine thinks Warren was targetted by the big tech companies who feared regulation. Whatever the real reason, it looks like Sanders will win the nomination. Also this week, Geraldine discusses new research about the ABC audience. And Eliza isn't a fan of fondue. Please join the conversation at the Facebook page "Long Distance Callers" or email us at ldcpodcast1@gmail.com

Corona Hits Lebanon

Geraldine has a new phone. It has a fancy camera and bigger screen. But the prospect of "learning" her new device has left Geraldine a bit frazzled. She's come to the conclusion that while technology can simplify our lives, it also requires big investments of time to master the new technology. Eliza is watching the slow decline of Lebanon's economy. She's also been glued to American politics and believes Mike Bloomberg is now the best hope to force Trump out of the White House. Also this week: Eliza becomes a yogi. Sinn Fein's political resurgence. And Geraldine commits to walking the Lebanon Mountain Trail. Join the conversation at the "Long Distance Call" Facebook page or email us at ldcpodcast1@gmail.com Saad Hariri calls for early elections <a href="https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/02/defiant-lebanon-hariri-deal-aoun-history-200214172027571.html" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/02/defiant-lebanon-hariri-deal-aoun-history-200214172027571.html</a> The light That Failed - Ivan Krastev <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Light-That-Failed-Losing-Democracy/dp/1643133691" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.amazon.com/Light-That-Failed-Losing-Democracy/dp/1643133691</a> Interview on ABC Radio National Saturday Extra with Geraldine Doogue <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/radionational/programs/saturdayextra/the-crisis-of-liberalism/11967388" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.abc.net.au/radionational/programs/saturdayextra/the-crisis-of-liberalism/11967388</a> Bye bye Biden <a href="https://thehill.com/homenews/campaign/483037-beleaguered-biden-turns-to-must-win-south-carolina" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://thehill.com/homenews/campaign/483037-beleaguered-biden-turns-to-must-win-south-carolina</a> David Runciman’s Talking politics podcast - Sinn Fein and Sardines <a href="https://www.talkingpoliticspodcast.com/blog/2020/220-sinn-fin-and-sardines" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.talkingpoliticspodcast.com/blog/2020/220-sinn-fin-and-sardines</a> Rise of Empires: Ottoman <a href="https://www.netflix.com/title/80990771" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.netflix.com/title/80990771</a> Lebanon Mountain Trail <a href="https://www.lebanontrail.org/#!/home" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.lebanontrail.org/#!/home</a> Abraham Trail - Israel <a href="https://abrahampath.org" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://abrahampath.org</a>

Geraldine has a new phone. It has a fancy camera and bigger screen. But the prospect of "learning" her new device has left Geraldine a bit frazzled. She's come to the conclusion that while technology can simplify our lives, it also requires big investments of time to master the new technology. Eliza is watching the slow decline of Lebanon's economy. She's also been glued to American politics and believes Mike Bloomberg is now the best hope to force Trump out of the White House. Also this week: Eliza becomes a yogi. Sinn Fein's political resurgence. And Geraldine commits to walking the Lebanon Mountain Trail. Join the conversation at the "Long Distance Call" Facebook page or email us at ldcpodcast1@gmail.com Saad Hariri calls for early elections https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/02/defiant-lebanon-hariri-deal-aoun-history-200214172027571.html The light That Failed - Ivan Krastev https://www.amazon.com/Light-That-Failed-Losing-Democracy/dp/1643133691 Interview on ABC Radio National Saturday Extra with Geraldine Doogue https://www.abc.net.au/radionational/programs/saturdayextra/the-crisis-of-liberalism/11967388 Bye bye Biden https://thehill.com/homenews/campaign/483037-beleaguered-biden-turns-to-must-win-south-carolina David Runciman’s Talking politics podcast - Sinn Fein and Sardines https://www.talkingpoliticspodcast.com/blog/2020/220-sinn-fin-and-sardines Rise of Empires: Ottoman https://www.netflix.com/title/80990771 Lebanon Mountain Trail https://www.lebanontrail.org/#!/home Abraham Trail - Israel https://abrahampath.org

Geraldine's Tech Challenge

Eliza had her wisdom tooth extracted this week. In an attempt to distract from the pain, she asked the dental surgeon for his thoughts on the crisis that's engulfing the Lebanese economy. “In 1985, the Syrians were shelling us just over there,” he said, pointing out the window. “But at least we had money.” The local Lebanese currency continues to depreciate against the US dollar. Small businesses are closing every week. Expensive retailers in downtown Beirut are reinforcing their stores with heavy metal doors to stop goods being stolen during protests and riots. Also on the podcast: Geraldine interviews British polymath Tom Holland. Eliza begins to despair about Joe Biden as a Presidential candidate. Salman Rushdie’s brilliant prose. And the joy of rain during a Sydney summer. Let us know what you think of the podcast at the Facebook page "Long Distance Callers" or email us at ldcpodcast1@gmail.com <hr>The Designated Mourner – Fintan O’Toole on Joe Biden <a href="https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2020/01/16/joe-biden-designated-mourner/" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2020/01/16/joe-biden-designated-mourner/</a> Leaders and Dung Beetles – Don Watson <a href="https://www.themonthly.com.au/issue/2020/february/1580475600/don-watson/leaders-and-dung-beetles" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.themonthly.com.au/issue/2020/february/1580475600/don-watson/leaders-and-dung-beetles</a> Lebanese historian and journalist Samir Kassir <a href="https://samirkassirfoundation.org/en/Samir-Kassir-Foundation/About-Us/Mission" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://samirkassirfoundation.org/en/Samir-Kassir-Foundation/About-Us/Mission</a> Two Years, 8 months and 28 days – Salman Rushdie <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Years-Eight-Months-Twenty-Eight-Nights-ebook/dp/B00SPVZ9UM" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.amazon.com/Years-Eight-Months-Twenty-Eight-Nights-ebook/dp/B00SPVZ9UM</a> Rushdie’s Guardian Review <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/books/2015/sep/04/two-years-eight-months-and-twenty-eight-nights-salman-rushdie-review" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.theguardian.com/books/2015/sep/04/two-years-eight-months-and-twenty-eight-nights-salman-rushdie-review</a> Tom Holland – author <a href="https://www.tom-holland.org" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.tom-holland.org</a>

Eliza had her wisdom tooth extracted this week. In an attempt to distract from the pain, she asked the dental surgeon for his thoughts on the crisis that's engulfing the Lebanese economy. “In 1985, the Syrians were shelling us just over there,” he said, pointing out the window. “But at least we had money.” The local Lebanese currency continues to depreciate against the US dollar. Small businesses are closing every week. Expensive retailers in downtown Beirut are reinforcing their stores with heavy metal doors to stop goods being stolen during protests and riots. Also on the podcast: Geraldine interviews British polymath Tom Holland. Eliza begins to despair about Joe Biden as a Presidential candidate. Salman Rushdie’s brilliant prose. And the joy of rain during a Sydney summer. Let us know what you think of the podcast at the Facebook page "Long Distance Callers" or email us at ldcpodcast1@gmail.com The Designated Mourner – Fintan O’Toole on Joe Biden https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2020/01/16/joe-biden-designated-mourner/ Leaders and Dung Beetles – Don Watson https://www.themonthly.com.au/issue/2020/february/1580475600/don-watson/leaders-and-dung-beetles Lebanese historian and journalist Samir Kassir https://samirkassirfoundation.org/en/Samir-Kassir-Foundation/About-Us/Mission Two Years, 8 months and 28 days – Salman Rushdie https://www.amazon.com/Years-Eight-Months-Twenty-Eight-Nights-ebook/dp/B00SPVZ9UM Rushdie’s Guardian Review https://www.theguardian.com/books/2015/sep/04/two-years-eight-months-and-twenty-eight-nights-salman-rushdie-review Tom Holland – author https://www.tom-holland.org

Feeling the Pain

Geraldine has come to the conclusion that Australia should change the date of its national celebration. Despite this decision, she's found herself worn down by the discussion this year and isn't reading about it like she was in 2019. In Lebanon, Eliza's serving bacon sandwiches at brunch and revelling in national spirit. Australia - with its universal health care system and superannuation scheme - is a country to be proud of. Also this week: buying furniture as an expat. Reading Rushdie. And Trump's impeachment trial. Let us know what you think of the podcast at the Facebook page "Long Distance Callers" or email us at ldcpodcast1@gmail.com Thanks for listening! <hr>Salman Rushdie Two Years, Eight Months and Twenty-Eight Nights <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/24292310-two-years-eight-months-and-twenty-eight-nights" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/24292310-two-years-eight-months-and-twenty-eight-nights</a> Maureen Dowd on impeachment <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2020/01/25/opinion/sunday/trump-senate-impeachment-trial.html" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.nytimes.com/2020/01/25/opinion/sunday/trump-senate-impeachment-trial.html</a> Hillary Clinton documentary <a href="https://edition.cnn.com/2020/01/25/entertainment/hillary-review/index.html" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://edition.cnn.com/2020/01/25/entertainment/hillary-review/index.html</a>

Geraldine has come to the conclusion that Australia should change the date of its national celebration. Despite this decision, she's found herself worn down by the discussion this year and isn't reading about it like she was in 2019. In Lebanon, Eliza's serving bacon sandwiches at brunch and revelling in national spirit. Australia - with its universal health care system and superannuation scheme - is a country to be proud of. Also this week: buying furniture as an expat. Reading Rushdie. And Trump's impeachment trial. Let us know what you think of the podcast at the Facebook page "Long Distance Callers" or email us at ldcpodcast1@gmail.com Thanks for listening! Salman Rushdie Two Years, Eight Months and Twenty-Eight Nights https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/24292310-two-years-eight-months-and-twenty-eight-nights Maureen Dowd on impeachment https://www.nytimes.com/2020/01/25/opinion/sunday/trump-senate-impeachment-trial.html Hillary Clinton documentary https://edition.cnn.com/2020/01/25/entertainment/hillary-review/index.html

Australia Day

Violent protests have erupted again in Lebanon as the country lurches deeper into a political and economic crisis. There's little prospect of a Government being formed soon. The local currency is depreciating against the US dollar, making daily life more expensive. There's a weekly cap on withdrawals from the banks. People are desperate and their frustrations spilled over into riots in Downtown Beirut on the weekend. Many believe it's the only way they'll be heard by the political elite. It's a very different scene in Australia. Geraldine has been struck by the surge of national pride in the wake of the bushfire crisis. She hopes the Government uses the opportunity to act on this rare moment of national consensus. Finally, Geraldine and her daughter reflect on the power of a good funeral. Let us know what you think of the episode on the Facebook page "Long Distance Callers" or email us at ldcpodcast1@gmail.com <hr>Lebanon on 'brink of chaos and anarchy' Washington Post <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/middle_east/lebanon-on-brink-of-chaos-and-anarchy-as-peaceful-protests-turn-violent/2020/01/19/14da7166-3973-11ea-a1ff-c48c1d59a4a1_story.html?fbclid=IwAR0pPliCafSRP7Y6FptTiX1vXeCkVgqT_SAhLUq3WPx9RQwk9nKpGZHAhlA" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/middle_east/lebanon-on-brink-of-chaos-and-anarchy-as-peaceful-protests-turn-violent/2020/01/19/14da7166-3973-11ea-a1ff-c48c1d59a4a1_story.html?fbclid=IwAR0pPliCafSRP7Y6FptTiX1vXeCkVgqT_SAhLUq3WPx9RQwk9nKpGZHAhlA</a> Deidre Macken: United by Crisis, Frustrated into Action <a href="https://www.theaustralian.com.au/arts/review/united-by-crisis-frustrated-into-action/news-story/52ebd75ce3daf50e15fecb1a23bb06d2" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.theaustralian.com.au/arts/review/united-by-crisis-frustrated-into-action/news-story/52ebd75ce3daf50e15fecb1a23bb06d2</a> Can Scott Morrison Learn to Lead? <a href="https://johnmenadue.com/greg-latemore-can-scott-morrison-learn-to-lead/" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://johnmenadue.com/greg-latemore-can-scott-morrison-learn-to-lead/</a>

Violent protests have erupted again in Lebanon as the country lurches deeper into a political and economic crisis. There's little prospect of a Government being formed soon. The local currency is depreciating against the US dollar, making daily life more expensive. There's a weekly cap on withdrawals from the banks. People are desperate and their frustrations spilled over into riots in Downtown Beirut on the weekend. Many believe it's the only way they'll be heard by the political elite. It's a very different scene in Australia. Geraldine has been struck by the surge of national pride in the wake of the bushfire crisis. She hopes the Government uses the opportunity to act on this rare moment of national consensus. Finally, Geraldine and her daughter reflect on the power of a good funeral. Let us know what you think of the episode on the Facebook page "Long Distance Callers" or email us at ldcpodcast1@gmail.com Lebanon on 'brink of chaos and anarchy' Washington Post https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/middle_east/lebanon-on-brink-of-chaos-and-anarchy-as-peaceful-protests-turn-violent/2020/01/19/14da7166-3973-11ea-a1ff-c48c1d59a4a1_story.html?fbclid=IwAR0pPliCafSRP7Y6FptTiX1vXeCkVgqT_SAhLUq3WPx9RQwk9nKpGZHAhlA Deidre Macken: United by Crisis, Frustrated into Action https://www.theaustralian.com.au/arts/review/united-by-crisis-frustrated-into-action/news-story/52ebd75ce3daf50e15fecb1a23bb06d2 Can Scott Morrison Learn to Lead? https://johnmenadue.com/greg-latemore-can-scott-morrison-learn-to-lead/

Beirut Riots

Things are hot in the Middle East and even hotter on this week's podcast. Geraldine and Eliza have divergent views about the American assassination of Iranian Commander Qasem Suleimani. They also disagree about some of the journalism that has stemmed from the killing. But they do tend to see eye to eye on 'Meghxit'. Eliza feels sorry for Meghan Markle and hates her treatment in the press. But she also thinks the Sussexes could have handled the split better. Also this week: Captain Cook and summer time in Cairns. Money exchange in Beirut. And how to define 'star power' on TV. Join the conversation at the Facebook page "Long Distance Callers" or email us at ldcpodcast1@gmail.com Thanks for listening! Trent Dalton’s three-part series on Captain Cook in The Australian <a href="https://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/inquirer/cook-rediscovered-white-ghosts-on-the-coast/news-story/b2ff8dd879ac8d345f195b23638ea79b" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/inquirer/cook-rediscovered-white-ghosts-on-the-coast/news-story/b2ff8dd879ac8d345f195b23638ea79b</a> <a href="https://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/inquirer/cook-rediscovered-miracle-on-the-great-barrier-reef/news-story/2e118a456b4df6ded3cce366e6d8aeeb" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/inquirer/cook-rediscovered-miracle-on-the-great-barrier-reef/news-story/2e118a456b4df6ded3cce366e6d8aeeb</a> <a href="https://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/inquirer/cook-rediscovered-endeavour-believed-to-be-in-watery-rhode-island-grave/news-story/9cc8cbff3b434dc6b0124e723cfb0bfb" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/inquirer/cook-rediscovered-endeavour-believed-to-be-in-watery-rhode-island-grave/news-story/9cc8cbff3b434dc6b0124e723cfb0bfb</a> Dexter Filkins on Qasem Suleimani <a href="https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2013/09/30/the-shadow-commander" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2013/09/30/the-shadow-commander</a> Thomas Freidman on Suleimani <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2020/01/03/opinion/iran-general-soleimani.html" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.nytimes.com/2020/01/03/opinion/iran-general-soleimani.html</a> Tarek Osman on Suleimani <a href="https://tarekosman.com/articles/four-consequences-of-soleimanis-assassination?utm_source=Tarek+Osman%27s+New+Mailing+List+29%2F04%2F2015&amp;utm_campaign=942639b2bc-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2020_01_05_11_58&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_term=0_4a88c6fa22-942639b2bc-154316349" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://tarekosman.com/articles/four-consequences-of-soleimanis-assassination?utm_source=Tarek+Osman%27s+New+Mailing+List+29%2F04%2F2015&amp;utm_campaign=942639b2bc-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2020_01_05_11_58&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_term=0_4a88c6fa22-942639b2bc-154316349</a> Julia Baird on Meghan Markle <a href="https://www.smh.com.au/world/europe/diana-s-lament-applies-to-meghan-but-must-every-strong-woman-in-history-confront-such-savagery-20200110-p53qdu.html" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.smh.com.au/world/europe/diana-s-lament-applies-to-meghan-but-must-every-strong-woman-in-history-confront-such-savagery-20200110-p53qdu.html</a>

Things are hot in the Middle East and even hotter on this week's podcast. Geraldine and Eliza have divergent views about the American assassination of Iranian Commander Qasem Suleimani. They also disagree about some of the journalism that has stemmed from the killing. But they do tend to see eye to eye on 'Meghxit'. Eliza feels sorry for Meghan Markle and hates her treatment in the press. But she also thinks the Sussexes could have handled the split better. Also this week: Captain Cook and summer time in Cairns. Money exchange in Beirut. And how to define 'star power' on TV. Join the conversation at the Facebook page "Long Distance Callers" or email us at ldcpodcast1@gmail.com Thanks for listening! Trent Dalton’s three-part series on Captain Cook in The Australian https://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/inquirer/cook-rediscovered-white-ghosts-on-the-coast/news-story/b2ff8dd879ac8d345f195b23638ea79b https://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/inquirer/cook-rediscovered-miracle-on-the-great-barrier-reef/news-story/2e118a456b4df6ded3cce366e6d8aeeb https://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/inquirer/cook-rediscovered-endeavour-believed-to-be-in-watery-rhode-island-grave/news-story/9cc8cbff3b434dc6b0124e723cfb0bfb Dexter Filkins on Qasem Suleimani https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2013/09/30/the-shadow-commander Thomas Freidman on Suleimani https://www.nytimes.com/2020/01/03/opinion/iran-general-soleimani.html Tarek Osman on Suleimani https://tarekosman.com/articles/four-consequences-of-soleimanis-assassination?utm_source=Tarek+Osman%27s+New+Mailing+List+29%2F04%2F2015&amp;utm_campaign=942639b2bc-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2020_01_05_11_58&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_term=0_4a88c6fa22-942639b2bc-154316349 Julia Baird on Meghan Markle https://www.smh.com.au/world/europe/diana-s-lament-applies-to-meghan-but-must-every-strong-woman-in-history-confront-such-savagery-20200110-p53qdu.html

The Scrap

Eliza and Geraldine discuss John Le Carre's latest novel "Agent Running in the Field". Let us know what you think at the Facebook page "Long Distance Callers" or email us at ldcpodcast1@gmail.com Here are some reviews: The Atlantic <a href="https://www.theatlantic.com/entertainment/archive/2019/10/john-le-carre-agent-running-in-the-field-review/600631/" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.theatlantic.com/entertainment/archive/2019/10/john-le-carre-agent-running-in-the-field-review/600631/</a> Peter Craven in The Australian <a href="https://www.theaustralian.com.au/arts/review/still-in-a-field-of-his-own/news-story/f58f361e69fc720e6c405f3d00fb7acb" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.theaustralian.com.au/arts/review/still-in-a-field-of-his-own/news-story/f58f361e69fc720e6c405f3d00fb7acb</a> The Guardian <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/books/2019/oct/21/agent-running-in-the-field-john-le-carre-review" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.theguardian.com/books/2019/oct/21/agent-running-in-the-field-john-le-carre-review</a>

Eliza and Geraldine discuss John Le Carre's latest novel "Agent Running in the Field". Let us know what you think at the Facebook page "Long Distance Callers" or email us at ldcpodcast1@gmail.com Here are some reviews: The Atlantic https://www.theatlantic.com/entertainment/archive/2019/10/john-le-carre-agent-running-in-the-field-review/600631/ Peter Craven in The Australian https://www.theaustralian.com.au/arts/review/still-in-a-field-of-his-own/news-story/f58f361e69fc720e6c405f3d00fb7acb The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/books/2019/oct/21/agent-running-in-the-field-john-le-carre-review

Bookclub: Agent Running in The Field

LDC has a special guest this week. Geraldine and one of her oldest friends (and Eliza's godmother) Mary Ciccarelli are in Beirut for new years celebrations. The three women sit down over a a glass of wine to talk about their impressions of Lebanon &amp; the Syria crisis, the latest Ann Patchett novel and the joys of cauliflower for dinner. Let us know your thoughts at ldcpodcast1@gmail.com or join the conversation at the "Long Distance Callers" Facebook page. <hr>The Good Shepherd Sister of the Middle East <a href="https://www.goodshepherdsisters.me/en/Accueil" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.goodshepherdsisters.me/en/Accueil</a> Ann Patchett - The Dutch House <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/books/2019/sep/29/dutch-house-ann-patchett-review" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.theguardian.com/books/2019/sep/29/dutch-house-ann-patchett-review</a> All is True - movie <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt9206798/" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.imdb.com/title/tt9206798/</a> Ad Astra - Brad Pitt <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2935510/" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2935510/</a> Lee Child says Tom Cruise is too small to be Jack Reacher <a href="https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2018/11/tom-cruise-jack-reacher-lee-child-reboot" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2018/11/tom-cruise-jack-reacher-lee-child-reboot</a> The Middle of Nowhere - George Megalogenis in The Monthly <a href="https://www.themonthly.com.au/issue/2019/december/1575205200/george-megalogenis/middle-nowhere" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.themonthly.com.au/issue/2019/december/1575205200/george-megalogenis/middle-nowhere</a> Stasiland Now - Anna Funder in The Monthly <a href="https://www.themonthly.com.au/issue/2019/december/1575205200/anna-funder/stasiland-now" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.themonthly.com.au/issue/2019/december/1575205200/anna-funder/stasiland-now</a> A Gentleman in Moscow <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Gentleman-Moscow-Novel-Amor-Towles/dp/0670026190" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.amazon.com/Gentleman-Moscow-Novel-Amor-Towles/dp/0670026190</a>

LDC has a special guest this week. Geraldine and one of her oldest friends (and Eliza's godmother) Mary Ciccarelli are in Beirut for new years celebrations. The three women sit down over a a glass of wine to talk about their impressions of Lebanon &amp; the Syria crisis, the latest Ann Patchett novel and the joys of cauliflower for dinner. Let us know your thoughts at ldcpodcast1@gmail.com or join the conversation at the "Long Distance Callers" Facebook page. The Good Shepherd Sister of the Middle East https://www.goodshepherdsisters.me/en/Accueil Ann Patchett - The Dutch House https://www.theguardian.com/books/2019/sep/29/dutch-house-ann-patchett-review All is True - movie https://www.imdb.com/title/tt9206798/ Ad Astra - Brad Pitt https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2935510/ Lee Child says Tom Cruise is too small to be Jack Reacher https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2018/11/tom-cruise-jack-reacher-lee-child-reboot The Middle of Nowhere - George Megalogenis in The Monthly https://www.themonthly.com.au/issue/2019/december/1575205200/george-megalogenis/middle-nowhere Stasiland Now - Anna Funder in The Monthly https://www.themonthly.com.au/issue/2019/december/1575205200/anna-funder/stasiland-now A Gentleman in Moscow https://www.amazon.com/Gentleman-Moscow-Novel-Amor-Towles/dp/0670026190

Girls on Tour in Beirut

Welcome to the last podcast of 2019! It's been a huge year. Geraldine travelled to Russia. Eliza went back to full time work. Progressive politics was overtaken by fear. Tune in for hot tips and analysis. Please let us know your reflections on 2019 by joining the Facebook page "Long Distance Callers" or email us at ldcpodcast1@gmail.com Thankyou so much for listening! <hr>The Loudest Voice - Stan <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt6821044/" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.imdb.com/title/tt6821044/</a> Succession - HBO <a href="https://www.hbo.com/succession" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.hbo.com/succession</a> Normal People – Sally Rooney <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Normal-People-Novel-Sally-Rooney/dp/1984822179" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.amazon.com/Normal-People-Novel-Sally-Rooney/dp/1984822179</a> Women’s Work – Megan Stack <a href="https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/549445/womens-work-by-megan-stack/" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/549445/womens-work-by-megan-stack/</a> Inside the trial of Shamima Begum – British GQ <a href="https://www.gq-magazine.co.uk/politics/article/the-trial-of-shamima-begum" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.gq-magazine.co.uk/politics/article/the-trial-of-shamima-begum</a> Fintan O’Toole – The Ham of Fate <a href="https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2019/08/15/boris-johnson-ham-of-fate/" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2019/08/15/boris-johnson-ham-of-fate/</a> Lech Blain – How good is Queensland! The Monthly <a href="https://www.themonthly.com.au/issue/2019/november/1572526800/lech-blaine/how-good-queensland" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.themonthly.com.au/issue/2019/november/1572526800/lech-blaine/how-good-queensland</a> Australia in the World podcast <a href="https://australiaintheworld.podbean.com" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://australiaintheworld.podbean.com</a> Rear Vision – ABC Radio National <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/radionational/programs/rearvision/" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.abc.net.au/radionational/programs/rearvision/</a> Understanding Assassinations – Rear Vision ABC Radio National <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/radionational/programs/rearvision/understanding-assassination/10790888" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.abc.net.au/radionational/programs/rearvision/understanding-assassination/10790888</a> Serial Season 3 <a href="https://serialpodcast.org" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://serialpodcast.org</a> Slow Burn Season 2 <a href="https://slate.com/podcasts/slow-burn/s2/clinton" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://slate.com/podcasts/slow-burn/s2/clinton</a> The Daily podcast – New York Times <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/column/the-daily" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.nytimes.com/column/the-daily</a> Who the Hell is Hamish – podcast <a href="https://www.theaustralian.com.au/podcasts/podcast-who-the-hell-is-hamish/news-story/c95b519a9ececa6076df80bd130ba158" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.theaustralian.com.au/podcasts/podcast-who-the-hell-is-hamish/news-story/c95b519a9ececa6076df80bd130ba158</a> The Two Popes - film <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt8404614/" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.imdb.com/title/tt8404614/</a> Knives Out - film <a href="https://knivesout.movie" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://knivesout.movie</a> Buy From The Bush by Grace Brennan <a href="https://www.instagram.com/buyfromthebush/?hl=en" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/buyfromthebush/?hl=en</a>

Welcome to the last podcast of 2019! It's been a huge year. Geraldine travelled to Russia. Eliza went back to full time work. Progressive politics was overtaken by fear. Tune in for hot tips and analysis. Please let us know your reflections on 2019 by joining the Facebook page "Long Distance Callers" or email us at ldcpodcast1@gmail.com Thankyou so much for listening! The Loudest Voice - Stan https://www.imdb.com/title/tt6821044/ Succession - HBO https://www.hbo.com/succession Normal People – Sally Rooney https://www.amazon.com/Normal-People-Novel-Sally-Rooney/dp/1984822179 Women’s Work – Megan Stack https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/549445/womens-work-by-megan-stack/ Inside the trial of Shamima Begum – British GQ https://www.gq-magazine.co.uk/politics/article/the-trial-of-shamima-begum Fintan O’Toole – The Ham of Fate https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2019/08/15/boris-johnson-ham-of-fate/ Lech Blain – How good is Queensland! The Monthly https://www.themonthly.com.au/issue/2019/november/1572526800/lech-blaine/how-good-queensland Australia in the World podcast https://australiaintheworld.podbean.com Rear Vision – ABC Radio National https://www.abc.net.au/radionational/programs/rearvision/ Understanding Assassinations – Rear Vision ABC Radio National https://www.abc.net.au/radionational/programs/rearvision/understanding-assassination/10790888 Serial Season 3 https://serialpodcast.org Slow Burn Season 2 https://slate.com/podcasts/slow-burn/s2/clinton The Daily podcast – New York Times https://www.nytimes.com/column/the-daily Who the Hell is Hamish – podcast https://www.theaustralian.com.au/podcasts/podcast-who-the-hell-is-hamish/news-story/c95b519a9ececa6076df80bd130ba158 The Two Popes - film https://www.imdb.com/title/tt8404614/ Knives Out - film https://knivesout.movie Buy From The Bush by Grace Brennan https://www.instagram.com/buyfromthebush/?hl=en

Best of 2019

Eliza had the privilege of being at The Hague last week for the Gambia's genocide case against Myanmar at the International Court of Justice. Nobel Laureate Aung San Suu Kyi lead Myanmar's defence and argued that no genocide was committed against the Rohingya muslim community. She said any crimes committed during the 2017 "clearance operations" should be tried at home, rather abroad. Eliza joined a group of Rohingya survivors at The Hague, who now live in the camps in Cox's Bazaar, Bangladesh. When Eliza returned to Lebanon she went to the Roman ruins at Baalbek for the final bookclub of the year. The verdict: Baalbek is a must see! Geraldine is having a lovely, social wind-down to Christmas. Stay tuned for the "Best of 2019" podcast which will drop just before Christmas Day. Join the conversation at the Facebook page "Long Distance Callers" or email us at ldcpodcast1@gmail.com <hr>The Daily: Elizabeth Warren <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2019/12/13/podcasts/the-daily/elizabeth-warren.html" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.nytimes.com/2019/12/13/podcasts/the-daily/elizabeth-warren.html</a> ABC Rear Vision – Nancy Pelosi <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/radionational/programs/rearvision/nancy-pelosi/11659016" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.abc.net.au/radionational/programs/rearvision/nancy-pelosi/11659016</a> The Minefield – Is literary fiction worth it for the moral life? <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/radionational/programs/theminefield/is-literary-fiction-necessary-for-the-moral-life/10960904" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.abc.net.au/radionational/programs/theminefield/is-literary-fiction-necessary-for-the-moral-life/10960904</a> Packer Boys - The Belvoir <a href="https://belvoir.com.au/productions/packer-and-sons/" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://belvoir.com.au/productions/packer-and-sons/</a>

Eliza had the privilege of being at The Hague last week for the Gambia's genocide case against Myanmar at the International Court of Justice. Nobel Laureate Aung San Suu Kyi lead Myanmar's defence and argued that no genocide was committed against the Rohingya muslim community. She said any crimes committed during the 2017 "clearance operations" should be tried at home, rather abroad. Eliza joined a group of Rohingya survivors at The Hague, who now live in the camps in Cox's Bazaar, Bangladesh. When Eliza returned to Lebanon she went to the Roman ruins at Baalbek for the final bookclub of the year. The verdict: Baalbek is a must see! Geraldine is having a lovely, social wind-down to Christmas. Stay tuned for the "Best of 2019" podcast which will drop just before Christmas Day. Join the conversation at the Facebook page "Long Distance Callers" or email us at ldcpodcast1@gmail.com The Daily: Elizabeth Warren https://www.nytimes.com/2019/12/13/podcasts/the-daily/elizabeth-warren.html ABC Rear Vision – Nancy Pelosi https://www.abc.net.au/radionational/programs/rearvision/nancy-pelosi/11659016 The Minefield – Is literary fiction worth it for the moral life? https://www.abc.net.au/radionational/programs/theminefield/is-literary-fiction-necessary-for-the-moral-life/10960904 Packer Boys - The Belvoir https://belvoir.com.au/productions/packer-and-sons/

The Hague & Baalbek

Remember the horrible crimes against the Rohingya community in 2017? The Myanmar Government - lead by freedom fighter turned leader Aung San Suu Kyi - will defend accusations of a genocide at the International Court of Justice at The Hague this week. And Eliza will be there to bear witness with three very brave Rohingya survivors who have made the long journey from the camps in Bangladesh. Also on this podcast: Eliza and Geraldine predict a Tory majority at the UK poll on Thursday. And how to fix lower back pain. Join the conversation at our "Long Distance Callers" Facebook page or email us at ldcpodcast1@gmail.com. The "Best of 2019" episode will be recorded next week.

Remember the horrible crimes against the Rohingya community in 2017? The Myanmar Government - lead by freedom fighter turned leader Aung San Suu Kyi - will defend accusations of a genocide at the International Court of Justice at The Hague this week. And Eliza will be there to bear witness with three very brave Rohingya survivors who have made the long journey from the camps in Bangladesh. Also on this podcast: Eliza and Geraldine predict a Tory majority at the UK poll on Thursday. And how to fix lower back pain. Join the conversation at our "Long Distance Callers" Facebook page or email us at ldcpodcast1@gmail.com. The "Best of 2019" episode will be recorded next week.

Rohingya survivors at The Hague

Geraldine is having one of those weeks that makes you tired just hearing about it. It started with big breaking news stories on her breakfast radio shifts on Monday. Then it was down to Canberra and Melbourne for meetings and will culminate with her MC’ing a big public function to celebrate 80 years of international broadcasting at the ABC. It’s been a busy time over in Lebanon too. Eliza’s husband Adam is back in Australia so she’s running around with the kids while monitoring the looming economic crisis. The local Lebanese currency, the Lira, has dropped sharply against the US dollar. Employees are only receiving a fraction of their wages. It’s hard to see a solution in Lebanon that doesn’t result in more financial pain for most of its citizens. Thanks for listening! Join the conversation at the Facebook page “Long Distance Callers” or email us at ldcpodcast1@gmail.com The Climb – Geraldine Doogue <a href="https://www.textpublishing.com.au/books/the-climb" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.textpublishing.com.au/books/the-climb</a> Australia in the World podcast <a href="https://australiaintheworld.podbean.com" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://australiaintheworld.podbean.com</a> Allan Gyngell on China <a href="https://www.australianforeignaffairs.com/essay/2019/10/china-dependence" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.australianforeignaffairs.com/essay/2019/10/china-dependence</a> Brian Hartzer forced to quit Westpac <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-11-26/westpac-ceo-brian-hartzer-quits-money-laundering-scandal/11737864" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-11-26/westpac-ceo-brian-hartzer-quits-money-laundering-scandal/11737864</a> Risk of economic collapse looms in Lebanon <a href="https://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2019/Nov-20/495956-long-political-crisis-ahead-risk-of-collapse-looms.ashx" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">https://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2019/Nov-20/495956-long-political-crisis-ahead-risk-of-collapse-looms.ashx</a>

Geraldine is having one of those weeks that makes you tired just hearing about it. It started with big breaking news stories on her breakfast radio shifts on Monday. Then it was down to Canberra and Melbourne for meetings and will culminate with her MC’ing a big public function to celebrate 80 years of international broadcasting at the ABC. It’s been a busy time over in Lebanon too. Eliza’s husband Adam is back in Australia so she’s running around with the kids while monitoring the looming economic crisis. The local Lebanese currency, the Lira, has dropped sharply against the US dollar. Employees are only receiving a fraction of their wages. It’s hard to see a solution in Lebanon that doesn’t result in more financial pain for most of its citizens. Thanks for listening! Join the conversation at the Facebook page “Long Distance Callers” or email us at ldcpodcast1@gmail.com The Climb – Geraldine Doogue https://www.textpublishing.com.au/books/the-climb Australia in the World podcast https://australiaintheworld.podbean.com Allan Gyngell on China https://www.australianforeignaffairs.com/essay/2019/10/china-dependence Brian Hartzer forced to quit Westpac https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-11-26/westpac-ceo-brian-hartzer-quits-money-laundering-scandal/11737864 Risk of economic collapse looms in Lebanon https://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2019/Nov-20/495956-long-political-crisis-ahead-risk-of-collapse-looms.ashx

Geraldine's Busy Week

Eliza Harvey is an Australian journalist who moved to Indonesia from Australia in 2015. Each week she phones her Mum -- ABC broadcaster Geraldine Doogue -- back home in Sydney. Both women are news junkies and mothers and avid Netflix fans. But Eliza is a Millennial and Geraldine's a baby boomer, which leads to a different take on life. Tune in for half an hour of laughs and conversation.

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Long Distance Call

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